To wonder about what people in the arms trade feel about their work?

[mrsjavierbardem]

I was at a party recently and realised the circle I was with worked in various aspects of the arms industry. Components, procurement etc in the UK.

I was struck by how much it really chilled me. But also I immediately thought, our whole country's economy depends partly on this industry so it has to be hypocritical of me feel it to be an awful job that I would hate to be involved with. Particularly as these people all adore their children and it seems to me children and the poor are the worst victims of the arms trade, of course they are not the official 'targets' but they are under the bombs and fire aren't they?

So I agree, I am implicated by enjoying our UK democratic lifestyle but it did make me wonder. and I don't think I could actually buy and sell arms knowing how they get used. And the deterrent argument doesn't work for the smaller arms does it?

I just wonder what you think about at night when you've just closed a massive sale of arms?

The product isn't a murdering bastard, no. But can you think of a "nice", morally sound use of a landmine, which we used to happily sell? Or electric cattle prods that are used to torture? The sellers are not without blame. And the purchase of arms has at times been tied in to structural adjustments programmes in the developing world.

I didn't know that and that is absolutely terrible and I completely disagree with that. (Structural adjustment programmes )

Do arms traders sell electric cattle prods?

I don't mean I would support a trade which is basically like Amazon Prime for the evil but I don't disagree, in principle, with a well-regulated firm manufacturing Eurofighters for instance.

Yes some do. Torture equipment has been exhibited at arms fairs, for example.
I do love the phrase "amazon prime for the evil"!

If you've three minutes to spare here's a clip from the comedian Mark Thomas:
m.youtube.com/watch?v=O2JxhhqbAD0

Ooh thanks Igggi - I used to love Mark Thomas, I haven't seen any of his stuff for ages, I shall definitely watch!