THE number of stores and outlets stocking white poppies has more than doubled in the last five years as the Peace Pledge Union (PPU) launched its annual campaign this week. 

Almost every city and large town in Britain now has at least one white poppy seller ahead of Remembrance Day next month. 

White poppies stand for remembrance for all victims of war, along with a commitment to peace and rejection of any attempt to glamorise war, with money raised going towards promoting non-violent approaches to conflict and producing educational materials.

In contrast, the Royal British Legion, which produces red poppies, argues that Remembrance Day should be limited to British and allied armed forces personnel.

Most white poppy sales continue to be online, but the increased number of outlets will make it easier for more people to buy a white poppy in person.

In many places, shops are stocking white poppies after being approached by local groups or individuals.

The PPU has called for veterans to be able to rely on support from the state and not have to depend on charity.

Geoff Tibbs, remembrance project manager at the PPU, reiterated the importance of campaigners working towards a peaceful future. 

He said: “These messages have a renewed urgency today, as Covid and the climate crisis have shown the need to co-operate peacefully across borders and that militarism cannot make us safe.

“The so-called ‘war on terror,’ which has lasted for more than 20 years, has been a catastrophe of global proportions, leaving millions dead and displaced. 

“As Remembrance Day approaches, this grim legacy reminds us that remembrance must confront the true human cost of war and not be confined by a nationalist agenda.”