In defence of the tools of my trade.

My name is Heath Bunting; I am an artist by occupation.

My areas of expertise lie within computers, radio and community
development.

I built my first computer when I was 13 years old, which is now
over 22 years ago.

I became interested in art during my apprenticeship training in
stained glass window and church restoration.

By 1995 I had reach an established position in my field to such a
degree that I was continually travelling as a guest of
communities and governments world wide.

As I travel continuously I have either reduced my possessions to
a bare minimum or transformed them into software residing on the
internet.

As you see me today is how I appear in kosova or canada; I have
nothing else.

So the things I have are essential and can not be easily
dispensed with.

There is a long tradition of artists being involved in community
and economic development.

I am often invited to perform the roles of visionary, activist
and actualiser in harsh degraded environments.

For example I have built radio stations in Kosova directly after
the war and am currently waiting for instructions concerning work
in Afganistan.

For this kind of work I require a good set of tools.

When working I carry a multi tool and pocket knife.

On the day in question, I was mid journey to Croatia from Bristol.
I was due to teach at a practical computer networking course for
which I would be in need of my tools.

On the way to Croatia I had to go to the home office in Croydon
for my wife's immigration claim and also to go to Docklands to
effect maintenance on our main server, for which I would require
my tools.

I understand the reason for the law concerning bladed articles,
which is to deter people from routinely or habitually carrying
knives and comply with this intent by placing my tools in safe
places when not working or going to obvious no work environments
eg: evening entertainment

When I was arrested in Croydon I was also was in possession of a
multi tool with two lockable blades and a pair of pointed chopsticks.

I am curious to why should I be allowed to carry those, but not
the single one for which I am here today.

My pocket knife is no ordinary knife it costs over 100 GBP and is
made to retain its sharpness. I have used this blade for over 2
years; the dents in its edge will reveal this, but please notice
that it is still very sharp.

I use this for precise cutting of organic and plastic materials,
such as cables and rubber on which my steel multi tool is
useless.

I have also used this blade for first aid and preparation of
food.

It is important that I not be found guilty, as this would seriously
affect my professional work, perventing me from using blades and also
excluding me from countries which prohibit entry to people with a 
criminal conviction (USA, Canada, Australia).


Heath Bunting 2001