Oxfam Scotland volunteer political activism co-ordinator Meray Diner (pictured right with MPs William Bain and Ann McKechin MP) took part in the IF Camapaign Lunch and Lobby last week. Here are her thoughts on how it went, and how important it is to get politicians to support Enough Food For Everyone IF.
The first Scottish event for the IF campaign after its launch took place in Glasgow last week.
The IF Campaign Lunch and MP Lobby successfully hosted talks from Michael McCann MP, a member of the International Development Select Committee, and Patricia Chale, Director of SCIAF.
MPs William Bain, Ann McKechin, Michael McCann and Ian Davidson joined the lunch where constituents and campaigners had a chance for lobbying and discussing the responsibility of the UK to act on global hunger.
Organised by the Oxfam Glasgow Group, the lunch included some fair and unfair themed meals, writing a letter to George Osborne about the UK budget and other engaging activities.
People had chance to find out more about the IF campaign which highlights that 1 billion people go to bed hungry every night and 2 million children die from malnutrition every year.
The event has also aimed to make people aware that in 2013, the UK government has promised to provide 0.7% of national income for aid.
Overall, it was a fantastic event which inspired different discussions among the public but also pointed out that the more of us get involved, the greater pressure there will be on the UK government and world leaders to take action.
June is the best opportunity to tackle hunger when the world’s most powerful leaders will meet in the UK at the G8 and we must make IF happen with more events and activities.
For more information to get involved, visit https://www.oxfam.org.uk/get-involved/campaign-with-us/our-campaigns/if