Euro

– It is particularly sobering, don't you think, to watch this year's Eurovision Song Contest.
– It's not that bad. At least, no worse than usual.
– That's not quite what I meant.
– In fact, the staging is quite impressive. If it helps, you can turn the volume down and I'll be happy just watching the lighting effects.
– I was thinking more about how Europe is currently facing one of the most serious crises in its history.
– It is just a song contest. Of sorts.
– Again, I was referring to the broader political context. The appalling refugee problem, putting at risk the fundamental concept of the free movement of people, as countries begin to close down their borders to.asylum seekers fleeing from war-torn Syria. The faltering economies of many European countries, with enforced austerity prompting the rise of extremist political parties. Britain's own impending referendum on whether to turn our back on the European Union and hurl ourselves into the uncharted waters of life outside the Single Market.
– I suppose when you put it like that, things do look rather bleak. I am sure it will all turn out alright in the end. Common sense usually prevails. Usually.
– The polls for the EU referendum are still stubbornly neck and neck.
– They ought to bring out some big names to speak out for the Remain campaign. All these politicians tend to produce a negative effect on the voters.
– Do you have any suggestions?
– Perhaps instead of all these dreary political broadcasts they should just show snippets of Eurovision. Let people see the positive side of being in the EU.
– You might be on to something there. It can't do any worse.