Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
Of course they are, and for someone who quotes every poll the SNP gains 24 seats and Reform nil in that poll
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
Mauritius is a lovely country, peaceful, prosperous, comfortably multicultural, democratic and full of free enterprise. Indeed you could make a case for it as the most successful African economy since independence. It was impoverished then.
It's not our poodle any more which is perhaps the PB Blimps resent it so much.
Doesn't allow Chagos Islanders independence though
Are there any real Chagos Islanders any more?
The reality is that people were pushed out over a half century ago (and sent to Mauritius or the Seychelles), and there is nowhere on the islands for them to live.
I'm not sure there ever were any "real" Chagos Islanders any more than there are "natives" of the Falklands.
But if a people had been living there for 200 odd years and wanted to stay it does seem they are owed something.
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
I’ve been watching “The Matrix” instead, a film about the dangers of AI, and/or a massive metaphor for coming out as trans, both favourite PB topics. I’ll have to catch up on “The War Games”. Don’t spoil the ending!
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
I’ve been watching “The Matrix” instead, a film about the dangers of AI, and/or a massive metaphor for coming out as trans, both favourite PB topics. I’ll have to catch up on “The War Games”. Don’t spoil the ending!
I think Zoe clicks her ruby slippers three times and then everyone gets candy.
I am saving the colourised version for Christmas day. I need a treat! If it's disappointing then I'll know what's in store for 2025.
It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.
Hah
If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes
Probably I'm alone in PB. on that
I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.
There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.
Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?
On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.
The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!
Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.
No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him
Just for a bit of fun:
USA including DC 538 Puerto Rico 5 Guam, Marianas, etc. 2 Canadia 60 England 92 Scotland 9 Wales 5 Northern Ireland 3 UK Dependencies & Territories 1 Ireland 8 Australia and territories 43 New Zealand and territories 9
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.
I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,
One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.
I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.
I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.
I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,
One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.
I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.
Agreed, pottering around Orkney or Lyme Regis or Dorset's Jurassic Coast. And the weather (most of the time) doesn't matter.
One of our best outings ever was on Unst in pouring rain, a serendipitous walk looking at the exposed serpentinite ground with almost sea-level alpine flowers on the Keen of Hamar.
It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.
Hah
If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes
Probably I'm alone in PB. on that
I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.
There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.
Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?
On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.
The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!
Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.
No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him
Just for a bit of fun:
USA including DC 538 Puerto Rico 5 Guam, Marianas, etc. 2 Canadia 60 England 92 Scotland 9 Wales 5 Northern Ireland 3 UK Dependencies & Territories 1 Ireland 8 Australia and territories 43 New Zealand and territories 9
Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!
I think you have to divide Australia into its states and territories. And maybe NZ into North Island and South Island. And Canada into its parts. Way more Senators then.
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
I’ve been watching “The Matrix” instead, a film about the dangers of AI, and/or a massive metaphor for coming out as trans, both favourite PB topics. I’ll have to catch up on “The War Games”. Don’t spoil the ending!
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.
I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,
One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.
I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.
I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.
I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,
One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.
I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.
I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.
If the local unconformity was good enough for James Hutton ...
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
I'm not, plenty of what I call 'Mel Gibson' nationalists are and Wallace too, normally men who liked Salmond but have little time for Sturgeon, Swinney and wokeism .
Now Reform may be Unionist but for 'Gibson' nationalists Farage is far closer to Salmond in style than other Scottish and UK party leaders, equally anti Westminster elite just anti Brussels with it
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.
Hah
If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes
Probably I'm alone in PB. on that
I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.
There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.
Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?
On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.
The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!
Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.
No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him
Just for a bit of fun:
USA including DC 538 Puerto Rico 5 Guam, Marianas, etc. 2 Canadia 60 England 92 Scotland 9 Wales 5 Northern Ireland 3 UK Dependencies & Territories 1 Ireland 8 Australia and territories 43 New Zealand and territories 9
Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!
Only if we get them to take Curtice for proper exit polling.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
I'm not, plenty of what I call 'Mel Gibson' nationalists are and Wallace too, normally men who liked Salmond but have little time for Sturgeon, Swinney and wokeism .
Now Reform may be Unionist but for 'Gibson' nationalists Farage is far closer to Salmond in style than other Scottish and UK party leaders, equally anti Westminster elite just anti Brussels with it
I can't help it if you take a 1995 film by an Australian as a serious source for 2024 Scottish politics. It must have struck a deep, deep grievance in you, just watching it.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.
No Lodgemen were always Unionist, Tory and liked Farage, 'Gibson nationalists' are just nationalists ie voted Yes, loved Salmond, hate Sturgeon, Labour and the Tories but have a soft spot for Farage
And it’s a doozy. A lot of this isn’t a surprise, but there’s some new things, all carefully detailed.
Trump wanted this guy to be Attorney General. I don’t think @Sandpit ’s been by, but when he does, perhaps he would like to comment on why he defended this choice. Perhaps the other Trump fans would like to weigh in too? It was a completely mad proposal, and we’ve got 4 years of this.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
Really is a remarkable bit of work. I think Culloden and Year of the Sex Olympics are two of the most prescient bits of work from that era.
No mention of the War Game, too? Very much more in the PB zeitgeist than that pair for better or worse, probably unfairly.
It is also quite remarkable - but I was trying to keep the Bannockburn theme. I should rewatch Privilege too. I didn't especially like it when I first watched it - but now my memory is making me think of Musk. Possibly quite incorrectly, but it's been... 'a year or two' since I watched it.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.
No Lodgemen were always Unionist, Tory and liked Farage, 'Gibson nationalists' are just nationalists ie voted Yes, loved Salmond, hate Sturgeon, Labour and the Tories but have a soft spot for Farage
Astounding expertise from you. You could probably also tell the difference between Lorne and square sausage, the way you're carrying on.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.
No Lodgemen were always Unionist, Tory and liked Farage, 'Gibson nationalists' are just nationalists ie voted Yes, loved Salmond, hate Sturgeon, Labour and the Tories but have a soft spot for Farage
And there was me thinking just growing up amongst them, visiting the lodge, being in the segregated bowling clubs (yes) gave me a little insight.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.
No Lodgemen were always Unionist, Tory and liked Farage, 'Gibson nationalists' are just nationalists ie voted Yes, loved Salmond, hate Sturgeon, Labour and the Tories but have a soft spot for Farage
And there was me thinking just growing up amongst them, visiting the lodge, being in the segregated bowling clubs (yes) gave me a little insight.
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Starmer spending Christmas abroad seems to fit the narrative he would rather be abroad than in the UK
Mind you, when one of his former councillors pen's a letter like this you do have to wonder just how much unhappiness there is in Labour’s ranks at present
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
Really is a remarkable bit of work. I think Culloden and Year of the Sex Olympics are two of the most prescient bits of work from that era.
No mention of the War Game, too? Very much more in the PB zeitgeist than that pair for better or worse, probably unfairly.
It is also quite remarkable - but I was trying to keep the Bannockburn theme. I should rewatch Privilege too. I didn't especially like it when I first watched it - but now my memory is making me think of Musk. Possibly quite incorrectly, but it's been... 'a year or two' since I watched it.
Somehow my favourite filmmaker of that era was however Bill Douglas - his autobiographical trilogy, perhaps because part of my family comes from that milieu. I saw it at uni when he came to the filming and was so struck by the locations that I actually had a chat with him about it. But - to retain the political thread - he also directed the film of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, which I need to revisit too.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.
I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,
One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.
I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.
I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.
I did Stonefly nymphs, A level Biology, 1993.
Mrs Flatlander did limpet and seaweed zonation at Lochranza, ditto, 198x
I doubt this happens much now, sadly, at least not from the Flatlands.
I have been, but was only really interested in the A' Chir granite at the time.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
My experience of jury service made me think an IQ test would be more appropriate than an age limit.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
My experience of jury service made me think an IQ test would be more appropriate than an age limit.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
My experience of jury service made me think an IQ test would be more appropriate than an age limit.
Rather defeats the point, you may as well just leave it to judges to deliver verdicts as well as sentence rather than have an IQ tested jury
If the United States does something stupid, like make Bitcoin part of national reserves, it will have the impact of driving energy prices through the roof.
Why?
Because the higher the Bitcoin price, the greater the value of Bitcoin mined. And the greater the value of Bitcoin mined, the more it becomes financially viable to spend money to mine Bitcoin.
Essentially, the amount of money spent on Bitcoin mining will be 90% of the value of Bitcoin mined.
Currently (and for the next four years) around 13,500 Bitcoin are mined per month.
So, if Bitcoin were (say) $1m. Then 90% of $13.5 billion (say $12.3bn) would be spent on electricity for Bitcoin mining.
Per month.
That would send electricity prices through the roof in most developed economies. To put it in context, that's about 3x the amount of energy that got taken off the market by the closing of the gas pipelines out of Russia.
The US doing something stupid under Trump is pretty much a given. The question is really how many stupid things. And how far will they take them.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs with PR at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026
Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026
Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme
And if we don't see each other again (so to speak) before the break, very best wishes for a good Christmas (and a quiet one for the RNLI crewman in the family), also to everyone else on PB.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026
Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme
I would vote for Reform over Labour if they were the only choices but otherwise I will vote Tory still
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.
I believe the same PBer still voted for every Tory candidate on that ballot paper even then
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026
Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme
And if we don't see each other again (so to speak) before the break, very best wishes for a good Christmas (and a quiet one for the RNLI crewman in the family), also to everyone else on PB.
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026
Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme
I would vote for Reform over Labour if they were the only choices but otherwise I will vote Tory still
Of course you would vote Reform, thereby demonstrating your utter hypocrisy on the purity of your conservative vote
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.
Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.
Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.
I believe the same PBer still voted for every Tory candidate on that ballot paper even then
And he channelled his inner LibDem by voting Remain in 2016
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026
Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme
I would vote for Reform over Labour if they were the only choices but otherwise I will vote Tory still
Of course you would vote Reform, thereby demonstrating your utter hypocrisy on the purity of your conservative vote
The only scenario where that would likely arise would be AV or second ballot where the Tory candidate I had voted for had been eliminated and a straight choice of the Labour or Reform candidate was left in the final round anyway
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.
Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?
I'd recommend giving something directly to the regular posties. Food gifts to the sorting office get enjoyed by the greediest
I can't imagine any postie would mind getting a Christmas gift after Christmas, so I'd wait until you see them
That one's more than a fortnight old. I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.
I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.
I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland
No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels
I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland
Still no seats for Reform in that poll
Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now
It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.
I believe the same PBer still voted for every Tory candidate on that ballot paper even then
And he channelled his inner LibDem by voting Remain in 2016
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.
Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?
I'd recommend giving something directly to the regular posties. Food gifts to the sorting office get enjoyed by the greediest
I can't imagine any postie would mind getting a Christmas gift after Christmas, so I'd wait until you see them
Many thanks. Will pass on to Mrs C. Maybe add a nice letter anyway - but separate and sent to the manager.
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
Why would War Games not be in colour? It was only released in 1983.
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
Why would War Games not be in colour? It was only released in 1983.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
My experience of jury service made me think an IQ test would be more appropriate than an age limit.
Rather defeats the point, you may as well just leave it to judges to deliver verdicts as well as sentence rather than have an IQ tested jury
Starmer spending Christmas abroad seems to fit the narrative he would rather be abroad than in the UK
Mind you, when one of his former councillors pen's a letter like this you do have to wonder just how much unhappiness there is in Labour’s ranks at present
Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card
I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer
One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me
Hi Blanche
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.
Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?
I'd recommend giving something directly to the regular posties. Food gifts to the sorting office get enjoyed by the greediest
I can't imagine any postie would mind getting a Christmas gift after Christmas, so I'd wait until you see them
Many thanks. Will pass on to Mrs C. Maybe add a nice letter anyway - but separate and sent to the manager.
I like the letter idea. I hope that the manager will remember to praise your postie
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
Why would War Games not be in colour? It was only released in 1983.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
I think Jury Service is a good compare: if someone's not mentally capable of deciding their fellow man's fate in a court of law, they're not capable of voting.
Starmer spending Christmas abroad seems to fit the narrative he would rather be abroad than in the UK
Mind you, when one of his former councillors pen's a letter like this you do have to wonder just how much unhappiness there is in Labour’s ranks at present
The leaders of @eurofighter and #NETMA (the @NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) today signed the contract for up to 24 @ItalianAirForce Eurofighters in #Rome. The announcement comes at a strategically important time for the Eurofighter programme and follows the contract signing last Friday (20 December) for 25 Eurofighters for the Spanish Air Force. The new Italian Eurofighter Typhoon jets will replace Italian Tranche 1 versions that are currently in service. https://x.com/Leonardo_live/status/1871239691758104867
The tranche 1 Eurofighters aren't *that* old - surely their airframes are serviceable, and their avionics could be upgraded to the latest version.
There are still some Block 15 (early 80s) F-16s in use, albeit mostly for training purposes. And I believe Israel still flies some of the very earliest F-16s made.
Fundamental structural issues in the Tranche 1 prevent them receiving various upgrades. Including significant air-ground capabilities.
IIRC there is no plausible way round this.
Well, if they decide to sell any, I'd be interested. (I looked at the F-16 that was for sale a while back.)
The leaders of @eurofighter and #NETMA (the @NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) today signed the contract for up to 24 @ItalianAirForce Eurofighters in #Rome. The announcement comes at a strategically important time for the Eurofighter programme and follows the contract signing last Friday (20 December) for 25 Eurofighters for the Spanish Air Force. The new Italian Eurofighter Typhoon jets will replace Italian Tranche 1 versions that are currently in service. https://x.com/Leonardo_live/status/1871239691758104867
The tranche 1 Eurofighters aren't *that* old - surely their airframes are serviceable, and their avionics could be upgraded to the latest version.
There are still some Block 15 (early 80s) F-16s in use, albeit mostly for training purposes. And I believe Israel still flies some of the very earliest F-16s made.
Fundamental structural issues in the Tranche 1 prevent them receiving various upgrades. Including significant air-ground capabilities.
IIRC there is no plausible way round this.
Well, if they decide to sell any, I'd be interested. (I looked at the F-16 that was for sale a while back.)
Less boot space and worse fuel economy than a Ford Focus.
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
I think Jury Service is a good compare: if someone's not mentally capable of deciding their fellow man's fate in a court of law, they're not capable of voting.
Of one jury I sat on I would have said that at least six members were not capable of voting, whether allowed to or not.
Starmer spending Christmas abroad seems to fit the narrative he would rather be abroad than in the UK
Mind you, when one of his former councillors pen's a letter like this you do have to wonder just how much unhappiness there is in Labour’s ranks at present
I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.
Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either
Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.
I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.
Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.
I think Jury Service is a good compare: if someone's not mentally capable of deciding their fellow man's fate in a court of law, they're not capable of voting.
On the whole I think 16 year olds take these things seriously, indeed more seriously than many adults.
The leaders of @eurofighter and #NETMA (the @NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) today signed the contract for up to 24 @ItalianAirForce Eurofighters in #Rome. The announcement comes at a strategically important time for the Eurofighter programme and follows the contract signing last Friday (20 December) for 25 Eurofighters for the Spanish Air Force. The new Italian Eurofighter Typhoon jets will replace Italian Tranche 1 versions that are currently in service. https://x.com/Leonardo_live/status/1871239691758104867
The tranche 1 Eurofighters aren't *that* old - surely their airframes are serviceable, and their avionics could be upgraded to the latest version.
There are still some Block 15 (early 80s) F-16s in use, albeit mostly for training purposes. And I believe Israel still flies some of the very earliest F-16s made.
TR1 EFs would need a structural change in the forward fuselage to accommodate the newest computing hardware. They certainly would be obsolete by the time that was negotiated, contracted, designed, certified and implemented. Also... money.
Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.
I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.
Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage
You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
I'm not, plenty of what I call 'Mel Gibson' nationalists are and Wallace too, normally men who liked Salmond but have little time for Sturgeon, Swinney and wokeism .
Now Reform may be Unionist but for 'Gibson' nationalists Farage is far closer to Salmond in style than other Scottish and UK party leaders, equally anti Westminster elite just anti Brussels with it
I can't help it if you take a 1995 film by an Australian as a serious source for 2024 Scottish politics. It must have struck a deep, deep grievance in you, just watching it.
Personally I was just glad to be watching some real history on screen for a change, I watched it with a historian and he had tears in his eyes, presumably from joy.
Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.
A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.
Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep
That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.
I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,
One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.
I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.
I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.
That thing when you grasp that the world you're standing on is ... mutable, not permanent,, and leaves its record of that, is a profound experience.
It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.
Hah
If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes
Probably I'm alone in PB. on that
I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.
There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.
Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?
On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.
The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!
Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.
No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him
Just for a bit of fun:
USA including DC 538 Puerto Rico 5 Guam, Marianas, etc. 2 Canadia 60 England 92 Scotland 9 Wales 5 Northern Ireland 3 UK Dependencies & Territories 1 Ireland 8 Australia and territories 43 New Zealand and territories 9
Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!
I think you have to divide Australia into its states and territories. And maybe NZ into North Island and South Island. And Canada into its parts. Way more Senators then.
Compliance!
Ontario 23 Electors Quebec 14 New South Wales 14 Victoria 11 Queensland 9 Northern Columbia & Yukon Terr. 8 Alberta & Northwest Territories 7 Western Australia & Northern Terr. 5 South Australia 3 Manitoba & Nunavut 2 Saskatchewan 2 Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Isl. 2 New Brunswick 1 Tasmania 1 Newfoundland and Labrador 1
NZ isn't federal, sadly, so leaving it 9 Electors for both islands.
I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.
I was having a conversation with our nursing staff over the bring and share Christmas buffet. One of our Somali nurses is having Halal Turkey and Turkey sausages wrapped in Turkey blankets.
Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.
Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur@viewcode@bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.
Why would War Games not be in colour? It was only released in 1983.
I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.
I was having a conversation with our nursing staff over the bring and share Christmas buffet. One of our Somali nurses is having Halal Turkey and Turkey sausages wrapped in Turkey blankets.
Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.
I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.
I was having a conversation with our nursing staff over the bring and share Christmas buffet. One of our Somali nurses is having Halal Turkey and Turkey sausages wrapped in Turkey blankets.
Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.
I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.
I was having a conversation with our nursing staff over the bring and share Christmas buffet. One of our Somali nurses is having Halal Turkey and Turkey sausages wrapped in Turkey blankets.
Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.
What is a turkey blanket?
LIke a beef olive. Thin slice of meat used as wrapping.
It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.
Hah
If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes
Probably I'm alone in PB. on that
I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.
There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.
Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?
On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.
The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!
Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.
No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him
Just for a bit of fun:
USA including DC 538 Puerto Rico 5 Guam, Marianas, etc. 2 Canadia 60 England 92 Scotland 9 Wales 5 Northern Ireland 3 UK Dependencies & Territories 1 Ireland 8 Australia and territories 43 New Zealand and territories 9
Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!
I think you have to divide Australia into its states and territories. And maybe NZ into North Island and South Island. And Canada into its parts. Way more Senators then.
Compliance!
Ontario 23 Electors Quebec 14 New South Wales 14 Victoria 11 Queensland 9 Northern Columbia & Yukon Terr. 8 Alberta & Northwest Territories 7 Western Australia & Northern Terr. 5 South Australia 3 Manitoba & Nunavut 2 Saskatchewan 2 Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Isl. 2 New Brunswick 1 Tasmania 1 Newfoundland and Labrador 1
NZ isn't federal, sadly, so leaving it 9 Electors for both islands.
Surely Quebec would rejoin France in this scenario?
Comments
Mind you the wildlife is fascinating as are the curious penguins and soaring albatrosses in the Falkland
Ashley Neale doing his first Youtube live:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swND5T9RpKg
They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.
You have to wonder whether he will be able to make it to Australia. If not, is it time to look seriously at Duckett or Brook as possible replacements?
But if a people had been living there for 200 odd years and wanted to stay it does seem they are owed something.
Mauritius, however, is owed nothing.
https://x.com/HotSpot__Media/status/1870914902153650244
The 1% should be worried.
I am saving the colourised version for Christmas day. I need a treat! If it's disappointing then I'll know what's in store for 2025.
USA including DC 538
Puerto Rico 5
Guam, Marianas, etc. 2
Canadia 60
England 92
Scotland 9
Wales 5
Northern Ireland 3
UK Dependencies & Territories 1
Ireland 8
Australia and territories 43
New Zealand and territories 9
Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!
Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.
And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.
https://www.thenational.scot/news/24816246.reform-uk-mp-condemned-calling-scottish-devolution-scam/
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/scotland/article/reform-uk-support-anas-sarwar-labour-9x579ghlf
We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?
One of our best outings ever was on Unst in pouring rain, a serendipitous walk looking at the exposed serpentinite ground with almost sea-level alpine flowers on the Keen of Hamar.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culloden_(film)
Really is a remarkable bit of work. I think Culloden and Year of the Sex Olympics are two of the most prescient bits of work from that era.
https://www.arran-geopark.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/1.-Huttons-web.pdf
(Together with the one at Siccar Point on the east coast, which is also a great beach day IMV.)
Now Reform may be Unionist but for 'Gibson' nationalists Farage is far closer to Salmond in style than other Scottish and UK party leaders, equally anti Westminster elite just anti Brussels with it
And it’s a doozy. A lot of this isn’t a surprise, but there’s some new things, all carefully detailed.
Trump wanted this guy to be Attorney General. I don’t think @Sandpit ’s been by, but when he does, perhaps he would like to comment on why he defended this choice. Perhaps the other Trump fans would like to weigh in too? It was a completely mad proposal, and we’ve got 4 years of this.
I stand corrected once again! Thank you!
I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas
Your postie should love you!
Mind you, when one of his former councillors pen's a letter like this you do have to wonder just how much unhappiness there is in Labour’s ranks at present
https://www.instagram.com/p/DD4fLSKt7iT/?igsh=MTQ3ajI4eWVudDN0cQ==
I doubt this happens much now, sadly, at least not from the Flatlands.
I have been, but was only really interested in the A' Chir granite at the time.
You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to
I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.
If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/uk/guardian-the-observer-sale-tortoise-media-carole-cadwalladr-b1201584.html
A very happy Christmas to you and yours
Thank you
Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?
I can't imagine any postie would mind getting a Christmas gift after Christmas, so I'd wait until you see them
How about a nice game of chess?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nzd_VE-bfhA
But I thought it was Dr Who who was being colorised?
Edit: yes, here. https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m0026ch7
Aside from skiing, quite a few people like a sunny break in the middle of winter.
Indeed we went to New Zealand to visit our son a few times at this time of year, and that was quite an experience
Mind you, the letter from the ex Labour Councillor does indicate a lot of disquiet in the Labour camp
Few things mature you more than having to make a useful contribution in the company of people different to yourself.
SERVICE GUARANTEES CITIZENSHIP.
DO YOU WANT TO KNOW MORE?
https://youtu.be/SMTz9nIUkGc?feature=shared
Ontario 23 Electors
Quebec 14
New South Wales 14
Victoria 11
Queensland 9
Northern Columbia & Yukon Terr. 8
Alberta & Northwest Territories 7
Western Australia & Northern Terr. 5
South Australia 3
Manitoba & Nunavut 2
Saskatchewan 2
Nova Scotia & Prince Edward Isl. 2
New Brunswick 1
Tasmania 1
Newfoundland and Labrador 1
NZ isn't federal, sadly, so leaving it 9 Electors for both islands.
Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.
I will lend our postman a copy of Marx's Der Bürgerkrieg in Frankreich if he wants thought.