THE rapper Lowkey is set to join campaigners on the streets of Oldham today to protest against alleged weapon manufacturing at the Elbit Ferranti factory in Waterhead.

Campaigners, who allege the factory is producing deadly weapons used by Israel against Palestinians, have held weekly protests at the site since the bombing of Gaza in May, which resulted in the deaths of 256 Palestinians including 66 children.

The rapper, who has criticised Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian people, is set to speak and perform at the protest.

Lowkey Tweeted yesterday: “I am excited to be joining the community and group of orgs in Oldham outside Elbit Ferranti tomorrow at 1pm. I hope to see you there.”

A spokesperson from Oldham Peace and Justice said: “We asked Lowkey to come to Oldham and say a few words, it took us all by surprise when he agreed. It has been a group effort making this happen today.

“Some people will have no idea who Lowkey is but hopefully they listen to some of his songs. It is easily accessible. This has been great in raising awareness of our campaign”.

Oldham Peace and Justice have recently accused the Israeli-owned Elbit Ferranti factory on Greenacres Road of producing military drones, white phosphorus and cluster munitions.

Elbit Systems, Israel’s largest arms manufacturer, bought the formerly British-owned Ferranti Technologies site for £15 million in 2007.

A spokesperson from the group said: “Israel as the occupying power is obliged under international law to protect the Palestinian population from attacks, to maintain public order in an impartial manner and to protect Palestinians and their property”.

They added: “If we are truly believing everyone is equal, we should not allow a company which clearly does and makes a profit from injustice operate in Oldham and Britain for that matter.”