Afghanistan

My heart goes out to Jacqui Janes for the loss she has suffered. She is a mother grieving the death of her son, a brave young soldier who died in the service of his country. We must all have faith that Guardsman Jamie Janes’ sacrifice was made in the noble cause of bringing peace and security to a conflict-torn nation, and in doing so securing the streets of Britain too.

But The Sun’s manipulation of Jacqui Janes, who is understandably raw with grief, is as outrageous and cynical as it is grubby and vindictive. I agree with former Sun political editor, George Pascoe-Watson, who asserted on BBC Radio 5 Live this morning that Gordon Brown “cares passionately about the care of our troops.” The Prime Minister’s note of condolence was heartfelt, its errors demonstration of its authenticity. Let us not forget that Gordon Brown’s sight is extremely limited, making a seemingly straightforward task such as handwriting a letter more difficult than for most. And of course the letter was not ‘proofed’ by an aide. This was a personal communication from the Prime Minister to a fallen soldier’s family; a private expression of condolence, which was sealed by Gordon Brown as the ink dried on his signature.

It is clear that The Sun will stop at nothing to bring down this Labour government, but the newspaper is increasingly engaged in a more sinister, personal campaign directed against Gordon Brown himself. If Rupert Murdoch, as stated on Sky News Australia, does regard Gordon Brown as a friend, and if it’s true The Sun’s editor does not take directions from the media mogul, perhaps it’s time for Murdoch to put a call into Wapping and tell Dominic Mohan (editor of The Sun) to lay off the personal vitriol and stick to real politics.

Despite being grubby journalism, The Sun runs the risk of outraging the British sense of fair play and decency, with public opinion turning critical of its personal vendetta against Gordon Brown.

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