tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-53734513444424898222024-03-19T12:58:03.493+00:00Barbarian PoliticsAn alternative view to the world of news, politics, sport and anything else that catches my eye. Cynicism and humour are a potent mix, but let's not get too serious.Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-24025398758570287832012-08-11T23:16:00.000+01:002012-08-11T23:16:10.994+01:00Service Disruption (Again!)Due to some ongoing domestics, I'll have some difficulty in updating the blog for a while, possibly a few weeks.<br />
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I can't access the blog from work, so until I get some things sorted, I'll basically be able to do bugger all.<br />
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So apologies for the absence, but there's plenty else out there to keep you amused.<br />
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(erm, don't add any comments since I won't be able to read them!)<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-23281131359853282972012-08-06T22:37:00.003+01:002012-08-06T22:37:42.492+01:00What is the point in the Referendum?I shoved a small comment on another blog the other night, and it got me thinking a bit. So might as well rattle up a quick article.<br />
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We have a Referendum in 2014 (just in case you have been locked in a cave for the past year or so). Scotland's voters have a chance to decide on their future. And about bloody time as well, if only to get the damn thing out of the way.<br />
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In the Blue Corner - the undisputed political champion, Alex Salmond.<br />
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In the Red Corner - the political equivalent of the Keystone Kops.<br />
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Looks like a straightforward contest.......<br />
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Tale of the tape (or whatever the hell they call it):<br />
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<strong>Independence</strong><br />
Currency (erm Sterling, controlled by the Bank of England)<br />
Defence (in NATO, out of NATO, in NATO, out of NATO shake it all about)<br />
Independent State in Europe (erm doing what unelected eurocrats tell us)<br />
No Nukes on Scottish soil (after about 20 years)<br />
100% renewables (100% bullshit more like)<br />
Open Government (see renewables above)<br />
Superhealthy Scots (ditto)<br />
No more PFI (ours is <em>soooo</em> much better)<br />
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<strong>Unionism</strong><br />
Status Quo (top band, leave them out of this)<br />
Currency (erm Sterling, controlled by the Bank of England - more like uncontrolled)<br />
Defence (2 aircraft carriers, fuck all aircraft)<br />
Independent of Europe (erm, *sniff* smell shite)<br />
Nukes on Scottish soil (if one explodes it might count as gentrification)<br />
100% renewables (erm, you know the answer)<br />
Open Government (erm, as above)<br />
Supereducated kids (minimum Grade A******** guaranteed, just don't ask them 1 + 1)<br />
No more PFI (we've called it something else)<br />
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All feeble attempts at humour I agree (only got 3 hours sleep last night), but at present, the choices aren't overly great.<br />
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Take your pick........Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-41778571715968403282012-08-03T22:51:00.000+01:002012-08-03T22:51:47.717+01:00Petty NationalismJust read a post on another blog, where the person (NOT the blog author I must add) slagged off a Scottish Olympian (scolympian?) by calling the individual an "out and out unionist".<br />
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Personally, I'm sick to the back teeth of such comments. Joan McAlpine has been the most high profile nationalist (I don't class her as a politician, sorry) that has used the "anti-Scottish" phrase or one similar to it.<br />
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If you look at history, there are a number of occasions when such an approach has been used. The old "if you are not with us, you are against us". In a few cases, extremism has taken over. Unlikely in Scotland, but then it was considered unlikely in other locations as well.<br />
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Nationalists - and unionists - do not have the right to criticise what an individual's political leanings are. There are a few exceptions - politicians (obviously), senior civil servants and others who should be politically neutral in their profession.<br />
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But athletes are the same as you and I. They have chosen a profession, and in cases such as Chris Hoy, have excelled in it. They have a lot of influence, and you could ask how many Scots have taken up cycling because of his success? The same with Andy Murray, another Scot classed by the cybernat brigade as a "unionist traitor" (I've seen that exact phrase used more than once).<br />
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I would have thought that given the start of the Referendum campaign, the more venomous nationalists would have wired their traps shut (or more appropriately nailed their fingers to the desk). But no, things have not settled down, and it could be argued that things are worse.<br />
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The SNP has practically no control over these armchair warriors. Let us hope that if Scotland does choose independence, these people are kept locked away somewhere, well away from any position of power or influence.<br />
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People should be celebrating the success of Scots in any field, be it sport, science or business. They should not be making cheap digs simply because they assume they are a unionist. It's patronising, insulting and frankly childish. No wonder some commentators think Scotland is "too wee and too stupid" to be independent. Not when they see the level of debate in some quarters.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-90437672192124005152012-08-01T22:51:00.000+01:002012-08-01T22:51:01.909+01:00What is the Point of Democracy?I'm referring to the Scottish Government's decision to overturn the decision by Dumfries & Galloway Council to refuse planning permission for the proposed windfarm at Wigtownshire.<br />
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The residents are against it, as are the council, saying it would adversely impact the area.<br />
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But oh no, nothing can stand between Salmond and his plan for 100% renewables.<br />
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The company, RES, said the windfarm would bring social and economic benefits to the community.<br />
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What benefits? Will energy prices suddenly plummet?<br />
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I live in sight of two huge windfarms - my electricity prices keep going up. Windfarms are subsidised and cannot provide the energy when it is truly needed. People are starting to get sick of bloody windfarms appearing on every hilltop.<br />
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The Scottish Government reporter overturned the decision of the Council, which was democratically elected by the "people of Scotland" - in this case Dumfries & Galloway. Apparently there are a number of "conditions" attached. Perhaps the turbines will be painted pink. They are a feeble attempt to make the Government look like they have paid close attention. No they bloody haven't. I'll bet the project was always going to get the green light, since anything else would upset Government policy on renewables.<br />
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What is the point in democracy when central governments continually override local councils? It happened with Trump, and it's happened here.<br />
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Had there been a Labour government in power, you can be damned sure that the nationalists would have been baying for blood.<br />
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There is a need for renewable energy sources, but we need ones that really do bring the costs down, without subsidies and stop blighting the landscape.<br />
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This Government also needs to start listening to the people who voted them in, something that is becoming rarer by the day.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-58264429594721027482012-07-28T13:22:00.001+01:002012-07-28T13:22:31.841+01:00Olympic Opening CeremonyIgnoring the obscene cost of the whole Olympics, something better dealt with in another article, the opening ceremony was superb.<br />
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Three things stood out however:<br />
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The Olympic Cauldron was amazing and certainly unique. A masterful design.<br />
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The seven young athletes who lit the Cauldron. That was an incredible gesture and totally blew away all the tabloid media crap that has been circulating for weeks.<br />
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But nothing will beat the reception given to Muhammad Ali. A true sporting legend and the reaction to his presence was incredible.<br />
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The downside? David Bloody Beckham - Yes, I know he was instrumental in getting the Olympics to London, and he is - was - a superb footballer. But he is not an Olympic athlete. Chris Hoy, Kelly Holmes, Steve Redgrave etc are. They are more deserving of the attention, something they do not actively seek.<br />
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And please, please, please stop wheeling out Paul McCartney. Bit ironic having a musician with drugs convictions at an event where the athletes pledge not use them.......<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-72235375638736643122012-07-25T22:54:00.000+01:002012-07-25T22:54:22.017+01:00Private LivesGiven the excellent decision of the Scottish Government to allow gay marriage, it highlights the fact that provided someone does not break the law, rams their beliefs down our throats or causes problems for others, then their private life is no one elses business.<br />
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The religious bodies are condemning the decision, but no one is forcing them to conduct ceremonies against their religion in their places of worship. Any attempt to do so would certainly be wrong.<br />
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Your private life is yours. For many, what they do is a form of relaxation and enjoyment. I know people who play computer games who are well into their forties; train enthusiasts (they hate the word "spotter"), model makers, ramblers, people who prefer to read, those that frequent the pub, film fanatics. The list is endless. It is an escape from the daily grind and should be encouraged.<br />
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Returning to the subject of gay marriage. Can anyone really justify why it should not be allowed? Marriage is not necessarily a religious ceremony these days. There are those who consider it so and that is perfectly acceptable. What cannot be tolerated is outright condemnation from those religious leaders who on one hand are preaching tolerance yet on the other being completely intolerant.<br />
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Let us have a Scotland that is truly tolerant of others.Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-43399349851617312202012-07-21T23:52:00.003+01:002012-07-21T23:52:44.233+01:00What do the SNP really want?I ask this question because I'm now totally confused as to precisely what the SNP propose for an independent Scotland.<br />
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In the beginning..... Scotland was to stand as an independent nation, with its own currency, economic policy, military and so on. Free of the shackles of Westminster and Europe and let the people decide. We'll all be superhuman, healthy, speak ten languages, win the World Cup (getting into the finals will suffice), be fantastically wealthy, zero emmissions (Holyrood excepted), enough wind turbines to levitate us nearer the equator (nae mair wellies, sorry Billy), be the centre of world policy, free of Tories, totally self-sufficient and with Alex Salmond elevated to Deity (look it up).<br />
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Complete bollocks (as Mr Anonymouse commentator says on a few blogs) but bloody good sales technique - if you like calling people at night saying "just doing a survey".<br />
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Now reality has hit the SNP with the subtlety of smashing ones thumb with a hammer, accompanied by the appropriate colourful language.<br />
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Judging by what the various <strike>disciples</strike> ministers have told us, this is what independence now means:<br />
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<strong><em>Defence</em></strong><br />
No nukes.....eventually<br />
NATO membership......maybe....yes....no....let the <strike>people</strike> party decide<br />
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<strong><em>Health</em></strong><br />
Not telling (until the big man at the FOI makes us)<br />
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<em><strong>Currency</strong></em><br />
Erm, ask the Bank of England<br />
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<strong><em>Europe</em></strong><br />
Alex Salmond for European President <strike>but we'll ask the people of Scotland first</strike><br />
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<strong><em>Referendum Questions</em></strong><br />
There will be one <strike>leading</strike> question....sorry two.... erm, three?....hang on four.....any advance on four?<br />
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There are grumblings in Blogland even among some of the most diehard supporters. Of course, there is one noticeable exception in the shape of the Temple of the Fundamental Wing of the Alex Salmond Appreciation Society, where the initiates and high priests ensure His Word is obeyed.<br />
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The Referendum is over two years away, with more of the bloody campaigning still to come. I've always said that six months was sufficient time, but no, the SNP have to make sure everything ties in with a reminder we gave the English a kicking (a few hundred years before they kicked the shit out of us in a Northumberland field).<br />
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I do not know what the SNP want in an independent Scotland, and I don't think they know either.<br />
Could it be that all they want to achieve is independence, and bugger the consequences?<br />
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The other parties, Greens and Scottish Socialists, are an irrelevance in the independence campaign. The Greens want to tax the hell out of everyone who contributes to global warming - ie all of us, we all fart - and the Scottish Socialists want to tax the hell out of everyone who employs people as well as paying the employees as much as a banker.<br />
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Achieving independence whatever is the desire of a few people, and I've seen such comments. But what is the point of independence if the party proposing it keep changing the details of the policies?<br />
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Some say that the Unionists need to give some good reasons to keep the status quo.<br />
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No they bloody don't.<br />
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We already live in the Union. We know what it means to be in the Union. It's a pretty fair assumption that if we vote to stay in the Union then bugger all will change (apart from Alex Salmond's name appearing on every flipping polling card at an election).<br />
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The nationalists need to give some good reasons for independence. "The people will control their own destiny" is a pile of shite. No they won't. Those that bother to vote in elections in an independent Scotland will still get the same crap from Government, whether they like it or not. Wee Jim fae Easterhoose will still get his giro; the only change is that it will probably be in both English and Gaelic. <br />
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I'm being a cynical bastard because I've never seen so many policies being mucked about. And far too much attention seems to be given to the Referendum. The message is always the same when things go right (effective SNP policies) and the same when they go wrong (wisnae us pal, wis Westminster).<br />
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The SNP have spent a fair amount of time and money producing that lovely document for the Referendum campaign. It's a bit bloody late to start amending it.<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-79144038176538606442012-07-19T19:50:00.001+01:002012-07-19T19:50:59.491+01:00Outsourcing WorkWhat do I mean by "Outsourcing Work"?<br />
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It refers to any process which is controlled and/or paid by one organisation, but given to another to actually carry out the process in question.<br />
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That does not necessarily mean privatisation. There are government departments, local and national, which carry out work but is centrally managed by another.<br />
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The Olympic security contract is an example of outsourcing. The Government has overall responsibility for security, but G4S have been tasked to carry out the actual process.<br />
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The main problem with outsourcing work is the monitoring of it. I've got several years experience in that field, both in the private and public sector, including a couple of jobs carried out on a personal basis.<br />
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The key problem is to identify problems before they arise; not two weeks before the outsourced company is expected to deliver. OK, politics are involved with the Olympics, but the same principle applies no matter how important or how large a project is.<br />
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I don't have the details of how G4S planned their recruitment, but having spent a few year in the recruitment industry, I do have some sympathy for them. I've been involved in staffing call centres, and that is hard enough.<br />
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But the Government / Locog should have had a more effective monitoring process in place, including their own staff working directly on site with G4S. Now we have a situation where everyone is trying to cover their backsides. No doubt there will be an investigation following the Games, but that is really irrelevant considering the Olympics will be unlikely to return to the UK in our lifetimes.<br />
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There are lessons to be learned, and by the Scottish Government with regards to the Commonwealth Games, as well as other projects. <br />
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Monitoring and auditing processes is a critical function in business, most especially when you are paying someone else to carry out your work. It's a tricky job doing such monitoring. You need a thick skin, supreme diplomatic skills and the skill of a politician when fielding awkward questions. Oh, and you also need to provide solutions to problems that are identified or arise. <br />
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(If anyone from the Scottish Government is reading, I'm available at a reasonable rate!)<br />
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Let's hope that the Scottish Government has effective monitoring processes in place. A failure to ensure that public money is being properly utilised is not a good way to be re-elected.Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-57336892664915884292012-07-16T22:52:00.001+01:002012-07-16T22:52:18.808+01:00Olympic SecurityUnless you have been living on another planet, you will be aware that the main news topic at the moment is the unfolding fiasco of Olympic security.<br />
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The main contractor has some serious staffing issues, and the Westminster Government has a few problems of their own. A ministerial head could roll for this. And I think the Defence Secretary is the prime target.<br />
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Additional service personnel are having to be drafted to make up for the shortfall of privately contracted staff, many of whom apparently did not turn up for work. I'm not going to descend into tabloid journalism here, with accusations of non-English speaking staff and whatnot. There could be many reasons for the failure to recruit properly, and having had substantial experience within the recruitment industry, I know just how difficult things can be.<br />
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The key concern is the use of additional Armed Forces personnel, some of whom have been drafted at short notice, with holidays cancelled in some cases - a fact confirmed by the Defence Secretary.<br />
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Serving personnel are fully aware that they may be assigned duties at very short notice, causing such problems. This is something you accept when you sign up.<br />
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But cancelling holidays because of a complete balls-up on such a major project is absolutely unforgiveable, especially with the recent announcement of yet more redundancies.<br />
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Boris Johnson was on yesterday defending this. He pointed out that service personnel were in attendance at Wimbledon. But what he did not tell you, and few of you will actually be aware, is that those attending Wimbledon are all volunteers who must use their own annual leave entitlement to do so. It is a very popular duty considering you get to see world class tennis for free. <br />
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Those attending the Olympics are not so fortunate. No doubt there will be some who will want to be there, but carrying out stewarding duties at the grass courts is far more interesting that doing stag at some checkpoint. And judging by the latest news reports basic accommodation and leisure facilities have yet to be sorted.<br />
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The Armed Forces are highly trained in security duties, and will carry out these duties in a highly professional and efficient manner.<br />
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But to use them in such a way to effectively cover the organising committee, G4S and the Government is both embarassing and insulting.<br />
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The whole issue is a disgrace.<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-63207395215597448962012-07-05T23:37:00.001+01:002012-07-05T23:37:40.190+01:00John Lyndon for Prime Minister?Nothwithstanding his little dig at the Scots (no doubt the cybernats will be throwing things at the telly and burning their Sex Pistols records), he's about the only member of tonight's Question Time panel who spoke some sense.<br />
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There has been much debate this week about changing the culture of the banking system. Perhaps it is time to change the culture of politics.<br />
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Watching some politicians today, the behaviour was appalling, and the worst example was in the House of Commons with the ding-dong between Balls and Osbourne. Each side blaming the other while telling everyone how competent they are.<br />
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The same sort of crap can be seen at Holyrood as well. Politicians trying to outdo each other while making complete arses of themselves.<br />
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Yes, we know that a lot of good work does go unreported, especially within committees, but the public face of politics needs to change, especially since the level of trust in politicians is rather lacking these days.<br />
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Back to Mr Lyndon. I know he's not everyone's cup of tea (I like him), but imagine having a Prime Minister (or First Minister) with that sort of personality.<br />
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Be interesting to see what lyrics he would use for the National Anthem.......<br />
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<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-19353922416137706602012-06-29T19:44:00.001+01:002012-06-29T19:44:21.598+01:00Service DisruptionApologies for the lack of activity, but I've been a bit unwell lately. Nothing terminal mind but enough to floor me substantially for several weeks. Let's hope we recover before 2014.<br />
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Having just watched the bloody shambles that was described as a debate on the BBC, it shows just how much misinformation is out there - from all sides.<br />
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As to the panelists....... Margo was good (most of the time), Annebel ok, Curran dodgy but as to Fiona Hyslop - keep her away from any serious debates.<br />
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The audience? Bloody awful as well. The BBC really need to not only research their audience, but ensure that any errors they make in comments are corrected.<br />
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Brian as a presenter? Absolutely not. One of the worst performances I've ever seen.<br />
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In short, the whole programme was a disaster and an affront to serious Scottish politics.<br />
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And did Newsnet have a plant in the audience?Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-70604934256949864002012-05-24T22:56:00.000+01:002012-05-24T22:58:42.043+01:00Back to Sitting on the Independence FenceI've decided to go back to sitting on the fence, at least where it relates to being in favour of independence.<br />
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I used to reside there, and then about eighteen months ago fell squarely into the independence garden. Labour was a disaster; Cameron had teamed up with the Lib Dems; Andy Coulson was brought into the Conservative Inner Circle; Iain Gray was impotent; health was doing great in Scotland; council tax freeze; Salmond was the ultimate statesman (Diageo nothwithstanding).<br />
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Let's get one thing absolutely clear - I voted for the SNP last May in the Scottish Elections and continue to support them, even if some of their policies are in my view totally crap (transport for starters). I also have a damn good MSP in Linda Fabiani.<br />
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But.........<br />
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Some of their policies on independence are - to put it bluntly - a bloody mess.<br />
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Currency - first the Euro, now Sterling.<br />
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Europe - a desire to be at the heart of an political entity that is rapidly disintegrating.<br />
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Defence - the recent decision on whether an independence Scotland will be in NATO or not has been put off to allow the party to decide. That single action was the trigger that has returned me to the fence. Independence policies are - to paraphrase the First Minister - for the people of Scotland to decide. Not the SNP party faithful. <br />
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Added to this is the SNP's relationship with Murdoch. They don't need the support of his organisation. The SNP secured an historic majority with a hostile press and limited resources. Now they have substantial funds but are trapped in a relationship with a private organisation that is under investigation, and has already paid out substantial compensation. <br />
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Moreover, the First Minister ignored the Scottish Parliament - of whom he is the figurehead - when questionned about certain allegations, preferring ironically to respond to a Westminster sponsored enquiry.<br />
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The SNP needs to stop this utopia bullshit and start giving definite answers on how an independent Scotland will look. There are concerns that need addressed, but to date have not been and I doubt ever will be.<br />
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My views are not tainted by the BBC or other unionist media. I read a lot of news, but I can spot media bullshit a mile away. I look at how politicians perform in Parliament, in interviews and on the street. Nor do other blogs influence my views. I make my own mind up.<br />
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I want an independent Scotland, but what is on offer at present makes me wonder what exactly I will be getting. There is an air of "independence or bust", something I thought Salmond had kicked into the long grass. But ever since that historic majority last year, the judgement has gone walkabouts. <br />
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The SNP has become arrogant rather than confident, and unless that changes, and they start giving a realistic vision to an independent Scotland, they are in for a shock come 2014.<br />
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<em>(I'll accept all comments. But if you simply want to rant and accuse me of being a unionist, traitor or anything similar don't bother. I know where to go if I want that sort of abuse.)</em>Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-29354081975918278782012-05-20T13:18:00.001+01:002012-05-20T13:18:19.377+01:00Chemical Weapon ContaminationIt's been revealed that there was a risk from chemical weapons buried at RAF Kinloss, specifically sulphur mustard based weapons. This comes after the ongoing issue with contamination at Dalgety Bay.<br />
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The sulphur chemical weapons were from World War 2. Chemical weapons such as mustard gas were never deployed during that war, as they were in 1914-18, but they certainly existed.<br />
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The Royal Engineers spent a considerable time training in the deployment of poison gas, although there were very few units, and they were more involved in bridge construction. The training took place in various locations in the UK, generally remote.<br />
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The MoD keeps telling us that there is "no risk" today. But that immediately raises concerns. How many times have government departments said that there was "no risk"? This is not an issue about road building delays, or propping up a bank. Contamination from chemical weapons can last decades, especially in concentration.<br />
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What is needed is a frank and open admission as to where else there is contamination, to what level and the potential danger to the public. This is not time for covering one's backside.<br />
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The contamination is not the fault of the present Government, nor is it the fault of anyone working at the MoD. So why is there this apparent reluctance to give out the full facts?<br />
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People would give credit for a bit of honesty for once. The contamination is there - deal with that problem rather than worrying if you are going to get into trouble.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-49302047792351223322012-05-17T21:35:00.002+01:002012-05-17T21:35:21.699+01:00Respect for ParliamentTo paraphrase Joan McAlpine, I make no apology for this article.<br />
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As the Presiding Officer so rightly pointed out today, being in the position of an MSP in the Scottish Parliament is a priviledge, and one that must be highly respected.<br />
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Ms McAlpine seems to think the opposite.<br />
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It turns out that on not one, but several occasions, she has failed to be present in Parliament when she was required to do so. That is inexcuseable.<br />
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One news source gave us the juicy details about what she had for lunch. That is irrelevant. What is important is that she seems to have little if any respect for the Scottish Parliament, and simply using her position to promote independence.<br />
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Just as a reminder, she was elected to serve the residents in her area. She was not elected to spend time stuffing her face and turning up when she felt like, or as it seems, remembered to do so.<br />
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As a member of the Education and Culture Committee, you would think she would be setting an example. As a newly elected MSP, you would also expect her to be working her backside off for everyone she represents.<br />
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Her skills as a journalist are without question, but as a politician she is rapidly turning out to be an embarrassment to not only the SNP, but the Scottish Parliament itself.<br />
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Whether Scotland becomes independent or not, the Scottish Parliament must show it is capable of being a proper seat of government, and not a pretendy parliament as some critics would have it. Politicians of all parties have a part to play in supporting the Parliament.<br />
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It's about time some of ours remembered this.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-74505919505424585862012-05-16T23:14:00.001+01:002012-05-16T23:14:37.444+01:00This Week (Yet Again)Apologies for the lack of content, but domestic issues have to take priority at the moment. Nothing too serious but health of others has to come before blogging. <br />
<br />
So, unfortunately it's back to a quick scan of the latest news with a feeble attempt at satire........<br />
<br />
Top of the agenda, both the Home Secretary and the Health Secretary have had what could be described as challenging conference appearances with the Police and Nurses respectively. Both seem to be keen on receiving the Prime Minister's blessing in the form of "My Full Confidence", a the immortal words that herald the start of a new career.<br />
<br />
Not content with taking over Scotland, Alex Salmond has invaded the USA, appearing on a chat show, with his interview filmed in Abroath (cue the "Cringe"). Members of the Fundamentalist Wing of the Alex Salmond Society are practically creaming themselves with this one. Perhaps he has plans to join his big pal Sean and rule in absentia. After all, he is omnipresent.<br />
<br />
The Queen of Spain has cancelled a visit to the UK, blaming issues over Gibraltar fishing rights. The problem appears to be a sort of hybrid mix of Argentina and Iceland, in this case the UK has both the land and the fish. Considering the Spanish steal our fish it serves them bloody right.<br />
<br />
The SFA have rejected Rangers appeal against their fine and transfer embargo. Good luck in the Third Division.<br />
<br />
A female prison officer has been jailed for harbouring an escaped prisoner. I don't think the jury was ever going to accept that she was hanging on to him until help arrived. Either that or it was an interesting game of hide 'n seek.<br />
<br />
And finally (to much relief), an SNP councillor once sacked as Provost has been reinstated into the post. One little known fact is that she is a belly dancer. <br />
<br />
There's hope for Alex yet.......<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
(relative normality should resume this weekend........)<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-91889806722920513822012-05-12T09:54:00.003+01:002012-05-12T11:07:45.174+01:00This WeekWell, yet another exciting week.<br />
<br />
The local elections were held in Scotland, England and Wales, with some exciting results.<br />
The SNP failed to take Glasgow (blaming Westminster cuts); Labour survived; the Tories clung on and Nick Clegg went into hiding. Puir wee Gail failed to win a seat. No big swings this time (ooer missus). A ballot box with uncounted votes was uncovered, causing an immediate reaction from the Fundamentalist Wing of the Alex Salmond Appreciation Society that the entire election process had been fixed. Their evidence was in the BBC's reporting of the elections results, eloquently described by one well-known blogger as "shite". (There is currently an argument as to who was first with this out. Thought I'd mention this to keep things stirred up!)<br />
<br />
In London, Boris achieved something no one thought possible - forcing Ken Livingston's retirement. Ed Milliband expressed <strike>absolute f*****g joy</strike> sadness and regret that a Labour <strike>dinosaur</strike> stalwart had decided to leave the political arena.<br />
<br />
Staying with London, the latest weapon has been unveiled - a sonic cannon. The official line is it will be used for announcements to the crowds, with the ability to control them if they start some trouble. Rumour has it that it is fact to be used to shut Seb Coe up.<br />
<br />
Ms Brookes appeared at the Levenson Enquiry, displaying some better memory recall than her former employer. Dave and Becky exchanged texts with "LOL". Allegedly Dave thought it stood for "Lots of Love" rather than "Laugh out Loud". So much for the PM being down with it.<br />
<br />
The saga over Rangers future continues unabated. There is more chance of a Greek coalition government being formed than a buyer finally coughing up some cash. Given that the Blue Knights failed yet again, it is ironic that the preferred bid is being led by someone called Green.<br />
<br />
<br />
And finally, Prince Charles presented the weather on BBC Scotland this. But stay calm people, it was not some unionist monarchist conspiracy to keep us serfs in line. Perhaps some work experience for the future?<br />
<br />
I'll see myself out.........<br />
<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-78872992899845265912012-05-08T11:10:00.000+01:002012-05-08T11:10:44.905+01:00The QuestionLess than a week after the local elections, the Referendum raise its head yet again. This time from the voice of the Scottish Affairs Committee at Westmister.<br />
<br />
They have described the Referendum question suggested by the Scottish Government as "biased", with much wailing and gnashing of teeth from some nationalists.<br />
<br />
Just in case you weren't aware of the question, here it is:<br />
<br />
<strong><em>"Do you agree that Scotland should become an independent country?"</em></strong><br />
<br />
That is what is correctly described as leading question, which for clarity is a question where the person asking the question suggests the answer he/she is looking for.<br />
<br />
In other words, bias.<br />
<br />
The Committee is absolutely correct. I don't know who came up with that question, but I suspect someone with a journalistic background. Only journalists tend to use leading questions in a professional capacity. Employers certainly cannot use them when interviewing candidates, and nor do I suspect can the police. From my own experience in interviewing and assessing interviewers, I would never allow such a question to be used.<br />
<br />
That question above is asking for an opinion, not a definitive answer. It's a bit like asking someone if they agree that cod liver oil tastes disgusting, rather than asking them if they want to try some.<br />
<br />
No doubts the arguments will rage on and on, with the Scottish Government accusing Westminster of interfering. But they have brought the criticism upon themselves with such a blatant leading, almost loaded, question.<br />
<br />
The question has to be phrased in a similar was as follows:<br />
<br />
<strong><em>"Do you want Scotland to be an independent country?"</em></strong><br />
<br />
Closed question requiring a simple yes or no answer. No bias, no hints, no leading words or phrases.<br />
<br />
If the Scottish Government decide to use their question, then there is a good chance that Westminster will simply ignore the result, with arguments no doubt reaching the courts.<br />
<br />
It should also be asked why the Scottish Government want to use a leading question. Could it be they are afraid of the result, or are they simply trying to manipulate the results by adding this question to their desire for 16 and 17 year olds to get the vote as well?<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-1846362057490499902012-05-07T22:44:00.001+01:002012-05-07T22:47:27.492+01:00Is Greece heading out of the Euro?Given the current election results in Greece, with the mainstream parties rejected, is Greece finally going to escape the Euro?<br />
<br />
What is of interest is that voters are now supporting the more extremist parties, with some similarities to Germany in the years following the Great War. The German people went for the extremist parties, both communist and facist.<br />
<br />
Merkel is not best please with the result, nor would I imagine with the new French President. It seems that the great Euro dream is faltering.<br />
<br />
The Greek people have simply had enough. It could be argued that it is the country's own fault for allegedly fiddling the figures prior to entry, but that is the politicians, not the people. Tax avoidance is apparently common in Greece, from top business leaders right down to the taxi driver in the street.<br />
<br />
The turning point for the Greeks had to be when Merkel told the then Greek prime minister to cancel his referendum of the Euro. One nation telling another what to do. And unbelievably he obeyed.<br />
<br />
I am no economist. I understand the basics but I have little time or inclination to learn about banking and finance. What I do know is that we are in a strange situation where every country seems to owe money. How long can this go on for? I also understand that you cannot always let a bank collapse, but then on the other hand you cannot have them directing policy after they made a mess of their business first time around.<br />
<br />
The Greek people have had their say. And judging by current events they will have yet another as a coalition has yet to materialise. That could get even more votes for the extremist parties. The question is whether the new Greek government has the balls to exit the Euro. It may cause them more problems but it would at least give them the tools to sort out problems themselves.<br />
<br />
If Greece decides to abandon the Euro, then Spain and Portugal might decide to follow. And if they go, the rest will follow suit. France under its new socialist President may decide to return to the Franc as well, leaving Germany a bit annoyed. How it will affect their economy I haven't a clue, but probably not pleasantly. That would leave Merkel vulnerable.<br />
<br />
Greece leaving the Euro might give the respective European governments the proverbial kick up the backside that is sorely needed. Austerity isn't working.<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-11002502048878103032012-05-05T13:17:00.000+01:002012-05-05T13:37:47.664+01:00Penguin PoliticsFirst of all, congratulations to the "Penguin" on a successful campaign. Surely the highlight of the elections. It's humiliating enough to be beaten by the Monster Raving Looney Party, but at least they are the same species (I think).<br />
<br />
Before my own cynical analysis of the results, for those who want the full statistical analysis, may I direct you to the Burd (link at the right of the page) who has tirelessly produced the correct figures, rather than what the BBC churned out (correctly described as "shite"). And for even more detailed analysis of Glasgow, look no further than Lalland's Peat Worrier.<br />
<br />
So, who won?<br />
<br />
Nobody. This is not a national election but a series of thirty-two local elections. The SNP may have taken more seats, but the overall gains were pretty well matched with Labour. <br />
<br />
The SNP vote held up, bar a few losses. But so did Labour's. <br />
<br />
The Lib Dems, as expected, got slaughtered, to a level even below what I expected. I have some sympathy for those who lost seats, since the Westminster coalition has affected them. But to be honest, I have little time for a party who jumps into the political bed with anyone for a sniff of power. <br />
<br />
The losses for the Lib Dems may be critical. However, the real test will come at the next parliamentary elections. Going on present form, they are going to be crucified in most areas. But that is for another day.<br />
<br />
The Greens made some gains in Edinburgh, doubling their seats to six. A welcome replacement for the Lib Dems.<br />
<br />
Labour held up well, and took seats from the Lib Dems and others. But they did not make any substantial gains from the SNP. However, I expect them to be rather relieved and probably pleased with the result.<br />
<br />
<strong>Glasgow</strong><br />
Put it simply, the SNP blew it. All the spin and bullshit about how they would take the city has come to naught. True, they increased their seats by seven, but these were at the expense of other parties, not Labour. Despite all their efforts, they could not make any inroads into a party that has suffered some turmoil with deselections.<br />
<br />
Rather than slagging off the electorate as people who will vote Labour if the candidate was a goat (as one rather well known website's commentators do), perhaps they could look at why the SNP cannot make gains. If people really want a change, then they will get out and vote.<br />
<br /><br /><br />
I live in South Lanarkshire, another prime target for the SNP. Linda Fabiani did splendidly last year and blew Andy Kerr off the planet. So come the local elections, I expected a vigorous campaign, considering Big Eck himself kept telling us all that what was happening.<br />
<br />
In East Kilbride, the SNP campaign consisted of a leaflet with Alex 'n' Nicola on it. Bog standard political material that can be posted through a door anywhere in Scotland. Meanwhile, Labour leaflets had the local candidates, and the usual splurge about local issues. This was repeated in the week before the elections.<br />
<br />
The SNP finally got round to posting a leaflet with the local candidates. Whoopee! A quick read. Who they hell are they? No one had ever heard of them. And neither had bothered their backsides to come round a few doors and tell us why we should vote for them.<br />
<br />
No, I think the SNP were relying on the Alex factor once again, despite his time being taken up <strike>shoving his head up Murdoch's arse</strike> ensuring that Scottish jobs are secure.<br />
<br />
The party political broadcast was crap and patronising, even more so than the usual fare we are subject to. The SNP spin went out of control.<br />
<br />
The SNP leadership need to be concerned. They could not take seats off Labour despite the party having a mediocre leadership. They did not make any massive gains. Had the Lib Dems not been in the coalition, they would probably have retaineed the majority of their seats.<br />
<br />
It was circumstances out of SNP control that won them seats, not direct action.<br />
<br />
The SNP are now dismissing the results as having any bearing on the Referendum, saying that people will not vote on political lines. But the fact of the matter is that the SNP are seen as the party of independence. These results will not give them a confidence boost.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-13392273802162027882012-04-28T15:32:00.000+01:002012-04-28T15:32:03.683+01:00Last WeekIt has certainly been a busy week.<br />
<br />
Jeremy Hunt is in a bit of bother, and has been updating his CV ever since David Cameron expressed his full confidence in his Culture Secretary.<br />
<br />
Alex Salmond has denied claims that he is Murdoch's lapdog, and was merely expressing concerns for Scottish jobs - mainly his judging by things. The truth may be more simpler: Donald and Alex have had a wee falling out over the wind turbines. People were hoping it would blow over, but Donald sees an ill wind. Meanwhile, Rupert, anxious to see goodwill in Scotland - a place he finds emotional - has sent none other than Dear Deirdrie in to sort things out. Expect the next Photocasebook to have Alex and Donald in it, but hopefully not in abbreviated clothing as is normal for the Sun. Although some unkind soul may remark that no ladies will be required since there will a couple of tits on display anyway.<br />
<br />
Heathrow has a problem with queues. Although not quite on the scale experienced in Argos during December, things are getting worse. The unions are arguing that there is no real control and that illegal immigration is no better than before. I have a suggestion - get the same <strike>bastards</strike> company who installed the ticket barriers at Glasgow Central Station. No one will get through. Perhaps it is a cunning plan by Lord Coe to ensure Team GB (sounds like a chemical weapon) wins a medal or two by slowing the other athletes up at the airport.<br />
<br />
In entertainment, Katie Price (aka Jordan) is to marry yet again. Third time apparently.......... this week.<br />
<br />
Defence cuts are biting harder than expected, with NATO only able to deploy cardboard boats in the exercise off Scottish waters. New equipment for tea breaks consist of chocolate kettles.<br />
<br />
As I write, Rangers fans are marching on Hampden. Ironically enough this might be the last time they do so unless the Blue Knights come to the rescue. Personally, they should have called for the X-Men.<br />
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Tourism is important to Scotland, despite Trump's warnings. Research has shown that tourists want to experience the "real" Scotland, so some budding entrepeneurs submitted this masterpiece to Visit Scotland. Sadly, it was rejected. <br />
<br />
But well worth a look:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFdltqqxx-s" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFdltqqxx-s</a><br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-63132906562431395852012-04-24T22:49:00.003+01:002012-04-24T22:49:58.592+01:00The Sun Ain't Shining Anymore<em><strong>"I met with Alex Salmond's adviser today.</strong></em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>He will call Hunt whenever we need him to."</strong></em><br />
<br />
<br />
That email has caused a bit of a ruckus in Holyrood, and is dragging the First Minister into the morass that Jeremy Hunt finds himself.<br />
<br />
Now, Salmond has denied any involvement whatsoever with NewsCorp's plan to takeover BSkyB, and James Murdoch has said that it had nothing to do with Salmond after favourable coverage in papers such as the Sun.<br />
<br />
But given the revelations about NewsCorp, and the multiple visits with Salmond, those denials will look hollow to some. Murdoch is right about one thing - politicans will do anything to get media coverage, and the SNP are no exception. In fact, given the hostility shown to the SNP by many sectors of the medua, they were likely to be desperate for any positive coverage.<br />
<br />
But Murdoch's empire is only interested in one thing - itself. Rupert Murdoch does not give a damn about any political party unless he can profit from them. Look at the history - Conservatives, Labour, Conservatives, SNP.<br />
<br />
An independent Scotland is fertile ground for NewsCorp, especially if - as promised - corporation tax will be substantially lower than elsewhere. Try bumping it up and NewsCorp and Sky will be off. Call centres can be set up practically anywhere in the world - ask Virgin Media.<br />
<br />
The SNP is right to seek positive media coverage, but choosing NewsCorp is riddled with danger. And the current revelations from the Levenson Enquiry have just opened up a crack - one that could develop rapidly into a chasm.<br />
<br />
The SNP is still dealing with the Bill Walker issue. The last thing they needed was this.<br />
<br />
Jeremy Hunt might be toast by the end of the week.<br />
<br />
Alex Salmond might get his fingers burned as well.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-50151404542107645742012-04-22T22:04:00.000+01:002012-04-22T22:04:10.061+01:00Public Transport and RegulationRecently, train and bus fares have gone up, and quite considerably.<br />
<br />
In Scotland, public transport is not regulated bar a few odds and sods when it comes to removing services and other pieces. Otherwise, the privately owned and taxpayer subsidised companies can basically do what they like.<br />
<br />
A colleague of mine travels from Kilmarnock to Glasgow daily. He uses Stagecoach.. The cost of a weekly ticket rose from £32 to £36, more than the publicised 5% increase. My colleague noticed that since the fare increase, there has been a marked drop in passengers, even taking into account the Easter break. He's since found out that people are now taking the train because it is cheaper.<br />
<br />
The bus for many of these people is more convenient, as they live some distance from the rail station in Kilmarnock, plus the bus service is more reliable. Anyone who uses either the Kilmarnock or East Kilbride rail services will understand where I'm coming from.<br />
<br />
But the cost has impacted on them. £16 per month is a substantial increase and for many people it is simply too much.<br />
<br />
There is no use in the Scottish Government blaming Westminster. They use the same excuse time and again. Transport is devolved to Scotland. There is the opportunity to get public transport in public ownership again, or at least regulated properly. The NHS is being dragged away from PFI, and only recently we've seen what problems you get with private companies - power cuts for starters.<br />
<br />
So why not public transport? It is an essential service, more so given the increased prices in fuel and diesel. Running a car is fast becoming a luxury. It is also essential to a solid economy.<br />
<br />
Transport Scotland is toothless. I know that from personal experience.<br />
<br />
Scotland needs properly regulated public transport. There is little mileage in blaming previous administrations - voters are not interested in that. They want results. Let's have a rail and bus network where there is proper accountability. If that means a few private companies lose out, so be it. Long term effective services are more important than any short term political or monetary gain.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-24714959520511151582012-04-21T11:50:00.002+01:002012-04-21T11:50:16.239+01:00Hiding Bad News?Slightly late in posting this due to some unforseen circumstances at home.<br />
<br />
<br />
The story has emerged that Doosan have decided against building a factory in Renfrewshire, coming to light at a conference in Denmark on Wednesday.<br />
<br />The company cited economic problems in Europe as the reason. <br />
<br />All well and good, despite the disappointment. But it turns out that the company informed the Scottish Government in December about their decision, yet ministers did not say a word about this.<br />
<br />Why?<br />
<br />
Alex Salmond's excuse is disappointingly lame for him, stating that it is not up to him to announce company news. He's keen enough to announce investment plans, so why did he keep quiet? <br />
<br />
Perhaps it is because Doosan views Europe as an economic basket case. Can't have that, given the SNP's desire to be at the heart of Europe. Messes up the Referendum Campaign a bit.<br />
<br />
A good Government should be able to present bad news as well as good. Any criticism from the opposition soon dies out, whereas burying bad news or in this case withholding it simply feeds the story. It can also make voters suspicious. If a Government isn't telling us about this, what else are they hiding?<br />
<br />
The SNP did promise open government. They have to live up to this promise.<br />
<br />Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-78679761629049661402012-04-15T22:22:00.001+01:002012-04-15T22:24:11.443+01:00Why Socialism Won't Work<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: black; color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">Someone sent me a small article on why socialism won't work - some of you may have got the email that is doing the rounds.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: white;"><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"></span></span><br />
<span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: black;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">I'm not going into some big article, nor am I suggesting that we cut all the benefits and minimum wage. There are however a</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">re five sentences below which should be considered:</span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: white;"><br />
<span style="background-color: black;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: black;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">1. You cannot legislate the poor into prosperity by legislating the wealthy out of prosperity.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">2. What one person receives without working for, another person must work for without receiving.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">3. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">4. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it.</span><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><br style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: white; color: black; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;" /><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">5. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is going to get what they work for, that is the beginning of the end of any nation.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: black; color: white; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;">If an independent Scotland is to be a fairer society, then it needs a balanced approach to government. Opportunities for people who want to start a business, without the fear of the government taxing the hell out of them. Benefits that give priority to those in real need. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: black; color: white;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; background-color: black; color: black; display: inline !important; float: none; font-family: sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 24px; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span style="background-color: black; color: white;">Funnily enough, the Scottish Socialists seem to prefer the approach of taxing the hell out of the rich and giving everyone a huge minimum wage plus other benefits. Perhaps they could explain how this would make Scotland prosper in the long term.</span> </span></span>Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5373451344442489822.post-89715739947873545442012-04-09T19:34:00.001+01:002012-04-09T19:35:51.086+01:00Ballot Paper ConfusionJust in case you have been on another planet, you will be aware that there is the small matter of the Local Government elections on May 3rd. Nothing particularly special in the great scheme of things, having to vote in a few local representatives to organise the bins being emptied and the grass cut.<br />
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In 2007 there was a lot of confusion with both the Parliamentary and Local Government elections held on the same day, causing an unprecedented amount of spoiled or invalid papers. Hence the reason for the elections to be held separately this time around.<br />
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The Single Transferrable Vote system (STV) will be used again, and the Electoral Commission has distributed leaflets showing how to vote correctly.<br />
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However, there is still the potential for a bit of confusion, because this system is different to the one used last year for the Parliamentary one.<br />
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You have a list of all the candidates in your ward, with a box beside each name. You make your choices by entering a number beside one, some or all of the candidates. So, for the SNP, enter 1, Labour enter 2 and so on.<br />
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But you can make as few or as many choices as you want, provided you vote for at least one candidate.<br />
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Possible areas of confusion are where the same party is represented by two or more candidates. Some voters may vote on party lines, thus only selecting one candidate. Others might put a 1 against each of the same party.<br />
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Let's remember, that this is a fairly new system only used five years ago. Most people have little time for politics and some will find it genuinely hard to understand. There will be help at the polling stations, but some may feel reluctant to ask. Not everyone will read the Electoral Commission's leaflet.<br />
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Party political broadcasts may be unhelpful as well (not that many people watch them!). The SNP has the nice Miss Hoolie-esque telling us:<br />
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"Remember, SNP, 1,2 3!" (or is that 1,2,3 SNP??)<br />
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What if you don't have three SNP candidates?<br />
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The election may be carried out with no more than the average invalid papers, but I think the system will still cause confusion with some voters. Perhaps it should be a case of putting a number against every candidate, or only the top three.<br />
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No voting system is perfect, and STV is fairer than FPTP. But how many people are going to place an "X" in the box? Would it not be better if the same voting system was used for both Parliamentary and Local Government elections?<br />
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Obviously nothing will change before the next parliamentary elections, and if the invalid votes are low then nothing will. But a similar percentage as we saw in 2007 will certainly raise concerns.Barbarian of the Northhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09546237341963301419noreply@blogger.com3