Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Why in God's name can't we apply some judgment? Is this too much to ask? So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Since when was Westminster Abbey a government building?
It's not, obviously, but assume that the flag thing there's something to do with it being a Royal Peculiar?
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Why in God's name can't we apply some judgment? Is this too much to ask? So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.
I don't see why we should even fly half-mast for Norwegian kings (for example) as a matter of course especially if, as with Abdullah, they've lived to 90 and died of natural causes. Foreigners should only get the honour if they've lived a life of great distinction (so the gesture is one of respect) or have died in particularly tragic circumstances (in which case it's sympathy).
If the Queen wants to fly her flags half mast as part of a royal club thing, that's her call - and one I'd still disagree with - but I particularly resent it being done by the government and as such on behalf of the nation.
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Since when was Westminster Abbey a government building?
It's not, obviously, but assume that the flag thing there's something to do with it being a Royal Peculiar?
A shame they can't remember that they're a Christian church above all. They might reflect on what sort of signal the flag at half-mast sends to Christians persecuted all over the Middle East.
Mr. K, any chance of Farage refusing to participate?
I really don't know, MD. It is my belief that no one want these TV debates more than Nigel, where he can excel. However, he won't do if the price is a large pantomime..
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Why in God's name can't we apply some judgment? Is this too much to ask? So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.
I don't see why we should even fly half-mast for Norwegian kings (for example) as a matter of course especially if, as with Abdullah, they've lived to 90 and died of natural causes. Foreigners should only get the honour if they've lived a life of great distinction (so the gesture is one of respect) or have died in particularly tragic circumstances (in which case it's sympathy).
If the Queen wants to fly her flags half mast as part of a royal club thing, that's her call - and one I'd still disagree with - but I particularly resent it being done by the government and as such on behalf of the nation.
I broadly agree but if we're going to do anything I think we should apply some judgment not pretend that all leaders /states are equally worthy of respect.
I only mentioned Norway because they send us a Xmas tree every year for Trafalgar Square and it seems like a nice gesture in return.
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Why in God's name can't we apply some judgment? Is this too much to ask? So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.
Or a flag for everyone for the diplomatic niceties, but not go overboard on the bloody gushing tributes at least. Surely they could not even get fake offended by that.
Huppert is involved in a number of All-party parliamentary groups, being joint chair of the Cycling Group,[10] and a vice chair of the Humanist Group,[11] the Refugees group,[12] and the Local Government group.[13] He has campaigned in Parliament on many issues, including scrapping Britain’s nuclear weapons, and championing the cause of science and evidence-based policies. He also sits on the Home Affairs Select Committee.[14]
Huppert is a cycling safety campaigner and organised[15] and spoke[16] at a parliamentary debate on the subject, as well as passing a motion at the 2013 Liberal Democrat Conference on the subject.[17] His support of the principle of "Proportionate liability" has led to debate in his Cambridge Constituency [18][19] and nationally [20] with the Daily Mail incorrectly stating that the principle would result in motorists being to blame even if the cyclist(s) are breaking the law.[21]
Huppert was one of the first MPs to use Twitter and has been commended for his willingness to engage directly with constituents via the medium.[22][23]
In June 2013 he told the BBC that he has complained of bullying in the Commons after being greeted by collective groans and shouts of "Oh No" when he rises to his feet in the house.[24]
When the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader stepped down to take a ministerial post, Huppert was talked about as a possible contender for the post.[25]
Mr. K, any chance of Farage refusing to participate?
I really don't know, MD. It is my belief that no one want these TV debates more than Nigel, where he can excel. However, he won't do if the price is a large pantomime..
A seven way debate would be really quite entertaining. Cameron has lobbed a fairly substantial tomcat at the pigeons.
Though I can see the big two share shrinking as soon as it happens.
Evening all and Ruth Davidson's stance on the half-masting of flags for the Saudi King has won her a great deal of approval from non-Tories in Scotland on Twitter. I suspect that when the Emperor Hirohito died, the flags were half-masted as well. Maybe someone can remember.
As we are about to remember the 50th anniversary of Winston Churchill's death, I remember watching his funeral coverage on TV with my grandparents. It was the year I started school. My great grandmother thought he was the most wonderful man who ever lived and indeed only started speaking to her cousin again when he served in Churchill's War Cabinet.
A question I posed to Steve Fisher earlier. When doing his weekly calculation, does he adjust the numbers for each pollster to reflect their proven degree of inaccuracy at recent elections.
How things change in a few months. Back in the early Autumn many on here were claiming a Labour majority was nailed on and Ed would be PM. Now on the betting markets a Labour majority is sinking without trace and the Tories are favourites.
Meanwhile I hope David Moyes is having a good laugh tonight and raising a glass of Spanish red to honour Cambridge who humiliated the 2nd rate team from Manchester.
Saw a sticker on the back of a car today. It read "Nervous woman driver. Please show some consideration."
The other thing I saw that I'd not seen before was one of the motorway roadside signs displaying: "Don't hog the middle lane."
When I am Supreme Ruler of the Universe (only a matter of time) middle lane hoggers will be lasered to ashes after loitering there for more than ten seconds. As will folk who dither inexplicably when turning left.
I feel this is entirely reasonable and will result in lowered blood pressure for millions and less pressure on the NHS.
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Why in God's name can't we apply some judgment? Is this too much to ask? So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.
Or a flag for everyone for the diplomatic niceties, but not go overboard on the bloody gushing tributes at least. Surely they could not even get fake offended by that.
No flags / no Diana-esque tributes. Just send the ambassadors along to utter fawning gush and drivel. That's what they're there for.
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
Huppert is involved in a number of All-party parliamentary groups, being joint chair of the Cycling Group,[10] and a vice chair of the Humanist Group,[11] the Refugees group,[12] and the Local Government group.[13] He has campaigned in Parliament on many issues, including scrapping Britain’s nuclear weapons, and championing the cause of science and evidence-based policies. He also sits on the Home Affairs Select Committee.[14]
Huppert is a cycling safety campaigner and organised[15] and spoke[16] at a parliamentary debate on the subject, as well as passing a motion at the 2013 Liberal Democrat Conference on the subject.[17] His support of the principle of "Proportionate liability" has led to debate in his Cambridge Constituency [18][19] and nationally [20] with the Daily Mail incorrectly stating that the principle would result in motorists being to blame even if the cyclist(s) are breaking the law.[21]
Huppert was one of the first MPs to use Twitter and has been commended for his willingness to engage directly with constituents via the medium.[22][23]
In June 2013 he told the BBC that he has complained of bullying in the Commons after being greeted by collective groans and shouts of "Oh No" when he rises to his feet in the house.[24]
When the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader stepped down to take a ministerial post, Huppert was talked about as a possible contender for the post.[25]
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
And you would probably confuse a Ghurka for a building in The City of London.
:trott-off-son:
I can at least spell Gurkha.
What were you getting at?
Excuse my spelling: My Vodafone Lenovo tablet is shyte at editing (though Gurkha has - IIRC - numerous spellings (outwith Lenovo hardware)). [Please excuse double parenthesis....]
That daid: HMtQ is the oldest living Monarch; even Herdieboy recognises this. So - and until - you post something that conforms to current observations or - cough - future winning bets then, please, do me a favour and STFU!
And you would probably confuse a Ghurka for a building in The City of London.
:trott-off-son:
I can at least spell Gurkha.
What were you getting at?
Excuse my spelling: My Vodafone Lenovo tablet is shyte at editing (though Gurkha has - IIRC - numerous spellings (outwith Lenovo hardware)). [Please excuse double parenthesis....]
That daid: HMtQ is the oldest living Monarch; even Herdieboy recognises this. So - and until - you post something that conforms to current observations or - cough - future winning bets then, please, do me a favour and STFU!
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
It's clear that not only De Valera expressed condolences on Hitler's death but so, apparently, did Douglas Hyde too!
Mind you the US President and UK PM both expressed condolences to the USSR when Stalin died so they can hardly occupy too much of the moral high ground.
"The Socialist Party of Great Britain, the second oldest political party in the country, today announced plans to contest ten constituencies at the General Election on Thursday, 7 May. This will be the largest UK Parliamentary election campaign undertaken by The Socialist Party since it first stood a candidate in the historic 1945 General Election."
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
It's clear that not only De Valera expressed condolences on Hitler's death but so, apparently, did Douglas Hyde too!
Mind you the US President and UK PM both expressed condolences to the USSR when Stalin died so they can hardly occupy too much of the moral high ground.
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
Dev was PM (taoiseach), but also Foreign Minister, which may be significant, or not.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde, a good Protestant, also paid a separate visit to Hempel the day after Dev, although this didn't become public knowledge until 2005...
"The Socialist Party of Great Britain, the second oldest political party in the country, today announced plans to contest ten constituencies at the General Election on Thursday, 7 May. This will be the largest UK Parliamentary election campaign undertaken by The Socialist Party since it first stood a candidate in the historic 1945 General Election."
I note he claims to be a Major Party without specifying that it's only in England and Wales and therefore not on a par with Labour, Tories and Lib Dems who (in the last case for now anyway) are Major Parties in three constituent countries.
"The Socialist Party of Great Britain, the second oldest political party in the country, today announced plans to contest ten constituencies at the General Election on Thursday, 7 May. This will be the largest UK Parliamentary election campaign undertaken by The Socialist Party since it first stood a candidate in the historic 1945 General Election."
Mr. K, any chance of Farage refusing to participate?
I really don't know, MD. It is my belief that no one want these TV debates more than Nigel, where he can excel. However, he won't do if the price is a large pantomime..
Nigel takes the pantomime where-ever he goes. He plays the Dame.
Farage in the huff as he wont be centre of attention ? 7 is too many - but then a party with two hand me down MPs should never have been invited - it opened the floodgates.
I note he claims to be a Major Party without specifying that it's only in England and Wales and therefore not on a par with Labour, Tories and Lib Dems who (in the last case for now anyway) are Major Parties in three constituent countries.
Don't UKIP have an MEP in Scotland and a councillor in NI?
It comes to something when you realise that MikeK I is worse than good old Malcolm when it comes to peddling party propaganda as truth. And with such paralysing regularity too.
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde
Whether Hyde was Head of State at the time is a matter of dispute. He was the President but Ireland didnt become a Republic until 1949.
Huppert is involved in a number of All-party parliamentary groups, being joint chair of the Cycling Group,[10] and a vice chair of the Humanist Group,[11] the Refugees group,[12] and the Local Government group.[13] He has campaigned in Parliament on many issues, including scrapping Britain’s nuclear weapons, and championing the cause of science and evidence-based policies. He also sits on the Home Affairs Select Committee.[14]
Huppert is a cycling safety campaigner and organised[15] and spoke[16] at a parliamentary debate on the subject, as well as passing a motion at the 2013 Liberal Democrat Conference on the subject.[17] His support of the principle of "Proportionate liability" has led to debate in his Cambridge Constituency [18][19] and nationally [20] with the Daily Mail incorrectly stating that the principle would result in motorists being to blame even if the cyclist(s) are breaking the law.[21]
Huppert was one of the first MPs to use Twitter and has been commended for his willingness to engage directly with constituents via the medium.[22][23]
In June 2013 he told the BBC that he has complained of bullying in the Commons after being greeted by collective groans and shouts of "Oh No" when he rises to his feet in the house.[24]
When the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader stepped down to take a ministerial post, Huppert was talked about as a possible contender for the post.[25]
Tremendous muesli and sandal credentials.
If Huppert shaved off his beard he would have a much better chance.
Who was the last main UK party leader to have a beard?
Huppert is involved in a number of All-party parliamentary groups, being joint chair of the Cycling Group,[10] and a vice chair of the Humanist Group,[11] the Refugees group,[12] and the Local Government group.[13] He has campaigned in Parliament on many issues, including scrapping Britain’s nuclear weapons, and championing the cause of science and evidence-based policies. He also sits on the Home Affairs Select Committee.[14]
Huppert is a cycling safety campaigner and organised[15] and spoke[16] at a parliamentary debate on the subject, as well as passing a motion at the 2013 Liberal Democrat Conference on the subject.[17] His support of the principle of "Proportionate liability" has led to debate in his Cambridge Constituency [18][19] and nationally [20] with the Daily Mail incorrectly stating that the principle would result in motorists being to blame even if the cyclist(s) are breaking the law.[21]
Huppert was one of the first MPs to use Twitter and has been commended for his willingness to engage directly with constituents via the medium.[22][23]
In June 2013 he told the BBC that he has complained of bullying in the Commons after being greeted by collective groans and shouts of "Oh No" when he rises to his feet in the house.[24]
When the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader stepped down to take a ministerial post, Huppert was talked about as a possible contender for the post.[25]
Tremendous muesli and sandal credentials.
If Huppert shaved off his beard he would have a much better chance.
Presumably, this is to avoid the diplomatic sensitivities of who has the honour and who doesn't. To my mind, this sort of automaticity for foreign royals should have gone long ago, not least because it leads to the sort of nonsense we're seeing today. It has at root a pre-20th century view of the world where there's a royal club above and beyond nationality.
Why in God's name can't we apply some judgment? Is this too much to ask? So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.
I don't see why we should even fly half-mast for Norwegian kings (for example) as a matter of course especially if, as with Abdullah, they've lived to 90 and died of natural causes. Foreigners should only get the honour if they've lived a life of great distinction (so the gesture is one of respect) or have died in particularly tragic circumstances (in which case it's sympathy).
If the Queen wants to fly her flags half mast as part of a royal club thing, that's her call - and one I'd still disagree with - but I particularly resent it being done by the government and as such on behalf of the nation.
I broadly agree but if we're going to do anything I think we should apply some judgment not pretend that all leaders /states are equally worthy of respect.
I only mentioned Norway because they send us a Xmas tree every year for Trafalgar Square and it seems like a nice gesture in return.
Amazing that a bit of diplomatic protocol gets people so worked up. The king himself has been pushed into an unmarked hole and they are getting on with life as normal. But us...?
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde
Whether Hyde was Head of State at the time is a matter of dispute. He was the President but Ireland didnt become a Republic until 1949.
A year later and Ireland could have joined India in being the first two Commonwealth Republics.
A seven way party leader debate (probably 8 with the DUP) is a complete waste of time.
To allow each party leader to explain their position on a topic would take a minimum of 20 minutes excluding the interogator's time. To cover half a dozen topics would take 2.5 hours, by which time only the political anoraks would be left watching.
Also any ordinary viewer will have little chance of remembering what each of the party leaders will say.
However, it will muddy the waters sufficiently so as to improve the chances of local candidates with good ground level support for leafletting, canvassing and getting out the vote. So that's all good.
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde
Whether Hyde was Head of State at the time is a matter of dispute. He was the President but Ireland didnt become a Republic until 1949.
After the External Relations Act 1936 and the Constitution of 1937, the King of England was reduced to the sole function of accrediting foreign diplomats...
Ireland had all the attributes of a Republic by this time, and laws were given their assent by the Head of State, Douglas Hyde, with no reference to George VI.
The formal declaration occurred in 1949, as you say, but that was, as the word suggests, a formality.
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde
Whether Hyde was Head of State at the time is a matter of dispute. He was the President but Ireland didnt become a Republic until 1949.
A year later and Ireland could have joined India in being the first two Commonwealth Republics.
Huppert is involved in a number of All-party parliamentary groups, being joint chair of the Cycling Group,[10] and a vice chair of the Humanist Group,[11] the Refugees group,[12] and the Local Government group.[13] He has campaigned in Parliament on many issues, including scrapping Britain’s nuclear weapons, and championing the cause of science and evidence-based policies. He also sits on the Home Affairs Select Committee.[14]
Huppert is a cycling safety campaigner and organised[15] and spoke[16] at a parliamentary debate on the subject, as well as passing a motion at the 2013 Liberal Democrat Conference on the subject.[17] His support of the principle of "Proportionate liability" has led to debate in his Cambridge Constituency [18][19] and nationally [20] with the Daily Mail incorrectly stating that the principle would result in motorists being to blame even if the cyclist(s) are breaking the law.[21]
Huppert was one of the first MPs to use Twitter and has been commended for his willingness to engage directly with constituents via the medium.[22][23]
In June 2013 he told the BBC that he has complained of bullying in the Commons after being greeted by collective groans and shouts of "Oh No" when he rises to his feet in the house.[24]
When the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader stepped down to take a ministerial post, Huppert was talked about as a possible contender for the post.[25]
Tremendous muesli and sandal credentials.
If Huppert shaved off his beard he would have a much better chance.
Who was the last main UK party leader to have a beard?
I propose
The Most Honourable Robert, Marquess of Salisbury KG GCVO PC
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In office 25 June 1895 – 11 July 1902
De Valera's signature in a book of condolence for Adolf Hitler was perhaps not one of his wiser moves.
A brave one, a formality, and more a thank-you for the German Ambassador, Hempel, who had always behaved correctly.
I thought only cowards kicked a man when he was down?
I wonder how many other Heads of State, or Heads of Government copied De Valera's action in 1945?
Actually, the "condolence book" factoid seems to be a myth. De Valera visited Hempel at his private address to express condolences.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde
Whether Hyde was Head of State at the time is a matter of dispute. He was the President but Ireland didnt become a Republic until 1949.
After the External Relations Act 1936 and the Constitution of 1937, the King of England was reduced to the sole function of accrediting foreign diplomats...
Ireland had all the attributes of a Republic by this time, and laws were given their assent by the Head of State, Douglas Hyde, with no reference to George VI.
The formal declaration occurred in 1949, as you say, but that was, as the word suggests, a formality.
As an Eastleigh boy my production and is this. Ukip come a tailed off third. If they couldnt win the by ekection then they they they have no çhance in may
As an Eastleigh boy my production and is this. Ukip come a tailed off third. If they couldnt win the by ekection then they they they have no çhance in may
I think UKIP will do pretty well in Eastleigh but the LDs will hold it by a few thousand. (I was there on the day of the by-election).
As an Eastleigh boy my production and is this. Ukip come a tailed off third. If they couldnt win the by ekection then they they they have no çhance in may
Did I partake of too much cheese before bedtime - or was there polling at the time of the by-election showing lots of kippers would go blue - and as a result the Tories were in the position to win it at the General?
As I have grown older I have come to realise that monarchism is deferential, slavering, cap-doffing bollocks. Flags at half mast for a Saudi king is merely an extreme extension of the generally unpalatable idea that we scrape about after people who are born into a state-sponsored feather bed.
Why all this moaning about the deference being paid to the good King Abdullah? We owe that man a lot. If the Islamic nutters ever overran Saudi Arabia, they'd turn off the oil taps and we'd be back to the horse and cart. As for human rights - would Britain be much different to Saudi if UKIP got in?
Every time someone appears on the news saying good things about The Kingdom, I can't help thinking they must be earning money one way or another from the country or its businesses.
Interesting story about the Queen driving King Abdullah
'The royal Land Rovers were drawn up in front of the castle. As instructed, the Crown Prince climbed into the front seat of the Land Rover, with his interpreter in the seat behind. To his surprise, the Queen climbed into the driving seat, turned the ignition and drove off. Women are not—yet—allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia, and Abdullah was not used to being driven by a woman, let alone a queen. His nervousness only increased as the queen, an Army driver in wartime, accelerated the Land Rover along the narrow Scottish estate roads, talking all the time. Through his interpreter, the Crown Prince implored the Queen to slow down and concentrate on the road ahead.' http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2015/01/feminist-boss-lady-queen-elizabeth-gave-saudi-arabias-king-lesson-power
Now, now: you know what they say about the narcissism of small differences.....
My dear Ms Cyclefree.
you, of all people, should know the difference between a banker and a barrow boy.
Dearest Charles:
I have investigated enough fraud and misbehaviour to know that, when it comes to money, stupidity and greed know no boundaries.
It depends on the culture of the institution. But bankers (also known as goldsmiths) have a longer-term perspective than Ibankers.
One would like to hope so.
But no-one, no-one is immune from behaving badly. So I'm wary of any argument based on a "this category = good people", "that category = bad people" basis.
Why all this moaning about the deference being paid to the good King Abdullah? We owe that man a lot. If the Islamic nutters ever overran Saudi Arabia, they'd turn off the oil taps and we'd be back to the horse and cart.
Hard to tell whether this is a spoof or not. Pbc can be great like that.
From what I can tell another 1,000+ members for the Green party today. A chance that the debate coverage and coverage of Westwood's donation might keep the surge going for a little while longer too. I dont think anyone in party could have dreamed of 2015 starting this well.
"The DCMS and the Foreign Office last night both insisted the other had ultimate responsibility for the decision to fly the Union Jack at half-mast over public buildings including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey."
From what I can tell another 1,000+ members for the Green party today. A chance that the debate coverage and coverage of Westwood's donation might keep the surge going for a little while longer too. I dont think anyone in party could have dreamed of 2015 starting this well.
From what I can tell another 1,000+ members for the Green party today. A chance that the debate coverage and coverage of Westwood's donation might keep the surge going for a little while longer too. I dont think anyone in party could have dreamed of 2015 starting this well.
From what I can tell another 1,000+ members for the Green party today. A chance that the debate coverage and coverage of Westwood's donation might keep the surge going for a little while longer too. I dont think anyone in party could have dreamed of 2015 starting this well.
Which Green policies do you support?
I could rally around a policy of banning you from the internet.
"The DCMS and the Foreign Office last night both insisted the other had ultimate responsibility for the decision to fly the Union Jack at half-mast over public buildings including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey."
Whoever responsible a bloody disgrace. Like most ills which bedevil this country the craven fawning over the Saudi despots can be traced back to Blair.
Do you think they're mostly former Labour supporters?
Activists tend to be former Labour or youngsters who have never been in any party (as opposed to the new voters who seem to contain a lot of 2010 LD who tried Labour but have moved on for now to the Greens).
Why all this moaning about the deference being paid to the good King Abdullah? We owe that man a lot. If the Islamic nutters ever overran Saudi Arabia, they'd turn off the oil taps and we'd be back to the horse and cart.
Hard to tell whether this is a spoof or not. Pbc can be great like that.
There's something to be said for that.
In the Middle East, the choice is not between good and bad. It's between bad and batshit crazy.
Comments
Liz is 88 and became Queen in 1953.
Abdullah was 90 and came to the throne in 2005.
Maybe a kickback to BAe Systems (Newcastle) made it acceptable. Ministers pensions will definitely not be punished....
If the Queen wants to fly her flags half mast as part of a royal club thing, that's her call - and one I'd still disagree with - but I particularly resent it being done by the government and as such on behalf of the nation.
I only mentioned Norway because they send us a Xmas tree every year for Trafalgar Square and it seems like a nice gesture in return.
Nailed on LD hold..
:trott-off-son:
Huppert is a cycling safety campaigner and organised[15] and spoke[16] at a parliamentary debate on the subject, as well as passing a motion at the 2013 Liberal Democrat Conference on the subject.[17] His support of the principle of "Proportionate liability" has led to debate in his Cambridge Constituency [18][19] and nationally [20] with the Daily Mail incorrectly stating that the principle would result in motorists being to blame even if the cyclist(s) are breaking the law.[21]
Huppert was one of the first MPs to use Twitter and has been commended for his willingness to engage directly with constituents via the medium.[22][23]
In June 2013 he told the BBC that he has complained of bullying in the Commons after being greeted by collective groans and shouts of "Oh No" when he rises to his feet in the house.[24]
When the Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader stepped down to take a ministerial post, Huppert was talked about as a possible contender for the post.[25]
Tremendous muesli and sandal credentials.
What were you getting at?
Though I can see the big two share shrinking as soon as it happens.
As we are about to remember the 50th anniversary of Winston Churchill's death, I remember watching his funeral coverage on TV with my grandparents. It was the year I started school. My great grandmother thought he was the most wonderful man who ever lived and indeed only started speaking to her cousin again when he served in Churchill's War Cabinet.
A question I posed to Steve Fisher earlier. When doing his weekly calculation, does he adjust the numbers for each pollster to reflect their proven degree of inaccuracy at recent elections.
How things change in a few months. Back in the early Autumn many on here were claiming a Labour majority was nailed on and Ed would be PM. Now on the betting markets a Labour majority is sinking without trace and the Tories are favourites.
Meanwhile I hope David Moyes is having a good laugh tonight and raising a glass of Spanish red to honour Cambridge who humiliated the 2nd rate team from Manchester.
I feel this is entirely reasonable and will result in lowered blood pressure for millions and less pressure on the NHS.
Spain and Portugal did have condolence books at their German embassies, with queues of people waiting to sign them. Both countries lowered their flags to half-mast, and the latter had two days of official mourning. The Swiss, I understand, left "condolence cards" at their German Embassy.
50/1 as next leader with Ladbrokes.
That daid: HMtQ is the oldest living Monarch; even Herdieboy recognises this. So - and until - you post something that conforms to current observations or - cough - future winning bets then, please, do me a favour and STFU!
:no-apology-necessary:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gurkha
Mind you the US President and UK PM both expressed condolences to the USSR when Stalin died so they can hardly occupy too much of the moral high ground.
http://www.worldsocialism.org/spgb/forum/world-socialist-movement/general-election-news-release
Or something.
The actual Head of State of Eire, Douglas Hyde, a good Protestant, also paid a separate visit to Hempel the day after Dev, although this didn't become public knowledge until 2005...
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/louise-mensch-says-fk-you-in-explosive-tweets-about-david-cameron-saudi-embassy-and-the-queen-over-king-abdullah-tributes-9998709.html
http://www.pinknews.co.uk/2015/01/23/louise-mensch-fck-the-queen-and-cameron-for-paying-tribute-to-saudi-king/
By the way, if anyone was planning to lsiten to the interview with me on the Today programme, it's been postponed. What it was about is here: http://www.yorkshirepost.co.uk/news/main-topics/local-stories/italian-court-judgement-supports-case-for-blocking-beagle-farm-1-7068921
Abdullah regime helped create a global jihadi monster. Its domestic policies towards women & minorities are abhorrant. Deserves no salute.
I think the government have really boobed here when your own side are not just mumbling about it being wrong, but screaming it from the roof tops.
You can always Vanilla message me :-)
http://t.co/RVims2rgJq
what a shame...
If Huppert shaved off his beard he would have a much better chance.
Who was the last main UK party leader to have a beard?
What was I thinking ? Was I thinking ?
With him and Townsend gone it might be safe to watch football on ITV with the sound on again!
A year later and Ireland could have joined India in being the first two Commonwealth Republics.
To allow each party leader to explain their position on a topic would take a minimum of 20 minutes excluding the interogator's time. To cover half a dozen topics would take 2.5 hours, by which time only the political anoraks would be left watching.
Also any ordinary viewer will have little chance of remembering what each of the party leaders will say.
However, it will muddy the waters sufficiently so as to improve the chances of local candidates with good ground level support for leafletting, canvassing and getting out the vote. So that's all good.
Ireland had all the attributes of a Republic by this time, and laws were given their assent by the Head of State, Douglas Hyde, with no reference to George VI.
The formal declaration occurred in 1949, as you say, but that was, as the word suggests, a formality.
I propose
The Most Honourable Robert, Marquess of Salisbury KG GCVO PC
Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. In office 25 June 1895 – 11 July 1902
See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Gascoyne-Cecil,_3rd_Marquess_of_Salisbury
you, of all people, should know the difference between a banker and a barrow boy.
I have investigated enough fraud and misbehaviour to know that, when it comes to money, stupidity and greed know no boundaries.
Rare for me to take so violently against someone - but happy to make an exception for Adrian Chiles.
'The royal Land Rovers were drawn up in front of the castle. As instructed, the Crown Prince climbed into the front seat of the Land Rover, with his interpreter in the seat behind. To his surprise, the Queen climbed into the driving seat, turned the ignition and drove off. Women are not—yet—allowed to drive in Saudi Arabia, and Abdullah was not used to being driven by a woman, let alone a queen. His nervousness only increased as the queen, an Army driver in wartime, accelerated the Land Rover along the narrow Scottish estate roads, talking all the time. Through his interpreter, the Crown Prince implored the Queen to slow down and concentrate on the road ahead.'
http://www.motherjones.com/mojo/2015/01/feminist-boss-lady-queen-elizabeth-gave-saudi-arabias-king-lesson-power
But no-one, no-one is immune from behaving badly. So I'm wary of any argument based on a "this category = good people", "that category = bad people" basis.
Revealing that poster "MrX" is in real life Joe Bloggs is a hanging offence, quite correctly.
But revealing that Joe Bloggs, who everyone now knows used to post here, used the handle "MrX" causes what harm, exactly?
That all said, even that is small beer compared to having multiple screen names.
'So a flag for the Norwegian monarch, say, or for heads of state of EU countries or Commonwealth States and nothing for anyone else.'
Which Commonwealth countries?
Just the ones that don't have records of human rights abuses?
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/saudi-king-abdullah-dead-britain-mourns-a-tyrant-9999687.html
"The DCMS and the Foreign Office last night both insisted the other had ultimate responsibility for the decision to fly the Union Jack at half-mast over public buildings including Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey."
In the Middle East, the choice is not between good and bad. It's between bad and batshit crazy.