Amnesty International UK director visits Saffron Walden

THE national director of Amnesty International UK was the guest speaker at a packed annual meeting of the campaign group s Saffron Walden branch last Thursday. Speaking about human rights and whether Amnesty International makes a difference, Kate Allen sa

THE national director of Amnesty International UK was the guest speaker at a packed annual meeting of the campaign group's Saffron Walden branch last Thursday.

Speaking about human rights and whether Amnesty International makes a difference, Kate Allen said that for the group "it was an asset beyond value that it takes the long view".

She drew attention to some of the group's campaigns, including action to end violence against women, and for the Arms Trade Treaty.

The end violence campaign was started more than 10 years ago and attaining the Arms Trade Treaty took about 15 years, but without the work of Amnesty International championing these campaigns they may not have succeeded.

The meeting also marked the retirement of Francis Deutsch from the position of chairman and the election of Paul Gadd to the position.

A former immigration lawyer, Mr Deutsch has been involved with Amnesty International for the past 20 years and chairman of the Saffron Walden branch for five.

He said: "I am pleased with the progress the branch has made while I have been chairman. It has grown and we have become more active.

"I think my particular contribution has been bringing my experience and expertise in immigration and making it a key issue for the group."

Pam Gadsby and Veronica Walker were re-elected as secretary and treasurer respectively.