It sounds unbelievable, but it convinced a jury. Some people are just very naïve.
There was a rape case from the 19th century in which a quack doctor convinced a woman that if he allowed him to have sex with her daughter, it would cure her daughter's mental illness.
There should be a word of warning for Labour after this result: they handsomely won the Inverclyde by-election in 2011, only for the SNP to absolutely smash them in that constituency four years later.
A combination of a poor, ill-regarded leader, a core vote they treated with contempt, internal rivalries (Falkirk), and a strong, credible alternative saw Scottish Labour get destroyed in May.
In Corbyn, they have a weak leader. Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them. The internal rivalries are there for everyone to see.
Their only advantage lies in the last factor: many WWC would never vote Conservative. This by-election also shows that they'll never vote UKIP either.
Labour are on very dangerous ground.
The new MP looks very likely to be in touch with his core vote of all ethnicities. I cannot see him talking down to anyone. If Labour had more people like him the Tories would be quaking in their boots.
The new MP strikes me as a thoroughly sensible chap.
In the parallel universe where Kendall won the leadership, and in the shad cab were Dan Jarvis and co., he would fit right in and the lot of them would be scaring the bejeesus out of Cameron and Osborne right now!
I note that he's been on the receiving end of Momentum's hatred already this morning for being the wrong sort of Labour MP, and he's not even taken the Oath yet!
What is it about Kendall and Jarvis that makes you think they are polished Commons performers or compelling speakers?
£7,000 a year on cabs -- is that a lot compared to the cost of a dedicated car and driver? It does not seem excessive for swanning around central London.
There should be a word of warning for Labour after this result: they handsomely won the Inverclyde by-election in 2011, only for the SNP to absolutely smash them in that constituency four years later.
A combination of a poor, ill-regarded leader, a core vote they treated with contempt, internal rivalries (Falkirk), and a strong, credible alternative saw Scottish Labour get destroyed in May.
In Corbyn, they have a weak leader. Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them. The internal rivalries are there for everyone to see.
Their only advantage lies in the last factor: many WWC would never vote Conservative. This by-election also shows that they'll never vote UKIP either.
Labour are on very dangerous ground.
The new MP looks very likely to be in touch with his core vote of all ethnicities. I cannot see him talking down to anyone. If Labour had more people like him the Tories would be quaking in their boots.
The new MP strikes me as a thoroughly sensible chap.
In the parallel universe where Kendall won the leadership, and in the shad cab were Dan Jarvis and co., he would fit right in and the lot of them would be scaring the bejeesus out of Cameron and Osborne right now!
I note that he's been on the receiving end of Momentum's hatred already this morning for being the wrong sort of Labour MP, and he's not even taken the Oath yet!
What is it about Kendall and Jarvis that makes you think they are polished Commons performers or compelling speakers?
Benn would be leading that particular Gov't, Jarvis at Defence or Foreign.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
They still intend to retain the old bridge and the expectation is that a low traffic crossing will have lower maintenance costs. I'm not convinced.
However, if it does need to come down at some point, there are a lot of reasons why a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing.
Biggest by election surprise since Glenrothes? Not the result as such (who cares?) but the vote shares. Let the conspiracies begin.
Just a word of caution though. The Asian population in the constituency isn't huge and as was pointed out beforehand turnout isn't always the highest amongst them. That can't explain the size of Labour's win. What IS odd though is that it goes against the vibe of what we were hearing from Oldham.
There should be a word of warning for Labour after this result: they handsomely won the Inverclyde by-election in 2011, only for the SNP to absolutely smash them in that constituency four years later.
A combination of a poor, ill-regarded leader, a core vote they treated with contempt, internal rivalries (Falkirk), and a strong, credible alternative saw Scottish Labour get destroyed in May.
In Corbyn, they have a weak leader. Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them. The internal rivalries are there for everyone to see.
Their only advantage lies in the last factor: many WWC would never vote Conservative. This by-election also shows that they'll never vote UKIP either.
Labour are on very dangerous ground.
The new MP looks very likely to be in touch with his core vote of all ethnicities. I cannot see him talking down to anyone. If Labour had more people like him the Tories would be quaking in their boots.
I note that he's been on the receiving end of Momentum's hatred already this morning for being the wrong sort of Labour MP, and he's not even taken the Oath yet!
Source?
Possibly they have been provoked into action by John Mann saying that the new MP will one day be leader.
There should be a word of warning for Labour after this result: they handsomely won the Inverclyde by-election in 2011, only for the SNP to absolutely smash them in that constituency four years later.
A combination of a poor, ill-regarded leader, a core vote they treated with contempt, internal rivalries (Falkirk), and a strong, credible alternative saw Scottish Labour get destroyed in May.
In Corbyn, they have a weak leader. Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them. The internal rivalries are there for everyone to see.
Their only advantage lies in the last factor: many WWC would never vote Conservative. This by-election also shows that they'll never vote UKIP either.
Labour are on very dangerous ground.
The new MP looks very likely to be in touch with his core vote of all ethnicities. I cannot see him talking down to anyone. If Labour had more people like him the Tories would be quaking in their boots.
I note that he's been on the receiving end of Momentum's hatred already this morning for being the wrong sort of Labour MP, and he's not even taken the Oath yet!
Source?
Possibly they have been provoked into action by John Mann saying that the new MP will one day be leader.
There should be a word of warning for Labour after this result: they handsomely won the Inverclyde by-election in 2011, only for the SNP to absolutely smash them in that constituency four years later.
A combination of a poor, ill-regarded leader, a core vote they treated with contempt, internal rivalries (Falkirk), and a strong, credible alternative saw Scottish Labour get destroyed in May.
In Corbyn, they have a weak leader. Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them. The internal rivalries are there for everyone to see.
Their only advantage lies in the last factor: many WWC would never vote Conservative. This by-election also shows that they'll never vote UKIP either.
Labour are on very dangerous ground.
The new MP looks very likely to be in touch with his core vote of all ethnicities. I cannot see him talking down to anyone. If Labour had more people like him the Tories would be quaking in their boots.
I note that he's been on the receiving end of Momentum's hatred already this morning for being the wrong sort of Labour MP, and he's not even taken the Oath yet!
Source?
It was mentioned on here earlier that there were calls for him to be deselected in 2020, but TBF I haven't seen it myself from a brief search of Twitter so will withdraw the comment for now.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
They still intend to retain the old bridge and the expectation is that a low traffic crossing will have lower maintenance costs. I'm not convinced.
However, if it does need to come down at some point, there are a lot of reasons why a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing.
The cost would be absolutely minimal.
Yes but think of the poor coastal walkers who don't take ferries! The Scottish government should build a new bridge for walkers just to prevent us having to suffer Boness and Kincardine.
Will no-one think of the walkers!
I'm not convinced the old bridge will remain open either. I'd be interested to know the details of the latest problems.
Regarding postal voting, I would restrict it to those living and working overseas. I would, however, offer 2 new options:
Advance voting - have a polling station open in the 2 weeks before the election at the council offices, where people can cast their ballot in person in advance
Mobile polling teams - have a team of council workers who go round with a mobile ballot box visiting nursing homes and housebound people in the week before the election allowing them to vote in person without having to go to the polling station
The Conservatives have had the Alzheimer nursing home vote sewn up in nursing homes for over 50 years why would they want to lose that advantage ?
Any evidence for that slur?
TSE said something similar yesterday although expressed in a slightly less inflammatory way "the old dears forget to vote" or similar.
If UKIP do raise an election petition they would do all of us a favour. IMO it would be useful for the Electoral Commission to select a few constituencies with big postal votes and "audit" them, but I am not sure that is in their remit.
A journalist reported on a UKIP meeting where an asian gentleman explained that Labour activists had been telling the muslim community that if UKIP gained power they would deport them and that they are the BNP mk2. It is entirely plausable that UKIP have links to the muslim community and have been informed that some of the postal voting was fraudulent. If this is the case they have a right to be annoyed.
Any Barclay Bros tipsters want a bet,I'll be happy to lay it -like taking candy off babies.Is Toby Young vying with Dan Hodges for the Torygraph's worst tipster of all time? Toby Young @toadmeister Nov 25 Just placed a bet on UKIP to win in Oldham West. 11/4. Wish I’d got on earlier!
'Remarkably, Corbyn emerges from this week stronger than ever (most of the PLP support his position, which is also that of the members, and no negative impact electorally at this point). Who'd have believed it ? '
Stronger than ever when 30% of his MP's vote against him including senior members of his shadow cabinet?
Stronger than ever when he wins a by-election in a rock solid Labour seat ?
No impact electorally,have you seen the national polls in what is Corbyn's honeymoon period ?
Stronger than ever does not mean 'very strong'. Reporting makes it seem he has virtually no support or even common ground with most of the PLP, but the majority are it seems of an accord with him.
I have seen the polls, but they had no impact on the first 'electoral' test, the by-election. That may prove to be an isolated case, and it was always a rock solid Labour seat, but there was not even a dip in support as had been expected, so though those saying he will inevitably be toxic at other elections, and particularly a GE, may well be right, there was not scraped victory or loss here to prove that to be definitively so.
It's a relative judgement, but yes, he is stronger than ever now, even if we think that still means doomed.
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
Mr Galloway, who is now running for Mayor of London, is alleged to have misused parliamentary funds as an MP, by reportedly asking his assistant to buy his underwear, sort his laundry and plan his wedding.
Though it hasn't been a brilliant betting week for me either.
I backed Ukip early on then laid back for a small profit, in truth I'm still learning from you guys.
I made good profits from football for over ten years but the last couple of seasons I have lost, I've always done well with horses now I couldn't tip rubbish. Taken a sabbatical from both and decided to just bet on the sport that these days I enjoy watching more than any other, cricket. However I shall only use the spread markets.
Show's what state the Labour Party's is in when it's celebrating the winning of its 61st safest seat in the UK with six thousand fewer votes than in May
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing
As someone who travelled on the old one as the Forth Bridge was going up, it was picturesque with the rail bridge looming above you (I also passed the Mauretania at the breakers in Rosyth on that trip) - the question would be, would you have enough traffic to support it?
Mr. Pete, shade unfair. Everyone who offers tips gets some wrong (this year was not a vintage one for F1, either as spectacle or for my tips).
That said, I do agree Young is a bit excitable and has some poor judgement (he called for blue-purple tactical voting at the General Election, forgetting that blue voters are about as likely to vote tactically as Xi Jinping).
I think the government need to reform postal voting so that only retired people and those with disabilities can use them. The current system is too open to abuse
A similar thing happened near Manchester a decade or so ago, as anyone who used the M6 will attest. The difference there being that they managed to get the new bridge open before the old one started crumbling.
I might be wrong, but I'm not sure it was that clever. From memory, they aimed to build the second viaduct, and then close the first so it could be renovated. They did this, but shortly after reopening they realised that it was cracking up (or at least its bearings were). There was therefore another lengthy closure.
Good article. Didn't realise they'd already refurbed the old bridge once when the bearings failed. Do remember the 10-mile queues and endless 40mph speed limits with the new-fangled SPECS cameras watching over them though!
£7,000 a year on cabs -- is that a lot compared to the cost of a dedicated car and driver? It does not seem excessive for swanning around central London.
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
Mr Galloway, who is now running for Mayor of London, is alleged to have misused parliamentary funds as an MP, by reportedly asking his assistant to buy his underwear, sort his laundry and plan his wedding.
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
Mr Galloway, who is now running for Mayor of London, is alleged to have misused parliamentary funds as an MP, by reportedly asking his assistant to buy his underwear, sort his laundry and plan his wedding.
I wonder if the two are currently sitting MPs though.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
They still intend to retain the old bridge and the expectation is that a low traffic crossing will have lower maintenance costs. I'm not convinced.
However, if it does need to come down at some point, there are a lot of reasons why a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing.
The cost would be absolutely minimal.
I'm not convinced the old bridge will remain open either. I'd be interested to know the detail of the latest problems.
Though it hasn't been a brilliant betting week for me either.
I backed Ukip early on then laid back for a small profit, in truth I'm still learning from you guys.
I made good profits from football for over ten years but the last couple of seasons I have lost, I've always done well with horses now I couldn't tip rubbish. Taken a sabbatical from both and decided to just bet on the sport that these days I enjoy watching more than any other, cricket. However I shall only use the spread markets.
Betting on football, especially the lower divisions, has become a minefield. I'm sure there's money in laying odds on shots away from home in the Prem, the gap between the teams is narrowing all the time
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
Mr Galloway, who is now running for Mayor of London, is alleged to have misused parliamentary funds as an MP, by reportedly asking his assistant to buy his underwear, sort his laundry and plan his wedding.
A similar thing happened near Manchester a decade or so ago, as anyone who used the M6 will attest. The difference there being that they managed to get the new bridge open before the old one started crumbling.
The replacement bridge was blocked by the Labour Party for years, the SNP began the plans as soon as they formed the government.
Any issues with the timing overlap are entirely the fault of SLAB.
I'm not sure that's the case. The full extent of the problems in the bridge were discovered in 2005. The SNP minority government was formed in May 2007. In June 2007 the Forth Replacement Crossing Study (2007) was released, recommending a bridge. Earlier parts of the report were released in February 2007, before the SNP came to power.
It seems sensible to do a study into the alternatives (I favoured a tunnel, but I would) before detailed planning. And the Labour government commissioned that report.
Though it hasn't been a brilliant betting week for me either.
I backed Ukip early on then laid back for a small profit, in truth I'm still learning from you guys.
I made good profits from football for over ten years but the last couple of seasons I have lost, I've always done well with horses now I couldn't tip rubbish. Taken a sabbatical from both and decided to just bet on the sport that these days I enjoy watching more than any other, cricket. However I shall only use the spread markets.
Betting on football, especially the lower divisions, has become a minefield. I'm sure there's money in laying odds on shots away from home in the Prem, the gap between the teams is narrowing all the time
Strangely enough that is one area me and my betting mate are looking at, will let you know how it goes.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
They still intend to retain the old bridge and the expectation is that a low traffic crossing will have lower maintenance costs. I'm not convinced.
However, if it does need to come down at some point, there are a lot of reasons why a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing.
The cost would be absolutely minimal.
I'm not convinced the old bridge will remain open either. I'd be interested to know the detail of the latest problems.
Its staying closed until the New Year......
Ouch. There must be a chance it won't reopen fully.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
They still intend to retain the old bridge and the expectation is that a low traffic crossing will have lower maintenance costs. I'm not convinced.
However, if it does need to come down at some point, there are a lot of reasons why a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing.
The cost would be absolutely minimal.
Yes but think of the poor coastal walkers who don't take ferries! The Scottish government should build a new bridge for walkers just to prevent us having to suffer Boness and Kincardine.
Will no-one think of the walkers!
I'm not convinced the old bridge will remain open either. I'd be interested to know the details of the latest problems.
“This is a complex engineering challenge. The component failure is in a difficult to access location and our response is also highly dependent on weather conditions.
“We continue to work around the clock on inspections, assessments and calculations along with the development of designs to effect the necessary repairs, while at the same time mobilising all the resources required to reopen the bridge as soon as is possible.”
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
Mr Galloway, who is now running for Mayor of London, is alleged to have misused parliamentary funds as an MP, by reportedly asking his assistant to buy his underwear, sort his laundry and plan his wedding.
Biggest by election surprise since Glenrothes? Not the result as such (who cares?) but the vote shares. Let the conspiracies begin.
Just a word of caution though. The Asian population in the constituency isn't huge and as was pointed out beforehand turnout isn't always the highest amongst them. That can't explain the size of Labour's win. What IS odd though is that it goes against the vibe of what we were hearing from Oldham.
Reporters going in search of stories; top class Labour expectation management; a poor UKIP campaign that seems to have taken the WWC vote for granted (very Labour); and maybe one more thing: the Benn speech got a lot of coverage, almost all of it positive. That may actually have won Labour some votes on the day. It put a spring in many disillusioned steps.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing
As someone who travelled on the old one as the Forth Bridge was going up, it was picturesque with the rail bridge looming above you (I also passed the Mauretania at the breakers in Rosyth on that trip) - the question would be, would you have enough traffic to support it?
Anecdotally, there are lots of people who walk over the bridge, but when the reach the other side they don't go down the steps and just head back across. It's like it is a walk in the park for locals.
I've seen people do similar on the Humber Bridge, but not the Severn.
However, cyclist commuters do seem to use it for 'proper' transport. They could perhaps be catered for by a bike-bus over the new bridge.
Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them.
Is this our perception, or a fact ?
Perception. Hence 'seem to'
Corbyn gives the impression of having as little idea about the WWC as Miliband or Cameron. He's been a politician for too long. And any views he does have are probably set firmly in the 1970s with the rest of his views.
It'd be interesting to hear a defence of him on that charge.
Treating the white working class as a single block is the first error. many WWC people work in low pay, public service jobs. Many others in low pay, private sector jobs. They have very different life experiences, but none will incline them towards the right.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing
As someone who travelled on the old one as the Forth Bridge was going up, it was picturesque with the rail bridge looming above you (I also passed the Mauretania at the breakers in Rosyth on that trip) - the question would be, would you have enough traffic to support it?
Anecdotally, there are lots of people who walk over the bridge, but when the reach the other side they don't go down the steps and just head back across. It's like it is a walk in the park for locals.
I've done that! Parked in the car park on the Edinburgh side and walked across & back - pretty blustery mind!
Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them.
Is this our perception, or a fact ?
Perception. Hence 'seem to'
Corbyn gives the impression of having as little idea about the WWC as Miliband or Cameron. He's been a politician for too long. And any views he does have are probably set firmly in the 1970s with the rest of his views.
It'd be interesting to hear a defence of him on that charge.
I know it doesn't seem immediately apparent but Labour and UKIP motivated the same proportion (73%) of their May 2015 vote to turnout. Labour did no better than UKIP, and UKIP no worse than Labour.
The headline percentage change is almost entirely down to Tories not bothering to vote or take sides because:
a) The seat is unwinnable; b) There is a Tory government in place until 2020;
The big issue for UKIP is that Tories may see no reason to support them tactically whilst the parliamentary arithmetic is what it is. So, how can they break through?
The only thing I can see to help them is Corbyn dragging Labour further left.
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing
As someone who travelled on the old one as the Forth Bridge was going up, it was picturesque with the rail bridge looming above you (I also passed the Mauretania at the breakers in Rosyth on that trip) - the question would be, would you have enough traffic to support it?
Anecdotally, there are lots of people who walk over the bridge, but when the reach the other side they don't go down the steps and just head back across. It's like it is a walk in the park for locals.
I've seen people do similar on the Humber Bridge, but not the Severn.
However, cyclist commuters do seem to use it for 'proper' transport. They could perhaps be catered for by a bike-bus over the new bridge.
All anecdotally, of course.
A long time ago I cycled with a friend from John O'Groats to Land's End during the university summer holidays. To liven things up, we held a couple of competitive time trials each day, complete with stage name. One such was over the Forth Bridge, and was thus titled "Bored on the Forth in July".
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
Good interview by the Guardian with Jim McMahon from 2012. http://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/jun/26/jim-mcmahon-leader-oldham-council Easy to see that he had a huge personal vote in the area as someone who was young but cared about the place where his kids were growing up. He also got cross-party support for his reforms of the council.
Labour still seem to want to talk down to the WWC, rather than help them.
Is this our perception, or a fact ?
Perception. Hence 'seem to'
Corbyn gives the impression of having as little idea about the WWC as Miliband or Cameron. He's been a politician for too long. And any views he does have are probably set firmly in the 1970s with the rest of his views.
It'd be interesting to hear a defence of him on that charge.
none will incline them towards the right.
I hope Labour shares your analysis......
It's kind of born out in the data. What seems clear is that there does not seem to be a rush to UKIP.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
Never mind Oldham West - here's the result we have all been waiting for. Bognor Regis Town Council ( Marine Ward): LD 265, Lab 216, Con 107, Green 25 - Lib Dem HOLD
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
NYT on the case of Zuckerberg tax planning, I mean giving his fortune away to himself. They dissect his latest spin about how it isn't tax efficient to do so and the claim that they will pay capital gains.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
Good interview by the Guardian with Jim McMahon from 2012. http://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/jun/26/jim-mcmahon-leader-oldham-council Easy to see that he had a huge personal vote in the area as someone who was young but cared about the place where his kids were growing up. He also got cross-party support for his reforms of the council.
Yep - a really strong addition to the Labour parliamentary party. The Corbynistas will clearly grow to hate him, but he has a very strong mandate.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
There's nothing quite so good as being told you're "cancer free" is there?
They 'predicted' the problems six years after problems were uncovered in 2005. Great predictive powers there!
Stupidly, AIUI they're not building a walkway across the new bridge. ISTR the old bridge is supposed to be kept open for buses and pedestrians (*), but as I've pointed out passim, the maintenance costs will be too great to keep it open long-term for those purposes.It'll either have to be massively upgraded or taken down. (**)
So the great unwashed walkers will have to go via Kincardine, poor fools.
Whatever the answer, something went seriously wrong with either the construction or the maintenance of the Forth Road Bridge. It's 120+ year predicted lifespan started to look ropey at 40, and is looking imperilled at 50. Other bridge builders and maintainers will be anxiously looking at what's going on.
(*) I'd love to know if that's still the case. (**) I can't think of a case where such a large suspension bridge has been intentionally demolished. It'll be tricky. My dad would have loved the job.
a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing
As someone who travelled on the old one as the Forth Bridge was going up, it was picturesque with the rail bridge looming above you (I also passed the Mauretania at the breakers in Rosyth on that trip) - the question would be, would you have enough traffic to support it?
The Yoker ferry subsidy is only £400k a year and that crossing is pretty dead most of the time. I'd expect the summer tourist trade to cover the full cost for the year of a new Queensferry ferry. It might also boost North Queenferry's tourist trade which is negligible compared to South Queensferry.
NYT on the case of Zuckerberg tax planning, I mean giving his fortune away to himself. They dissect his latest spin about how it isn't tax efficient to do so and the claim that they will pay capital gains.
WIth that amount of money, you aren't just giving it to say a hospice; you're building, running and managing a chain of hospices. It's interesting for sure.
A similar thing happened near Manchester a decade or so ago, as anyone who used the M6 will attest. The difference there being that they managed to get the new bridge open before the old one started crumbling.
The replacement bridge was blocked by the Labour Party for years, the SNP began the plans as soon as they formed the government.
Any issues with the timing overlap are entirely the fault of SLAB.
I'm not sure that's the case. The full extent of the problems in the bridge were discovered in 2005. The SNP minority government was formed in May 2007. In June 2007 the Forth Replacement Crossing Study (2007) was released, recommending a bridge. Earlier parts of the report were released in February 2007, before the SNP came to power.
It seems sensible to do a study into the alternatives (I favoured a tunnel, but I would) before detailed planning. And the Labour government commissioned that report.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
Good morning all. Huzzah! I'm very glad that my favourite contributor will be knocking it out of the park for years to come . Have a lovely euphoric weekend!
NYT on the case of Zuckerberg tax planning, I mean giving his fortune away to himself. They dissect his latest spin about how it isn't tax efficient to do so and the claim that they will pay capital gains.
I wonder how much of this - apart from the good publicity - is a cover for huge sales of a stock that could be worthless in a few years' time as technology marches on?
He would rather bank a billion in real money than rely on a theoretical multiple of that in his own company's shares.
A similar thing happened near Manchester a decade or so ago, as anyone who used the M6 will attest. The difference there being that they managed to get the new bridge open before the old one started crumbling.
The replacement bridge was blocked by the Labour Party for years, the SNP began the plans as soon as they formed the government.
Any issues with the timing overlap are entirely the fault of SLAB.
I'm not sure that's the case. The full extent of the problems in the bridge were discovered in 2005. The SNP minority government was formed in May 2007. In June 2007 the Forth Replacement Crossing Study (2007) was released, recommending a bridge. Earlier parts of the report were released in February 2007, before the SNP came to power.
It seems sensible to do a study into the alternatives (I favoured a tunnel, but I would) before detailed planning. And the Labour government commissioned that report.
I know it doesn't seem immediately apparent but Labour and UKIP motivated the same proportion (73%) of their May 2015 vote to turnout. Labour did no better than UKIP, and UKIP no worse than Labour.
The headline percentage change is almost entirely down to Tories not bothering to vote or take sides because:
a) The seat is unwinnable; b) There is a Tory government in place until 2020;
The big issue for UKIP is that Tories may see no reason to support them tactically whilst the parliamentary arithmetic is what it is. So, how can they break through?
The only thing I can see to help them is Corbyn dragging Labour further left.
It's clear that UKIP have failed to take advantage of that opportunity. Retaining 73% of their GE vote is not great when you're the obvious challenger.
Here's what the UKIP candidate was saying a few days ago: "If Ukip doesn’t win — something Bickley is admits is very possible — he thinks Thursday’s vote will be a big moment for the party. ‘Either way, we are back in the game because we’ll either win it and it’s a game changer or we’ll get a brilliant second place’. He won’t be drawn on what would count as a success but the local Ukip operation is optimistic about their chances."
Comments
http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/oldham-council-innovation-giving-hope-1508247#ICID=sharebar_twitter
So Labour wins #OldhamWest by-election with greatest ever share of vote since seat was created in 1950
However, if it does need to come down at some point, there are a lot of reasons why a new foot and cycle ferry between the Queensferry's would be a better option given both the length of the crossing and the potential to attract tourists to what would be a relatively pictureque crossing.
The cost would be absolutely minimal.
I know his Make The Whities Angry angle caused a lot of fuss - Kippers must be wondering how an ex-Lab man could be so useless in a similar seat.
Did Meacher's team do much canvassing before now? They hadn't needed to for decades.
Miss Plato, interesting observation.
We should also recall the many Labour by-election seats Miliband held.
40 years ago they would have been utterly scorned. Everybody knew the system was safe.
Will no-one think of the walkers!
I'm not convinced the old bridge will remain open either. I'd be interested to know the details of the latest problems.
Toby Young @toadmeister Nov 25
Just placed a bet on UKIP to win in Oldham West. 11/4. Wish I’d got on earlier!
I have seen the polls, but they had no impact on the first 'electoral' test, the by-election. That may prove to be an isolated case, and it was always a rock solid Labour seat, but there was not even a dip in support as had been expected, so though those saying he will inevitably be toxic at other elections, and particularly a GE, may well be right, there was not scraped victory or loss here to prove that to be definitively so.
It's a relative judgement, but yes, he is stronger than ever now, even if we think that still means doomed.
MPs are being investigated by police over their taxpayer-funded expenses, the Standard can reveal today.
Scotland Yard has assessed at least three cases in the past year involving allegations against politicians or their staff. The revelation stunned MPs at Westminster. It will reignite concerns over MPs’ use of public cash after the 2009 expenses scandal which rocked Parliament.
http://www.standard.co.uk/news/crime/two-mps-in-new-expenses-inquiry-shock-scotland-yard-probe-into-use-of-public-cash-a3129911.html
I made good profits from football for over ten years but the last couple of seasons I have lost, I've always done well with horses now I couldn't tip rubbish. Taken a sabbatical from both and decided to just bet on the sport that these days I enjoy watching more than any other, cricket. However I shall only use the spread markets.
http://new.spectator.co.uk/2015/12/could-i-have-prevented-a-kray-murder/
That said, I do agree Young is a bit excitable and has some poor judgement (he called for blue-purple tactical voting at the General Election, forgetting that blue voters are about as likely to vote tactically as Xi Jinping).
Had some good and bad years with F1. Hopefully your form (and mine) will improve soon.
It seems sensible to do a study into the alternatives (I favoured a tunnel, but I would) before detailed planning. And the Labour government commissioned that report.
http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/road/forth-replacement-crossing/forth-replacement-crossing-study-2007
http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/news/forth-road-bridge-closed-until-new-year
Chartered Engineer Mark Arndt, Amey's Account Director responsible for the bridge said:
“This is a complex engineering challenge. The component failure is in a difficult to access location and our response is also highly dependent on weather conditions.
“We continue to work around the clock on inspections, assessments and calculations along with the development of designs to effect the necessary repairs, while at the same time mobilising all the resources required to reopen the bridge as soon as is possible.”
Except, perhaps, the Duke of Beaufort...
Then only another four years to go...
#Tories4Corbyn
I've seen people do similar on the Humber Bridge, but not the Severn.
However, cyclist commuters do seem to use it for 'proper' transport. They could perhaps be catered for by a bike-bus over the new bridge.
All anecdotally, of course.
https://twitter.com/George_Osborne/status/672687202611109888
He's a Chartered Civil Engineer as well you know.
The headline percentage change is almost entirely down to Tories not bothering to vote or take sides because:
a) The seat is unwinnable;
b) There is a Tory government in place until 2020;
The big issue for UKIP is that Tories may see no reason to support them tactically whilst the parliamentary arithmetic is what it is. So, how can they break through?
The only thing I can see to help them is Corbyn dragging Labour further left.
A beautiful day here in London. Perfect weather this weekend for me to finish planting my spring bulbs: allium and tulips and iris.
A touch of hyperbole I think over Oldham: Labour holds onto safe seat with reduced majority 7 months after a general election doesn't strike me as sensational.
Anyway, the reason for my good humour this morning is that I have finally got the all clear re the cancer scare - after a lot of tests etc and monitoring for quite some time, no immediate need to go off to radiotherapy and the rest of it. Various other things wrong that I need to deal with but these are not, fortunately, terminal.
So I am like Tigger on speed today, bouncing around with happiness!!
A big thank you to all PBers for your kind wishes.
http://www.theguardian.com/society/2012/jun/26/jim-mcmahon-leader-oldham-council
Easy to see that he had a huge personal vote in the area as someone who was young but cared about the place where his kids were growing up. He also got cross-party support for his reforms of the council.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/12/04/business/dealbook/how-mark-zuckerbergs-altruism-helps-himself.html
I knew that goat I sacrificed to Asclepius on your behalf would not be in vain.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/formula1/35004203
Turns out the team whining like bitches didn't necessarily work well for them.
Congrats.
http://www.nce.co.uk/news/structures/forth-bridge-defective-member-previously-deemed-not-highly-stressed/8692911.article
Sounds quite worrying that they didn't think the failed member was highly stressed. This has to put the medium-term future of the bridge in doubt.
Met Police investigating two cases of alleged misuse of MPs' expenses - BBC
I'm all for independent mindedness, this seems a bit rich.
He would rather bank a billion in real money than rely on a theoretical multiple of that in his own company's shares.
@election_data @election_data 18 minutes ago
Angry blog coming later. Nobody will be spared.
@election_data @election_data 4 minutes ago
You c*nts on Twitter have the front, the brass neck, to mock me on Twitter after all that I have done. This blog's gonna be fun.
It's been years since I read the report, and can't remember the details. But the following appears to be an outline of the decision:
http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/system/files/documents/tsc-basic-pages/FRC-Decision-Journalist-Briefing-Sheet-Dec07.pdf
As an aside, something I found whilst looking for this: there was once a tunnel under the Forth:
http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/scotland-blog/2014/apr/30/scotland-firthofforth-coal
It's clear that UKIP have failed to take advantage of that opportunity. Retaining 73% of their GE vote is not great when you're the obvious challenger.
Here's what the UKIP candidate was saying a few days ago:
"If Ukip doesn’t win — something Bickley is admits is very possible — he thinks Thursday’s vote will be a big moment for the party. ‘Either way, we are back in the game because we’ll either win it and it’s a game changer or we’ll get a brilliant second place’. He won’t be drawn on what would count as a success but the local Ukip operation is optimistic about their chances."