Why are we erecting a monument to a former terrorist?

The prime minister Gordon Brown is to unveil a 9ft statue of Nelson Mandela in Parliament Square.

Why?

What link does he have to this country?

He was the leader of a terrorist organisation that used to punish people by putting a tyre filled with burning petrol around their necks.

On his release from Robben Island he eventually became president of South Africa - good for him, and good for South Africa but I repeat what has that got to do with this country?

Why is Nelson Mandela being honoured outside the Mother of Parliaments?

At this rate it won't be too long before the stature of Gerry Adams is ready for Trafalgar Square...