Trust In Our Leaders

Are we a divided Nation? Polarised views, Party divides, ideological differences, and fractious exchanges in Parliament. A population constantly aware of what divides us rather than what connects us. Journalism of the lowest level with notable exceptions, fake news, competing egos, dubious supercilious interviewers reminding us of the one-trick pony, depict a new low in public life. Time for a new script and one which is inclusive and reflects social awareness and agility, one which brings people together in harmony working for the common good. Raise our level of awareness and give the nation hope.

It is not difficult to see why Politicians are viewed with a degree of suspicion especially in both the main parties. They appear to spend more time pandering to Lobbyists and self-interest groups, or dubious regimes to forge new and dangerous liaisons! Perhaps we need to make them more accountable and transparent in their dealings, reflecting their democratic obligations to the people. Did we sanction a foreign policy based on any commercial dimension? If not, why do the main parties seem more than willing to trade in arms to regimes with appalling human rights records? Trade missions to faraway places to auction off large infrastructure projects at home or ceding and exporting our intellectual property to the highest bidder. There was the curse of gambling liberalisation then online gambling leading to the demise of Sport and untold human misery through exposure and addiction. More significantly there were the recent years of brutal austerity affecting the NHS and health of the nation. It suggests an “underfunding project” to further privatise the Service. It is a scandalous act of treachery. “These brutal cuts to the NHS will haunt the conservatives” * This is a point to which we shall return very soon.

There also seems to be an excellent and vibrant trade in very senior defunct politicians. A close examination of the “business” relationships they develop and how they fund their pensioned lifestyle suggests foul play! They become ““Consultants” or lay a foundation for a world of intrigue and subterfuge. Often self-absorbed, this “Sycophant Group” aspire to sit at the top table of power. However, in another world they are woefully inept and selfishly pursue their own interests. Feathered nests and squirrelling were words often used. We deserve much more than that. How to move forward, re-establish integrity, transparency, trust, but more, how to modernise and simplify the institution of Government. A populist Government led by a populist leader would dispel aged mistrust and halt the will of the people being disregarded by established elitist groups hiding in the Parliamentary system. One day it may truly represent the democratic the will of the people, create a fair and just society and encourage other nations to follow that path.

True leaders can unite and co-ordinate the efforts of politicians and people alike to promote human values of fellowship, friendship, endeavour, compassion, justice, and peace. People are desperate the world over to give peace a chance and to accept communion in the true spirit, not subjected to poverty, famine, division, isolation, and war. We surely deserve fellowship and a new perspective of life, a shared involvement, and a fair division of the adequate rich resources of our world. Imagine a passive world where tolerance was the accepted norm, inclusivity was a precursor of an altogether benign world with no war. It is not an impossible dream, rather an alignment of will, leadership, faith, hope and an indomitable call to action.

* Polly Toynbee Opinion NHS The Guardian Fri 25 0ctober 2019