EVERY day, more than 1,500 people die as a result of armed violence and conflict. That’s more than one person a minute.

Next month, Prime Minister David Cameron and other world leaders will be meeting at the United Nations to agree a new treaty which would help to save these lives.

A new international, legally-binding arms trade treaty would, for the first time ever, ensure the arms trade is globally regulated and that the transfer of weapons is closely monitored and transparent.

But this new law can only be effective if it stops weapons ending up in places where there’s a big risk that they could be used in human rights abuses and atrocities. And it must include all weapons and ammunition that can be used for military and security purposes.

We invite everyone who would like to see a truly effective treaty to come and sign our petition on the arms trade on Saturday in the town centre.

ANDREW HEMMING

Vice chairman, Salisbury Amnesty International