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The Tigers cannot say that the proscription would disrupt the peace process with the Sri Lankan government, if they had been genuine in their co-operation for peace. Their unilateral 'cease-fire' was suspected to be a move to avoid being banned by the British government. LTTE theoretician Anton Balasingham has already told London's Tamil Guardian newspaper that banning the LTTE in Britain would disrupt the peace process. Political analysts commenting on the government's response to the 'cease-fire' stated that the government was right not to respond, since a ban by the British government would compel the Tigers to arrive at the negotiating table just to prove that they had been genuine in their offer for a cessation of hostilities. The LTTE have already instilled a fear about the peace process in the minds of some Tamil political parties and diplomats and even among their own people, that banning the LTTE in the UK would disrupt the chance for discussions. However, it is important to find out how Britain's decision would make such an impact on the LTTE. It is a known fact that London is the nerve centre of the LTTE fund raising activities in the international arena. The LTTE headquarters situated in London co-ordinates and monitors its activities from fund raising shows to illegal trading, such as arms and drugs, happening all around the world. Even the Canadian authorities have raised concerns about the heavy illegal dealings that are committed by the LTTE through Tamil businessmen in the country. The reason for the LTTE to be so alarmed about the ban is because of the heavy obstacle it would place on future fund raising activities which would afffect the supply weapons to fight against the government troops. It would also affect their plans to destroy government property and massacre the civilians in Colombo and the suburbs using powerful bombs and other sophisticated arms. The PA government has clearly stated that the war is not against the Tamil people and that even though the LTTE is claiming to represent the Tamils, the government is willing to hear the side of the Tigers at the negotiating table. To get the LTTE into the peace process, the government is also willing to put aside the ruthless activities the LTTE has committed against the civilians in the country including the minorities. The countless massacres they have committed, are clear signs of 'terrorism' that have been openly condemned the world over. The PA government has also gone to extreme lengths to introduce a new draft constitution, a clear and constructive basis for any discussions. Even with a lot of opposition from local political parties and lack of support from the main opposition party, the present government is firm in its stance to consider the views of the 'ethnic minorities' to put an end to the continuing bloodshed. Therefore, it is time for the LTTE to make their move. They must show the government, the whole world and their own people that they would not let issues like Britain's banning the LTTE, mar the peace process, a rare chance given by a government to listen to their own side of the story.
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