Many of us were genuinely perplexed which way to vote in the EU referendum – that was born out by the close result. I am not entirely sure that 52% vs 48% was a convincing majority whichever side had the 52%. If the pros and cons of the argument baffled many of us, then the reaction, or should I say antics, of our politicians seems bewildering to many of us to put it mildly! We are where we are, and let’s hope our new Prime Minister, whoever she or he is, will guide the nation through the ensuing muddle into calmer waters.

Mr Gove’s election address at 11.00am on 1 July by chance coincided exactly with the service to commemorate the centenary of the Somme. A timely reminder if ever we needed one that our discussions about the future of Europe come out of our common desire for peace. Indeed the founding fathers of the EEC were inspired by a vision that the horrors of war should not be repeated. Let’s hope that the present squabbling amongst both main political parties ultimately serves for the long-term that most worthy of intentions.

David