Patriotism Is Noble Ideal Unifying Our Wonderful Country

'Our country has emerged as a global beacon in the Covid fight'

- Leo McKinstry

IN THE wintry gloom shines the light of real hope. After the long, hard months of crisis, the end of the cruel pandemic is now in sight. Yesterday’s inspiring announcement that Britain has become the world’s first nation to approve the use of an effective Covid vaccine is not only a giant leap for humanity but also a historic moment for national pride. As the rollout programme begins, our country has emerged as a global beacon in the fight against the virus.

But there was another reminder this week of Britain’s special character, highlighted in the passionate Commons debate over the introduction of the new, localised tiers to replace the national lockdown. The revolt by 55 backbench MPs against the proposal may have been a heavy blow to the Government’s authority but it also illustrated the strength of our democracy.

Acting in accordance with their principles rather than the dictates of party whips, rebels showed that the Parliamentary system, which Britain pioneered centuries ago, is far from broken and the response to coronavirus has often shown Britain at its best.