On Monday we are to escape this troubled isle for a couple of weeks. For although the current political squabbles in the UK are akin to observing a satirical comedy there will be some relief to be away from it all for a while.
Underneath the farcical antics of our politicians, however there is a ghastly, seeping horror of gradual decline; while they continue to wrangle, argue, bluster, lie and boast, most of us are powerless to intervene, still less to mitigate.
We know what our closest neighbours think. The Dutch, especially are incredulous at the decision of [some of] us to leave the European family. The French have held up their hands: ‘Zut alors!’ and then washed them of us-and who can blame them?
And then there is the USA. Those who’ve squawked about ‘slavery’ in a ridiculous diatribe about the EU [the increasingly mad witch-like Anne Widecombe] seem to think nothing ironic or wrong about enslaving ourselves to America; accepting their disgusting bleached chicken in exchange for the NHS? Where is the so called ‘freedom’ in all of that?
I’m still waiting to hear ONE explanation or ONE benefit that will be gained from leaving the EU. Meanwhile the buffoon who is most likely to become our next prime minister continues to stutter, pretend and joke his way to success amidst an unwavering, simpering, ignorant band of supporters, in true Trumpesque fashion-an echo of US, dogged ignorance.
Now, because of the so-called ‘special relationship’ we are to be drawn in to the row with Iran- having to be allied with the US instead of Europe. Why must we have the ‘special relationship’ with the USA, when our closest neighbours are within shouting distance? Surely those on our doorstep are the best allies? We must tow the line with America because we have to beg for trade deals-where’s the ‘freedom from slavery’ in that, Anne Widecombe?
So despite the plummeting pound [again] we are off to cycle our way into the relative peace of the French countryside, free of news, interviews and debate. And there is still time for a couple of trips before the [next] supposedly definitive date when the UK ex-communicates itself. After that-who knows what we’ll need to do to leave these beleaguered shores? Our wonderful, efficient E111 health cards may not apply. We may need special driving permits or visas. We may be compelled to join a special queue for outsiders going in or coming out.
Above all I’m hoping that within my lifetime we can return to some kind of rational, measured, cooperative political system that doesn’t pander to rich, white middle-class old Etonians and their fawning, job-hungry cronies. One that favours reason, fairness, empathy and basic humanity.
Will populism become wearisome? Will the drawbridge be cranked back down? Will human rights begin to matter again before I croak? What do you think?
Answers on a digital postcard [below in the comments box]. Au revoir!
Anecdotage 
Great article.
Plus ca change. I cannot understand how in the 21st century, people are so blind to the stranglehold of Eton and privileged self-interested white male Tories on our ruling institutions. The French would have had a revolution by now!
Yes-maybe the revolution is to come? Fingers crossed!
Isn’t it amazing how people can be cranked up enough to vote against their own interests?
Yes-but you only have to peer back into history to see it repeated time and again!
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Hello. Thanks for visiting! There should be an option to follow on the page [at the base of the post].
I think we all despair of the people who have been elected to rule us. Maybe there is something wrong with our system of democracy? Brexiteers thought bringing back power to our Parliament would give us more control over our own country but those in control don’t want it or are incapable of using it. Do you have a politician who you trust to be wise and just and efficient? Are they all chosen because they can talk and have charisma? ( one in particular) Does the problem start in our Universities? Have we diluted degrees so much that the best people disappear into industry and the Civil Service gets the second best? Does the media really run the country or is everything completely out of control? I feel it is the age of the minority and it makes me angry and uneasy.
Interesting comment. You may be right that the entire system is skewed, but I still hope that populism will go into decline again soon!
Have a lovely holiday cycling in my adopted country
Thank you! A wise choice of adoption!
Great post 🙂
Thank you kindly!
Reblogged this on Times and Tides of a Beachwriter and commented:
My local writer, blogger and REMAINER friend expresses what many of us feel and I know most of our US blogger friends will not be offended as they are enduring mirror feelings of disbelief and anger with their leaders.
Thank you. I doubt those who’d be offended would read all that far…
Au revoir non adieu avec espoir ! Ever since my teens in Australia – ‘All the Way with LBJ’ and Australia’s terrible participation in Vietnam I have never thought anyone should be having a special relationship with the USA and that country is certainly not ‘the leader of the free world’.
No-and especially not right now!