TODAY, March 15, marks the anniversary of the assassination of Julius Caesar, known in the Roman calendar as the Ides of March. An event that has been given enduring significance in Shakespeare’s play. As I write this our country is wracked with debate, speculation and growing concern about a much more recent attempted political assassination that has violated the well-ordered, peaceful, community life of our city.

Areas of the city are cordoned off; vehicles removed; restaurants remain closed. News presenters, today’s validators of what is important and significant, who were last to greet the arrival of Magna Carta 800 years ago, today accost passers-by in the Maltings and Cheese Market.

500 people who enjoyed Sunday lunch out, have been told to wash clothes, bag up dry cleanable items and clean other possessions with baby wipes and detergent whilst at the same time, being reassured that there is no danger, that this is just a precaution.

We now know that the poison used was a Russian, weapons-grade, nerve agent. As I write this, we await a response from the Russian Government; there is much more of the drama yet to unfold.

I was fortunate enough to be in attendance at the Rule of Law Service in the Cathedral on Sunday Evening. I was entertained by the ‘fancy dress’ of those taking part (speculating on whether the lacy frills and cuffs extended to undergarments…), transported (as always) by the music and moved by the wise words of the Bishop of Salisbury who gave the address.

What happened on Sunday, March 4 is an affront that is every bit as violent and offensive as the assassination of a Roman head of state. A murder attempt was made on a UK citizen, by an attacker who used a reckless, indiscriminate, chemical weapon which may have contaminated hundreds of innocent local people. The audacity of this cannot be overstated. It is a challenge to the rule of law; to the basic right of citizens to go about their daily lives without fear of wanton violence and attack. It matters not that the intended victim had previously been involved in espionage. It matters that he lived here peacefully and lawfully as did everyone else who has been affected.

The Bishop reminded us on Sunday in a service that began with reading from Magna Carta that without justice, there can be no peace. The Barons who led the revolt against the King in 1215 did so because the King was usurping powers that should rightly belong to the people.

Peace only exists where there is justice. This incident will only be resolved and the damage to our city will only be repaired, when those responsible, individuals or governments, are held fully to account and brought to justice. Justice matters. To us all.