The fright before Christmas suffered by millions of families forced to scrap plans and businesses ordered to shut with only a few hours notice, is another nightmare created by Boris Johnson.
After leaving it painfully late to accept advice that his virus relaxation proposals would cost yet more lives, the least the Prime Minister owes the country is a sincere public apology.
His trademark dithering and delay has caused unnecessary expense, discomfort,
frustration and anger.
And the needy obsession with popularity is costing Johnson what is left of his authority and infuriating the public.
The repeated, reluctant and late changes of mind after making wrong decisions are the hallmarks of a confused leader.
In the swirl of uncertainty he has created one thing is certain, Johnson is in the wrong job.
Owners of businesses closed, and their staff and suppliers, are entitled to fair compensation.
And all in areas put into Tier 4 are specially entitled to that apology.
Bridge the gap
We've said it before and we’ll stress it again: compromise on both sides is needed to deliver a vital Brexit trade deal.
False promises and unrealistic hopes raised by Boris Johnson in the past are an obstacle.
Insisting on a degree of sovereignty that will impoverish, weaken, destroy and isolate the nation is the goal of a fool.
So the Prime Minister must try for once to do what is in the nation’s best interests, rather than grandstanding or pandering to the nationalistic wing of his party.
Equally, if Michel Barnier is prepared to go the extra kilometre these negotiations could be a milestone rather than a millstone around everybody’s necks.
Gold Bailey
Twinkle-toed Bill Bailey with the help of Oti Mabuse showed age is no barrier to success by winning the Glitter Ball.
Strictly speaking all this year’s contestants did the near impossible and cheered us all up.
