Monday 29 November 2010

Anti-cuts protesters - wrong but romantic!

A protester hangs from the projector in Lewisham Council Chamber (photo courtesy of Cllr. Jenni Clutten) - a small part of a protest against "the cuts". Presumably those being outlined by Steve Bullock, Lewisham's elected mayor. And I understand that outside there's a mini-riot with shield-waving cops, dogs, horses and folk waving placards.

Now I may not support their cause. I may believe that we have to make significant reductions is what the government spends - to free citizens and to get our nation on a sustainable fiscal footing. But a lot of me applauds the fact that some people - worried, concerned, even angry about what their council is doing - have taken time on a freezing Monday in November to protest. And to do so with vigour.

Too often - whether in the big place at Westminster or in Council chambers up and down the country - decisions are made affecting all of us that we barely notice. In Bradford we've discussed a significant reorganisation, the financial implications of the June budget and the restructuring of education without a peep from "the people". No protests, no anger...not even something akin to mild irritation.

I can take it. I'm quite happy to make my case in front of protesters - to raise my voice above theirs and be heard. It's about being held to account.

So well done Lewisham protesters - definitely wrong but romantic!

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1 comment:

JuliaM said...

"But a lot of me applauds the fact that some people - worried, concerned, even angry about what their council is doing - have taken time on a freezing Monday in November to protest. And to do so with vigour."

I'm not sure 'vigour' is the right term, frankly...