The last vestiges of empire

WITHOUT detracting one whit from England’s fine grand slam victory in the Six Nations Championship over Ireland, it has to be said their churlish pre-match behaviour leaves much to be desired.

Some might say the arrogance of English Captain Martin Johnson, in refusing to follow protocol and allow room for Ireland’s President Mary McAleese to walk on the red carpet, embodies an attitude that won the game.

Others might put it down to the arrogance that typifies a former empire where they have little enough to crow about nowadays.