Saturday 17 August 2002 saw some street activism from CIB-Scotland when they set up a stall and distributed Keep the Pound leaflets in the Lothians' town of Haddington.

This was the second time this CIB-Scotland activist group have taken their message directly onto the streets. Last month in Edinburgh they set up a similar stall outside the Usher Hall on Lothian Road.

There were ten of us: Secretary Robert McLean, William Scott, Dallas Carter, James and Sally Wolfe-Murray, Estelle Bennett, Margaret Needham, Roy Alder, John Greer-Spencer and myself.

The stall was easy to spot because William Scott, from North Berwick, had parked his astonishingly effective van next to it. This large van is decorated on all sides with Keep the Pound and pro-sovereignty slogans. It really is a valuable activist's tool.

It is much larger than usual with an extended roof enabling the message to be seen, even when its parked among other vehicles. Even when it is just parked, it is a remarkable advertisement for the cause. William Scott says that he is happy to consider taking his van to any suitable events within travelling distance. You can contact him at 01620 892 489.

HOW TO GET PERMISSION FOR A STALL
To get permission to set up a stall, you need to write to the appropriate department of your City or County Council. In this case it was the "Transport Department". They will send you a letter giving permission, and possibly listing some basic requirements.

For example, they may specify that no commercial activity is to take place, no obstruction to pedestrians, no loudspeakers, and all leaflets to be cleared up afterwards. If you want to sell anything, then make sure you mention this in your initial letter so you can get the appropriate permission and documentation.

Ensure you have the permission letter with you on the day, in order to show any Police officers who may ask for proof.

SOME TIPS
Don't put the table up against a shop-window or anywhere else where it will interfere with daily business. Stay away from shop entrances. Don't inconvenience any normal business.

When leafleting, don't stand directly in front of people, or appear to "confront" them. Stand a little to the side, lean over arm extended. Be friendly, smile.

Don't ask, "Do you want a leaflet?" because this gives people the option of refusing. Rather just give it to them, "Have a leaflet, sir".

Have lots of free literature on your table to give away, and a petition, or a membership form, which people can sign.

The day's activism lasted for a couple of hours with over 500 leaflets distributed. The next event is planned for somewhere in Fife in September.

CIB-Scotland aims to have a campaigning event every month. If you would like to join them or help out, contact Secretary Robert McLean at 13 Strachan Road, Edinburgh EH4 3RH      telephone : 0131 332 4948