Turmoil and crises are part of life. Great Britain has its fair share of such a calamitous period. The world is full of people who never achieve their full potential because they are in the wrong place at the wrong time, besides other reasons. But there are some who find themselves in the right place at the right time and they really thrive. Winston Churchill is a perfect example of this. During World War II when everything looked dark and gloomy for Britain, the wartime leader was a godsend. Needless to say, he came; he saw; he conquered. When Nazi Hitler was going great guns, Britain under Churchill's astute stewarship was able to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.
Similarly, in the late 1970s Britain was called, economically speaking, “sick man of Europe”. At various points, not just the economy but the whole system of democratic government in Britain seemed at the point of collapse. And then came Margaret Thatcher – Britain's first woman prime minister. Her economic legacy of free markets, free trade, competition, low tax and a small state left an enduring stamp on Britain and the world.
In the last 27 years Britain has changed unrecognisably, not only economically but also there's been a change in the mood of the country in terms of hope and confidence of people. Migration has been a key factor in the dramatic change in the make-up of the people of the country and in their beliefs.
The new prime minister in-waiting, Theresa May, too has come at a time when Britain is passing through one of its worst times in terms of political and economic instablity, to say the least. However, they say: “Cometh the hour, cometh the man”. Under the circumstances May is the ideal choice to lead the country and steady the ship. Her own election as the leader of the Conservative Party and as PM in a very dramatic fashion reflected the intrinsic strength and wisdom of the British people. When friends turned foes, perhaps Theresa May was the only candidate who stood for her values and principles.
Daughter of a vicar, educated in Grammar school and Oxford, she began her career in the banking sector. Her long political trajectory leading up to six continuous years as Home Secretary amply illustrates her intellect, wisdom, dedication, steadfastness and no-nonsense attitude. During the course of handling this important yet delicate portfolio, there were several instances where she was able to reveal her inner strength to ride out any crisis. Some 10 years ago, her comment that her party is perceived as a “nasty party” in a way was a wake-up call or warning shot and one must accept the Tory party has learnt its lessons. Her unflappable handling at the police federation conference also revealed her steely character.
Currently, Britain is going through umpteen number of serious problems. In the aftermath of the EU referendum and the growing rift between 'Remain' and 'Out' campaigners, there are so many issues plaguing the country, the effect of which is seen in stock market crash, pounding of the pound, drop in investments, EU free trade issues, defence and poor international relations. The role of Britain in the world stage too has taken a beating. Infighting within the parties (both Tories and Labour) has only added to the woes. In fact, the entire process of electing the Tory party leader saw a range of outrageous Machiavellian manoeuvres which was compounded by back-stabbing and several uncouth statements and allegations. Needless to say, Theresa May is in the hot seat.
Former PM Harold Wilson famously said: “A week is a long time in politics.” Perhaps within a couple of hours, Monday morning brought a sea change in the politics of this country. Former Tory leader Enoch Powell is supposed to have said: “All political careers end in tears” which was true in the case of Margaret Thatcher.
Theresa May, while Asian Voice is going to printers, must be very busy giving a final shape to her administration. Her short statement in front of Parliament on Monday was very inspiring when she said, “Brexit is Brexit”. It illustrates her deep desire to work with people of various backgrounds to steer the course through a challenging and delicate period.
An all-inclusive approach is the need of the hour and Theresa May has no dearth of talented people at her disposal to weather the political and economic storm. But more importanly, contemporary Britain is often referred to as a multicultural and multi-faith society and the new incumbent's stint at No. 10 should not blemish this great image of Britain.
We wish her the very best in her most important innings of her life.
