Martin Hesp on Saturday

We should stand up for ourselves more

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WE live in a fast-changing world. As a columnist I know this because things can change in the time it takes to write a few words.

I began this column on Thursday, intending to file it yesterday morning, but a development means I've had to alter things slightly. And I am pleased to do so.

Here’s how the first version began...

For most of us, repeating the phrase “we are a proud nation” is something akin to taking our next breath. Of course we are proud. The words don’t need repeating.

‘The people of these islands have helped shape the world. Many activities, techniques and processes were invented here during the Industrial Revolution. British jurisprudence has been adopted by countries around the planet alongside UKbased forms of constitution and governance. We stood firm against Nazi evil and were victorious in doing so. Much of the popular art and sport the world enjoys today has roots ingrained in our postindustrial culture.

So, yes, we are a proud nation. Or should that be “were”?

I ask because recently we've been on a downhill slope. In danger of becoming more church mouse than Churchill. More servant-like than dragon-slayer. Look at the Trump debacle concerning the BBC.

‘Ah... Here comes the overnight alteration.

Like a lot of people, I thought the Beeb was going to give in to Trump in the same way other broadcast organisations have, and hand him over a fortune in “compensation” without a whimper.

So, good on the Corporation for standing up for itself.