Action Briefing Dec 2002 - Jan 2003
	The Newsletter of Birmingham Friends of the Earth

E$$O Spooked

Climate change villains Esso came under pressure again on 2nd November when “Esso Busters” picketed the combined Esso Garage and Tesco Supermarket on Bristol Rd. A Hallowe'en theme was chosen, with pumpkin-faces, and “Esso Busters”in ghost-buster style costumes.

A giant banner, placards and the obligatory dancing tiger completed the scene. The reaction from motorists was great, with many of them “honking for the boyccott” and others turning away from the station. Despite being packed when we started, the forecourt was actually empty towards the end! Pedestrians, many of them Students at the nearby Birmingham University were also leafletted and asked to pass on the info to their car driving friends. Most had already heard of the boycott.

One interesting point is that Tesco had denied to the national Stop Esso team that they sold Esso petrol. According to the manageress of the Tesco store, the money from petrol sales went to Esso, while Tesco charged them rent. Small difference, as Tesco still have the chance to choose which petrol supplier to rent to.

Afterwards, we retired to a local hostelry for well earned coffee and cakes. Thanks to everyone who came along, and to Jag and Jenny who organised it.

Andy Pryke