Winning respect

THE public's lack of respect for politicians is exemplified by Victoria Cross-winning soldier Johnson Beharry refusing to shake Gordon Brown's hand. The most humble of heroes, L/Cpl Beharry is aggrieved at the PM's apparent disrespect for the Armed Forces – and how their work in Iraq, and now Afghanistan, has been compromised by government penny-pinching.

Many will sympathise with this proud soldier's actions. There are many occasions when service personnel appear to have been used as

political "props" by Ministers, or Opposition spokesmen, looking to ingratiate themselves with the public. Expect the same during the forthcoming election.

Yet, as a role model and inspiration to younger people, many might have expected L/Cpl Beharry to set a better example. Rather than

embarrassing Mr Brown, he could, just as easily, have shaken the PM by the hand – and told him, in no uncertain terms, how he felt the Government was betraying his fellow comrades.

Respect works both ways – whether it be in politics or the role of high-profile individuals in society. An impromptu fit of pique may have satisfied L/Cpl Beharry – but it did nothing to answer his concerns until, that is, Mr Brown got in touch with him to discuss their

differences in a more mature way. It's a point that should be

remembered by all those sorely tempted to throw insults at politicians in the coming weeks.