American War of Independence: Semiquincentennial Commemorations
Debate between Lord Boswell of Aynho and Lord Sharpe of Epsom
Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)
I have no doubt at all that the historian Andrew Roberts to whom my noble friend refers will be involved in these celebrations, not least of course because of his work on Winston Churchill, who also had American roots. I am sure that he will take an active part.
Lord Boswell of Aynho (Non-Afl)
My Lords, as a patron of the Battlefields Trust, may I very much associate myself with the tenor of this discussion and the Minister’s clear enthusiasm for a response? Will not the key to this be a degree of joint working, both between various organs of government and of course various private sector organisations and other enthusiasts? Will not the main themes be: first, to look at the military side, including the fact that many of our own regiments have an important history in that war; secondly, the wider issues of educating younger people into the reality of that situation, which was very nuanced, as many of us know; and, finally, the wider diplomatic opportunities to commemorate the very happy subsequent association of our two countries, which is what primarily this is geared towards? However, I also bring in the comment of the noble Lord, Lord Wallace, that the French were there also, and today happens to be 14 July.
Lord Sharpe of Epsom (Con)
I agree with all the comments of the noble Lord. I particularly respect his comments as regards the antecedents of some of our current regiments; that point is worth making and it is worth reminding the British Army of it.