Weymouth man taking part in protests blocking oil terminals across UK
Just Stop Oil are behind the action
Last updated 1st Apr 2022
Early this morning hundreds of supporters of the Just Stop Oil coalition blocked seven critical oil terminals near London, Birmingham and Southampton to demand that the UK government stops new oil and gas projects in the UK.
The actions are being carried out by supporters of Just Stop Oil and Extinction Rebellion.
Scores of people sat in the road to block oil tankers from leaving each site, while others climbed on top of oil tankers, including over 30 young people at the Navigator Oil Terminal in Thurrock.
They want the government to stop new projects in the UK and say 'ordinary people can no longer afford' oil and gas.
At least six people have been arrested.
Louis McKecknie, 21 from Weymouth said:
“I don't want to be doing this but our genocidal government gives me no choice. They know that oil is funding Putin’s war and pushing millions of people into fuel poverty while energy companies reap billions in profits. They know that to allow more oil and gas extraction in the UK is suicidal and will accelerate global heating. It means millions dying of heat stress, losing their homes or having to fight for food. This is the future for my generation, I stop when oil stops.”
One of the companies targeted by activists have confirmed "small protests" are currently underway at their Hythe, Birmingham and West London fuel terminals.
Exxon Mobil UK, one of the country's largest privately owned underground oil pipeline distribution networks, confirmed demonstrations were underway at some of their sites on Friday morning, causing operations to be temporarily suspended.
The oil and gas company said on Twitter: "Small protests are currently underway outside our Hythe, Birmingham and West London fuel terminals."
"While we respect the right to peaceful protest, our priority is the safety of our people, our neighbours, the protestors and our operations.
"We are working with the police to ensure that safety is maintained."
The firm said it had temporarily suspended operations at the locations mentioned, but its other terminals at Purfleet and Avonmouth were not affected.