Guns have killed more Americans than all the combined wars they’ve fought including their Civil War .
And yet still nothing changes . And with today’s SCOTUS decision effectively expanding gun rights there really comes a point when if you live in Europe you just have to give up on the country .
I did that 25 years ago having travelled around the place. Its like a zoo.
Government ministers have been out in force this week complaining about striking rail staff and all the disruption they're causing other people. It's funny, because a few weeks ago they didn't all seem quite so bothered about such things.
When Nadine Dorries took a trip down to Cornwall earlier this month, she was on a train that fell behind schedule far enough that she was looking at missing a connection. She asked staff onboard if they could call ahead to the connecting station to get them to hold the train back for her – and was told that, no, that wouldn't be possible.
So she took matters into in her own hands. By texting the transport secretary Grant Shapps to see if there was anything he could do to get her train held back instead.
Government ministers have been out in force this week complaining about striking rail staff and all the disruption they're causing other people. It's funny, because a few weeks ago they didn't all seem quite so bothered about such things.
When Nadine Dorries took a trip down to Cornwall earlier this month, she was on a train that fell behind schedule far enough that she was looking at missing a connection. She asked staff onboard if they could call ahead to the connecting station to get them to hold the train back for her – and was told that, no, that wouldn't be possible.
So she took matters into in her own hands. By texting the transport secretary Grant Shapps to see if there was anything he could do to get her train held back instead.
Nadine Dorries is the British Marjorie Taylor Greene
With major difference, that even GOP wackos won't let MTG actually run anything.
She's just an extremely (in)famous back-bencher. Whereas ND is a Minister in HM's government.
Government ministers have been out in force this week complaining about striking rail staff and all the disruption they're causing other people. It's funny, because a few weeks ago they didn't all seem quite so bothered about such things.
When Nadine Dorries took a trip down to Cornwall earlier this month, she was on a train that fell behind schedule far enough that she was looking at missing a connection. She asked staff onboard if they could call ahead to the connecting station to get them to hold the train back for her – and was told that, no, that wouldn't be possible.
So she took matters into in her own hands. By texting the transport secretary Grant Shapps to see if there was anything he could do to get her train held back instead.
Nadine Dorries is the British Marjorie Taylor Greene
No, MTG is much more dangerous. Dorries is a joke but has no following of note. But MTG has quite a large following, and is a gun-toting fascist as far as I can see.
I absolutely loathe the woman . Indeed I loathe the vast majority of GOP politicians who are a cancer on the USA but MTG in particular deserves to rot in hell .
But there is clearly huge Russian effort going in to locating and destroying this kit. As it has to. If Ukraine gets the advantage of range in an artillery war, Russia is in big trouble.
@laurnorman Macron has just said at the press conference right after Ukraine given candidate status that 1) NATO has said no to Ukraine. and that 2) over time, opening EU accession process to Ukraine is not the right geopolitical response. These are both highly problematic.
To put in context, his argument was that his political community structure is the right geopolitical response. OK, leaders will discuss that tonight. But that is NOT the NATO position. And it seems extraordinary to diss Ukraine's EU accession prospects minutes after agreeing it.
Government ministers have been out in force this week complaining about striking rail staff and all the disruption they're causing other people. It's funny, because a few weeks ago they didn't all seem quite so bothered about such things.
When Nadine Dorries took a trip down to Cornwall earlier this month, she was on a train that fell behind schedule far enough that she was looking at missing a connection. She asked staff onboard if they could call ahead to the connecting station to get them to hold the train back for her – and was told that, no, that wouldn't be possible.
So she took matters into in her own hands. By texting the transport secretary Grant Shapps to see if there was anything he could do to get her train held back instead.
Nadine Dorries is the British Marjorie Taylor Greene
No, MTG is much more dangerous. Dorries is a joke but has no following of note. But MTG has quite a large following, and is a gun-toting fascist as far as I can see.
I absolutely loathe the woman . Indeed I loathe the vast majority of GOP politicians who are a cancer on the USA but MTG in particular deserves to rot in hell .
The Bishop of Leeds should shut his stupid fucking mouth.
According to his twitter feed, that's not what he said. Rather he said that Russia should be condemned and opposed, but that in the paper tabling a motion for debate on the Church of England's response he notes suggestions have been made that Russia should be given territory to stop attacking.
Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.
And it is the Daily Telegraph. Not a reliable source, particularly on matters to do with the Church of England which it hates with a passion for being apparently some kind of wishy-washy left woke institution of pinkoes (or something).
So I think it might be worth being a bit careful here.
There's a certain irony that only four days ago he told his diocesan synod that he wished he could lead a quieter life and avoid controversy, but that would mean he wasn't speaking out on issues of conscience which would be worse.
It is complete nonsense because there is no peace for Ukrainian people in Russian occupied territory. Russia deliberately terrorises Ukrainians to force them to leave, through indiscriminate attacks, and then deports many of those who remain when Russians occupy the territory, even the broadly Russia-aligned people who are left end up terrorised by the thugs Russia leaves in charge.
It's basically an argument that people should lay down their arms and die for "peace".
If someone like Ramzan Kadyrov running your country is the "peaceful" outcome then keep fighting.
So you're in agreement with Nick Baines, who seems to think much the same thing, but has noted other people do not?
Guns have killed more Americans than all the combined wars they’ve fought including their Civil War .
And yet still nothing changes . And with today’s SCOTUS decision effectively expanding gun rights there really comes a point when if you live in Europe you just have to give up on the country .
It's a democracy. They all have a vote. IMHO more of them should use it, but it isn't our call. How they run it is a matter for them.
Guns have killed more Americans than all the combined wars they’ve fought including their Civil War .
And yet still nothing changes . And with today’s SCOTUS decision effectively expanding gun rights there really comes a point when if you live in Europe you just have to give up on the country .
I did that 25 years ago having travelled around the place. Its like a zoo.
I’ve been to NY and California in my younger years . I did love NY in particular as it had a great buzz and I was so excited to see those skyscrapers .
What’s tragic is that there is everything in the USA in terms of stunning scenery and such diversity , it could be a fantastic place to live . Sadly ruined by bible bashing , gun toting morons .
Perhaps we should offer Salisbury Cathedral to Russia - for “peace”?
They do seem to like visiting it.
Which reminds me - the local Corbynites have a stall on the High Street on weekends. They are big on “peace” for the current war…. I must ask them about my suggestion that we give Palestine to Russia for “peace”
What’s this “Palestine” - it’s just a separatist region of Israel, right?
What a surprise you are an Israeli apologist, I would accuse you of dual loyalty but from your profile picture that is clear enough already. What is it with you people and your obsessive hatred of Russians?
Guns have killed more Americans than all the combined wars they’ve fought including their Civil War .
And yet still nothing changes . And with today’s SCOTUS decision effectively expanding gun rights there really comes a point when if you live in Europe you just have to give up on the country .
Well this is precisely the sort of ruling that shows why parliament or whatever should be higher than the top court when push and shove come. You can vote MPs out every 4 or 5 years The Conservative majority on scotus is here for a while... Be thankful Miller II did not grant SCOTUK the judicial overreach that Marbury did.
@laurnorman Macron has just said at the press conference right after Ukraine given candidate status that 1) NATO has said no to Ukraine. and that 2) over time, opening EU accession process to Ukraine is not the right geopolitical response. These are both highly problematic.
To put in context, his argument was that his political community structure is the right geopolitical response. OK, leaders will discuss that tonight. But that is NOT the NATO position. And it seems extraordinary to diss Ukraine's EU accession prospects minutes after agreeing it.
You know, these Western democracies really need to up their game a bit. In the last three years, three of their largest and oldest democracies have put forward as choices to the electorate Biden and Trump, Johnson and Corbyn, and Macron and Le Pen.
The Bishop of Leeds should shut his stupid fucking mouth.
According to his twitter feed, that's not what he said. Rather he said that Russia should be condemned and opposed, but that in the paper tabling a motion for debate on the Church of England's response he notes suggestions have been made that Russia should be given territory to stop attacking.
Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.
And it is the Daily Telegraph. Not a reliable source, particularly on matters to do with the Church of England which it hates with a passion for being apparently some kind of wishy-washy left woke institution of pinkoes (or something).
So I think it might be worth being a bit careful here.
There's a certain irony that only four days ago he told his diocesan synod that he wished he could lead a quieter life and avoid controversy, but that would mean he wasn't speaking out on issues of conscience which would be worse.
It is complete nonsense because there is no peace for Ukrainian people in Russian occupied territory. Russia deliberately terrorises Ukrainians to force them to leave, through indiscriminate attacks, and then deports many of those who remain when Russians occupy the territory, even the broadly Russia-aligned people who are left end up terrorised by the thugs Russia leaves in charge.
It's basically an argument that people should lay down their arms and die for "peace".
If someone like Ramzan Kadyrov running your country is the "peaceful" outcome then keep fighting.
Is that so, I thought in Kherson region the Russians pay the pensions, provide the banking services and telecommunications network. Not exactly what the Israelis do to the Palestinians let alone what the Ukrainians do the Russian speakers.
Government ministers have been out in force this week complaining about striking rail staff and all the disruption they're causing other people. It's funny, because a few weeks ago they didn't all seem quite so bothered about such things.
When Nadine Dorries took a trip down to Cornwall earlier this month, she was on a train that fell behind schedule far enough that she was looking at missing a connection. She asked staff onboard if they could call ahead to the connecting station to get them to hold the train back for her – and was told that, no, that wouldn't be possible.
So she took matters into in her own hands. By texting the transport secretary Grant Shapps to see if there was anything he could do to get her train held back instead.
Nadine Dorries is the British Marjorie Taylor Greene
No, MTG is much more dangerous. Dorries is a joke but has no following of note. But MTG has quite a large following, and is a gun-toting fascist as far as I can see.
I absolutely loathe the woman . Indeed I loathe the vast majority of GOP politicians who are a cancer on the USA but MTG in particular deserves to rot in hell .
Government ministers have been out in force this week complaining about striking rail staff and all the disruption they're causing other people. It's funny, because a few weeks ago they didn't all seem quite so bothered about such things.
When Nadine Dorries took a trip down to Cornwall earlier this month, she was on a train that fell behind schedule far enough that she was looking at missing a connection. She asked staff onboard if they could call ahead to the connecting station to get them to hold the train back for her – and was told that, no, that wouldn't be possible.
So she took matters into in her own hands. By texting the transport secretary Grant Shapps to see if there was anything he could do to get her train held back instead.
Nadine Dorries is the British Marjorie Taylor Greene
No, MTG is much more dangerous. Dorries is a joke but has no following of note. But MTG has quite a large following, and is a gun-toting fascist as far as I can see.
I absolutely loathe the woman . Indeed I loathe the vast majority of GOP politicians who are a cancer on the USA but MTG in particular deserves to rot in hell .
You instincts are sound, but there's no need to employ British understatement.
For those thinking a Labour Majority or even Government is a dead set now.
Just remember June 2019 the Tories were poling in 4th place with 17% in multiple polls.
Bojo went on to win 43% and largest tory majority for 32 years just 6 months later. A change of leadership can change everything.
Not saying it will change everything....but the possibility is there.
There is no worthwhile data available to separate the chances of Tory and Labour leading the next government. Leaving aside outlandish results (of which the most likely is No Government Possible, Fresh Elections) it is 50/50.
And if this parliament goes more or less 5 years on recent form (Covid, Ukraine, Partygate) there is time for at least two more black swans between now and then.
We don't even have any firm idea who will be the respective party leaders.
However the chance of a Labour majority remain small.
Perhaps we should offer Salisbury Cathedral to Russia - for “peace”?
They do seem to like visiting it.
Which reminds me - the local Corbynites have a stall on the High Street on weekends. They are big on “peace” for the current war…. I must ask them about my suggestion that we give Palestine to Russia for “peace”
The Bishop of Leeds should shut his stupid fucking mouth.
According to his twitter feed, that's not what he said. Rather he said that Russia should be condemned and opposed, but that in the paper tabling a motion for debate on the Church of England's response he notes suggestions have been made that Russia should be given territory to stop attacking.
Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.
And it is the Daily Telegraph. Not a reliable source, particularly on matters to do with the Church of England which it hates with a passion for being apparently some kind of wishy-washy left woke institution of pinkoes (or something).
So I think it might be worth being a bit careful here.
There's a certain irony that only four days ago he told his diocesan synod that he wished he could lead a quieter life and avoid controversy, but that would mean he wasn't speaking out on issues of conscience which would be worse.
It is complete nonsense because there is no peace for Ukrainian people in Russian occupied territory. Russia deliberately terrorises Ukrainians to force them to leave, through indiscriminate attacks, and then deports many of those who remain when Russians occupy the territory, even the broadly Russia-aligned people who are left end up terrorised by the thugs Russia leaves in charge.
It's basically an argument that people should lay down their arms and die for "peace".
If someone like Ramzan Kadyrov running your country is the "peaceful" outcome then keep fighting.
Is that so, I thought in Kherson region the Russians pay the pensions, provide the banking services and telecommunications network. Not exactly what the Israelis do to the Palestinians let alone what the Ukrainians do the Russian speakers.
I think you’ll find that in Kherson region, the Russians kill their men, rape their women, and kidnap their children.
So you're in agreement with Nick Baines, who seems to think much the same thing, but has noted other people do not?
No I don't think I am unless I have completely misunderstood him, as I do not believe that surrendering territory to Russia is peace for the reasons I have already given. The people advocating surrendering territory have bought into a Russian narrative (of bringing peace and prosperity to "Russian" people) that is simply false.
Perhaps we should offer Salisbury Cathedral to Russia - for “peace”?
They do seem to like visiting it.
Which reminds me - the local Corbynites have a stall on the High Street on weekends. They are big on “peace” for the current war…. I must ask them about my suggestion that we give Palestine to Russia for “peace”
Perhaps we should offer Salisbury Cathedral to Russia - for “peace”?
They do seem to like visiting it.
Which reminds me - the local Corbynites have a stall on the High Street on weekends. They are big on “peace” for the current war…. I must ask them about my suggestion that we give Palestine to Russia for “peace”
What’s this “Palestine” - it’s just a separatist region of Israel, right?
What a surprise you are an Israeli apologist, I would accuse you of dual loyalty but from your profile picture that is clear enough already. What is it with you people and your obsessive hatred of Russians?
Good evening again John Smith. Surely you have mis-spelled Novichok.
To the English reporter when asked about school shootings:
'You got mass stabbings in yor country, you go back there, lady' etc
MTG may be stark raving mad or a shameless charlatan, but is probably both.
Probably Trump's running mate to be honest unless Palin starts to get seriously on board the whacko bus.
What do you mean "unless Palin etc, etc"? She's already ON the bus, and has been for quite a while.
(Though perhaps your comment has more than a touch of sarcasm?)
IMHO SaraH Palin will NOT be elected as Alaska's next member of Congress in next months ranked-choice special election. Because she will prove transfer-adverse; few who pick either of two Dems will give Palin transfers, while many of them WILL give them to the other Republican in the race, Nick Begich.
As for MTJ, note that Secret POTUS has zero need for a fellow nutbag as his running mate, seeing has how he covers THAT side of things quite nicely.
Instead, the Sage of Mar-a-Lardo will pick a VP candidate who reassures some key part of his electoral coalition AND his demonstrably less crazy than himself. As with Mike Pence in 2016.
Though strangely enough, seems that MP is NOT in the running for a repeat with 45? Despite being touted at one point by PB's (mis)leading electoral analyst and God-botherer, as THE inevitable 2024 GOP nominee?
Seems to me that Nicky Haley and Kristi Noem would be MUCH better and perhaps even more likely picks.
Actresses Tina Fey and Lisa Ann will be hoping that Palin has a good run. They made good money impersonating her in 2008.
Note that on the August 2022 ballot up in the Last Frontier, in addition to the special congressional general election for the remainder of the current term ending next January, there's also the REGULAR primary for the regular November general election for the full term beginning in Jan 2023.
So the Pride of Wasilla will have yet another electoral opportunity IF she comes up short in August. But doubt outcome will prove be much different.
So you're in agreement with Nick Baines, who seems to think much the same thing, but has noted other people do not?
No I don't think I am unless I have completely misunderstood him, as I do not believe that surrendering territory to Russia is peace for the reasons I have already given. The people advocating surrendering territory have bought into a Russian narrative (of bringing peace and prosperity to "Russian" people) that is simply false.
You would appear to have done so, as he has already said he does not want to do that or in his own words 'Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.'
What he is doing is noting that there are others who do not agree with him or you while tabling a motion.
What the Telegraph has done is again look like idiots by quoting him out of context. But unfortunately apart from Matt's cartoons that's the only thing they're good at these days.
Ok here's a PB challenge. Mrs P and I are planning to move in the next few years. What's the best small town or large village to move to?
It needs to be in the south of England* (anywhere south of Worcester-Northampton-Norwich) for family reasons. Ideally it'll be somewhere with: lots going on, good transport connections, easy access to London or another major city, sensible property prices.
Any ideas?
(*Yes I know, there are lots of fantastic places to live outside the south of England, we have lived in some, but... family connections rule them out for us now.)
A pity it has to be in the south of England because there are so many great places slightly further north.
Where were you thinking of Andy? The Worcester-Northampton-Norwich line is not set in stone.
Thanks for the other good suggestions on the previous thread too!
Lichfield is amazing and not that far north of your line, but it is north of Birmingham.
If you were willing to stretch your definition of 'England' a bit then Caldicot in Monmouthshire might be worth a look.
Winchester is rather lovely, and an hour by train from London. Bit pricy though. Salisbury too, but not so dear. Sherbourne in Dorset if you want something smaller.
Perhaps we should offer Salisbury Cathedral to Russia - for “peace”?
They do seem to like visiting it.
Which reminds me - the local Corbynites have a stall on the High Street on weekends. They are big on “peace” for the current war…. I must ask them about my suggestion that we give Palestine to Russia for “peace”
What’s this “Palestine” - it’s just a separatist region of Israel, right?
What a surprise you are an Israeli apologist, I would accuse you of dual loyalty but from your profile picture that is clear enough already. What is it with you people and your obsessive hatred of Russians?
New readers start here:
Mr Sandpit (UK) is happily, we hope and trust, married to Mrs Sandpit (Ukr). You don't think some level of less-than-thrilledness with Russia is permisiible in the circs?
Ok here's a PB challenge. Mrs P and I are planning to move in the next few years. What's the best small town or large village to move to?
It needs to be in the south of England* (anywhere south of Worcester-Northampton-Norwich) for family reasons. Ideally it'll be somewhere with: lots going on, good transport connections, easy access to London or another major city, sensible property prices.
Any ideas?
(*Yes I know, there are lots of fantastic places to live outside the south of England, we have lived in some, but... family connections rule them out for us now.)
A pity it has to be in the south of England because there are so many great places slightly further north.
Where were you thinking of Andy? The Worcester-Northampton-Norwich line is not set in stone.
Thanks for the other good suggestions on the previous thread too!
The area around Leamington, Warwick, Kenilworth is nice. Just as example.
For those thinking a Labour Majority or even Government is a dead set now.
Just remember June 2019 the Tories were poling in 4th place with 17% in multiple polls.
Bojo went on to win 43% and largest tory majority for 32 years just 6 months later. A change of leadership can change everything.
Not saying it will change everything....but the possibility is there.
There is no worthwhile data available to separate the chances of Tory and Labour leading the next government. Leaving aside outlandish results (of which the most likely is No Government Possible, Fresh Elections) it is 50/50.
And if this parliament goes more or less 5 years on recent form (Covid, Ukraine, Partygate) there is time for at least two more black swans between now and then.
We don't even have any firm idea who will be the respective party leaders.
However the chance of a Labour majority remain small.
A big thing which hinges on the Labour Majority, which alot of people over look is the revival of the Lib Dems - A strong Lib Dem party, overwhelmingly hurts the Tories.
Alot of people forget that Ed Milliband gained 20+ seats in England in 2015, what allowed the Tories to get in was the Lib Dems losing 50ish seat, alot to the Tories.
Na, he was here long before everything kicked off.
He has a history
It would just be banning him for having a different opinion on a major topic.
Different opinion vs Russian propaganda spreader
Yeah, that's the difference between an established poster and someone who just comes along to spout propaganda. I don't think the former should be banned because you don't agree with them.
If North Shropshire is any guide there are going to be some excellent trading opportunities once the polls have closed. My recollection of that by-election is you could back the LDs at 3s after the polls closed as some rumour suggested the LDs hadn't won the seat.
There'll be plenty of rumours swirling round tonight - a few may be true, most won't.
Nonetheless there's money to be made playing off those.
Lay the favourite, Stodge, and let the price swings do the work for you until you have a green book?
I found Ascot much easier this year, my friend. Made money across the five days starting with my 28/1 each way play on LUSAIL in the St James's Palace.
I hope OGH publishes the exchange market (Smarkets or Betfair) fluctuations on T&H through the night. I suspect Wakefield will be a lot quieter.
Respect. Always found Ascot the most difficult of tracks.
Na, he was here long before everything kicked off.
He has a history
It would just be banning him for having a different opinion on a major topic.
Different opinion vs Russian propaganda spreader
Yeah, that's the difference between an established poster and someone who just comes along to spout propaganda. I don't think the former should be banned because you don't agree with them.
Just always posting Russia's point of view and their propaganda, I think that's dangerous frankly but oh well
Congratulations to Ukraine (and Moldova) on attaining EU candidate member status.
However, I am confused. This candidate member status - described by President of the European Council Charles Michel as "a crucial step on your path towards the EU" seems to be the same one that Turkey has had for some years. However, during and after the referendum campaign, I was repeatedly informed on here (and other places) that there was no chance of Turkey joining the EU, ever, and claiming otherwise, was in some way bigoted. Which is it?
So you're in agreement with Nick Baines, who seems to think much the same thing, but has noted other people do not?
No I don't think I am unless I have completely misunderstood him, as I do not believe that surrendering territory to Russia is peace for the reasons I have already given. The people advocating surrendering territory have bought into a Russian narrative (of bringing peace and prosperity to "Russian" people) that is simply false.
You would appear to have done so, as he has already said he does not want to do that or in his own words 'Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.'
What he is doing is noting that there are others who do not agree with him or you while tabling a motion.
What the Telegraph has done is again look like idiots by quoting him out of context. But unfortunately apart from Matt's cartoons that's the only thing they're good at these days.
Okay, fair enough I will accept what you say. It's the Telegraph I should be angry with.
Na, he was here long before everything kicked off.
He has a history
It would just be banning him for having a different opinion on a major topic.
Different opinion vs Russian propaganda spreader
Yeah, that's the difference between an established poster and someone who just comes along to spout propaganda. I don't think the former should be banned because you don't agree with them.
Just always posting Russia's point of view and their propaganda, I think that's dangerous frankly but oh well
How is it dangerous? We're all sophisticated enough to read what is posted on here and come to our own conclusions, aren't we?
Congratulations to Ukraine (and Moldova) on attaining EU candidate member status.
However, I am confused. This candidate member status - described by President of the European Council Charles Michel as "a crucial step on your path towards the EU" seems to be the same one that Turkey has had for some years. However, during and after the referendum campaign, I was repeatedly informed on here (and other places) that there was no chance of Turkey joining the EU, ever, and claiming otherwise, was in some way bigoted. Which is it?
It's just PR. Ukrainian membership is years (decades) away.
I don't get why Russia is so bothered about trying to persuade us of their innocence by coming here to talk up the special military operation and how raping girls gets rid of Ukrainian nazis and how attacking the Joos - because like Zelinsky they are nazis apparently - makes us all go "ah right yeah" and support Putin.
They’ve been screwing me over lately. I’ve had a membership for a while, paying £7.99/month bit not really using it. I built up 6 credits, but that’s the maximum they will allow. They kept on charging me, but not giving any more credits. If I were to cancel, I’d lose all my credits. They do allow a 3 month membership pause, which I’ve done a couple of times. I tried to pause again today only to be met with “you’re not eligible for another pause.”
Infuriating.
This is shitty business practice. Subscription abuse.
So I rang up customer services and, politely, gave them a piece of my mind.
They gave in and reinstated all the credits I’d paid for but not received. 6 additional credits, worth ~£48.
Congratulations to Ukraine (and Moldova) on attaining EU candidate member status.
However, I am confused. This candidate member status - described by President of the European Council Charles Michel as "a crucial step on your path towards the EU" seems to be the same one that Turkey has had for some years. However, during and after the referendum campaign, I was repeatedly informed on here (and other places) that there was no chance of Turkey joining the EU, ever, and claiming otherwise, was in some way bigoted. Which is it?
Every country in the EU has to agree to a country joining it. So when we were in the EU, we could have blocked them, although other countries (such as France) would probably have never let them join anyway.
Perhaps we should offer Salisbury Cathedral to Russia - for “peace”?
They do seem to like visiting it.
Which reminds me - the local Corbynites have a stall on the High Street on weekends. They are big on “peace” for the current war…. I must ask them about my suggestion that we give Palestine to Russia for “peace”
What’s this “Palestine” - it’s just a separatist region of Israel, right?
What a surprise you are an Israeli apologist, I would accuse you of dual loyalty but from your profile picture that is clear enough already. What is it with you people and your obsessive hatred of Russians?
New readers start here:
Mr Sandpit (UK) is happily, we hope and trust, married to Mrs Sandpit (Ukr). You don't think some level of less-than-thrilledness with Russia is permisiible in the circs?
I was just cueing up the photo of my house that Putin redecorated. Sadly will have to save for another troll day now.
Congratulations to Ukraine (and Moldova) on attaining EU candidate member status.
However, I am confused. This candidate member status - described by President of the European Council Charles Michel as "a crucial step on your path towards the EU" seems to be the same one that Turkey has had for some years. However, during and after the referendum campaign, I was repeatedly informed on here (and other places) that there was no chance of Turkey joining the EU, ever, and claiming otherwise, was in some way bigoted. Which is it?
Two issues stand out:
1) is the candidate country willing to meet the accession criteria? Turkey was very unwilling to do so, across a wide range of areas.
2) is any country going to veto? Possible for any, but highly likely for Turkey, unless it has made major changes in its society.
The Bishop of Leeds should shut his stupid fucking mouth.
According to his twitter feed, that's not what he said. Rather he said that Russia should be condemned and opposed, but that in the paper tabling a motion for debate on the Church of England's response he notes suggestions have been made that Russia should be given territory to stop attacking.
Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.
And it is the Daily Telegraph. Not a reliable source, particularly on matters to do with the Church of England which it hates with a passion for being apparently some kind of wishy-washy left woke institution of pinkoes (or something).
So I think it might be worth being a bit careful here.
There's a certain irony that only four days ago he told his diocesan synod that he wished he could lead a quieter life and avoid controversy, but that would mean he wasn't speaking out on issues of conscience which would be worse.
It is complete nonsense because there is no peace for Ukrainian people in Russian occupied territory. Russia deliberately terrorises Ukrainians to force them to leave, through indiscriminate attacks, and then deports many of those who remain when Russians occupy the territory, even the broadly Russia-aligned people who are left end up terrorised by the thugs Russia leaves in charge.
It's basically an argument that people should lay down their arms and die for "peace".
If someone like Ramzan Kadyrov running your country is the "peaceful" outcome then keep fighting.
Is that so, I thought in Kherson region the Russians pay the pensions, provide the banking services and telecommunications network. Not exactly what the Israelis do to the Palestinians let alone what the Ukrainians do the Russian speakers.
They’ve been screwing me over lately. I’ve had a membership for a while, paying £7.99/month bit not really using it. I built up 6 credits, but that’s the maximum they will allow. They kept on charging me, but not giving any more credits. I would cancel, but then I’d lose all my credits. They do allow a 3 month membership pause, which I’ve done a couple of times. I tried to pause again today only to move met with “you’re not eligible for another pause.”
Infuriating.
This is shitty business practice. Subscription abuse.
So I rang up customer services and, politely, gave them a piece of my mind.
They gave in and reinstated all the credits I’d paid for but not received. 6 additional credits, worth ~£48.
Success!
Well done!
When I was driving a lot I used Audible but on a sort of on-off basis as a credit per month was more than I needed. Whenever I needed to 'pause' I just used my credits to buy books I wanted to listen to in the future. Books in your library are always yours even when you stop your subscription.
But yeah deleting your credits is a shitty way to deal with customers.
So you're in agreement with Nick Baines, who seems to think much the same thing, but has noted other people do not?
No I don't think I am unless I have completely misunderstood him, as I do not believe that surrendering territory to Russia is peace for the reasons I have already given. The people advocating surrendering territory have bought into a Russian narrative (of bringing peace and prosperity to "Russian" people) that is simply false.
You would appear to have done so, as he has already said he does not want to do that or in his own words 'Ukrainian integrity is unequivocal. Debate is not a statement of church’s mind.'
What he is doing is noting that there are others who do not agree with him or you while tabling a motion.
What the Telegraph has done is again look like idiots by quoting him out of context. But unfortunately apart from Matt's cartoons that's the only thing they're good at these days.
Okay, fair enough I will accept what you say. It's the Telegraph I should be angry with.
Always good advice in life these days, sadly. Like the Daily Mail but with worse spelling.
It's always been a bit dodgy on matters to do with the Church of England because of its unusually high proportion of especially strident Catholics, particularly nuttier ones like Damian Thompson (who was a big admirer of the disastrous Ordinariate). I remember, for example, a massive headline claiming Rowan Williams had said he 'doubted the existence of God' which was absolutely not what he had said (he had actually said 'no reasonable Christian could fail to consider and understand the views of those who reject the existence of God after the Boxing Day tsunami').
Frankly I think Baines can sometimes be rather unwise in his choice of words, but at the same time the Telegraph blaming him for pointing out there are many - including some very pro-Ukrainian posters on this board - who think Ukraine probably will be unable to recapture all its territory in a peace settlement, and others who think it should stop fighting at once, is a bit off. It is a fact that people do have those views, and not just our brief guest Nocock, whether we like it or not.
The sad thing about the Telegraph is their unbalanced stridency on the CofE and indeed Israel/Palestine has now infected every part of their output and made them pretty much worthless as a paper. And it used to be good.
They’ve been screwing me over lately. I’ve had a membership for a while, paying £7.99/month bit not really using it. I built up 6 credits, but that’s the maximum they will allow. They kept on charging me, but not giving any more credits. If I were to cancel, I’d lose all my credits. They do allow a 3 month membership pause, which I’ve done a couple of times. I tried to pause again today only to be met with “you’re not eligible for another pause.”
Infuriating.
This is shitty business practice. Subscription abuse.
So I rang up customer services and, politely, gave them a piece of my mind.
They gave in and reinstated all the credits I’d paid for but not received. 6 additional credits, worth ~£48.
Success!
You lose access to the free Audible Plus services if you cancel, but retain access to the books in your library. It is always possible to rejoin later.
I don't get why Russia is so bothered about trying to persuade us of their innocence by coming here to talk up the special military operation and how raping girls gets rid of Ukrainian nazis and how attacking the Joos - because like Zelinsky they are nazis apparently - makes us all go "ah right yeah" and support Putin.
How stupid are these attack bots?
It's not really meant to make sense, at least half the point is simply to get people arguing and by trying to rationalise the irrational involuntarily start constructing a "sensible" argument for Russia's genocidal war. Why they are bothering to do that here of all places is more interesting than the clumsy tactics.
Ok here's a PB challenge. Mrs P and I are planning to move in the next few years. What's the best small town or large village to move to?
It needs to be in the south of England* (anywhere south of Worcester-Northampton-Norwich) for family reasons. Ideally it'll be somewhere with: lots going on, good transport connections, easy access to London or another major city, sensible property prices.
Any ideas?
(*Yes I know, there are lots of fantastic places to live outside the south of England, we have lived in some, but... family connections rule them out for us now.)
A pity it has to be in the south of England because there are so many great places slightly further north.
Where were you thinking of Andy? The Worcester-Northampton-Norwich line is not set in stone.
Thanks for the other good suggestions on the previous thread too!
The area around Leamington, Warwick, Kenilworth is nice. Just as example.
Stoneleigh, Berkswell and Meriden are pleasant villages
I don't get why Russia is so bothered about trying to persuade us of their innocence by coming here to talk up the special military operation and how raping girls gets rid of Ukrainian nazis and how attacking the Joos - because like Zelinsky they are nazis apparently - makes us all go "ah right yeah" and support Putin.
How stupid are these attack bots?
It's not really meant to make sense, at least half the point is simply to get people arguing and by trying to rationalise the irrational involuntarily start constructing a "sensible" argument for Russia's genocidal war. Why they are bothering to do that here of all places is more interesting than the clumsy tactics.
There are a fair number of active politicians who read this blog, aren't there?
I would love to think Nadhim Zahawi is one, so he understands the depth of feeling against the Department for Educational Disaster, but alas I suspect not...
They’ve been screwing me over lately. I’ve had a membership for a while, paying £7.99/month bit not really using it. I built up 6 credits, but that’s the maximum they will allow. They kept on charging me, but not giving any more credits. If I were to cancel, I’d lose all my credits. They do allow a 3 month membership pause, which I’ve done a couple of times. I tried to pause again today only to be met with “you’re not eligible for another pause.”
Infuriating.
This is shitty business practice. Subscription abuse.
So I rang up customer services and, politely, gave them a piece of my mind.
They gave in and reinstated all the credits I’d paid for but not received. 6 additional credits, worth ~£48.
Success!
What is the point if you do not use it anyway? Unless you foresee a lifestyle change, might it be better to write it off and quit?
ETA I'm in a similar boat myself with various hardly-used but occasionally useful subscriptions.
I don't get why Russia is so bothered about trying to persuade us of their innocence by coming here to talk up the special military operation and how raping girls gets rid of Ukrainian nazis and how attacking the Joos - because like Zelinsky they are nazis apparently - makes us all go "ah right yeah" and support Putin.
How stupid are these attack bots?
It’s rather amusing to watch them come into a site of generally intelligent people in a small community. They don’t realise they stand out like a sore thumb, and that those who wildly disagree on domestic UK policy (you and I, for example) are united in their wish for the war to be won by the Ukranians.
I think 10 minutes must be a record though, the last guy (JohnSmith) lasted an hour and we thought that was quick.
Guns have killed more Americans than all the combined wars they’ve fought including their Civil War .
And yet still nothing changes . And with today’s SCOTUS decision effectively expanding gun rights there really comes a point when if you live in Europe you just have to give up on the country .
It's a democracy. They all have a vote. IMHO more of them should use it, but it isn't our call. How they run it is a matter for them.
No, a handful of SC justices have a vote. NY elected an administration which enacted gun control regulations which the court has just set aside.
Comments
She's just an extremely (in)famous back-bencher. Whereas ND is a Minister in HM's government.
But there is clearly huge Russian effort going in to locating and destroying this kit. As it has to. If Ukraine gets the advantage of range in an artillery war, Russia is in big trouble.
Macron has just said at the press conference right after Ukraine given candidate status that 1) NATO has said no to Ukraine. and that 2) over time, opening EU accession process to Ukraine is not the right geopolitical response. These are both highly problematic.
To put in context, his argument was that his political community structure is the right geopolitical response. OK, leaders will discuss that tonight. But that is NOT the NATO position. And it seems extraordinary to diss Ukraine's EU accession prospects minutes after agreeing it.
https://twitter.com/laurnorman/status/1540049429813665794
What’s tragic is that there is everything in the USA in terms of stunning scenery and such diversity , it could be a fantastic place to live . Sadly ruined by bible bashing , gun toting morons .
Be thankful Miller II did not grant SCOTUK the judicial overreach that Marbury did.
No wonder people are drifting away.
Missing you already
Mick Lynch for PM
I've made a fairly bold prediction for T&H over on that vote site. Think the tories are in for an absolutely pasting there.
This poll may be an outlier but generally I don't think so. Things are unravelling for Boris Johnson.
And if this parliament goes more or less 5 years on recent form (Covid, Ukraine, Partygate) there is time for at least two more black swans between now and then.
We don't even have any firm idea who will be the respective party leaders.
However the chance of a Labour majority remain small.
So the Pride of Wasilla will have yet another electoral opportunity IF she comes up short in August. But doubt outcome will prove be much different.
Avoid the antisemitism.
What he is doing is noting that there are others who do not agree with him or you while tabling a motion.
What the Telegraph has done is again look like idiots by quoting him out of context. But unfortunately apart from Matt's cartoons that's the only thing they're good at these days.
Nearest station is Slough, you have to cross over to platform 1 and get the diesel train from there.
not so dear. Sherbourne in Dorset if you want something smaller.
Mr Sandpit (UK) is happily, we hope and trust, married to Mrs Sandpit (Ukr). You don't think some level of less-than-thrilledness with Russia is permisiible in the circs?
I nip away to the loo for a few mins and we have a bot appear and be banned. Too quick!
Alot of people forget that Ed Milliband gained 20+ seats in England in 2015, what allowed the Tories to get in was the Lib Dems losing 50ish seat, alot to the Tories.
However, I am confused. This candidate member status - described by President of the European Council Charles Michel as "a crucial step on your path towards the EU" seems to be the same one that Turkey has had for some years. However, during and after the referendum campaign, I was repeatedly informed on here (and other places) that there was no chance of Turkey joining the EU, ever, and claiming otherwise, was in some way bigoted. Which is it?
How stupid are these attack bots?
Audible.
They’ve been screwing me over lately. I’ve had a membership for a while, paying £7.99/month bit not really using it. I built up 6 credits, but that’s the maximum they will allow. They kept on charging me, but not giving any more credits. If I were to cancel, I’d lose all my credits. They do allow a 3 month membership pause, which I’ve done a couple of times. I tried to pause again today only to be met with “you’re not eligible for another pause.”
Infuriating.
This is shitty business practice. Subscription abuse.
So I rang up customer services and, politely, gave them a piece of my mind.
They gave in and reinstated all the credits I’d paid for but not received. 6 additional credits, worth ~£48.
Success!
https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/hugh-fearnley-whittingstall-apologises-after-7246792
1) is the candidate country willing to meet the accession criteria? Turkey was very unwilling to do so, across a wide range of areas.
2) is any country going to veto? Possible for any, but highly likely for Turkey, unless it has made major changes in its society.
When I was driving a lot I used Audible but on a sort of on-off basis as a credit per month was more than I needed. Whenever I needed to 'pause' I just used my credits to buy books I wanted to listen to in the future. Books in your library are always yours even when you stop your subscription.
But yeah deleting your credits is a shitty way to deal with customers.
It's always been a bit dodgy on matters to do with the Church of England because of its unusually high proportion of especially strident Catholics, particularly nuttier ones like Damian Thompson (who was a big admirer of the disastrous Ordinariate). I remember, for example, a massive headline claiming Rowan Williams had said he 'doubted the existence of God' which was absolutely not what he had said (he had actually said 'no reasonable Christian could fail to consider and understand the views of those who reject the existence of God after the Boxing Day tsunami').
Frankly I think Baines can sometimes be rather unwise in his choice of words, but at the same time the Telegraph blaming him for pointing out there are many - including some very pro-Ukrainian posters on this board - who think Ukraine probably will be unable to recapture all its territory in a peace settlement, and others who think it should stop fighting at once, is a bit off. It is a fact that people do have those views, and not just our brief guest Nocock, whether we like it or not.
The sad thing about the Telegraph is their unbalanced stridency on the CofE and indeed Israel/Palestine has now infected every part of their output and made them pretty much worthless as a paper. And it used to be good.
I would love to think Nadhim Zahawi is one, so he understands the depth of feeling against the Department for Educational Disaster, but alas I suspect not...
ETA I'm in a similar boat myself with various hardly-used but occasionally useful subscriptions.
I think 10 minutes must be a record though, the last guy (JohnSmith) lasted an hour and we thought that was quick.
NY elected an administration which enacted gun control regulations which the court has just set aside.
Public opinion is pretty clear:
https://www.politico.com/newsletters/playbook/2022/05/26/new-poll-shows-huge-support-for-gun-restrictions-00035349