British Pride

If there is one thing that just about every person in the world associates with historic Britain it is the Navy. Since the Mary Rose through to the Ark Royal we have sailed the seven seas and flown the flag around the globe. Now I don't think we should have any delusions about our new place in the world as a medium sized state, it's China and America's world now. But nevertheless we MUST keep our Navy in tip top condition. Why?

1) Because it is part of who we are, Britain without a first class Navy would be a bit like Germany is without it's first class army; sad, ineffective and a little depressing.

2) We are an island nation with island dependencies spread out around the world. We need aircraft carriers to ensure the continued safety of our overseas citizens. Hi to the Falkland Islanders!

3) Because ships are just plain fun.

4) Sheer darn pride. No one wants to be mediocre!

So when the top Admiral asks for more money I say give it to him. Evacuate our forces from Iraq and this idiotic campaign on behalf of the half crazed President of the United States (not forgetting Mr Blair, good intentions indeed...) and use the money saved on making sure our Navy remains the pride of Britain.