The first national memorial day for victims of terrorism was held today.
It’s unthinkable that people left injured or mourning loved ones who have been killed in atrocities like the Manchester Arena, 7/7, Lockerbie or IRA bombings should have been given anything but the highest level of support. Victims have every right to expect the government to recognise their trauma and do whatever they can to learn lessons.
Prime Minister’s words and proposed memorial
Prime Minister Andy Burnham is right to say that for those impacted by terrorism, nothing is ever the same again. But the day – and his proposed memorial – can hopefully go some way to making victims feel seen, heard and supported.
There is more work to do, not least ensuring that compensation and legal help is available to all who need and deserve it.
Loyalty letters and golf course chases
Loyalty to your boss is one thing, but writing gushing letters saying “you are all that matters to me” or “I only want to bring you joy” might be crossing a line. And chasing his buggy around a golf course on foot should probably be taken as an indication the relationship is a little one-sided.
At best, the intimate letters aide Natalie Harp wrote to Donald Trump show a young woman, perhaps a vulnerable one, whose enthusiasm and support for a political hero has turned into a desperate obsession. At worst, it illustrates the kind of messianic devotion with which Trump has surrounded himself in his second presidency.
Not all of Trump’s team are so enthusiastic in their outpourings of love for their President. But Natalie Harp is not the only one who thinks he’s an unquestionable gift from god.
Mo Salah’s friendship with young fan
Good on Mo Salah for hanging out with young Isaac Kearney when he went to Turkey to see him play for his new club. The smiles on both their faces as they were reunited prove it was no cynical photo opportunity but a real, heartwarming friendship.
