VIEWPOINT FOR 19 JUNE 2008
FROM DR RICHARD TAYLOR

The House of Commons sank in my estimation last week as the allegations of bribery and arm-twisting to achieve victory for the Government on 42-day pre-charge detention cannot be dismissed as mere hearsay. 
I knew the vote would be close when I was invited twice to meet the Home Secretary. These meetings were affable and she made no attempt to offer me anything for a change of mind.

I was disappointed not to be called to speak in the debate as I believe that this ought to have been decided by a free vote as a conflict between personal liberty and possible improved community safety is surely a matter of conscience.

The Government placed great store on the poll that showed a majority in favour of the increased period of detention. With polls the answers may depend on the question posed and I was surprised by the result until I saw one of the questions:

"You may be aware that terror suspects can currently be held by the police for 28 days before they have to be charged or released. The government wishes to increase the length of time they can be held without charge to 42 days. Do you yourself support or oppose changing the law to increase the time police are allowed to hold terror suspects before they are charged from 28 to 42 days?"

With no mention of loss of liberty for the presumed innocent I might have been tempted to give support when answering this question.
__________

There was a memorable concert in the garden of Mucklow House in Areley Kings given by the Band of the West Mercia Constabulary with soloists, Margaret Peters and David Coulson, in aid of the St Bartholomew's Church Tower Repair Fund. 
A raffle was held in aid of the West Mercia Police Community Fund. 
The weather was gorgeous until the very end when drops of rain did not dampen the enthusiasm when everyone joined in a flag-waving rendition of Land of Hope and Glory. 

I could not help reflecting sadly that the freedoms we sing about so proudly are being whittled away and I understand David Davis' shock resignation. If I had been tempted to resign it would have been on how the issue was decided rather than on the issue itself as free opinion could have decided legitimately either way. 
Resignation is a weapon that can only be used once – although perhaps not in David Davis' case.
__________

Chris and I enjoyed a visit to Hartlebury Museum for the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller History Event organised by students of Stourport High School supported by many community organisations. 
We were delighted to meet Kathleen Jones, Teaching Assistant and ex-student, herself a Gypsy whom we suspect played a key role in instigating the event. 

We were fascinated by the displays of caravans, part of the Museum's collection, supplemented by exhibits and memories of Gypsy life collected by the students. This event reminded us of the rich heritage of which the Gypsy, Roma, Traveller Community are justly proud and will really help with our understanding of their culture.

© Independent Kidderminster Hospital & Health Concern 1995-2008
(webdesign@chaddesley-corbett.co.uk)