Lives touched by tragedy
James Forsyth 12:41pmThe speeches by Gordon Brown, William Hague and Vince Cable in the Commons just now were moving proof that there are times when Westminster can set party politics to one side. Watching it one couldn’t help but reflect on how many of our national leaders’ lives have been touched by tragedy. Brown and Cameron have both suffered the agony of losing a child, Vince Cable’s wife died from cancer.
It is often said that politicians do not know how the rest of the country live. But fate has dictated that Brown, Cameron and Cable have had to endure things that the vast majority of us will never have to.
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Marcus Cotswell
February 25th, 2009 12:49pm Report this commentA big word also for Tony Wright on the Daily Politics who had been pencilled in to talk about FOI but also recalled the death of his own 2-year old child more than 20 years ago and just about managed to bite back the tears. Respect.
Verity
February 25th, 2009 1:08pm Report this commentWhat speeches? What the hell are you talking about?
Tiberius
February 25th, 2009 1:28pm Report this commentI presume you're not up to speed with this morning's events, Verity.
James Forsyth
February 25th, 2009 1:33pm Report this commentVerity, There's now a link to the speeches http://www.politicshome.com/#6315
Verity
February 25th, 2009 2:33pm Report this commentI dare say I am not the only overseas reader to have been baffled by your post. It only made sense as I advanced further into the site.
Phil
February 25th, 2009 2:51pm Report this commentI don't know whether the complete nonsense of your last sentence has dawned on you.
It's good to know that the NHS did well by the Camerons. It's a pity that can't be said for the vast majority of us.
Craig Strachan
February 25th, 2009 2:58pm Report this commentVery well put, James.
golfwidow
February 25th, 2009 3:09pm Report this commentI have little time for Gordon Brown and have said some harsh things about him on this blog and elsewhere. But I confess to having found his words both moving and heartfelt. The devastation felt by those closest to the Cameron family was plain for all to see in the anguished face of George Osborne. I feel for them all.
London Calling
February 25th, 2009 3:26pm Report this commentIf there is any comfort to be drawn from this tragic loss, it is the knowledge that Ivans short life was indeed blessed by the dedication and love he received from both his parents David and Samantha and likewise
Ivan blessed his family and his memory shall be forever in their hearts.
I send my condolences and prayers at this very sad time.
JR
February 25th, 2009 3:38pm Report this commentPhil - I'm not sure what your personal experience has been (?) but the NHS has done very well for my sick family (in particular my Mum) and friends families. I'm not sure what the political point you'll making is but my experience, and the people I know's experience is obviously not the same as yours.
Cath
February 25th, 2009 3:53pm Report this commentVerity it is very telling that your first thought was "what the hell are you talking about?" rather than, "oh dear, something bad must have happened, investigate further".
adrian drummond
February 25th, 2009 6:59pm Report this commentThree soldiers were killed today in Afghanistan.
high priest
February 26th, 2009 12:58pm Report this comment"the death of a child is an unbearable sorrow that no parent should ever have to endure"
sounds like he's shaking his fist at his maker, perhaps he should have listened in Rome instead of preaching
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