By Bernie Bell

I’ve been thinking about the Queen’s Jubilee.  All the flag-waving and excitement would seem to indicate that the people of Britain regard the privileged classes as A GOOD THING, believe that we’re fortunate to have them there to rule us, and therefore should turn a blind eye to their excesses, insufferable arrogance and actual mis-management of the nation.  Though, as a Democracy, how did it come about that we are still ruled by the privileged classes? And the Jubilee provides a useful distraction from the recent revelations about the behaviour of members of Her Majesty’s Government.

Though he appears to be a bumbling buffoon, Boris is very good at orchestrating events to cover his tracks.

Will I be watching the Jubilee celebrations on the telly?  No.  I didn’t acknowledge the last one and, as then, am surprised at some of the otherwise sound people who are taking part in it.  ‘Money doesn’t talk, it swears’ – Bob Dylan.

The jubilee before that?  1977 – remember what the general atmosphere in Britain was in 1977?

I have a souvenir pencil from the 1977 Jubilee – an ironic gift from a fellow punk. A pencil was all she could afford. If anyone wants it – they’re welcome to it.

The Jubilee memorabilia tat will be making money for someone, somewhere. Question is – who is making  the tat, and the money, and where?  Under what conditions for the workers?  If you get a chance have a look at the labels on some of it – could be interesting

And what will  happen to all the little wave-able PLASTIC Union Jack flags left littering the streets after the event? 

We really are living in two worlds in Britain today – the world of the wastrel, wealthy, use and abuse privileged classes, and the world of the thinking, conserving, re-using and giving a helping hand individuals and groups.

Where do we go from here – towards a real Democracy?