Perhaps the world has become increasingly disconnected and dysfunctional from the time I entered social housing in Inner London in 1984, through my moving to privately rented accommodation in Belmont, Hereford, in 2017, and beyond?

This applies to both telecomms signal strengths and the inputs of data into the public realm.

Post-Thatcher and Reagan regulation by the [increasingly global] market dominated this period, alongside demolition of the welfare state.

Central government slashes public spending. Local government budget cuts exacerbate social housing organisations’ balance deficits, leading to more sales of public land in ‘desirable’ areas to the global market, even after right-to-buy depletion of social housing stock.

Homelessness rises, further inducing demand-over-supply UK property prices. Property developers get  help-to-buy subsidies.

Herefordians have been denied government flood compensation payments. Now, landowners even plan to build on frequently flooded areas. Greenbelt land is gobbled up by housing.

Alan Titchmarsh starts a BBC Gardeners’ World article by denouncing Extinction Rebellion members who buy imported fruit and vegetables out-of-season as hypocrites. 

Green Party London Assembly member Jenny Jones, elected via proportional representation and with a London regional remit, launched and chaired the London Food Commission.

Recognising the reality of climate change as affirmed by UN scientists, Jenny Jones said, “We need a sustainable food policy... that is good for the environment, good for business and ensures access to fresh healthy food for all.”

Alan Wheatley
Hereford and South Herefordshire Green Party