On Tuesday 10 December 2002, a symposium titled "GO NORTH: Case for Elected Regional Government" was held by a high-level committee at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors, at 12 Gt. George Street, Westminster, on the edge of Parliament Square, London.

The aim was to push for a referendum for an elected Regional Assembly in the North West at the earliest opportunity, to initiate the break up of England into 8 regions, London being the ninth.

The Panel felt secure convening such shady dealings miles away from the North West, but were dumfounded when their aims were suddenly being broadcasted to thousands of Londoners, by protestors gathered opposite.

These loyal people, from nearer localities, had recognised the plight of their northern friends, and in glacial conditions waved flags, flourished banners, raised petitions and displayed a huge banner (8ft x 4ft) with an appeal to Her Majesty not to ratify any future treasonous regionalisation Bills.

Men appealed to the public by tannoy urging them to oppose the betrayal of politicians, and to stay loyal to England. A van with colourful banners attached to the roof, heralded its arrival with patriotic music, interspersed with broadcasts by loudhailer.

Drivers responded by enthusiastically blasting their horns, which could be heard throughout the meeting opposite. The van toured Fleet Street, Waterloo Station, the London Eye, The Mall, Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, the House of Commons, Law Courts, and stopped outside 10 Downing Street for 10 minutes, ceaselessly broadcasting.

Such was the impact that passers-by joined in, one being a worker from the House of Commons on lunch-break. Banners were also displayed at the request of Alliance for the Sovereignty of France, Danish Peoples Movement, Ireland and Poland. The latter drew Polish tourists who lingered to take photos holding their national banner and gathered information. Some from the North West gallantly travelled to attend the meeting or the protest.

Frederick Forsyth attended the "Regional symposium" and reported that it had been "just a lot of waffle". Lord Pearson spent time with the throng adding his encouragement, whilst Robin Cook hastily walked past the colourful and noisy display, clutching a mobile to his ear, attempting not to notice.

A condemning letter addressed to each Member of the Panel was handed to the receptionist, who promised to distribute them. Towards the end of the meeting a group of protestors invaded the building wishing to add their views, but were ejected by agitated RICS bouncers.

After a buffet lunch at generous taxpayers' expense, Members of the meeting emerged... not puffed-up with an inspiring European vision, but with agitation and averted eyes. That may have been due to only 18 of them being present, with three of those against, compared to the near 50 demonstrators outside.

Later, a protestor entered the Foreign and Commonwealth Office's Open Day which was meant to be celebrating "Human Rights". He asked an officer at the European Union stand whether there is a law against "xenophobia". It was confirmed that there is such a law in place. However, when asked what 'xenophobia' is, it seems that discussions are still taking place for a definition!

The organisers would like to thank individuals for their superb initiatives and stalwart work.

To join further demonstrations, contact	Robert Theobald
telephone:  01582 724644             e-mail:  lunadeplata@onetel.net.uk