Could it be that the four bombs on July 7 jarred the British from their Londonistan reverie? Though a believer in what I call "education by murder," I doubt that 54 deaths of anonymous users of public transportation can profoundly impact so tired, liberal, apologetic, and multicultural a country as the United Kingdom. Some positive signs have emerged, however, which from time to time I shall document here.
We start with Scotland Yard boss Sir Ian Blair today calling on Muslims to deal with violent Islamists, saying:
The fact these are British-born Muslims changes the paradigm of terror. The crucial issue now is can we engage with the community so they move from being close to denial about this into a situation in which they really engage with us? We need them to tell us who the preachers of hate are, the recruiters of the vulnerable. There is an issue about the lunatic fringe of preachers. They've just said, "They're lunatics, we don't need to worry about them." Unfortunately we do.
Addressing a Muslim audience, Sir Ian added:
For you, I know, this is the worst nightmare that could happen to the British Muslim community. I am afraid this is your problem, and you are going to help us. We have to find the creatures of hate, and who they are talking to.
Meanwhile, Home Office Minister Hazel Blears publicized details of new laws in the works that permit the police to prosecute suspects before they commit atrocities. "Anyone who gets or provides training in bomb-making or other terror activities here or overseas can be charged. Ms Blears confirmed plans to introduce a new offence of acts preparatory to terrorism and another of inciting terrorism indirectly with inflammatory statements." (July 16, 2005)
