Letters >

Prince Harry's armband - Charlie Bolton, 13 January 2005

To: Western Daily Press

Dear Sir

I have been listening to Radio 5 today, and today's obsession is Prince Harry's armband.

Well, let's face it, wearing an swastika is a crass, insensitive and stupid thing to do, particularly around the time of the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.

Now, I am more than ready to accept that when I was Prince Harry's age, I too behaved in crass, insensitive and stupid ways (and some would say I still do). Others might point out that Prince Harry's father and grandfather continue to do the same from time to time.

But let's deal with the real issue here. The media focuses on the comments on one foolish young man who is third in line to the throne. The real issue is that someone, through privilege of birth, can be born into a position of such influence.

The Green Party believes that the hereditary principle should have no place in government. The monarchy, with its legislative, executive and judicial roles, should cease to be an instrument of government.

If we need to have a head of state at all, let's make that person selected through democratic means rather than on the basis of who their daddy happens to be.

Yours

Charlie Bolton
Bristol South Green Party