A LEADING American intellectual has backed calls for the closure of a controversial spy base, after it emerged the centre had been linked to US drone attacks in non-war zones.

Radical political philosopher Professor Noam Chomsky, who has been described as the father of modern linguistics, has sent a message of support to be read at the annual Independence From America demonstration at the US National Security Agency base at RAF Menwith Hill, near Harrogate, on Saturday (July 4).

Rally organiser Lindis Percy said GCHQ documents leaked by whistleblower Edward Snowden had strengthened the case for the base's closure by revealing illegal activities there.

She said she hoped the event would further public scrutiny and awareness concerning what the "unaccountable and secretive" base does, after the papers suggested workers at the base helped to “discover communications intelligence gaps in support of the global war on terror".

The Campaign for Accountability of American Bases demonstration will feature speakers, artistes, musicians and the public reading of the People's Declaration for Independence From America as well as stalls from various campaign groups.