An amazing afternoon. Possibly one of the best political days I have ever had - if I am ever lucky enough to have granchildren, it will be a story I will tell.
As MP, I was given a ticket to Westminster Hall, to watch a speech by the President of the United States (the first ever speech by a US President in Parliament). Westminster Hall, is the oldest part of Parliament having been built in the eleventh century. It was a perfect setting. Packed with Peers, MPs, the Band of the Welsh Guards and State Trumpeters, Parliament was represented at its finest. As Mr Obama entered the Hall, the Trumpeters, stationed, literally on the South Window (dressed in ancient yellow liverie) blew their horns. I had a good view, as I was only a few rows from the front, with an aisle seat.
After an introduction and some thoughtful remarks by Mr Speaker Bercow of the House of Commons, the President began his speech. More of a homily than a setting out of policy, it nevertheless was an important signpost both of the values of the United States, and an expression of continued friendship with the United Kingdom.
For me, Mr Obama, gave strong support to what I have termed 'muscular enlightenment': the right of every individual to freedom, the rule of law and religious tolerance. The President justified the interventions in Afghanistan, and particularly Libya, noting that it was the duty of the free world, to protect those facing massacre. He observed that whilst the values of freedom had evolved over many centuries in Britain, and had developed in America - from the founding fathers, these were not just 'Anglo-Saxon' concepts, but the birth right of every citizen across the world. The Arab Spring would take time, with many twists and turns - with difficult problems along the way - but the ultimate end would be greater freedom and democracy.
At the end of the Speech, Mr Obama walked through Westminster Hall. I felt very proud to have the chance to shake his hand. As a Conservative, I can't say that I have always agreed with everything the President has done. Nevertheless, his capture of Bin Laden was a seminal act, showed considerable courage and will define him for the rest of his Presidency. I will be surprised if he does not win a second term, particulalrly given the current lack of really credible opposition.
It was a privilege to be there, representing Harlow, and having a chance to watch close-up, the President of one of the greatest nations on earth.
P.S. Have a look at the picture closely - you can see the back of me directly, just in front of the lady in red! The back of Vanda is next to me on the right.
by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com
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