Now THIS is the definition of true solidarity with Muslim women

[Burney]

So you are advocating a return to complete 19th century colonial rule? And who will be in charge? Tony Blair?

Are you denying that a world run according to western ideals, values, laws and mores would be a better place?

[Ash]

Are you denying that a world run according to western ideals, values, laws and mores would be a better place?

So I'll take that as a yes, then.

Though, are these the same Western ideals that you rail against all the time as 70 years of socialism?

[Burney]

So I'll take that as a yes, then.

Though, are these the same Western ideals that you rail against all the time as 70 years of socialism?

And I will take that as a 'no' in answer to my question.

No. I mean the good ones that socialism has tried and failed to destroy - rule of law, freedom of speech, guaranteed property rights, equality before the law, that sort of thing.

[Ash]

And I will take that as a 'no' in answer to my question.

No. I mean the good ones that socialism has tried and failed to destroy - rule of law, freedom of speech, guaranteed property rights, equality before the law, that sort of thing.

Ah, so before we embark upon another era of colonialism we have to agree exactly which values we will be imposing on the shattered ruins of the countries and peoples we are going to destroy. Actually I would answer 'yes' to your question, for my version of western values, which I would roll back to broad enlightenment values, (themselves subject to discussion, of course) but I expect there would be substantial overlap with yours.

Where our values do not overlap, for example, is on the whole business of kicking someone's head in until they do what they're told. See above: beams, eyes, specks etc.

[Sir C]

Ah, so before we embark upon another era of colonialism we have to agree exactly which values we will be imposing on the shattered ruins of the countries and peoples we are going to destroy. Actually I would answer 'yes' to your question, for my version of western values, which I would roll back to broad enlightenment values, (themselves subject to discussion, of course) but I expect there would be substantial overlap with yours.

Where our values do not overlap, for example, is on the whole business of kicking someone's head in until they know how to behave. See above: beams, eyes, specks etc.

So you don't believe in the rule of law, then?

[Ash]

So you don't believe in the rule of law, then?

Did I say that?

[SWv2]

I may get shouted at for asking this question but what’s the story with this desire to show solidarity with Muslim women???

[Sir C]

Did I say that?

Yes. Because you reject 'kicking someone's head in until they know how to behave' is what the rule of law is.

Politicians make laws. If we don't follow them, a policeman comes along and tells you that you must go to the jail and be locked up. If you refuse to go he will lay hands upon you and physically force you to comply with the rule of law.

Without the threat of physical coercion there is no law.