Have to respect the  people who brought the world  parliamentary democracy and still set the standard on  how to conduct  a nation's political affairs.

Rather than proroguing parliament, desperately clinging to power, ramming through omnibus bills or simply elbowing women in the chest on the floor of the commons... 

The Brits show respect for their democracy even when the rules are unwritten. There is no law requiring an election be called. There is  no cynical agenda at play here. No calculating strategy based on selfie ism and phony rhetoric.

 In this case knowing that the UK is headed for tumultuous and unprecedented times having to face down not only looming Scottish independence but disengagement from the EU  - the government of the day  understands it cannot move ahead without a full and clear mandate from the people.  A referendum won't get you there.

Should they be defeated at the polls - so be it. The world is watching. Keep calm and carry on.