Extinction Rebellion must not become anti-politics and anti-politicians

Extinction Rebellion are totally justified with their protests demanding radical change to save the planet. However, what the movement must not do is become anti-politics. We too often hear the cry that they are all the same, the politicians are not listening. This is wrong.

Maybe, PM Boris Johnson panders to that stereotype, dismissing the protesters as "crusties," whilst his pro-fracking, emission exporting government does little to address the challenges.

But what of others? The Labour Party has a bold Green New Deal in line with most of ER's demands. The Greens too and the SNP in Scotland have progressive ideas. 

Many councils across the land have declared climate emergencies and are radically changing the way things are done. Whilst progress may not be as rapid as some may hope, the impetus is there.

ER and others need to keep up the pressure for more rapid change but please don't lump all politicians together as useless.

They need to effect the changes to save the planet, afterall, who else will - the CEOs of the oil, gas and coal industries - i think not.

published in the Independent - 14/10/2019