Dame Emma Thompson has thrown her weight behind Just Stop Oil, shortly after the environmental activist group vandalized Stonehenge with orange paint.
The renowned actress led a sizable crowd during a Restore Nature Now march in London over the weekend, calling on policymakers to prioritize nature and the climate.
When asked about her support for Just Stop Oil, a group that has also disrupted private aircraft, the Magna Carta, and the Duke of Westminster’s wedding this year, she remarked, “I am in favor of anyone who takes on this remarkable fight.”
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Dame Emma emphasized, “The extraction of more oil from the earth must cease. There are numerous debates surrounding this issue. I am aware of the complex economic arguments involved.
“We need to leave all these resources untouched beneath the ground; we must refrain from extracting them.”
Over 350 charities, businesses, and direct action groups stood in solidarity with Dame Emma during the demonstration, with the presence of renewable energy magnate and Labour donor Dale Vince, as well as nature enthusiasts Chris Packham and Steve Backshall.
Mr. Packham noted that it marked the first instance of diverse organizations, ranging from the National Trust to Just Stop Oil, coming together for a common cause.
Reflecting on the extensive efforts to prompt action on climate change, Dame Emma described it as “remarkable,” pointing out that “we have been aware of this issue for decades, yet successive governments have consistently disregarded the advice.”
“Leading scientists are all warning us about the grave situation we are in,” she remarked.
Insect Model Displayed at Parliament Square Rally
Hyde Park to Parliament Square March by Protesters
An organized line of protesters, led by Dame Emma and Mr. Packham, carried a banner advocating for the restoration of nature during their march from Hyde Park to Parliament Square.
Different banners with messages such as ‘There’s No Life Without Wildlife’ and ‘There Isn’t A Reset Button’ were also visible among the crowd.
Public Reaction to the Protest
Displeasure Voiced Towards Downing Street
As the protesters passed Downing Street, some in the crowd booed and made gestures, expressing their dissatisfaction.
A former veteran, Gary Smith, aged 64, commented on the booing, criticizing politicians for their lack of action on wildlife policies.
Concern Expressed Over Political Leadership
Sally Burns, a 58-year-old wildlife rescuer, highlighted the role of politicians in the current state of the country, citing various issues and expressing discontent with those in power.
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