Trident - (c) 26Feb2007

Synod is a fascinating place. Introduce a debate on replacing Trident, with a motion that implies that the Government really should not go down the route of replacing it, with a whole lot of McCarthy 'pinkos', and even bishops and archbishops clearly opposed to neuclear warfare
- and then you get...

Three speakers, nay, members, with extensive military experience. Not just one, but three, including a brigadier no less. One even with knowledge of the specific type of atomic submarine in question. "These are not like cars, that you just turn the key and the engine starts up and off you go. These ships take much time and preparation to start up, and then need to move to position to be operational. Not so much like 24hrs to firing; more like 24 days". He had also said something along the lines of: 'I am bound by the official secrets act not to tell you all I know on this' - almost: I could tell, but then I would have to kill you.

But seriously, for Synod to be able to turn out from amongst its members, for every contentious debate I have been to, those that can speak from real knowledge and experience, is brilliant. This means that Synod has a real opportunity to consider issues that many members may be against, but have full access to the sort of information it needs before final conclusions are reached. Synod can be a truly impressive place, even - possibly, hopefully especially - when Synod is not in full agreement with itself on difficult issues.

Alastair GS101