Shell blasted on Iraq oil
This warning, from the coalition Hands Off Iraqi Oil, comes as Shell holds its annual meeting amid growing resistance to the companys bid to assume control over oil reserves.
The warning follows news that Shell plans to pay £3 million to directors to stay on the board for three years and the firms record £3.9bn earnings for the last quarter against the background of higher energy prices for pensioners, motorists and industry.
Protestors from the coalition, including War on Want, Platform, Voices UK and Iraq Occupation Focus, will demonstrate outside the annual meeting at the Barbican Centre in London, and put questions directly to the board of directors inside the meeting.
Shell is seeking a controlling stake in the Kirkuk oilfield, Iraqs oldest and second largest producing field, and the site of deteriorating ethnic violence, as well as the Maysan field in the south of Iraq, and the Akkas gas field in Iraqs Anbar province.
Campaigners warn that Iraq would lose billions of pounds in oil income under a proposed new law which the British and US governments are pressing the Baghdad administration to sign.
Iraqi trade unions say the law will allow oil companies, such as Shell and BP, to secure power over new oil fields for 25 years, with the countrys economy run by overseas firms.
Ruth Tanner, senior campaigns officer at War on Want, said: Shells plans not only seek control over oil reserves against the wishes and interests of millions of Iraqis. They threaten to worsen conflict in a region which has already claimed many lives.
Paul Collins, War on Want media officer (+44) (0)20 7549 0584 or (+44) (0)7983 550728
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