Pull together... or pay a catastrophic price

OVer the centuries, the British people have withstood and overcome the most severe trials and tribulations, from wars and disasters to acts of God.

In such daunting times, our national characteristics have served us well. We are indefatigable, phlegmatic, resourceful and dislike being pushed around – particularly by pettifogging officialdom.

But those admirable traits are, at present, endangering us.

To stop the sickening spread of coronavirus, the Government has told us to avoid social gatherings – drumming home the message by ordering the mass compulsory closure of pubs, cinemas, theatres and gyms.

A breath of fresh air is fine, though, said ministers – a physical and mental boost for those cooped up at home.

unfortunately, countless thousands flocked to sun-drenched beaches, parks and beauty spots – sadly raising the risk of catching, or passing on, the malevolent infection. Must Boris Johnson now impose ever more draconian curbs on our freedom (already the toughest in peacetime)? As a passionate champion of individual liberty, he’d certainly rather not.

Yet if citizens are unable – or unwilling – to be sensible, recklessly helping the biological enemy wreak destruction, then the answer has to be a thumping ‘yes’.

The Prime Minister must do anything in his power to avoid the horrific scenes in Italy – where almost 1,000 died in one day at the weekend and coffins pile up - being mirrored in Britain.

Surely, the gravity of the threat must soon hit home. Isn’t it reflected in the high street, where iconic brands such as M&S and John lewis are pulling down the shutters; in the chaos at the school gates; and in the Chancellor’s head-spinning financial rescue package (more economic atom bomb than bazooka)?

Meanwhile, reports of Cabinet bickering and power-jostling are – if true – disturbing. The country is looking for laser-guided leadership, not playground peacocking.

If we are to regain our lost way of life, we must do all we can to swiftly and emphatically beat the bug.

And that means all of us, from the highest echelons of Government to the man and woman in the street (if they really feel the need to venture out).

The nation must pull together in the same direction, or we’ll pay a catastrophic price.