Dawkins Amongst New Supporters For Republic

Republic has announced further new supporters prominent in public life in Britain - famous scientist, atheist and secularist Richard Dawkins, playwright Peter Whelan and "legendary Clash bassist" Paul Simonon. The following is a recent press release from the campaign group:

RICHARD DAWKINS BACKS REPUBLIC'S CAMPAIGN FOR END TO MONARCHY

Richard Dawkins, the evolutionary biologist and author, has given his backing to Republic's campaign for the abolition of the monarchy. Campaign Manager Graham Smith told reporters:

"This is very exciting news. Richard sees that our campaign is at a turning point and that republicans must work together to drive forward change."

"We have the best chance in a generation to get rid of the monarchy and see a truly democratic Britain. I'm sure Richard's support will inspire republicans across the country to get actively involved in the campaign."

In response to Prince Charles' plans to be an 'activist King', Dawkins has written on his blog that:

"The whole point of a hereditary monarchy is that you can't opt out when it suits your convenience. You now have to ask who would be the best head of state in the whole country. And that means a proper election, in which William and Charles would, of course, be free to stand."

Dawkins joins an ever-growing list of high profile and distinguished republicans, which includes leading figures from politics, law, entertainment and the arts.

WHAT IS REPUBLIC?

Republic is a membership-based pressure group calling for the democratic replacement of the monarchy by an elected head of state. Republic lobbies politicians and opinion-formers, undertakes original research on the monarchy, comments on Royal stories in the media and provides information on republicanism.
Republic is a non-party-political organisation with members from all the main parliamentary parties. Its distinguished supporters include 20 MPs, as well as leading figures from politics, law and the arts. A full list of Republic’s supporters can be found at http://www.republic.org.uk/supporters.