The next world power is...?

As we here in Europe have been listening and digesting the words from a certain president of a western nation I think we can take from that certain conclusions. The first would be the talk about ‘upping’ nations that are members of NATO to spending 2% or more of their GDP on Defence. It is true that European nations including the UK have been decreasing their commitments for a number of years. Mainly spending their money on social experiments like free medical care. In the UK one of the largest amount of cash is spent on keeping a vast number of people out of work, in other words they are non-economic assets. Whether right or wrong, I am not particularly qualified to discuss but nevertheless it is a fact. On top of that certain policies made in response to doctrine or even dogmatic thinking of those in power, have basically ensured that certain countries are close to bankruptcy. I am not counting out the UK either!

Rumours are now circulating on social media about the US thinking of calling back its defence personnel, soldiers, from the European continent. Whether this is a true fact or a likely change of policy remains to be seen but bearing in mind that the budget deficit of the US runs into the trillions it would make sense. On top of that, the US fear of the Chinese military power growing will almost certainly mean the withdrawal of military assets from Europe to bolster the forces in the Pacific region. It might even explain the POTUS wish of getting closer to the Russians, hence the increasing approaches. I think the facts are that the most powerful nations, that is to say those with the most advanced military, are now looking around to see how the vastly improved electronics will enhance their status and increase their standing within the world order. Indeed, something that has already been outlined by the Russian leader and also indicated by the actions of China.

It all seems to have eluded our blessed politicians here and in Europe but I think they might have waken up from their happy slumber, looking around bewildered and wondering what has happened. In the mean time our friends across the Channel still insist on playing politics trying to get their brood into the UK on the pretext of education. This could possibly put another few thousands onto our shores legally so would need to be housed and looked after. I would be so happy to be asked for another few percent on my tax bill, not.

It is really time to have a hard look at how we spend our hard-earned money. To also remember what is important. As the way we have been going simply has put an enormous number of young people and older too on the benefits treadmill. I am not going to judge whether these should be on benefits or not but it sure needs looking at.