<p>To be asked to mediate in a published debate on an important national issue is either a privilege or a poisoned chalice. My therapist will decide. More so where the proponents of the opposing positions are personal friends and colleagues of many years’ standing, both of whom I hold in great respect (Andrew McDonnell and Brodie Paterson). Both have made a huge contribution to the national, and indeed international, debate on restraint safety. Does the task of searching for the middle ground in a debate therefore qualify me for membership of the Liberal Democrat party?</p>