Heroes with Flaws.

The recent conviction and sentencing of General Gotovina at the Court in the Hague for war crimes have been met with protests in Croatia, which some commentators have condemned. What the critics have failed to realize is that, for all the misdeeds, General Gotovina and the late President of Croatia, Franjo Tudjman, are regarded by most Croats as heroes, who achieved independent, sovereign statehood for their country. Many great historical figures have had serious defects and bloodstained records; a balanced judgment shouild surely also admit their patriotism and success.


Michael B. Buck.

National Self Determination Is A Right.

Some politicians and journalists clamour for action to achieve a united Bosnia, compelling (if need be) the Serbs to join in, but the Serbs have their own separate and independent state, Republica Srpska. British foreign policy acknowledges the existence of that republic as self-governing, although it does also pay lip service to the idea of a united Bosnia. In fact, any attempt to incorporate the Serb state into such a union would be resisted, resulting in more conflict, bloodshed and failure.It is time to recognize Republica Srpska as an independent,sovereign state, with membership of both the United Nations and the European Union.

Michael B. Buck.

The A.V. Referendum.

The drive by the rejectionists is growing more frantic, for fear that a "Yes" vote will deny them power on the scale that they have previously held. However, if the electors decide to change the system, the experience of other countries, notably Australia and Eire, refutes that idea, for there is no sign of inconclusive results; on the contrary,the decisions reached have almost always been clearcut. Another major argument against change is that tactical voting would cease, but the contrary is true, for second and further preferences give voters the opportunity to deprive of victory those candidates whom they most vehemently oppose.

Michael B. Buck.

A THOUGHT FOR BONUS RECIPIENTS.

The other evening a Bible study group came across a passage, which seemed uncannily apt:

"Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in
uncertain riches,but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy." [1
Timothy, Chapter 6, verse 17].

Perhaps a copy should be sent to all recipients of bonuses.

M.B.B.