It has been almost a week since the riots broke out after the murder of George Floyd. Most people have seen the videos of how the police use tear gas and rubber bullets as crowd control, and these have injured many protesters.

The murder of George Floyd has led to protests against police brutality and racism in the US and across the world.

News reports show aggressive use of tear gas and rubber bullets by the police in the US against protesters who show no signs of provocation. Protestors are being rammed into with police riot shields. Gas is being deployed in crowds without warning. Journalists have reported being targeted, shot at, and blinded by these weapons.

The police have used these techniques despite the protesters showing no signs of provocation, and are abusing their power shown through multiple videos. The US police are abusing their power by using weapons with lethal force. And these weapons are being exported from the UK - we have a responsibility to stop it.

It has come to light that the UK sends tear gas, rubber bullets and riot shields to the US police force. All of which are being used to inflict damage upon the peaceful protesters. Boris Johnson has significant influence when it comes to Donald Trump and the White House, but has not said anything about the President’s advocation of violence towards the protesters. Something needs to change.

That’s why I’m calling on Boris Johnson to immediately stop exports of tear gas, rubber bullets and riot shields to the US. Laws say if weapons are being misused, the UK has an obligation to stop exporting them. 

So far action has not been taken by our Government. I can’t stand by and see them act as if this isn’t happening, and see them shake-off the responsibility they have. We need to up the pressure now. Please help by signing. 

Thank you !