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Dubai Brits relieved as Blair signs off

DUBAI — With British Prime Minister Tony Blair announcing his resignation yesterday, British and Scottish expatriates in Dubai feel it's time for a change in Britain.

And not many are eager to forgive him for his policies in Iraq, despite his long tenure and significant contributions.

Says Carol Geldenhuys, "When Blair came to power a decade ago, I was extremely delighted. But now I am pretty disappointed. I am not sorry to see him go."

Similarly, James Fletcher, a PR manager based in Abu Dhabi, believes that the resignation is well-timed and a smart move. But, he is cynical if this move will really bring about a change in British politics.

Steve Halligan reasons, "I welcome his resignation if it implies a significant change in British politics. Unfortunately, everyone promises the same things and big issues are never addressed. Also, most people will remember him for supporting America in Iraq."

However, Chris Lynch, who is Scottish, says he will miss Blair. According to him, from the Scottish perspective, Blair was the only one who adopted a law for minimum wages for workers and gave Scotland devolution. For him, these two decisions had a momentous impact on Scottish people. "Nevertheless, there is a need for a person with a broader perspective. Scotland has a lot of national and local issues that need to be tackled. So we need a person who can look beyond the conventional borders."

Regarding Gordon Brown, most of the British expatriates feel he lacks Blair's charisma and statesmanship.

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