Caroline, 57, a professor of developmental psychology who moved from France to the UK in 2005, and Marcus, 55, a company director and former military officer who is considering voting for Restore Britain, met for dinner at Nora's in Plymouth to discuss their differences.
First Impressions
Marcus described Caroline as "a highly intelligent lady, extremely articulate, particularly given English is not her native language." Caroline admitted she was nervous, expecting someone who would "go straight into 'we need to take back control'," but found Marcus "obviously very interested in politics, has informed knowledge, reads from every side."
The Big Beef: Flags and National Identity
Marcus argued that extremist groups have hijacked flags on lamp-posts, but forcing their removal plays into their hands. He suggested more flag displays, like at royal weddings or coronations, to celebrate a positive national identity. Caroline countered that while patriotism spikes at events like football wins, it now persists with a negative message. She noted that in France, flags are more common but also associated with far-right demonstrations, a sign of "we want this land back, from you." Marcus pointed to the US as an example where flags are widespread without issue, blaming a vacuum created by government shortsightedness that extremists have filled. Caroline said she avoids businesses with flags, finding them offensive and a personal sign that immigrants are not wanted.
Sharing Plate: Brexit
Marcus admitted Brexit was mishandled, despite voting for it. Caroline noted their only agreement was on liking Totnes, a nice place.
For Afters: Immigration and Restore Britain
Marcus is considering voting Restore Britain, arguing that immigration has been mismanaged and that immigrants who put their own values ahead of national ones risk undermining them. He stressed coexistence but not appeasing extremist elements. Caroline, unfamiliar with Restore, saw it as focused on immigration, blaming those who look different, a pattern across Europe. She warned that far-right parties have never produced good outcomes. Marcus clarified he is not calling for mass deportation unless laws are broken, but warned of lasting consequences for public services, defence, and welfare. Caroline expressed more concern about the far right in France, noting that in the UK, such groups are more apathetic and attached to monarchy and pubs.
Takeaway
Marcus enjoyed the respectful discussion, finding his views challenged in a mature way. Caroline found it fascinating to meet someone who reads the same news but interprets it differently, praising the UK's ability to have such discussions without shouting, unlike in France where people would be "at each other's throats." She noted, "Here you say the most horrible things, smiling."
