Dining across the divide: I expected to be portrayed as an old gammon and paired up with some radical with coloured hair'
Briefly

Cushla, originally from New Zealand, identifies as centre-left and has voted Labour, while Martin, a retired photographer from London, leans right and voted Reform. Their meeting reveals contrasting views on political issues. Martin raises concerns about rising crime and the need for proactive justice measures. Cushla suggests restorative justice as a way for offenders to understand their impact on victims. Despite expecting tension due to political differences, they find common ground and share humor during their meal experiences.
Martin expressed concerns about the rising crime and disorder in London, particularly mentioning incidents like shoplifting and phone-snatching that seem to occur without repercussions. He emphasized the need to address these issues at the lower levels of the justice system.
Cushla shared her perspective on crime rates, suggesting restorative justice as an alternative approach to dealing with offenders, allowing them to understand the impacts of their actions on victims.
During their meeting, Cushla and Martin navigated their political differences with humor, reflecting on their unexpected camaraderie despite their differing perspectives on politics and justice.
Martin, who describes himself as right-of-centre, has seen significant changes in public safety and suggests that early intervention in crime could help reduce overall issues in society.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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