Dear Pogue,

It’s a mess, it really is.

I have returned from my travels to a leadership battle in our country which involves accusations, defiling of character, improbable commitments.

“Well that’s politics” you say, “Nothing new there”.

But why? Why do we accept that as the standard for leadership? It seems that integrity and political advancement are alien to each other. And all this to select someone who will take on the role of steering the country through the coming years of post Covid and post Brexit.

Then there is an energy crisis looming across Europe as the shadow of Russia continues to fall on us. Prices are soaring and domestic users are suffering. Food prices are climbing with persistence and I see the divide between the rich and the poor growing. That said I watched an interview with some of those who claim to be suffering due to soaring prices and a number were seen with the latest mobile phones and one who pleaded her case and her inability to provide for her children had some rather well manicured nails! An absence of integrity appears not to be limited to our aspiring leaders Im thinking.

Integrity is choosing your thoughts and actions based on values rather than personal gain

Anon

Add to the mix the fact that Trade Unions appear to be gaining momentum in what may be a prolonged battle for better pay for their members. They may be justified in some cases.

This week we were told, via the media, that the NHS is facing the gravest crisis it has ever faced as the number of doctors and nurses falls well short of needs.

And the solution to all of these issues?

More money. But in the face of this political parties are promoting themselves by promises of tax cuts! But where’s the money coming from? This questions seems to go begging. The magic money tree?

All this said, Britain is far from alone in facing these things. Around the world they are being repeated.

As said, it’s a mess. The solution isn’t more money although a bridging of the gap between the rich and the poor, the ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’, is long over due. An injection of integrity needs to be the foundation of recovery, the quality that will make the tough but necessary decisions. Pogue, it’s long overdue all across the world.

Yours, in deep concern,

Wic