the Magna Carta memorial at Runnymede
On June 15, the Queen and hordes of establishment personalities will crowd into the meadow around Runnymede by the Thames to celebrate the signing of the Magna Carta on June 15, 1215, even though it was not signed or the Magna Carta. It is likely to be an exercise in hypocrisy. If so, one hopes it rains hard. There is still time and hope for something better.
The reason is that there are two perspectives on the Magna Carta, and one fears only one will be celebrated on June 15. The first perspective is consistent with so-called Runnymede Tories, lauded by Matthew D’Ancona recently (Guardian, May 18). Most of those rushing to Runnymede will be paying lip service to this libertarian perspective. It deserves some respect, although it is woefully incomplete and ultimately intellectually dishonest.
