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Power To The People - Paul Robinson (24th Aug 2007 - 08:08:53) This year my wife and I became members of the National Trust for the first time. Yes, I know, its a right of passage sort of thing. So its me for the string backed driving gloves, trilby hat, tartan travelling rug and the sun bleached box of Kleenex on the rear parcel shelf. As I adorned the windscreen with the familiar acorn and oak leaf motif I looked forward to tranquil days out visiting spectacular heritage sites and vast tracts of our green and pleasant land without let or hindrance. What I did not expect was that simple act would brand me some sort of eco warrior and along with assorted 'Swampies' and crusties I would be denied access to Heathrow Airport to go about my legitimate business. Don't get me wrong. I am just as concerned about the destruction of our environment and so called global warming as the next man, and, if the next man happens to be George W Bush, considerably more concerned. I drive a diesel vehicle when I need to and I recycle as much of my rubbish as possible. I switch off all unnecessary lights and phone chargers and do not clean my teeth under a running tap. My carbon footprint amounts to little more than a size four and a half (narrow fitting). So, what I am saying is that I defend the right of individuals to peacefully protest in their own way but when the National Trust (a registered charity) chooses to get involved then I say 'Not In My Name' They should only do so after consulting its members. Paul Robinson

Re: Power To The People - Barbara Easton (24th Aug 2007 - 10:23:51) I think that the National Trust did not get involved per se merely that they have such a large membership now, due to the surfing brigade in Cornwall taking membership to get cheaper parking near the surfing beaches, that the powers that be see the NT as a powerful pressure group. I cannot believe that customs control at the airport would deny you the right to fly. However if you are concerned about being green then perhaps stick to your diesel car and ferry for travelling.

Re: Power To The People - rob (25th Aug 2007 - 15:46:58) The problem here lies surely with the British Airports Authority rather than with the National Trust. The BAA hates people. It's main aim was to get the Courts to stop lots of people getting away on their holidays, because Heathrow would have been too busy if they'd all turned up. So BAA went for an organisation with a large membership which it could ban from the airport and - voila! Thank goodness those wise old men in their wigs and dresses and little spangly shoes saw through them! God bless the British legal system.

Re: Power To The People - Finchie (26th Aug 2007 - 10:00:04) Rob, Reminded me of the situation at Heathrow a few years ago with BA, BAA and Kew Gardens (under the flight path) ... BAA and BA becoming part of Kew Garden's management to ensure no objections to expansion ... www.hacan.org.uk/news/... BA even donate free flights to Kew Gardens. Look forward to BA and BAA staff swelling the membership of the National Trust ! - and potentially free flight givaways as part of your NT membership package !! Cheers, Finchie

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