Poppies and conscience

Robin Waterston explains why he will not be wearing a poppy in November

by Robin Waterston 2nd November 2018

Why do people wear red poppies on and before Remembrance Day? For some, it will be simply to honour the memory of those who – willingly or otherwise – fought and died in wars for Britain. They may have relatives to give a personal dimension to this memory. As a councillor some years ago, I recall attending several Remembrance Day services in which many of those present had husbands or sons serving in the RAF in wars halfway around the world, putting their lives at risk. Emotions came close to the surface. The sombre rituals of the occasion did, I felt, have a supportive effect.