Letter: British democracy inspires the world

From Mr Calum MacDonald, MP

Sir: Andrew Marr is right to say that everything is not hunky-dory in Britain today ("The end of our decline? We shall see", 30 March). But Britain's grey, dismal political climate should not be allowed to cloud our more positive achievements in central and eastern Europe. For the countries of that region, like us, are having to reassess their relationships with the rest of Europe.

One of our most successful, if unsung, exports is democracy. The Establishment can say all they like about the English language, HM's armed forces and the popularity of Sting, but one aspect of British life that really grabs and inspires the world is our love affair with democracy and stability. I am chairman of a parliamentary group, the Future of Europe Trust, that has done as much it can to make sure this valuable export reaches the place it is needed most, central and eastern Europe.

Set up in 1990, FET's mission has been to establish links between the new generation of democratic politicians in that region and their counterparts in the West. In less than two months' time we will see more than 80 young European MPs, Europe's new generation of leaders, converge on London for an intensive three-day conference organised by FET.

In Britain they will receive the greatest gift any nation can bestow on another, the key to stability and freedom. It is through initiatives like this that Britain can have a real influence on world affairs. Let us hope this export of influence receives the applause it deserves.

Yours,

CALUM MacDONALD

MP for Western Isles (Lab)

House of Commons

London, SW1

30 March