The devastation in Haiti is unimaginable. Even if you see the pictures on the TV, unless you have suffered in an earthquake or seen devastation on such a scale it is virtually impossible to envisage what these poor people are going through. What we can do is see that aid is required. And fast. Some have started to say it’s too little and too late. Mostly journalists on the ground who are, in my view, looking for a story. They are at the sharp end. Seeing the death, destruction, pain and suffering. And it’s not surprising that they are reporting in the way they are – yet I think we can be proud. The government responded promptly and led by example. Similarly our charities got to work immediately and despite difficulties at home, the British people have put their hands in their pockets. Similarly the Americans have done what they do best. Act. Fast, decisively and with money and resources. It’s about time we stopped complaining and started supporting.
Gordon Brown has delivered a speech this morning. He’s after the middle ground. The voters who seem to be drifting away from him. He and his party have been in power for a long time and of course have a track record. Some of their moves and policies you will applaud, some be ambivalent to and some against. The question is whether he can convince you that not only is his track record worth defending but whether he can be trusted to deliver cuts. It seems clear that as the days go past the attacks on his leadership have taken control. But who is pulling the strings? The more Gordon speaks the more it seems that Peter Mandelson is in charge. Despite being unelected!
And then to the subject of terrorism… we seem to have ignored the requirement to deal with our problems at home. The US is concerned and I think we should be too. Protecting rights and freedom is of utmost importance yet we seem to have a benefits system that happily pays out to those who could easily work. And these people, although a very small minority, give a bad name to a vast swathe of the population. The solution is tough but I would hope that the government and security services find a way to eradicate extremism without infringing too much on our general way of life.
Oh. Dog coats. I had a load of texts telling me how useful they are. I am yet to believe you! I am not a fan although for a frail or very thin dog – maybe…
I’m back with you for Business & Property tomorrow from 5pm