Police accused of film censorship

2:34pm Friday 21st March 2008

As one of those who turned up at the Duke of York's cinema on Monday expecting to see On The Verge, a documentary dealing with the campaign to close the EDO arms manufacturing factory in Brighton, I was disgusted to discover that because of the intervention of Sussex Police the film could not be shown (The Argus, March 18).

Having seen the film at another venue later that night, I could understand why Sussex Police were so keen to prevent the people of Brighton from seeing it.

The film shows Sussex Police in a poor light. We also discover something of the closeness of the relationship between Sussex Police and the management of EDO, their solicitors and security personnel.

None of this came as a surprise to me as I was a protester at some of the events portrayed in the film. However, any member of the public who wasn't there and who saw these scenes would have the scales lifted from their eyes. They could no longer believe that Sussex Police are neutral peacekeepers and protecters of the right to peaceful protest in the dispute between the protesters and the arms manufacturers.

• Paddy O'Keeffe, chair, Brighton Stop the War

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I was one of the many would-be film-goers turned away from the Duke of York's cinema on Monday following a call from Sussex Police to Brighton and Hove City Council and a subsequent ultimatum from a council officer to the cinema, threatening the loss of their licence.

Fortunately, I was able to watch it at a private screening later on, and I would recommend it to anyone who hasn't seen it. It's a serious and fascinating documentary with a lot of real-life comedy included.

I suggest people watch it for themselves - there will be plenty of future opportunities - and see if they can work out why Sussex Police were anxious to block its release.

• Sally Griffin, Park Crescent Road, Brighton