I recently received a letter from local MP, Sir John Hayes, dated May 25, 2020 which contained the following somewhat self-congratulatory statement: “Before the economic crash of 2008 the UK’s cyclically adjusted deficit was 5.2 per cent, twice as high as the average advanced country.
“In contrast by 2019 it was just 1.3 per cent lower than the developed country average of 3.4 per cent.
“We have gone from being among the worst prepared countries for an economic shock to one of the best.”
Perhaps this emphasis explains much about the tragedy of the soon to be 40,000 COVID-19 deaths in the UK compared to the Greek total of under 200.
We will too soon experience what it is to be one of the best prepared countries for an economic shock.
Lest we forget, the post 1919 economic recession and the associated unemployment was partly alleviated by the horrors of WWI and the loss of a male generation.
The grief of those touched by the appalling results of this government’s inadequate response to events will scar this and the upcoming generation.
It will be a watershed referred to for decades to come. Blood on hands is not easily or soon removed. If in doubt, just ask those who have lost loved ones before their time.
Nicolas de Jong
via email
