April 4, 2007

The French are notorious for their surrender syndrome. Now that disease appears to be affecting Britain.

A new survey by the respected Youguv polling organization finds most Britains want to scale down their country’s involvement in world affairs at a time of great international challenges. 55% of the public say they oppose Britain “punching above its weight,” as they say here, trying to have more influence in the world than its military and economic strength would seem to indicate.

Sixty-five percent say Britain is already over-extended and should reduce its commitments, spend less and not have as much military influence in the world as it now has.

The Islamists don’t feel this way. They have invaded Britain, as well as France and Germany. They are not talking about retreat; they are expanding their influence and numbers. Even more frightening, 69% say they don’t want their son going into the armed forces and 75% percent oppose their daughters going. If free people won’t defend freedom, who will?

Cal Thomas is a nationally syndicated columnist based in Washington, D.C.