24/08/2021
We so rarely use our platform to raise awareness of political issues. But sometimes you have to stand up and be counted.
Yesterday morning we rejoiced with rescues around the world on hearing the news the prime minister had given his full backing to granting visas to Pen Farthing and his Nowzad team. In a privately funded jet paid for by animal lovers they could all get out of Kabul, taking over a 100 extra refugees in spare seats, and all their dogs and cats in the hold where humans cannot travel. Defra were supporting the animals’ paperwork with so many rescues like ourselves offering help with rescue space. Vets had offered jobs to the vets and nurses. All they needed was a call sign from the ministry of defence so the plane could fly into Afghanistan and safe passage to the airport.
Last night it was reported a special adviser to the Defence Secretary had blocked the flight on the grounds they do not want animals to travel. This morning on Sky Breakfast (video in comments) Pen said yesterday he had his line cut off to the Ministry of Defence. He now has no means to talk to the people who can get them all out, an ex-marine too. Meanwhile Kabul Small Animal Rescue posted an emotional video five minutes after a visit from the Taliban and pictures circulated of a car on a military cargo plane that had been airlifted out of Afghanistan.
This is not about animals over people - it is about using an empty space to save their lives. The fate of Pen, his team and the animals does not bear thinking about if they are left behind. The world is watching your response
Boris Johnson Ben Wallace Ministry of Defence
Collectively we have the power to make our voices heard again 💜