Little green men SALLY UNDERWOOD

Political Animal

ARE aliens really hovering above the earth? The more cynical might say that recent behaviour by some politicians was proof that aliens have in fact been roaming among us for some time now.

In all seriousness though, the objects found floating above the United States over the last week have caused consternation among politicians and the public alike.

Certainly the almost coy statements from the White House over the unidentified objects have done little to prevent tin hat enthusiasts all over the globe sharing their conspiracy theories.

Surely much more sinister than the thought of an advanced race embarking on some mild intergalactic tourism though ­ or even than ‘Project Blue Beam’ (the theory that governments across the world would unite to fake an alien invasion just to gain more control of the earthling electorate) ­ is the much­morelikely prospect that tensions really have increased between China and the west. in Spain, I expect straight answers to my concerns, not deflection, blaming others, or downright insults for questioning things.

Rishi Sunak has since vowed to do “whatever it takes” to keep Britain safe and that he is in “constant touch” with the UK’s allies abroad.

One thing this global issue has shown though is the relative stability we enjoy in the west; and how much having allies matters.

The partnerships the UK has built up over decades are the very thing that prevents some of the worst global issueswar, famine, genocide ­ from knocking directly on our door.

One of the strongest arguments for staying in the European Union was just this ­ that we are stronger together.

In matters like the balloons however, it becomes clear how much more partnerships mean than sheer safety in numbers.

As the UK government works with its allies to share information, it’s this sharing of ideas, of technology, that will ultimately be our biggest strength in defending ourselves.

Perhaps rather than politicians seeking ways to constantly undermine each other then, they should remember that idea sharing ­ working together ­ is one of the strongest weapons we have.

Sallysopinionsareherownandarenotnecessarilyrepresentativeofthoseofthepublishers,advertisersorsponsors.

Am I perfect? I wish! But, what I discovered many years ago was that when you listen to the criticism of others, two things happen. Firstly, you may have the opportunity to learn and do things better in the future. And secondly, when

I accept that criticising is now, especially in election time, a team sport, and if you add Social Media into the equation, it may be considered an Olympic sport: an opportunity to show how smart we are and how dumb others are, which is why I prefer, whenever possible, to present the facts and let others decide what they think about it all, But, there are exceptions, especially when it comes to spending my hard earned cash.

Mijas’s transparency is as opaque as it is underwhelming. Take it as a criticism if you like or take it as a lesson to be learned. I want to know what is happening to my money, and I don’t think it is too much to ask.