Issues of Global Import

24 March 2003


Awe and Shock, or Blitz Re-Run?
The American-led coalition has unleashed an air campaign designed to "shock and awe" the Iraqi leadership into submission. The theory is that if enough destruction can fall on the heads of one's enemies in a short enough amount of time, they will see that further resistance is futile, and surrender becomes almost inevitable. The theory appears sensible, but experience suggests that this is not going to happen. Hermann Goering and Curtis LeMay both tried it, and it failed miserably. Click here to read Kensington's Opinion.

Robin Cook Quits as Blair's House Leader
The Right Honourable Robin Cook, MP, PC, resigned as leader of the House of Commons in protest over the British government's active support of President Bush's war on Iraq. While Mr. Cook's action is not likely to bring down Mr. Blair's government, nor really to have much of a post-war impact, his actions are both right and honorable. By quitting, Mr. Cook has insulated himself from the charge of careerism and maintained his own political credibility. One had feared the idea of resigning over principle a dead concept. Click here for more.

Lichtenstein Vote is a Huge Step Back
While the world was watching the sad and inept attempts of the United Nations Security Council to achieve some kind of consensus, the tiny principality of Lichtenstein held a referendum the results of which could spell misery for that postage stamp of a nation. Prince Hans Adam II threatened to leave Vaduz for Vienna if his side lost, and its a shame he isn't on permanent holiday in Austria. Click here to read why.