Letter: Cancellation of Indonesian arms sales
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: Some time ago I expressed the view that people should view with a certain degree of scepticism the sentiments of the Foreign Secretary, Robin Cook, that human rights would be the cornerstone of British foreign policy (report, 29 July).
Unfortunately, my concerns have proved to be well founded. Mr Cook is not only going to allow the sale of a further 16 Hawk fighter jets to the regime in Jakarta, but also is intent on supplying British made armoured cars.
Against the background of a recently adopted resolution by the United Nations Human Rights Commission, a new peace initiative by the South African president, Nelson Mandela, and, sadly, a marked increase in Indonesian military oppression in occupied East Timor, Mr Cook's decision is nothing short of deplorable.
Some might say at least the Tories were more honest in relation to arms trading. No hiding behind the smokescreen of concern for human rights.
A bad day for New Labour. An even worse one for the beleaguered people of East Timor.
TOM HYLAND
East Timor
Ireland Solidarity Campaign
Dublin
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments