THE UK government has been encouraged to take action on nuclear weapons by backing the multilateral UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).

More than 100 nations have voted in favour of banning nuclear weapons and 50 nations have so far ratified the treaty which will enter into force on Friday 22 January 2021.

It makes nuclear weapons illegal in the countries that sign the treaty and will outlaw nuclear weapons.

This treaty is unique, as it is focused on the humanitarian consequences of the use of nuclear weapons.

The new treaty will make it illegal under international law to develop, test, produce, manufacture, acquire, possess, stockpile, transfer, use or threaten to use nuclear weapons.

It also makes it illegal to assist or encourage anyone to engage in these activities.

Shamefully the UK government has refused to participate and is one of nine countries that have nuclear weapons.

The entry into force of the ban treaty signals a massive change globally.

Recognising that nuclear weapons are one of the greatest threats to humanity, the countries of the United Nations have outlawed them.

Countries like the UK are outside the norm of civilised society.

David Hoadley

Southampton