What's the National Gathering like?
An interview with Debbie Payne from Norwich, who came to the National Gathering last year
Why did you get involved with the Campaign Against Arms Trade?
I went to a public meeting challenging the closure of the Serious Fraud Office's investigation into BAE's deals. I thought it was shocking and unfair that BAE were getting away with the things they were doing. It was seeing the speakers and getting a clearer idea of what was happening in the arms trade that really got me involved with CAAT.
How would you sum up your experience of last years National Gathering?
It was really informative and interesting. I particularly enjoying hearing Andrew Feinstein, who was a fantastic speaker. The forum at the end was another highlight. I found drawing links between the arms trade and the environment particularly interesting. I work on an environmental protection project and I think highlighting that the wasted resources poured into the arms trade could be better used to tackle climate change is a good direction for CAAT to move in.
Did attending the National Gathering affect your involvement with CAAT?
I felt really encouraged to keep up my support. I'm running for CAAT in the Great South Run this year, so that's a new level of support I guess! I'm also a member of the Norfolk CAAT group, helping run stalls at events like Norwich Peace Camp.
What would your message be for someone attending the gathering for the first time?
It's a great way of finding out more about the work of CAAT. It's also a good opportunity to meet the friendly people from CAAT and to make links with fellow campaigners who are in a similar position to you!
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