​Campaigners block parts of Glasgow factory in protests against drone manufacture

Pro-Palestine activists have blockaded part of Thales UK’s Glasgow plant in protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza.

A group of around 15 campaigners from the Glasgow Palestine Action network gained access to the weapons systems manufacturer in Govan.

Thery are staging action in protest over Thales' relationship with Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest military company and the world’s largest drone producer.

Thales UK is working with Elbit Systems on a contract worth £1 billion.

Fifi O’Hara, one of the protesters, said: “Drones are a key part of Israel’s military arsenal.

“By allowing this factory to export drone components and other arms to Israel, the UK government is providing direct support and approval to Israel’s massacres.”

A spokesman for Thales UK said: "An incident involving pro-Palestine protesters is currently taking place at the Thales Glasgow site.

"A small number of protesters have made their way inside the perimeter fence and onto the roof of the building."

He added: "The protest appears at this stage to be peaceful and representatives from the police are on site and are dealing with the situation."