This phrase always reminds me of a Two Ronnies sketch.

They are supposed to be the headmaster and headmistress of two single sex schools that are joining together. After various sexual inuendo jokes it is announced that the school motto will be changed from "Deeds not words" to "Words not deeds".

Perhaps there is something in this as a reappraisal of Jingo-ism and the application of a bit of diplomacy.

Robin