Andrew,

a) I think I'd classify myself as an Englishman, born, raised, a full set of oldies (although the grand ones were from Scotland). So what I was seeking to explain is that I and many people, in fact most I've met, all round the world share a common fundamental value that has been best expressed by the democratic traditions of America.

b) I am ashamed of little Englanders. England has many virtues and is a place that anyone with a right mind would find attractive and stimulating to live in, but when people from my country make claims such as these:

“I think you will find Britain, despite many awful past policies, is the Country that has done most in this world in the fight for freedom, good governance and equality.”

I despair.

You are everything that the England I know is not. Arrogant, stupid, ill-informed and xenophobic .