Traditions (From The Northern Echo)

Traditions

10:28am Wednesday 8th July 2009 in

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ANCIENT customs and traditions have invariably stood the test of time for a very good reason.

One such reason is that they reflect and convey realities much more profound than the merely decorative: realities that, whatever their precise historical nature, involve basic regard for other people’s welfare and feelings.

It is therefore the height of arrogance and ignorant conceit for any individual to take it upon himself to dispense with such customs and traditions on the grounds that they are no longer relevant; the unstated implication being, of course, that he himself is too “hip” and ultra-modern to have need of the past and its concerns.

John Bercow’s treatment of the Speaker of the House of Commons’ ceremonial robes falls into this category and it tells us more about him personally, and his suitability or otherwise for the role, than it does about parliamentary etiquette.

Tony Kelly, Crook, Co Durham.