COMMENT

THROUGHOUT the Blitz, Big Ben defiantly chimed out the hours, providing a source of inspiration and pride to a beleaguered nation. But where the Luftwaffe failed, it seems Health and Safety is about to succeed.

THROUGHOUT the Blitz, Big Ben defiantly chimed the hours, providing a source of inspiration and pride to a beleaguered nation. But where the Luftwaffe failed, it seems health and safety is about to succeed.

From Monday, after more than 150 years of almost unbroken service, the Great Bell will be silenced for up to four years as the Elizabeth Tower, in which it is housed, is renovated. The Commons authorities say a total stoppage is necessary to protect the hearing of workers.

How ridiculous. A compromise can surely be reached, even if it means restricting the chimes to certain hours of the day and buying a stockpile of state-of-the-art ear defenders. Big Ben must not be gagged!

What other country would mothball one of its most potent and loved national symbols – not to mention major tourist attractions – for such an absurdly long period?