27 NOVEMBER 2004, Page 32

Braggadocio

From Lord Tebbit Sir: What splendid news! Indeed a beacon of light in a dark world. The constitutional expert and political consultant Mr Billy Bragg (who is also a 'songwriter') has written new words to replace those of the formerly much-loved hymn 'I vow to thee, my country'. In it he vows to share his wealth with the poor, the sick, the disabled, those suffering discrimination by reason of birth, disability, sex, race or creed. I hope that every charity working on behalf of such people will write to the very wealthy Mr Bragg asking him to share his wealth with those for whom they care. I am sure Mr Bragg would rather accept poverty for himself than be shown up as a braggart rather than a Bragg.

Tebbit

House of Lords, London SW!