The BBC are in the dock.

 When you thought it couldn’t get any worse for the BBC - the US  president has decided to sue the corporation for 1$ billion dollars over the ‘doctored speech’. Moreover this could become an increasing problem between the government and the Trump administration. Leading to a somewhat embarrassing situation between two allies. In addition there is the financial threat to the independence of the corporation. The British people wouldn’t be happy with this going to court, with the consequences that could follow. Another factor making the dismal situation worse is the - forthcoming discussions - with the Labour government over Charter review. As the one time chancellor Denis Healey famously said back in 1983 “when in a hole, stop digging”. The BBC is in a very deep hole. 

Today I was in a busy London restaurant the Delaunay Counter cafe at 11.00 - when a two minute silence was requested by the maitre d’hotel. I was greatly impressed - there was a general sense of solemnity and respect for the occasion. It made feel quite sad and reflective. So many lives lost or destroyed from barbarous wars - that left many lives wasted or stunted.