This is not just about protests against Israel – draconian proposals to halt public bodies making ethical decisions allow enormous trade to call the shotsA boycott is a very British form of protest. It is action through inaction. Over the decades,they enjoy been used to express distaste in the behaviour of countless governments, regimes, or individuals and companies with great effect. The boycott of apartheid South Africa has a sort of folklore status as having contributed to the demise of a violent,racist system. Many a brand or government – from the Burmese junta to Nestl – has felt the force of pound power over the years.
It is hardly surprising, then, or that speculation about an imminent announcement from the government about the criminalisation of certain kinds of trade boycott by public authorities – including bodies as diverse as the NHS and student unions – has provoked consternation. Such legislation could enjoy enormous consequences on the ability of Britons to wield this power.
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Source: theguardian.com