A NEW film offering a provocative view on the US "war on terrorism" is to receives its first public screening in Thanet.

The film, entitled Not In My Name, is narrated by BBC radio's Jeremy Hardy and features Channel 4 news presenter Jon Snow, veteran peace campaigner Tony Benn, investigative journalist John Pilger, radical writer Tariq Ali, Labour MP George Galloway and international campaigner Bianca Jagger.

It will be screened on Sunday, April 21, at the Quarterdeck, Zion Place, Cliftonville, Margate, starting at 3pm. The film shows shocking pictures of the impact of US bombing on Afghanistan and asks searching questions of what is claimed to be a campaign for justice and freedom.

Far from making the world a safer place, the film suggests US actions threaten to make things more dangerous. The film is produced by London-based TV producer Platform Films who make programmes for Channel Four and BBC 2, in association with TV Choice, an educational film company with strong links to Thanet.

Norman Thomas of TV Choice, who lives in Broadstairs, said the film was made to provide an alternative perspective on America's attack on Afghanistan.

He said: "The world showed its sympathy with the American people after the atrocity of September 11, but growing numbers of people are unhappy and worried about the extent of America's military response and the threat to world peace.

"This film is the strongest statement yet of the case against extending the war on terrorism. It is essential viewing for anyone interested in the present international situation."

Speaking on the film, Bianca Jagger condemns the US's attack on Afghanistan. She says: "I had hoped that George W Bush would distinguish between seeking justice and inflicting revenge. Unfortunately, President Bush's solution had more to do with lynch mob retribution than the international rule of law."