I'd describe myself a very far left socialist. Probably a long way to the left of everyone here.

But I'd qualify that by saying I can't deny my education.

One of my favourite writers was Christopher Isherwood, and Isherwood's earliest collaborator was the orthodox Marxist Edward Upward.

Upward's account of being a Marxist in the 30's, 40's and 1950's - I always found quite moving as his sincere adherence to the party line led to his alienation from his colleagues and neighbours.

I've gotten increasingly uneasy about the 'couldn't give a stuff about anyone who disagrees' attitude of the Momentum gang, particularly the abuse and villification of politicians working in the same democratic system, frankly its more than a bit like Trump's demolition of the Clinton campaign.

Who knows -perhaps it will work. Like Thatcher's dirty tricks campaign did. Perhaps cometh the hour, cometh the man. And this is what the age calls for.