UKIP - The party of the bigots

Even their Logo is silly

I have blogged about the UK independence party in the past and to put it mildly, I am not a fan. However I am conflicted because their presence on the political scene appears to have the Tories on the run. In a sad race to  hold on to their right wing voters  they may well chase away the moderates and at the very least split the Tory vote. 

I have problems with the whole UKIP ethos but what disappoints me most is how many of my fellow country folk share their small minded and bigoted views. The only upside is that these people used to vote for the British National Party who make less sense than the Monster Raving  Loony party and are a short step away from white supremacists.  

A more honest approach

I am saddened at the insular attitude of UKIP supporters. Actually I am saddened by a large proportion of my fellow citizens. This PDF from the UK parliament has in interesting section at about page 24 which is on the public attitudes to immigration. I found it quite disheartening. I was not entirely surprised to find the North East of England was least in favour of multiculturalism. I live there and I know the attitudes. As a region it has not had a large influx of people since the start of the industrial revolution and even distrusts other parts of England, most notably London (perhaps with some cause). It also is a little old fashioned in that families do not move far from each other. Unlike my family which has members in all parts of the English speaking world.

Human trafficking is the only situation that is a problem with migration. Where  people are effectively sold into slavery in this country some times as sex workers but also menial jobs and in illegal "sweat" shops.

My general opinion is that immigration is a benefit overall. Skilled immigration is always good but just from a cultural view my life is richer and more interesting due to the presence of a wide range of cultures and religions.

I am not a great believer in "national identity". So long as it contains a belief in democracy, freedom of speech, human rights and secular government I am not bothered.