The King is Dead

Uncle Arthur only has a few comments on the departure of an extraordinary and enigmatic Labour Prime Minister.

The fact that Tony Blair has won more successive elections and been in power longer than any other Labour leader should not be overlooked. However, in the long term this will merely be a fact cherished by those esoteric people who love Labour history and obsess over political figures; an infinitesimal section of the UK population.

As the obituaries roll in, in differing forms I think it is worth noting a few points made in Blair's speech.

1) He called the UK 'blessed' - is this not a reflection of his christian worldview?
2) He was as honest about his shortcomings as he could be. Indeed this Prime Minister has actually apologised for a number of things and correct me If I am wrong, other PM's have failed to show such contrition.
3) He re-iterated his view that he acted in good faith when framing his stance on Iraq.

Sadly, it appears that Iraq will cast a shadow on his legacy, and Uncle Arthur, believes he acted in good faith. There was certainly much wrong with that decision, but does he deserve the pernicious and twisted narratives that have impugned that complex and it has to be said disastrous decision in 2003?

The bible tells us not to place our trust in 'princes' and rightly so, in the end they will all fail, none more so than the ones that have promised so much. However, the bible also implores us to pray for leaders and those in authority. Tony Blair is going, all Prime Ministers go eventually, but he has been a leader, who has made courageous decisions and had the humility to admit where he fell short. Will his successors have the same qualities?