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?
