I don't think its a British thing. I think it is me but my problem is patience! lol
Although you need to be pretty damn patient in the UK these days if you need medical care or help from the police!
The British trait this millennium is normally hating your own country, being miserable and complaining all the time. I think its fair to say I'm not your average Brit though.
PS: We still have the best sense of humour on the planet though. Mainly because we need it!
PS 2: These days Google and Facebook think I am an Syrian transexual.
PS 3: You may not have been around long enough to get that!