There was a piece on the BBC Radio 4 last night (16th January) about Obama’s proposals for gun control and particularly about the NRA’s opposition (National Rifle Association of America). It explained the American attitude in terms of self-reliance and self-defence, drawing attention to the low crime rate in some states where many people carry concealed handguns lawfully. It was an unusually fair piece of reporting, contrasting us Brits who have surrendered our right to defend ourselves to America where that right remains and is highly valued.

For many years I’ve resented the fact that we Brits are disarmed by law and have to rely on the State to protect us. I have little faith in our Police and our system of justice: a sentiment
emphasised by the recent Andrew Mitchell case. In fact I have little faith in our overbearing State.

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