The ongoing US protests will affect the world in more ways than you might think

We can only hope for reform as quickly as can be done after such tragic events – but demonstrations sparking a reaction from government will also bring economic issues, writes Hamish McRae

Protesters march in Minnesota’s state capital in response to the killing of George Floyd (Getty)

The anger in the United States is first and foremost a story about people. Alas, politicians were always going to get involved – many, like Donald Trump, not in the way they should.

For anyone who knows, likes and respects the US, this is all deeply saddening. The beautiful Episcopal Church of St John, just across the road from the White House, is not an appropriate backcloth for political statements.

I recall going there for Choral Holy Eucharist one Sunday early in the Trump presidency and was much impressed by the warm and welcoming way we visitors and the mixed congregation were received. This is a special church. It is not a place for politics, as Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde has made so clear.