Anna, an education academic at the University of Exeter, and JJ, a 19-year-old medical sciences student and part-time tennis coach, shared a meal at The Galley Restaurant in Topsham, Exeter, as part of the Dining Across the Divide series. They found common ground on social issues but diverged on the monarchy and income taxation.
Common Ground on Social Issues
JJ, who votes Lib Dem, mentioned attending a Surfers Against Sewage protest, which prompted a high-five from Anna, who sometimes votes Labour or Green. Both expressed concerns about extremes of wealth and poverty. Anna, a single parent, said the meal was a rare night out and found the conversation natural. JJ agreed they lined up on several social issues.
Disagreement on the Monarchy
Anna, originally from Germany, acknowledged King Charles seems to be doing a good job but questioned the monarchy system, citing the Third Reich's lesson against centering institutional continuity around individuals. JJ countered that he would hate the idea of a President Blair or Truss, and valued the monarchy's ability to exercise soft diplomacy, as seen with King Charles and Trump. Anna worried about checks and balances against a rogue player, while JJ recalled a street party for the diamond jubilee as a moment of togetherness.
Income Tax Threshold Debate
JJ mentioned Jean-Luc Mélenchon's proposal of 100% income tax over €400,000 (£350,000). Anna supported the idea but argued the threshold should be lower, at £200,000. JJ disagreed, saying an income cap that low would stifle investment and drive away high earners, and questioned its effectiveness given wealth can be taken through capital gains and assets.
Views on Prison and Nonviolent Offenses
Anna argued prison is not the right response to nonviolent offenses, citing the criminalization of non-payment of TV licenses, which disproportionately affects women. JJ agreed on small offenses like TV license non-payment but believed criminal damage, such as by Palestine Action, warrants imprisonment, while peaceful protest should not be criminalized.
Takeaways from the Meal
Anna found the discussion a lesson in changing attitudes through open dialogue. JJ noted that breaking bread lowers the temperature of debate compared to social media, wishing more people would engage in such conversations.
