A Letter to the President

Dear Mr Trump,

The victims of a terrorist attack suffer death or serious injury. In the latter case, the injuries are not physical alone. Apart from the best medical attention, those injured need moral support, not just from family and friends but the wider community. Following the Manchester outrage three weeks ago, my country has come together, helped in no small part by a 23 year-old American, Ariana Grande, who, last night, hosted a speedily arranged benefit concert for 50,000 in the auditorium with a television audience in UK exceeding 15 million.

Ms Grande persuaded many Americans to join her on stage. It was an act of solidarity. Much credit goes to this young person for pulling things together to support the Manchester victims both emotionally and financially.

Sadly, on Saturday night at London Bridge and Borough Market, just outside the City of London, three terrorists murdered 7 people and maimed another 48, some very seriously. Messages of solidarity were received from all world leaders…..except you. Your offering was to tweet a criticism of London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, for suggesting we Londoners remain calm: ‘At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is "no reason to be alarmed!"At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is "no reason to be alarmed!"At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is "no reason to be alarmed!"At least 7 dead and 48 wounded in terror attack and Mayor of London says there is no reason to be alarmed!’

You don’t read much do you, Mr. President? You quoted out of context. The Mayor added the words, “if you see armed police on the street.” The Mayor was too busy to give your tweet the broadside it deserved so I will do it for him.

Once again, you have demeaned your office and demonstrated your inability to do what is right. You made a fool of yourself by politicising an attack abroad to support your farcical crusade against Muslims in USA. In view of the office you hold, I would prefer to remain respectful but too many times you have turned that great office into a play-pen for oafs.

So, with apologies to my many American friends and readers who I would not want to upset, Mr President, I say to you, keep your big mouth shut and let the grown-ups deal with these incredibly difficult events. Clearly, you are unfit for this purpose.

Sincerely and with no respect, John Matlin.