Brexiteers want Britain to ‘look east’. But their idea of Asia is a fantasy | Jeevan Vasagar

21st-century Britain is very different from 1960s Singapore. Tories wanting a pivot to Asia must admit current realities

In a few weeks, Singapore observes the 200th anniversary of Sir Stamford Raffles’ arrival. The spot where he landed is marked with a statue – arms folded, looking out to sea – while the 52-storey headquarters of a local bank towers behind him. It’s a popular selfie spot.

Singapore’s government plans a series of exhibitions and historic walking trails that will turn the spotlight on the island’s long and successful history – both before and after the imperial adventurer strode ashore and planted the union flag in January 1819.

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from The Guardian http://bit.ly/2AqLWsn