The exact population of Athens in the Golden Years is not precisely recorded but there were probably about 100,000 citizens, if women and children are included, in the region of Attica – and three or four times as many slaves, a balance not unlike that of 18th century Mauritius. But thereafter comparisons end as Mauritius enjoyed immigration on a far more massive scale than Ancient Greece ever experienced. What has this to do with you? It’s unfair that some MPs are rarely in the limelight, even if only in the Assembly for obscure reasons.

Recent migration to Europe has seen a surge in support for neo-fascist parties most recently evidenced by the rise of the Sweden Democrats, who believe in democracy as much as sectarian lobbies believe in one people. Such parties aren’t just fuelled by the masses of refugees from civil wars but also by the way infantile delinquents carry out barbarous acts in the name of an allegedly religious cause. Equally offensive to locals are those who, when they manage to escape from their homelands, want to impose their antediluvian views on the paradises they’ve joined. If, despite such views, tight jeans have achieved almost universal appeal, showing an ankle – or more – is still frowned upon in societies that blame women for bringing out men’s innate rapist instincts.

The idea of freedom of movement, of being able to travel or live wherever one wants is a wonderful concept but there simply isn’t room for everyone in Germany, let alone Bois-Pignolet. Fortunately, as these fair isles are surrounded by vast expanses of sea – which could benefit the local economy if only someone in the LIC Building could pull out even one finger from their deep pockets – few, except drug smugglers, take to inflatable dinghies to try to reach here. Strangely, the country isn’t on illegal immigrants’ top list for some reason or other. Everyone wants to move to Greece or Italy, even if only as a stepping stone to other nasty western democracies…

Countries like Jordan and Turkey have accepted millions of migrants, from their neighbouring countries, and all honour to them. Mind you, Ancient Greeks would have expected them to stay at home and fight but modern state armoury makes that impractical. But, instead of permanent abode, it would make more sense to give them temporary permits on the understanding they’ll leave in due course. After all, there are reasons for the growing aversion to newcomers, especially when some have the avowed intent of taking over. These islands can easily understand that as they have enough trouble assimilating various cultures after many decades and some are reticent about the small influx of foreigners today, even if they live incarcerated in gated compounds.

Those who favour total freedom of movement – normally to countries other than their own – are right in principle and generous in spirit but fail to understand what produces social cohesion. It leads to Brexit and Duckland situations, and the renewed threat of fascism. That threat can arise not just from mass migration but equally from social and political leaders who are silent about jihadist sympathisers and those linked to nationalist extremists. As a clash of cultures has terrible consequences, mutual understanding can help to assuage the problem; right-wing extremism is not a pretty sight. You could lead the way to orientate sectarian lobbies in a new direction, concentrating on bringing people together, speaking out when necessary, and shutting up when not. Your mandirs could even offer to take in a handful of Syrian refugees – and make you famous at last.