The_Guardian_-_2016-12-29

Of course politicians’ characters are always crucial factors in determining the direction of events, and
politicians by nature probably have a larger dose of personal ambition and cunning than the average
citizen. In robust circumstances when political checks and balances are working well, where attention
is given to detail, and where a strong opposition is able to articulate public concerns, then leaders’
character traits and even flaws don’t matter so much. But the Brexit negotiations are finely balanced,
and the public is being offered little chance of scrutinising decisions.
The current leaders look even more flawed than those whose misjudgments led us to this point. We
now have a secretive and controlling prime minister in charge of the biggest team of negotiators to be
assembled since the 1945 peace conferences. For a negotiation unwanted by a significant proportion
of the electorate, who need to be won over, it doesn’t inspire confidence.
Meanwhile, Jeremy Corbyn in opposition seems the embodiment of a flawed character. His vanity
prevented him from turning down the leadership, a position for which he was clearly unsuited. In less
uncertain times, Theresa May’s control freakery and Corbyn’s inflexibility might not matter. But they
matter when what’s needed are leaders who can see the wider picture. Policies are vital, but
character is more important than ever. Start worrying.
This article was downloaded by calibre from https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/dec/28/people-brexitcameron-blair-flawed-leaders
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