Spending time elsewhere in Western Europe (i.e., outside the UK) reminds you of what the terms “developed” or “advanced” nation really mean. The Netherlands and Belgium exude wealth, comfort and confidence in a way that the UK no longer does. There isn’t an endless array of empty stores, there isn’t homelessness at every turn and there isn’t a visible Dickensian gap between extreme rich and destitution that we have become numb to at home.
Everything seems to work in the Netherlands and Belgium and it feels like you are participating in a socio-economic milieu where money is invested in the greater good, rather than being syphoned off and handed over to the rich – who then hide it away in tax havens or spend it on luxury goods.
You only really notice how sad and depressing the UK has become when you visit neighbouring countries and see how much better they have it. I guess like a lot of people I now think about leaving the UK permanently, not wanting to go down with a sinking ship.
Anyway, our desperate situation helps us see what marvels exist on our doorstep. Enjoy them as much as you can.
Dr Martin James 