As we approach the third budget statement in as many months on the 17th of November, public spending cuts are again on the agenda. Yet even after the biggest increases in military spending in a generation during this Parliament, the UK Defence Minister is discussing a further £52bn increase in the midst of a desperate cost of living crisis. So what is the reality of UK spending priorities and what does it mean for our campaigns for peace and social/environmental justice?
Please join us for our Annual General Meeting at 4pm on 30th November to find out.
Agenda
Introductions – who’s in the room (5 mins)
Dr. Sam Perlo-Freeman – ‘Current UK Military spending, future trajectory & international context’ (15 mins)
Sam was a Senior Reseacher at SIPRI and the head of their military expenditure programme. Currently he is the Research Coordinator at Campaign Against Arms Trade.
Dr. Stuart Parkinson – ‘Opportunity costs: how the latest budget compares in terms of social & environmental priorities’ (10 mins)
Stuart is Co-Chair of GCOMS UK and Executive Director of Scientists for Global Responsiblity.
Discussion (15 mins)
AGM (45 mins)
- Co-chairs’ report
- Treasurer’s report, incl. ongoing fundraising
- Contributions from other Steering Group members
- Political context & proposals for GCOMS work in 2023, incl. GDAMS
- Ideas/comments from Supporting Organisations
- Election/appointment of Steering Group for next 12 months
- Other business
While we are particularly keen to engage the opinions of GCOMS UK Supporting Organisations, the invitation is open to all campaigners from any organisation or none. All are welcome.
