Extinction Rebellion protesters spotted in Reading

Extinction Rebellion took to the streets of Reading on Thursday, May 13, with children’s prams painted a ghostly white, music and banners.

The protesters explained their aim was to "draw attention to the plight of children’s health, due to government failure on the climate and nature crisis".

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The protest group walked in the road towards MP Alok Sharma's registered office in Tilehurst and left placards.

The group said: "It is the first duty of Government to protect its citizens, yet our Government is failing in its duty, by spending more on Climate wrecking projects than on protecting the environment."

Protesters

Dani, a local activist, said: “How can our Government claim to care and be hosting a global climate conference when they are still talking about fossil fuels, roads and weapons of mass destruction?”

Sarah, another activist added: “This Government is killing children - yours and mine, by not taking action RIGHT NOW on the Climate & Ecological Emergency.

"Of course, our Government says nice words and makes some pledges here and there, but they take no action.

"We can all see now that Climate Breakdown has started.

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"As a member of the general public, it is no longer morally acceptable to pretend it isn’t happening, or to expect someone else to fix it.

"We all need to step up and get in the streets.

"Because when your children turn to you in a few years time and ask “Mum, Dad, when you knew about the Climate Emergency, what did you do about it?” - what will you say?"

Mr Sharma has been contacted for comment.