The new British PM, Gordon Brown, has instructed his ministers to not use the phrase “war on terror” or to use “Muslim” in conjunction with the terrorism fight.
Instead, he rightfully wants it to be a law enforcement effort. Good.
Tip: Buddhagem at The Blue Voice, who adds
If you want to minimize the possibility of future attacks we might kick back on the hateful rhetoric, throw our resources behind police work–not the military–and end the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
It’s an excellent idea– unless, of course, your political agenda and your financial future depend on continued conflict. In other words, it’s a great idea for America, but not necessarily for America’s leaders.
I wonder too how long Brown can hold out against the temptation to use the “War on Terror” for political gain. The temptation for an incumbent, once the opposition begins to gain ground, is almost impossible to ignore.