I
have been involved in politics at many levels for some years. During
that time, I have seen Governments of all political complexions, from
Wilson, Callaghan, Blair and Brown, to MacMillan, Douglass-Home,
Thatcher, and Major to name a few. In
some, but not all, there have been the usual scandal's or unpopular
measures, military interventions, economic programmes or other events
which one or other elements of society have taken exception to and
voiced their opposition in the press, media or even on the streets. We
now have a Coalition Government of Conservative and Liberal Democrats,
led by Conservative David Cameron as Prime Minister, presiding over the
worst economic crisis to face this country since the 1930's. Leaving
aside the “Who is to blame?” argument whether it be the last Labour
Government, the Banking and Finance speculators or the Euro zone, we
should be addressing a more fundamental question. There is something
very wrong with Government generally and mainstream politics in
particular, in this country today. It is not just that there is a
consensus view that the Government is out of touch, or even that MP's
are grumbling that their respective leaders need to get a grip or change
direction, it is a growing divergence between the people and the
Government. It is abundantly evident that more and more people are
disillusioned with the current political choices, but with all
mainstream parties rushing to occupy the “centre ground” the criticism
that there is no difference between them has never been more undeniable.
The vision of MP's actions, not only in voting themselves increases in
pensions or other benefits, while increasing the “tax take” for the
Treasury, but also in their subservience to the demands of industry and
banks, has alienated public opinion to an extent that has not been
witnessed in this country for generations. This, added to the already
rapidly declining living standards of people up and down the country,
will inevitably lead to hostility towards those who control the country.
In foreign policy too, the all too apparent willingness to agree or at
least acquiesce with Washington in its activities both in other
countries and the UN Security Council, is to many people in Britain both
demeaning and un acceptable. All this coupled with growing State
intrusion into private lives, increased surveillance, growing
bureaucracy, more restrictions on personal freedom and movement, must
add to a growing resentment within society.
Yes there is much wrong with Government and mainstream politics today. There is also something simmering below the surface of society in Britain similar to that which we have seen in other European countries. Unless the indicators are recognised in The Commons and in Downing Street, and actions are taken, it will be here soon.
Yes there is much wrong with Government and mainstream politics today. There is also something simmering below the surface of society in Britain similar to that which we have seen in other European countries. Unless the indicators are recognised in The Commons and in Downing Street, and actions are taken, it will be here soon.
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