Many years ago, when I went off to start my National Service, the only advice my father gave me was to resist playing cards for money and associating with loose women and religious or political zealots. At the same time, he warned that debating the aforementioned issues should also be avoided. Since then, more often than not, I've managed to follow his advice.
Recently, however, I'm finding it increasingly difficult to resist commenting on the reaction - or should I say over-reaction? - to young Mr. Clegg's position with regard to student loans. In this respect, by the way, I understand - and, to some extent, accept - the reaction from genuine students. Rebellion is, after all, a rite of passage so far as many of them are concerned.
Less understandable, however, is the apparent reluctance of other (allegedly, more responsible) people to accept what even those responsible (the former government) don't deny - and that is that the country's broke and savings HAVE to be made. For heaven's sake, it's patently obvious that no one in the coalition had the slightest idea of just how bad things were - and, does anyone really believe that they enjoy making decisions which are bound to be unpopular?
