For me, the economic arguments are important, but secondary.
Like LIAMT, the most important issue to me is sovereignty. I want to be governed by people who are accountable to the British electorate, and nobody else.
I'm stunned, how can you argue the french haven't our best interests at heart ?
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
The UK's ability to trade globally? Are you aware of the current trade figures? We aren't exporting to the big growing markets of the future and we're borrowing record amounts from the rest of the world. Whilst I disagreed with Lord Lawson claiming we should leave the EU, he was right to suggest we were far too reliant on it for our trade. Still I'm not one of those who thinks the best way to improve your writing with your left hand is to cut off your right hand.
Not so. Our current millstone round our neck in terms of trade balance is trade with the EU. That currently stands in deficit to the tune of more than £80 billion a year. We have a trade surplus with the rest of the world and it is that we should be concentrating on building, not a failing protectionist backwater like the EU.
I'll be campaigning for OUT but I fear IN will prevail. I'm interested to see what happens to the Tories after that as they will have split into two distinct camps. Cameron will campaign for IN regardless of the outcome of renegotiations, the relationship with his eurosceptics will be fraught.
Oddly, as others have alluded to, a narrow IN could play into UKIP hands
I am half-expecting something to crop up during the negotiations which results in Mr Cameron doing one of those sudden bowing to the will of the majority things - ending the negotiations with an "OK if that's the way you want it, I'll have to recommend OUT".
Then there will be consternation among the people who thought there would be more opportunities to accomplish what they want from UK & still enable him to recommend IN.
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
The UK's ability to trade globally? Are you aware of the current trade figures? We aren't exporting to the big growing markets of the future and we're borrowing record amounts from the rest of the world. Whilst I disagreed with Lord Lawson claiming we should leave the EU, he was right to suggest we were far too reliant on it for our trade. Still I'm not one of those who thinks the best way to improve your writing with your left hand is to cut off your right hand.
Not so. Our current millstone round our neck in terms of trade balance is trade with the EU. That currently stands in deficit to the tune of more than £80 billion a year. We have a trade surplus with the rest of the world and it is that we should be concentrating on building, not a failing protectionist backwater like the EU.
You're blaming the EU for selling so much stuff to us? We export far less to the big growing markets than Germany or even supposedly backward France. It's a nonsense to blame that on EU membership or to think it will magically improve if we leave.
That's my other one. I have no issue with a British Bill of Rights or whatever.
As an island nation last invaded in 1066 [let's excuse the whole William of Orange bit as politically convenient for Magna Carta], I just reflexively kick back on Eurojudges setting our laws, and advocate judges here using it to their own ideological ends.
For me, the economic arguments are important, but secondary.
Like LIAMT, the most important issue to me is sovereignty. I want to be governed by people who are accountable to the British electorate, and nobody else.
Mr Tyndall - do you have plans/ambitions to be involved in the referendum? I can't think of anyone else so knowledgeable bar Mr Booker.
I do hope you have time to dedicate to it. An informed debate is essential - the nonsense slogans from the SNP re Sindy made me laugh/wince and cry inside. We can't let that paucity of facts happen to the whole UK.
I will do what I always do. Sit in the background doing research and informing others who are happier to he in the limelight. One thing I do agree with is that whoever leads OUT it must not be Farage and UKIP. Personally I think an elder statesman from Labour like Frank Field or someone like Dan Hannan would be good if it has to be a politician.
I despaired when I heard that. He needed hitting on the head by one of my Old Girl teachers. They'd have collectively made him spell wildebeest 10000 times on the blackboard as penance.
Mr. 1000, it could evolve into a country. And then collapse.
I agree with you on papering over the cracks. That's one of the major reasons we should leave now. We can have pain now, or immense pain later. If the EU collapsed now there'd probably be some low level civil strife. If it collapses in 20 years, strife will be widespread and we might even see some warfare.
Miss Plato, your post reminds me of the contrary view, as epitomised by Clegg, who asserted we'd be a 'pygmy' without the EU.
Mr. F, sovereignty's the biggest single issue for me as well.
But there are others. Necrosis is already bruising the body politic of Brussels.
Mr. 1000, I fear you're as optimistic as a therapist attempting to purge the aggressive behaviour from a xenomorph. Interesting that we both think the UK should leave, despite our otherwise differing views.
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
The UK's ability to trade globally? Are you aware of the current trade figures? We aren't exporting to the big growing markets of the future and we're borrowing record amounts from the rest of the world. Whilst I disagreed with Lord Lawson claiming we should leave the EU, he was right to suggest we were far too reliant on it for our trade. Still I'm not one of those who thinks the best way to improve your writing with your left hand is to cut off your right hand.
Not so. Our current millstone round our neck in terms of trade balance is trade with the EU. That currently stands in deficit to the tune of more than £80 billion a year. We have a trade surplus with the rest of the world and it is that we should be concentrating on building, not a failing protectionist backwater like the EU.
You're blaming the EU for selling so much stuff to us? We export far less to the big growing markets than Germany or even supposedly backward France. It's a nonsense to blame that on EU membership or to think it will magically improve if we leave.
The EU turns a blind eye to massive state intervention in industries which put them at a significant commercial advantage over the UK and at the same time through CAP and CFP force the UK to import food from the EU when we could and should grow more of it ourselves.
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
The UK's ability to trade globally? Are you aware of the current trade figures? We aren't exporting to the big growing markets of the future and we're borrowing record amounts from the rest of the world. Whilst I disagreed with Lord Lawson claiming we should leave the EU, he was right to suggest we were far too reliant on it for our trade. Still I'm not one of those who thinks the best way to improve your writing with your left hand is to cut off your right hand.
We have a hefty trade surplus with non-EU countries.
Mr Tyndall - do you have plans/ambitions to be involved in the referendum? I can't think of anyone else so knowledgeable bar Mr Booker.
I do hope you have time to dedicate to it. An informed debate is essential - the nonsense slogans from the SNP re Sindy made me laugh/wince and cry inside. We can't let that paucity of facts happen to the whole UK.
I will do what I always do. Sit in the background doing research and informing others who are happier to he in the limelight. One thing I do agree with is that whoever leads OUT it must not be Farage and UKIP. Personally I think an elder statesman from Labour like Frank Field or someone like Dan Hannan would be good if it has to be a politician.
UKIP have to be big part of it, but should not front it.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
Our trade with the world grew with our dominance militarily and politically. It does require government to be active and to think strategically. It also requires unions to take a holistic view of business and it requires business leaders to plan long term. World conditions have changed but the principle remains the same.
If you look into the past and consider one of the world's biggest car makers, VW. It was formed to provide a national people's car and was resurrected after the war by a British army officer. It was initially protected from takeover by foreign interests, since repealed, but the local government holds effectively a decisive share in the company.
Concerning the EU referendum perhaps we will adopt the EU practice of having referendums until the "right" answer is obtained - whatever that is!
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
For me, the economic arguments are important, but secondary.
Like LIAMT, the most important issue to me is sovereignty. I want to be governed by people who are accountable to the British electorate, and nobody else.
I'm stunned, how can you argue the french haven't our best interests at heart ?
If I was French, I wouldn't want to be governed by people who don't French best interests at heart.
All 'out' have to do is say that 'In' is the policy of Britain's most unpopular party, the Lib Dems, and that should guarantee them a landslide, I would have thought.
For me, the economic arguments are important, but secondary.
Like LIAMT, the most important issue to me is sovereignty. I want to be governed by people who are accountable to the British electorate, and nobody else.
I'm stunned, how can you argue the french haven't our best interests at heart ?
If I was French, I wouldn't want to be governed by people who don't French best interests at heart.
My dear old thing, I tend to agree with you - partially.
By far the greater number of inquiries we receive are from outside the EU. However, these are often quite hard and take time to convert - part due to price and part due to lack of local representation - but we are building up, especially over the last six months, an excellent set of contacts from places like Brazil, Mexico, India, Iran, Malaysia and China.
Our other main volume comes via some European majors. For instance we are working offshore Angola for Total, with Siemens (Germany) on a new industrial complex near Kuala Lumpur and Tullow Oil in Ghana. Some of these exports are classed as to the EU but the Total one will not as Total will invoice out of Angola.
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
Mary, I think you mean, daughter of James Stuart.
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
My knowledge is patchy, so have set myself the task of absorbing the big points.
I'm a sucker for historical social trivia and discovered that The Clink was owned by the Bishop of Winchester, had its own laws within The Liberty and the infamous gaol for hundreds of years. And the expression *goose-bumps* comes from venereal diseases caught from the *Winchester Gooses* or prostitutes who worked legally within its jurisdiction. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty_of_the_Clink
I love this sort of stuff.
The Clink was a notorious prison in Southwark, England which functioned from the 12th century until 1780 either deriving its name from, or bestowing it on, the local manor, the Clink Liberty (see also the Liberty of the Clink). The manor and prison were owned by the Bishop of Winchester and situated next to his residence at Winchester Palace. The Clink was possibly the oldest men's prison and probably the oldest women's prison in England.[1]
The origins of the name "The Clink" are uncertain, but it is possibly onomatopoeic and derives from the sound of striking metal as the prison's doors were bolted, or the rattling of the chains the prisoners wore.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
Give Stay has a 10 point lead, the same as No won indyref by, these figures are not that great for In considering how that referendum tightened over the campaign. Cameron will of course recommend to stay based on the renegotiation he can achieve
Alanbrooke Denmark and Sweden are still outside the Euro having rejected it in their referenda
Looks like a clear Yes in Ireland for gay marriage but the margin has tightened to about 60-40 from the 70-30 it earlier looked like as results moved from Dublin to more rural areas
The interests of the US and UK are closely aligned. Would the EU-philes be in favour of letting the US be able to make our laws, as they are for the EU?
Don't really agree with your premise, but if I did, I'd consider the 51st state idea. Within Britain, there are numerous barely compatible interests - do London, Cornwall, Tyneside, Scotland and Ulster have much in common? If not, should we split into numerous little fiefdoms? These things are always a compromise, and Europhiles think that Europe is a reasonably homogenous place, not much less so than Britain really.
On a less contentious note (bank holiday weekend and all that, let's be peaceful), I'm planning a long holiday in the US in August, starting with the World Boardgames Convention in Lancaster, PA at the start of the month. After that, I've got some reasons to go to Las Vegas and San Francisco, and I'm flirting with the idea of hiring a car and leisurely driving across (it's about 35 hours total), stopping off at sights and small towns on the way - I've always liked small-town America despite (or perhaps because of) the cultural differences. After all, going by air takes 7 hours plus the time to get to the airport etc. But how bonkers is that? Would I be seeing lots of pretty little towns and interesting sights, or would I just be driving hour after hour across featureless cornfield terrain in blazing heat, cowering in the air conditioning? Are there sights people would specially recommend on the way?
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
Almost all of my travelling is in Europe. And, it's when I'm in Europe, that I realise that Custom is King, everywhere. There is no set of "European Values".
The biggest factor I have from a positive perspective about BOOing fully is that I have innate faith and confidence in the UK's ability to trade globally.
Maybe it's my age, but I see us as a global pink-atlas player who did things wildly beyond our size and geography for centuries. And our language is the default in very many places either first or second.
I feel the EU is something to consider in our kit bag, but only if it suits our wider aims and ambitions. If not, dump it. I'm not the teeniest bit sentimental about it. And those members/citizens who remain won't stop buying from us out of spite.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
The UK's ability to trade globally? Are you aware of the current trade figures? We aren't exporting to the big growing markets of the future and we're borrowing record amounts from the rest of the world. Whilst I disagreed with Lord Lawson claiming we should leave the EU, he was right to suggest we were far too reliant on it for our trade. Still I'm not one of those who thinks the best way to improve your writing with your left hand is to cut off your right hand.
Not so. Our current millstone round our neck in terms of trade balance is trade with the EU. That currently stands in deficit to the tune of more than £80 billion a year. We have a trade surplus with the rest of the world and it is that we should be concentrating on building, not a failing protectionist backwater like the EU.
You're blaming the EU for selling so much stuff to us? We export far less to the big growing markets than Germany or even supposedly backward France. It's a nonsense to blame that on EU membership or to think it will magically improve if we leave.
The EU turns a blind eye to massive state intervention in industries which put them at a significant commercial advantage over the UK and at the same time through CAP and CFP force the UK to import food from the EU when we could and should grow more of it ourselves.
The EU's high tariffs on food imports in order to protect EU farmers are a disgrace.
The EU have pursued aggressive trade deals with some of the world's poorest countries which have destroyed jobs and decimated local industries.
Mr. 1000, but that doesn't address my question. If your argument is that EU and UK interests are aligned so we should be in a trading bloc and have the EU able to make our laws, surely you would advocate the same for the US and UK?
The EU's an indefensible organisation that will collapse like the Aetolian League.
It was set up to stop another Franco-German war. Quite a good aim, given that the last one threatened the existence of the UK.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
You might know the odd snippet, Mr. D., but Queen Anne being co-monarch with William is not one of them. It was her sister, Mary, who married William of Orange and who became co-monarch after the Dutch invasion/coup/Glorious Revolution (take your pick on how you feel about it). Anne succeed to the Throne in 1702 following the death of Willia, Mary having died some years earlier.m
You think Romania and Britain are as similar as Yorkshire and East Anglia? Or Greece is as similar to Germany as Gascony is to Brittany? I must dispute your assertion with contempt and vigour.
The social, economic, and demographic differences are enormous, not to mention the history.
Looks like a clear Yes in Ireland for gay marriage but the margin has tightened to about 60-40 from the 70-30 it earlier looked like as results moved from Dublin to more rural areas
It's interesting to see that people who three times rejected abortion, in referenda, should vote through gay marriage.
That we ended up with recent monarchs with German heritage suits me fine. I think we have a great deal more in common with them than France or Italy or Spain or...
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
I am sure a significant number of people would identify more with the Anglosphere than Europe. And to a lesser extent the former Commonwealth countries.
Absolutely. I feel more Swiss than anything when I traveled so much across Europe by car that I kept getting intercepted by Interpol at border crossings.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
Almost all of my travelling is in Europe. And, it's when I'm in Europe, that I realise that Custom is King, everywhere. There is no set of "European Values".
The interests of the US and UK are closely aligned. Would the EU-philes be in favour of letting the US be able to make our laws, as they are for the EU?
Don't really agree with your premise, but if I did, I'd consider the 51st state idea. Within Britain, there are numerous barely compatible interests - do London, Cornwall, Tyneside, Scotland and Ulster have much in common? If not, should we split into numerous little fiefdoms? These things are always a compromise, and Europhiles think that Europe is a reasonably homogenous place, not much less so than Britain really.
On a less contentious note (bank holiday weekend and all that, let's be peaceful), I'm planning a long holiday in the US in August, starting with the World Boardgames Convention in Lancaster, PA at the start of the month. After that, I've got some reasons to go to Las Vegas and San Francisco, and I'm flirting with the idea of hiring a car and leisurely driving across (it's about 35 hours total), stopping off at sights and small towns on the way - I've always liked small-town America despite (or perhaps because of) the cultural differences. After all, going by air takes 7 hours plus the time to get to the airport etc. But how bonkers is that? Would I be seeing lots of pretty little towns and interesting sights, or would I just be driving hour after hour across featureless cornfield terrain in blazing heat, cowering in the air conditioning? Are there sights people would specially recommend on the way?
I've only visited the USA once, 42 years ago. You'll get to see the Rocky Mountains on the way, which are unforgettable.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
I am sure a significant number of people would identify more with the Anglosphere than Europe. And to a lesser extent the former Commonwealth countries.
The interests of the US and UK are closely aligned. Would the EU-philes be in favour of letting the US be able to make our laws, as they are for the EU?
Don't really agree with your premise, but if I did, I'd consider the 51st state idea. Within Britain, there are numerous barely compatible interests - do London, Cornwall, Tyneside, Scotland and Ulster have much in common? If not, should we split into numerous little fiefdoms? These things are always a compromise, and Europhiles think that Europe is a reasonably homogenous place, not much less so than Britain really.
On a less contentious note (bank holiday weekend and all that, let's be peaceful), I'm planning a long holiday in the US in August, starting with the World Boardgames Convention in Lancaster, PA at the start of the month. After that, I've got some reasons to go to Las Vegas and San Francisco, and I'm flirting with the idea of hiring a car and leisurely driving across (it's about 35 hours total), stopping off at sights and small towns on the way - I've always liked small-town America despite (or perhaps because of) the cultural differences. After all, going by air takes 7 hours plus the time to get to the airport etc. But how bonkers is that? Would I be seeing lots of pretty little towns and interesting sights, or would I just be driving hour after hour across featureless cornfield terrain in blazing heat, cowering in the air conditioning? Are there sights people would specially recommend on the way?
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
Mary, I think you mean, daughter of James Stuart.
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
Mary and Anne had parents who were born in England, and of their 4 Grandparents all bar one were English (including two commoners) the other one was French. Going back another generation, Charles the second's wife was Portuguese, and Charles the First had a French wife. We have to go back yet another generation to James 1 (VI in Scotland) before we get a British ancestor not born in England. Mary and Anne are more English than anything else and more French than Portuguese, and more Portuguese than Scottish!
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
Mary, I think you mean, daughter of James Stuart.
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
Mary and Anne had parents who were born in England, and of their 4 Grandparents all bar one were English (including two commoners) the other one was French. Going back another generation, Charles the second's wife was Portuguese, and Charles the First had a French wife. We have to go back yet another generation to James 1 (VI in Scotland) before we get a British ancestor not born in England. Mary and Anne are more English than anything else and more French than Portuguese, and more Portuguese than Scottish!
Not sure if it has been mentioned but those YouGov polls do not include Northern Ireland who I would regard as quite eurosceptic and as a result believe the polling is much closer than implied in the given data.
The tweet image critically \excludes this part of the wikipedia entries and I just hope this wasn't ignored in the article intentionally.
SeanF Though I suppose abortion, particularly the age limit at which termination occurs, still is an even more emotive issue than allowing gays to marry
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
What about Mary & Philip II? If that line had continued, the monarch of England could have been the Holy Roman Emperor!
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
Mary, I think you mean, daughter of James Stuart.
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
Mary and Anne had parents who were born in England, and of their 4 Grandparents all bar one were English (including two commoners) the other one was French. Going back another generation, Charles the second's wife was Portuguese, and Charles the First had a French wife. We have to go back yet another generation to James 1 (VI in Scotland) before we get a British ancestor not born in England. Mary and Anne are more English than anything else and more French than Portuguese, and more Portuguese than Scottish!
@runnymede Welcome back. Been a long time. IIRC someone asked on here quite a while ago about settling a bet with you. Maybe @rcs1000 or someone with great Google Fu can help you here.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
I am sure a significant number of people would identify more with the Anglosphere than Europe. And to a lesser extent the former Commonwealth countries.
Quite a shame really as there are certainly a handful of former Commonwealth countries who would like a closer relationship with the UK.
I have always wanted to travel India, however, it is such a big country it would require several trips.
SeanF Though I suppose abortion, particularly the age limit at which termination occurs, still is an even more emotive issue than allowing gays to marry
Interestingly, polling in this country shows that the groups most supportive of tightening the abortion laws, are women, young people, and Labour voters, who are also the groups most sympathetic towards homosexuality.
Not sure if it has been mentioned but those YouGov polls do not include Northern Ireland who I would regard as quite eurosceptic and as a result believe the polling is much closer than implied in the given data.
The tweet image critically \excludes this part of the wikipedia entries and I just hope this wasn't ignored in the article intentionally.
Welcome (I see you're on post #2!). Given the small population in NI relative to GB, I don't think this would have much of an impact.
Not sure if it has been mentioned but those YouGov polls do not include Northern Ireland who I would regard as quite eurosceptic and as a result believe the polling is much closer than implied in the given data.
The tweet image critically \excludes this part of the wikipedia entries and I just hope this wasn't ignored in the article intentionally.
NI is only 3% of the UK - it will make a miniscule difference
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
I am sure a significant number of people would identify more with the Anglosphere than Europe. And to a lesser extent the former Commonwealth countries.
Quite a shame really as there are certainly a handful of former Commonwealth countries who would like a closer relationship with the UK.
I have always wanted to travel India, however, it is such a big country it would require several trips.
Not sure if it has been mentioned but those YouGov polls do not include Northern Ireland who I would regard as quite eurosceptic and as a result believe the polling is much closer than implied in the given data.
The tweet image critically \excludes this part of the wikipedia entries and I just hope this wasn't ignored in the article intentionally.
Polling on the EU should include NI, but it's only 3% of the total.
'The delayed 17:04 train arrived and it was full and standing only. There were some comments about the incident at Twyford but nothing particularly definite.
'At around 8.15pm the announcement was made over the tannoy around Exeter with the woman apologising for delays "because someone couldn't be bothered to live anymore".
'She added that "because of this there are lots of delays, some people missing connecting travels/flights for the bank holiday".
The interests of the US and UK are closely aligned. Would the EU-philes be in favour of letting the US be able to make our laws, as they are for the EU?
Don't really agree with your premise, but if I did, I'd consider the 51st state idea.
On a less contentious note (bank holiday weekend and all that, let's be peaceful), I'm planning a long holiday in the US in August, starting with the World Boardgames Convention in Lancaster, PA at the start of the month. After that, I've got some reasons to go to Las Vegas and San Francisco, and I'm flirting with the idea of hiring a car and leisurely driving across (it's about 35 hours total), stopping off at sights and small towns on the way - I've always liked small-town America despite (or perhaps because of) the cultural differences. After all, going by air takes 7 hours plus the time to get to the airport etc. But how bonkers is that? Would I be seeing lots of pretty little towns and interesting sights, or would I just be driving hour after hour across featureless cornfield terrain in blazing heat, cowering in the air conditioning? Are there sights people would specially recommend on the way?
I have done a number of road trips across the USA, as I lived there for 5 years.
The Amish country of Pennsylvania is interesting (albeit often a bit touristy).
Gettysburg is nearby, and the battlefield fascinating to see for anyone who has played Terrible Swift Sword etc. It is also quite an interesting Pennsylvanian Deutsch town in its own right. The Shenandoah valley ov Virginia is pretty, and also has some well preserved historic sites. I do not know Kentucky or Ohio very well, but Tennessee has some real redneck hillbilly country, not always pretty but an interesting insight into Southern USA.
Texas is pretty flat and a long drive across, but the Mesa Verde in Southern Colorado has some interesting Anastazi Indian sights as well as beautiful mountains. New Mexico too, and I would recommend Taos and Alberquerque. You then have to choose between Arizona or the Canyonlands of Southern Utah, with Natural Bridges NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Zion NP all of which are spectacular, or Arizona with the Painted Desert, Sedona, and Grand Canyon. This is a bit more touristy, but pretty interesting anyway. The old lodge at the Grand Canyon is very atmospheric. Worth eating there even if not staying, the Tex Mex breakfast/brunch in particular.
America is best by road, though the interstate highways are often pretty ugly. It is more interesting (but slower) to dawdle along the more minor roads and stop in small town america. Expect to be made a fuss of, they don't get many foeigners through.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
Mary, I think you mean, daughter of James Stuart.
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
Mary and Anne had parents who were born in England, and of their 4 Grandparents all bar one were English (including two commoners) the other one was French. Going back another generation, Charles the second's wife was Portuguese, and Charles the First had a French wife. We have to go back yet another generation to James 1 (VI in Scotland) before we get a British ancestor not born in England. Mary and Anne are more English than anything else and more French than Portuguese, and more Portuguese than Scottish!
Its a common European culture behind it all...
Why would Mary and Anne be part Portugese?
Charles II married Catherine of Braganza who was Portuguese, but my mistake, this was not the direct line.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
Mary, I think you mean, daughter of James Stuart.
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
Mary and Anne had parents who were born in England, and of their 4 Grandparents all bar one were English (including two commoners) the other one was French. Going back another generation, Charles the second's wife was Portuguese, and Charles the First had a French wife. We have to go back yet another generation to James 1 (VI in Scotland) before we get a British ancestor not born in England. Mary and Anne are more English than anything else and more French than Portuguese, and more Portuguese than Scottish!
Its a common European culture behind it all...
Why would Mary and Anne be part Portugese?
Charles II married Catherine of Braganza who was Portuguese, but my mistake, this was not the direct line.
Though of course this is how we got involved in India. Bombay was part of her Dowry. So we gained this part of the Empire/Commonwealth via our European links.
Plato.. Rajhastan is a terrific part of India...Alan Whicker and my crew spent a month there and enjoyed every moment of it..so much to see..worth a visit.
Just a quick comment on trade balances: there is a near perfect correlation between savings rates and trade surpluses, and this is consistent irrespective of whether countries are in trading blocs are not.
So: Germany, Switzerland - high savings rates, and therefore trade surpluses
US, and UK - low savings rates, and therefore trade deficits.
This is not an argument in favour of any particular outcome (as you can have trade supluses in or out of trading groups), but it is important to recognise that the predominant reason we have a trade deficit is because we spend all (or slightly more than all) we earn.
Miss Plato, worth recalling that Queen Anne was, alongside William, monarch in 1689, and she was English. It's the only time, I think, we had two monarchs co-reigning, rather than a monarch and a consort/spouse.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
And following that we imported our monarchs from Germany. Our history and culture are intimately bound to Europe.
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
I am sure a significant number of people would identify more with the Anglosphere than Europe. And to a lesser extent the former Commonwealth countries.
Quite a shame really as there are certainly a handful of former Commonwealth countries who would like a closer relationship with the UK.
I have always wanted to travel India, however, it is such a big country it would require several trips.
The palaces look spectacular.
India's property ownership laws are quite strict if I remember correctly. People without ties to the country cannot buy. Which may not necessarily be a bad thing as I know people who own considerable amounts of land who have had nothing but trouble.
The son of a maharajah asked me to marry him when I was there - I got treated to the whole servants/rose petal path/meet the parents-aunties-etc and stuff.
It was Mind Blowing. I rang my BFF in England from the loo in his 400 room fort and did a total WTF?!?!?!?! as I'd no idea he had this planned [I'd no idea who he was when we met and right up until the flower baskets and small children in uniforms welcomed me].
It was the most incredibly bizarre and wonderful holiday romance. Several thousand miles put the kibosh on it, but golly what a cracker of a bucket list experience I didn't expect.
Plato.. Rajhastan is a terrific part of India...Alan Whicker and my crew spent a month there and enjoyed every moment of it..so much to see..worth a visit.
Just a quick comment on trade balances: there is a near perfect correlation between savings rates and trade surpluses, and this is consistent irrespective of whether countries are in trading blocs are not.
So: Germany, Switzerland - high savings rates, and therefore trade surpluses
US, and UK - low savings rates, and therefore trade deficits.
This is not an argument in favour of any particular outcome (as you can have trade supluses in or out of trading groups), but it is important to recognise that the predominant reason we have a trade deficit is because we spend all (or slightly more than all) we earn.
You can't do that indefinitely though. And if we have a greater propensity to spend now shouldn't we be growing more than countries who are saving more? Might this also explain our greater tendency to boom and bust. When the next crash happens, Brits will have less to fall back on than virtually anyone else and our dreadful investment levels catch up with us. Have a look at the countries with a lower investment rate than the UK in 2014. A rather interesting group shall we say. Still it seems as if Sterling remains immune. We're often told how we as Brits live under the illusion that we're still great. It seems more likely that it's the rest of the world with the illusion.
Just a quick comment on trade balances: there is a near perfect correlation between savings rates and trade surpluses, and this is consistent irrespective of whether countries are in trading blocs are not.
So: Germany, Switzerland - high savings rates, and therefore trade surpluses
US, and UK - low savings rates, and therefore trade deficits.
This is not an argument in favour of any particular outcome (as you can have trade supluses in or out of trading groups), but it is important to recognise that the predominant reason we have a trade deficit is because we spend all (or slightly more than all) we earn.
You can't do that indefinitely though. And if we have a greater propensity to spend now shouldn't we be growing more than countries who are saving more? Might this also explain our greater tendency to boom and bust. When the next crash happens, Brits will have less to fall back on than virtually anyone else and our dreadful investment levels catch up with us. Have a look at the countries with a lower investment rate than the UK in 2014. A rather interesting group shall we say. Still it seems as if Sterling remains immune. We're often told how we as Brits live under the illusion that we're still great. It seems more likely that it's the rest of the world with the illusion.
Since there's been a bit of a shortage lately, some polling tomorrow.
@andrewpicken1 Tomorrow's @Sunday_Post has a YouGov poll where we test impact of an SNP #indyref pledge in its Holyrood 2016 manifesto #buyapaper
Hopefully they will have voting intention figures so we can assess the impact, if any, of the Labour and LibDems meltdowns. I hope the Daily Record will keep their monthly Survation polls going as we now have 18 months of data, they highlighted the SNP surge 9 months before the Referendum, I'd expect they would be first to show any downward trend in SNP support.
Just a quick comment on trade balances: there is a near perfect correlation between savings rates and trade surpluses, and this is consistent irrespective of whether countries are in trading blocs are not.
So: Germany, Switzerland - high savings rates, and therefore trade surpluses
US, and UK - low savings rates, and therefore trade deficits.
This is not an argument in favour of any particular outcome (as you can have trade supluses in or out of trading groups), but it is important to recognise that the predominant reason we have a trade deficit is because we spend all (or slightly more than all) we earn.
Balance of payments varies as well according to repatriation and exporting of company profits. If overseas companies are doing well here they will be exploring the profits home. If our overseas investments are doing well the we import their profits.
On September 7th, 1950, the Times of London printed a news story about a 10-month-old black-and-white kitten who became the first feline to conquer the Matterhorn, a formidable mountain in the Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy.
The cat lived at the Hotel Belvedere, situated on the mountain’s Hörnli Ridge at an elevation of 3298m (10,820ft) and used as a starting point for Alpinists attempting the dangerous climb. Having become accustomed to watching the dawn departure of the climbers, the cat set out one morning to follow them up the mountainside. Soon outdistanced, he climbed solo and spent his first night at the Solvay Hut, a refuge at 3827m (12,556ft). The next day he climbed still higher, and bivouacked that night in a couloir (gully) above the shoulder.
Plato I guess it would have gone under Whickers World India ..we did a four, five month trip there..The Raj, Mumbai, Bollywood,Kerala, Cochin and area.
On September 7th, 1950, the Times of London printed a news story about a 10-month-old black-and-white kitten who became the first feline to conquer the Matterhorn, a formidable mountain in the Alps on the border between Switzerland and Italy.
The cat lived at the Hotel Belvedere, situated on the mountain’s Hörnli Ridge at an elevation of 3298m (10,820ft) and used as a starting point for Alpinists attempting the dangerous climb. Having become accustomed to watching the dawn departure of the climbers, the cat set out one morning to follow them up the mountainside. Soon outdistanced, he climbed solo and spent his first night at the Solvay Hut, a refuge at 3827m (12,556ft). The next day he climbed still higher, and bivouacked that night in a couloir (gully) above the shoulder.
Not sure if it has been mentioned but those YouGov polls do not include Northern Ireland who I would regard as quite eurosceptic and as a result believe the polling is much closer than implied in the given data.
The tweet image critically \excludes this part of the wikipedia entries and I just hope this wasn't ignored in the article intentionally.
EU funding tends to drift to our poorer regions if anything, so I do not see logic in your supposition. Eire received a raft of EU funds at one time but that has moved away now, so they ought to be the more disillusioned.
Plato I guess it would have gone under Whickers World India ..we did a four, five month trip there..The Raj, Mumbai, Bollywood,Kerala, Cochin and area.
In light of their record at GE 2015 I will wait for the Exit Poll.
I am probably a yes voter but open to persuation.
They were ultimately right on the AV referendum, the Indyref.
Golden rule, whichever side Dave is on, that side will win, he won the AV ref, he won the indyref, he's never lost a plebiscite
He's very good at this politics lark, and being Prime Minister, plus he'll have George Osborne advising him, and he's the greatest strategist in British Politics right now.
In light of their record at GE 2015 I will wait for the Exit Poll.
I am probably a yes voter but open to persuation.
They were ultimately right on the AV referendum, the Indyref.
Golden rule, whichever side Dave is on, that side will win, he won the AV ref, he won the indyref, he's never lost a plebiscite
He's very good at this politics lark, and being Prime Minister, plus he'll have George Osborne advising him, and he's the greatest strategist in British Politics right now.
Comments
Then there will be consternation among the people who thought there would be more opportunities to accomplish what they want from UK & still enable him to recommend IN.
As an island nation last invaded in 1066 [let's excuse the whole William of Orange bit as politically convenient for Magna Carta], I just reflexively kick back on Eurojudges setting our laws, and advocate judges here using it to their own ideological ends.
But there are others. Necrosis is already bruising the body politic of Brussels.
Mr. 1000, I fear you're as optimistic as a therapist attempting to purge the aggressive behaviour from a xenomorph. Interesting that we both think the UK should leave, despite our otherwise differing views.
[I do know the odd snippet of modern history].
If you look into the past and consider one of the world's biggest car makers, VW. It was formed to provide a national people's car and was resurrected after the war by a British army officer. It was initially protected from takeover by foreign interests, since repealed, but the local government holds effectively a decisive share in the company.
Concerning the EU referendum perhaps we will adopt the EU practice of having referendums until the "right" answer is obtained - whatever that is!
My dear old thing, I tend to agree with you - partially.
By far the greater number of inquiries we receive are from outside the EU. However, these are often quite hard and take time to convert - part due to price and part due to lack of local representation - but we are building up, especially over the last six months, an excellent set of contacts from places like Brazil, Mexico, India, Iran, Malaysia and China.
Our other main volume comes via some European majors. For instance we are working offshore Angola for Total, with Siemens (Germany) on a new industrial complex near Kuala Lumpur and Tullow Oil in Ghana. Some of these exports are classed as to the EU but the Total one will not as Total will invoice out of Angola. l
Anne, also a daughter of James Stuart and monarch overseeing the Act of Union, might better be described as British.
My knowledge is patchy, so have set myself the task of absorbing the big points.
I'm a sucker for historical social trivia and discovered that The Clink was owned by the Bishop of Winchester, had its own laws within The Liberty and the infamous gaol for hundreds of years. And the expression *goose-bumps* comes from venereal diseases caught from the *Winchester Gooses* or prostitutes who worked legally within its jurisdiction. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Liberty_of_the_Clink
I love this sort of stuff. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Clink
Indeed it is when travelling outside Europe, in Africa, the Middle East, Far East and North America that I realise how european I am in terms of attitudes. I dare say that there are some parts of Europe that are even nicer than this green and pleasant land.
Alanbrooke Denmark and Sweden are still outside the Euro having rejected it in their referenda
On a less contentious note (bank holiday weekend and all that, let's be peaceful), I'm planning a long holiday in the US in August, starting with the World Boardgames Convention in Lancaster, PA at the start of the month. After that, I've got some reasons to go to Las Vegas and San Francisco, and I'm flirting with the idea of hiring a car and leisurely driving across (it's about 35 hours total), stopping off at sights and small towns on the way - I've always liked small-town America despite (or perhaps because of) the cultural differences. After all, going by air takes 7 hours plus the time to get to the airport etc. But how bonkers is that? Would I be seeing lots of pretty little towns and interesting sights, or would I just be driving hour after hour across featureless cornfield terrain in blazing heat, cowering in the air conditioning? Are there sights people would specially recommend on the way?
The EU have pursued aggressive trade deals with some of the world's poorest countries which have destroyed jobs and decimated local industries.
As if there could be a realm happier than this sceptred isle. Wash your mouth out with soap, treacherous pigdog!
In seriousness, I do not buy that argument. Of course more distant lands seem more foreign than nearer ones.
Mr. Divvie, ha, good job there's someone here who knows his beans
Yes, upon checking, Mary. That's what I get for trying to show I know something about a part of history so recent as to be practically vulgar.
Mr. Runnymede, welcome back
Ed was a dud, nothing 'unknown' about it.
You think Romania and Britain are as similar as Yorkshire and East Anglia? Or Greece is as similar to Germany as Gascony is to Brittany? I must dispute your assertion with contempt and vigour.
The social, economic, and demographic differences are enormous, not to mention the history.
It's my own fault. I ought to know better.
Burnham out a touch to 2.0.
Its a common European culture behind it all...
The tweet image critically \excludes this part of the wikipedia entries and I just hope this wasn't ignored in the article intentionally.
I have always wanted to travel India, however, it is such a big country it would require several trips.
Betting PostExcessively heavy wallet causing back ache? Take Morris Dancer's patented back pain remedy and lighten your load by following his two Monaco race tips:
http://enormo-haddock.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/monaco-pre-race.html
eg:
GB - Yes 55, No 45
NI - Yes 30, No 70
....... would give:
UK - 54.25, No 45.75
I did three weeks and seriously considered/still thinking about it emigrating.
The Amish country of Pennsylvania is interesting (albeit often a bit touristy).
Gettysburg is nearby, and the battlefield fascinating to see for anyone who has played Terrible Swift Sword etc. It is also quite an interesting Pennsylvanian Deutsch town in its own right. The Shenandoah valley ov Virginia is pretty, and also has some well preserved historic sites. I do not know Kentucky or Ohio very well, but Tennessee has some real redneck hillbilly country, not always pretty but an interesting insight into Southern USA.
Texas is pretty flat and a long drive across, but the Mesa Verde in Southern Colorado has some interesting Anastazi Indian sights as well as beautiful mountains. New Mexico too, and I would recommend Taos and Alberquerque. You then have to choose between Arizona or the Canyonlands of Southern Utah, with Natural Bridges NP, Bryce Canyon NP, Zion NP all of which are spectacular, or Arizona with the Painted Desert, Sedona, and Grand Canyon. This is a bit more touristy, but pretty interesting anyway. The old lodge at the Grand Canyon is very atmospheric. Worth eating there even if not staying, the Tex Mex breakfast/brunch in particular.
America is best by road, though the interstate highways are often pretty ugly. It is more interesting (but slower) to dawdle along the more minor roads and stop in small town america. Expect to be made a fuss of, they don't get many foeigners through.
So: Germany, Switzerland - high savings rates, and therefore trade surpluses
US, and UK - low savings rates, and therefore trade deficits.
This is not an argument in favour of any particular outcome (as you can have trade supluses in or out of trading groups), but it is important to recognise that the predominant reason we have a trade deficit is because we spend all (or slightly more than all) we earn.
India's property ownership laws are quite strict if I remember correctly. People without ties to the country cannot buy. Which may not necessarily be a bad thing as I know people who own considerable amounts of land who have had nothing but trouble.
It was Mind Blowing. I rang my BFF in England from the loo in his 400 room fort and did a total WTF?!?!?!?! as I'd no idea he had this planned [I'd no idea who he was when we met and right up until the flower baskets and small children in uniforms welcomed me].
It was the most incredibly bizarre and wonderful holiday romance. Several thousand miles put the kibosh on it, but golly what a cracker of a bucket list experience I didn't expect.
@andrewpicken1
Tomorrow's @Sunday_Post has a YouGov poll where we test impact of an SNP #indyref pledge in its Holyrood 2016 manifesto #buyapaper
So, without spending more money - what would you like to see a future Labour HMG implement?
I'm wondering how the climber managed to keep him in his rucksack on the descent?
http://www.shetnews.co.uk/viewpoint/10707-opinion-the-isles-deserve-another-vote
Should he decide to hang on his 2 MSP colleagues may end up paying the price for his behaviour.
Does anyone think the Polls this far out matter?
In light of their record at GE 2015 I will wait for the Exit Poll.
I am probably a yes voter but open to persuation.
TSE having the night off?
I brung you a massage:
The Aerovision Sing Contest will start at Ooot O'Click!
Blame South Yorkshire Police and the sodding rail unions.
Had to attend a speed awareness course yesterday, and the shirking parasite striking train staff have ruined my weekend.
Jeremy Clarkson was right about striking staff.
http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/05/21/uk-britain-railway-strike-idUKKBN0O61QJ20150521
EDIT and little to no rain
Golden rule, whichever side Dave is on, that side will win, he won the AV ref, he won the indyref, he's never lost a plebiscite
He's very good at this politics lark, and being Prime Minister, plus he'll have George Osborne advising him, and he's the greatest strategist in British Politics right now.