26th November 2017

Continuing my look at the UK after 12 years away...
What does Britain stand for?  In France many, like Napoleon, still look on us as a nation of shopkeepers. British old-timers still see their country as a flagship for the world, ruling the waves from its vast Commonwealth powerbase, an example to the world of a longstanding democracy, with centuries of the rule of law and traditional institutions.  But today? The country is a patchwork quilt of an increasingly large population of black, Asian and Muslim peoples added to the indigenous Anglo-Saxon, all bringing different mindsets and cultural opinions to the mix. This brings an identity crisis. We're all confused and ill at ease. Added to this is the longwinded divorce proceedings known as Brexit.  Elsewhere in Europe there is a sense of bewilderment and no-one really cares about us any more. The government is split, and if Corbyn's Labour gains control, he will lead the country into an equally stupid, socialist past where unelected unions rule the roost. SS Britannia is adrift in the waves, leaderless and rudderless unless someone somewhere marches up to the helm and takes control. My wish? An immediate second referendum before it's too late, this time giving the people full economic and other facts consequent on withdrawal. Otherwise it's a tragedy.