On the eve of the summer solstice, protesters from Just Stop Oil sprayed Stonehenge orange to demand the UK’s next government legally commit to phasing out fossil fuels by 2030. The group’s activists Niamh Lynch, 21, and Rajan Naidu, 73, were arrested by UK police for their actions. The orange substance used was “orange cornflour” and the group stated that it would wash away with the rain.
Just Stop Oil chose to carry out the protest on a day when crowds gather at Stonehenge to celebrate, in hopes of drawing attention to their cause. The group is demanding that the next government sign a legally binding treaty to phase out fossil fuels by 2030 in order to defend humanity. They warned that failure to do so would result in further resistance from Just Stop Oil supporters in the summer.
The incident occurred during the UK’s general election campaign, with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak condemning it as a disgraceful act of vandalism. However, Labour party has vowed not to issue new oil and gas drilling licenses and more action is necessary according to Just Stop Oil beliefs. Wiltshire Police confirmed the arrests and stated that they are working closely with English Heritage on the matter.
