Quote Originally Posted by Lola View Post
Local politics aside, as well straight bananas, surely the 'lesson from history' argument is a little strained now. Horribly true though it is, the far right is famed for one regime in one country, once; the death toll was horrific and unforgettable but, how many of us went happily on holiday to Spain under Franco? More importantly, how many of us have cheap consumer goods made in China - probably all of us, and how democratic was the 'Cultural Revolution'?
Lets be honest, the BNP candidates won a democratic election but we don't like it, tough, that is democracy; it is not democratic to then try to limit their airtime or distort their message.
I don't think it can be ever be "a little strained". Extremist/Racist/Nationalist politics have not been limited to one regime in one country. The atrocities in the former Yugoslavia, Somalia etc all stem from the "our country for our colour/race/religion,tribe" mentality.... I agree totally about China etc and no-matter what the political leaning (extreme left or right) good things won't come of either... communism is as dangerous as fascism.

Yes, the BNP did win as part of a democratic process and as such they do deserve as much airtime etc as any other party. However, I can't help thinking/hoping that if people had been reminded of their true colours (BBC Panorama documentary etc) then they would have though twice about crossing that box.