But what is really interesting is his choice of words.
My good friend and mentor Dominic Keohane has spoken with me at length about the choice of words people use can be more insightful than the words themselves.
David Cameron: “This is criminality pure and simple and it has to be confronted and defeated.”
“has to be” this isn’t a very positive statement is it? He acknowledges that it must be defeated but doesn’t seem to enforce that it will.
David Cameron: “No doubt we will do everything necessary to restore order to British streets and make them safe for the law abiding”
Why enforce the word “doubt”. Doesn’t this imply that he himself doubts the ability to do this?
David Cameron: “You will feel the full force of the law. And if you are old enough to commit these crimes you are old enough to face the punishments.”
A positive message followed by a caveat which undermines the message completely.
Hardly the strong confidence inspiring message we all want and need!