The terrorist bombings in London last week were a manifestation of absolute evil. The target of these attacks - ordinary people from all over the world of all colours and faiths who happened to be in London at the wrong time and in the wrong place - could not have been more indiscriminate if a bomb had been planted in a hospital or a shopping centre. So far, 52 people are known to have been murdered by the terrorists and it could easily have been me or any of my friends and colleagues amongst that number - this is the reality of terrorism.
At a time of heightened emotion some sections of society will look for scapegoats. Sadly, incredibly, incredulously Michael Howard has called for a public inquiry into the bombings leaving many to suggest that he is incapable of putting the well being of the country above the narrow sectional interests of the Conservative Party. Similarly, George Galloway has sought to vindicate his stance on Iraq by suggesting that UK involvement in Iraq was to blame for the atrocity. The actions of both men at a time of acute national anxiety speaks more about them than words ever could.
The timing of the bombings was deliberate and there can be no doubt that part of the purpose for the attacks was to deflect attention away from the G8 Summit - a much hyped affair from which the international community expected a great deal in the way of eradicating world poverty. Britain,with both Blair and Brown at the helm, is leading the world in this effort. We are the only nation capable of leading this overdue war on want and the only major country who has pushed it to the top of the international political agenda. It is in the light of this pursuit of international social justice that these attacks should be seen - one can only conclude that these terrorists do not share these aims and are content to attempt to destroy efforts which could not only end global poverty but inspire international peace.
The bombings took place in the week in which the nation was due to commemorate the end of the second world war and in so doing thank those who served in the fight against the tyranny of fascism. Regrettably, we now find ourselves engaged in another battle with others who would seek to destroy our way of life. They will not prevail.
It has been a sombre week in the Capital and it is only right that I record some thoughts about that here. The machinery of Parliament has continued all the while and normal service will be resumed in this column in time for the next edition.