In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
How is your daughter coping?
Yesterday was, understandably, quite an emotional day for her. For her team. For us all. It’s a family business now.
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Exactly the way the media operate against the current government. It's what they do in the 24 hours news age. And it's not just the British media either. I've not noticed your posts about this.
Do you think the root cause could be a form of British nationalism that denies English nationhood? Before the recent fetishisation of "the UK", we knew very well what England was.
Surely the English have been running the show since well before the Act of Union? The UK Parliament has always been composed of 3/4 English seats and the rest of the country gets maybe up to 25%.
So any wounds are likely self-inflicted...
How do you explain the Gordon Brown adminstration then?
Scottish MPs occupied several key offices of state and ministries.
That does not alter the fact that the bulk of MPs were English as was a large number of his cabinet.
Never happy having it as always England's choices, they are unhappy that Scotland ever gets any representation and amazed that dumb Scots could actually be in an office of state as if we are all morons compared to those genius English.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It’s bad journalism used to wind up the anti EU sentiment, has anyobpne seen any such notice from the EU. Apart from the fact that they would get clearance in 24 hours if they wanted it or they could use the emergency clause to do what they want.
Boris was pretty definite the other day that we would be leaving on 31/12/2020, so it could be that there's such a 'leak'.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Hard to believe the stupidity of the evangelist Brexiteers, the letters EU make them lose their minds.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
To be fair your reaction is a little hysterical. If they tried to enforce such a rule it would be ignored and not just by the UK. There are more important issues to contemplate today.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Laughable. The EU has around a thousand of it's citizens dieing every day now. They aren't going to give a flying fuck about the Corbynomics package Rishi Sunak announced the other day.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
This time tomorrow, if not in a few hours, everyone will have forgotten this silliness. Let's not waste any more time on it.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
How is your daughter coping?
Yesterday was, understandably, quite an emotional day for her. For her team. For us all. It’s a family business now.
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Our garden centre has a modest farm shop attached to it. It has started a delivery service. For which it is getting huge kudos with the Crumblies in the surrounding countryside.
Tell your daughter to do some fliers - and get them out there. Once people know it is an option, it will get taken up. And it will hold her in extremely good stead once something like normal returns.
I don't know if this has been referenced before but it addresses an issue which has always exercised me; how may ADDITIONAL deaths are caused by Covid 19? The high risk groups will have a high attrition rate without Covid 19 and the quoted data for Covid 19 deaths is of people who have died with the virus present (not causal). Flu deaths are counted as additional to deaths from other causes. I would have thought that counting Covid 19 deaths in a similar fashion would reduce percentages in 70+ set and increase them in all other sets.
Just been announced that the Big Issue will no longer be sold on the streets. 'Big Issue founder Lord John Bird said the move was aimed at safeguarding the health of the vendors, many of whom are homeless.'
Thanks to Davoid for adding to the general merriment . But seriously, we do need to be thinking about these things.
Isn't another possibility that Chinese production of most things (including tinned food) recovers (IF they have overcome the virus) and people short of domestic goods to buy swirch to buying Chinese exports on a scale not yet seen? As a result, the renminbi shoots up, the Chinese population accelerates to first world standards, and the rest of the world gets poorer - but not necessarily dramatically so.
This "Chinese economy to the rescue" scenario may sound unliukely, but it's actually pretty much what's happened with consumer goods already - they would be far more expensive except that we've all switched to buying cheaper Asian-made exports.
People worried about chlorinated chicken are going to buy food from a country that incredibly low food hygiene standards, regularly has large scale food scandals due to counterfeit and tampering, such as the contaminated milk powder and where the lack of even the most minimal animal welfare standards more than likely was the source for this outbreak in the first place.
Well its a theory.
If there had been chlorinated pangolin, none of this would have happened. Just sayin'
This is very funny. Also very true.
The Tories would have been trying to get it imported for certain.
Cabinet member playing politics. Johnson got it wrong. Cummings is too close to Vallance and just ignoring other scientists. Rishi was too little too late.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
Next week: wisteria?
Wisteria is easy... In August cut the stems back to five buds each, leaving any you intend to form new branches. Train as required. In January trim the same stems back to three buds. Otherwise leave well alone.
We planted one on the corner of the house about three years ago. It flowered for the first time last year - very well, an unusual pale mauve flower rather than blue. However, I think I am going to have to get rather agressive with the pruning. It already has a slightly malevolent presence. I'm thinking a flowerng version of the Whomping Willow....
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
How is your daughter coping?
Yesterday was, understandably, quite an emotional day for her. For her team. For us all. It’s a family business now.
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Our garden centre has a modest farm shop attached to it. It has started a delivery service. For which it is getting huge kudos with the Crumblies in the surrounding countryside.
Tell your daughter to do some fliers - and get them out there. Once people know it is an option, it will get taken up. And it will hold her in extremely good stead once something like normal returns.
People WILL remember.
I agree with Mr M. I live in a fairly small community and the pubs are doing this. Lots of goodwill on the local Facebook site.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Hard to believe the stupidity of the evangelist Brexiteers, the letters EU make them lose their minds.
We are miles behind the reaction the letters UK engender in some though, malc!
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
How is your daughter coping?
Yesterday was, understandably, quite an emotional day for her. For her team. For us all. It’s a family business now.
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Our garden centre has a modest farm shop attached to it. It has started a delivery service. For which it is getting huge kudos with the Crumblies in the surrounding countryside.
Tell your daughter to do some fliers - and get them out there. Once people know it is an option, it will get taken up. And it will hold her in extremely good stead once something like normal returns.
People WILL remember.
She has sent the fliers out already - on Tuesday- and on social media. Positive response so far. Some of her stock is being bought by a firm which will use it for its workers. The local newspaper is also highlighting independent venues - basically giving them free advertising so have urged her to take that up. It’s a close community here so that will I hope help.
Today, for instance, I have been offered freshly baked scones by a neighbour. They can be my husband’s birthday tea - we were due to celebrate at her restaurant.....
Instead he’s repairing the beach hut looking out onto the Irish Sea - for when/if things get really bad.
This whole thing could have second waves, and other countries getting their peaks later, and countries will want to limit movement for long after until it becomes part of the psyche. This morning I'm wondering which will be the first party to come up with a "progressive" low-immigration policy. People won't be moving about for a long time after this. You could come up with a Greta Thunberg argument or something that a smaller, more local world is more environmentally friendly.
If restricting the movement of people is the aim, focusing on reducing tourism and business travel would have more relevance.
And travel to visit family. But also, this is what pandemics do - they make people more anti-immigration. People are going to get used to controlling borders. One thing that's amusing me about all this is that people that were previously remainers have often been very vocal about shutting the country down and restricting movement, and going WHY haven't we closed all the schools and shut down all the flights YESTERDAY? This will impact our minds long-term I think. It's not about aims, it's about outcomes.
Restricting the kind of movement that spreads pandemics also means things like reducing commuting. Political borders and migration are a very minor aspect of it.
Do you think the long-term response in the USA will be restrictions on movement between states?
Thanks to Davoid for adding to the general merriment . But seriously, we do need to be thinking about these things.
Isn't another possibility that Chinese production of most things (including tinned food) recovers (IF they have overcome the virus) and people short of domestic goods to buy swirch to buying Chinese exports on a scale not yet seen? As a result, the renminbi shoots up, the Chinese population accelerates to first world standards, and the rest of the world gets poorer - but not necessarily dramatically so.
This "Chinese economy to the rescue" scenario may sound unliukely, but it's actually pretty much what's happened with consumer goods already - they would be far more expensive except that we've all switched to buying cheaper Asian-made exports.
People worried about chlorinated chicken are going to buy food from a country that incredibly low food hygiene standards, regularly has large scale food scandals due to counterfeit and tampering, such as the contaminated milk powder and where the lack of even the most minimal animal welfare standards more than likely was the source for this outbreak in the first place.
Well its a theory.
If there had been chlorinated pangolin, none of this would have happened. Just sayin'
This is very funny. Also very true.
The Tories would have been trying to get it imported for certain.
I don't think there would have been enough to go round
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Is there a source saying it is untrue?
Repeated FPT: Is this EU story actually true or fake news?
Sounds like the Danish scheme was approved in 24 hrs despite also being against the rules. If this is just a journalist realising its against some rules that can be waived its fake news and pathetic journalism trying to sow division at a time like this.
I dont have access to the Times so not sure if the EU are genuinely trying to stop the aid or someone is just quoting existing rules which are already being waived in the exceptional circumstances?
If it is in the Times it is guaranteed to be anti EU Tory bullshit , just trying to stir up numpty Leavers into getting their jingoistic hair shirts on and get them to berate nasty foreigners interfering in their great Empire, how very dare they.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Exactly the way the media operate against the current government. It's what they do in the 24 hours news age. And it's not just the British media either. I've not noticed your posts about this.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Exactly the way the media operate against the current government. It's what they do in the 24 hours news age. And it's not just the British media either. I've not noticed your posts about this.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
Hard to believe the stupidity of the evangelist Brexiteers, the letters EU make them lose their minds.
We are miles behind the reaction the letters UK engender in some though, malc!
Unfortunately for us Mark, unlike the EU rubbish those tales are true.
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
How is your daughter coping?
Yesterday was, understandably, quite an emotional day for her. For her team. For us all. It’s a family business now.
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Our garden centre has a modest farm shop attached to it. It has started a delivery service. For which it is getting huge kudos with the Crumblies in the surrounding countryside.
Tell your daughter to do some fliers - and get them out there. Once people know it is an option, it will get taken up. And it will hold her in extremely good stead once something like normal returns.
People WILL remember.
She has sent the fliers out already - on Tuesday- and on social media. Positive response so far. Some of her stock is being bought by a firm which will use it for its workers. The local newspaper is also highlighting independent venues - basically giving them free advertising so have urged her to take that up. It’s a close community here so that will I hope help.
Today, for instance, I have been offered freshly baked scones by a neighbour. They can be my husband’s birthday tea - we were due to celebrate at her restaurant.....
Instead he’s repairing the beach hut looking out onto the Irish Sea - for when/if things get really bad.
Is a National Government really a possibility - and would it be a good thing?
I am sure we all want the likes Richard Burgon and Dawn Butler having influence over the government strategy....
Sir Kier Starmer and Lisa Nandy would be an asset to a national unity government imo. Even BJ hero Churchil had a better government with prominent Labour cabinet members.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
I approve this immediate response to Mr Herdson’s predictions of doom.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
The issue can then be resolved, as it should be, by the EU immediately granting an exemption
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
They can’t grant one if it hasn’t been asked for people have better things to do at the moment than react to a stupid journalists tweet we don’t even know if it’s an issue
Cabinet member playing politics. Johnson got it wrong. Cummings is too close to Vallance and just ignoring other scientists. Rishi was too little too late.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
Yes - a disturbing read.
If true it lessens my confidence in the government.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
With the greatest respect there is no reason at all why we should believe you
Thinking cap please.
If the EU blocks any part of Sunak's package I will self immolate for the rest of 2020.
And I find it hard to believe they would be so stupid but the chancellor did break state aid rules yesterday and in the circumstances EU approval should be similar to the Danes, unconditional and within 24 hours
It is an important issue and for EU supporters one that is essential to be rejected, as I cannot even start to imagine how terminal it would be for the EU if it was true
And no need to attack those of us who are seeking clarification - it is in the EU interests to do so
Ali Milani, the Labour parliamentary candidate who ran against Boris Johnson in the 2019 general election, says his father has passed away after being diagnosed with coronavirus.
In a tweet, Milani said: “In the early hours of this morning, my father tragically passed away after having contracted COVID-19.
“Please keep him in your prayers. This virus is taking millions all across the world. Please ISOLATE and listen to medical advice!”
In a separate tweet, he shared a link for a fundraising effort for Islamic Relief, which his friends had set up in his Dad’s memory.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
I think it's true, but irrelevant
Essentially some bureaucrat upped the limits on state aid to Eur 800K
But there is the exemption process to approve anything outside the rules (it took Denmark 24 hours). Now I don't see why you should need to get approval, but hey, we're leaving.
Is a National Government really a possibility - and would it be a good thing?
I am sure we all want the likes Richard Burgon and Dawn Butler having influence over the government strategy....
Sir Kier Starmer and Lisa Nandy would be an asset to a national unity government imo. Even BJ hero Churchil had a better government with prominent Labour cabinet members.
Thanks to Davoid for adding to the general merriment . But seriously, we do need to be thinking about these things.
Isn't another possibility that Chinese production of most things (including tinned food) recovers (IF they have overcome the virus) and people short of domestic goods to buy swirch to buying Chinese exports on a scale not yet seen? As a result, the renminbi shoots up, the Chinese population accelerates to first world standards, and the rest of the world gets poorer - but not necessarily dramatically so.
This "Chinese economy to the rescue" scenario may sound unliukely, but it's actually pretty much what's happened with consumer goods already - they would be far more expensive except that we've all switched to buying cheaper Asian-made exports.
People worried about chlorinated chicken are going to buy food from a country that incredibly low food hygiene standards, regularly has large scale food scandals due to counterfeit and tampering, such as the contaminated milk powder and where the lack of even the most minimal animal welfare standards more than likely was the source for this outbreak in the first place.
Well its a theory.
Its one thing to think well I will buy this cheaper desk fan, what's the worst that could happen, it doesn't work as well as the 100x as expensive Dyson, but food....
There is, of course, also the minor point that China is not self-sufficient in food...
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
The issue can then be resolved, as it should be, by the EU immediately granting an exemption
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
G, it is absolute bell end rubbish, how can you be taken in so easily by absolute horse manure
It is not though Malc.
It is in breach of EU state aid rules and as of now nobody has been able to prove the report as false. Saying it is false is not any better than saying it is true
I have no idea how true or false it is but it is very important to receive the ok
Johnson has taken advice from scientific experts but has he taken advice from experts in economics? This is starting to matter greatly. Johnson should invite people with economic expertise to the next COBRA meeting such as the Governor of the Bank of England and the Treasury Chief Economist, and consider their advice.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
The story doesn't make sense in its own terms because it says that "selective tax advantages" will be allowed.
Selective tax advantages up to Eur 800K per company.
But Rishi's proposal is > Eur 800K for the biggest companies. (It is defined as selective because it only applies to some sectors)
So it is therefore outwith the rules, unless you limit the benefit to the big hotels and airlines.
Johnson has taken advice from scientific experts but has he taken advice from experts in economics? This is starting to matter greatly. Johnson should invite people with economic expertise to the next COBRA meeting such as the Governor of the Bank of England and the Treasury Chief Economist, and consider their advice.
From a purely economic standpoint the advice might not be pretty.
Thanks to Davoid for adding to the general merriment . But seriously, we do need to be thinking about these things.
Isn't another possibility that Chinese production of most things (including tinned food) recovers (IF they have overcome the virus) and people short of domestic goods to buy swirch to buying Chinese exports on a scale not yet seen? As a result, the renminbi shoots up, the Chinese population accelerates to first world standards, and the rest of the world gets poorer - but not necessarily dramatically so.
This "Chinese economy to the rescue" scenario may sound unliukely, but it's actually pretty much what's happened with consumer goods already - they would be far more expensive except that we've all switched to buying cheaper Asian-made exports.
People worried about chlorinated chicken are going to buy food from a country that incredibly low food hygiene standards, regularly has large scale food scandals due to counterfeit and tampering, such as the contaminated milk powder and where the lack of even the most minimal animal welfare standards more than likely was the source for this outbreak in the first place.
Well its a theory.
Its one thing to think well I will buy this cheaper desk fan, what's the worst that could happen, it doesn't work as well as the 100x as expensive Dyson, but food....
Johnson has taken advice from scientific experts but has he taken advice from experts in economics? This is starting to matter greatly. Johnson should invite people with economic expertise to the next COBRA meeting such as the Governor of the Bank of England and the Treasury Chief Economist, and consider their advice.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
The story doesn't make sense in its own terms because it says that "selective tax advantages" will be allowed.
Selective tax advantages up to Eur 800K per company.
But Rishi's proposal is > Eur 800K for the biggest companies. (It is defined as selective because it only applies to some sectors)
So it is therefore outwith the rules, unless you limit the benefit to the big hotels and airlines.
It would be nice to see a link to this story, as I said before, I have the times hard copy and it isn't there.
With the greatest respect there is no reason at all why we should believe you
Thinking cap please.
If the EU blocks any part of Sunak's package I will self immolate for the rest of 2020.
And I find it hard to believe they would be so stupid but the chancellor did break state aid rules yesterday and in the circumstances EU approval should be similar to the Danes, unconditional and within 24 hours
It is an important issue and for EU supporters one that is essential to be rejected, as I cannot even start to imagine how terminal it would be for the EU if it was true
And no need to attack those of us who are seeking clarification - it is in the EU interests to do so
Just let it go. The only people this non-story reflects badly on are the ones promoting it. We have more important things to think about, and so does the EU.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Laughable. The EU has around a thousand of it's citizens dieing every day now. They aren't going to give a flying fuck about the Corbynomics package Rishi Sunak announced the other day.
Rishi's proposal isn't Corbynomics - it's targeted, time limited and proportional.
You know that Corbyn would have nationalised a whole bunch of companies and kept people on in employment.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
The issue can then be resolved, as it should be, by the EU immediately granting an exemption
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
G, it is absolute bell end rubbish, how can you be taken in so easily by absolute horse manure
If it's complete rubbish, why did the Danes have to ask nicely for an exemption?
Any fool knows they had rules about state aid, it is a rubber stamp at worst and the Danes are obviously fastidious in following rules. Making out that it is an outrage is the work of cretins just looking for any excuse, unfortunately the UK is awash with them. You would imagine they had a bit more to concern them.
Thanks to Davoid for adding to the general merriment . But seriously, we do need to be thinking about these things.
Isn't another possibility that Chinese production of most things (including tinned food) recovers (IF they have overcome the virus) and people short of domestic goods to buy swirch to buying Chinese exports on a scale not yet seen? As a result, the renminbi shoots up, the Chinese population accelerates to first world standards, and the rest of the world gets poorer - but not necessarily dramatically so.
This "Chinese economy to the rescue" scenario may sound unliukely, but it's actually pretty much what's happened with consumer goods already - they would be far more expensive except that we've all switched to buying cheaper Asian-made exports.
People worried about chlorinated chicken are going to buy food from a country that incredibly low food hygiene standards, regularly has large scale food scandals due to counterfeit and tampering, such as the contaminated milk powder and where the lack of even the most minimal animal welfare standards more than likely was the source for this outbreak in the first place.
Well its a theory.
Its one thing to think well I will buy this cheaper desk fan, what's the worst that could happen, it doesn't work as well as the 100x as expensive Dyson, but food....
Responding to Stephen Swinford's tweets isn't a "to do" item in the in tray, it's not even heading to the in tray. It'll never head to the in tray, it won't even make it to the bin. It simply won't be on the radar.
Given the circumstances we find ourselves in I am going to take a slightly different approach to the review this week. As opposed to selecting a single subject to critique, I thought it would be more helpful to pick out five 5-star (IMO) hidden gems freely accessible online, which can be enjoyed at home.
I've tried to mix it up a bit, taking in a classic kids TV series, an amazing speech, a great documentary, magnificent opera, and tip top pod.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
The issue can then be resolved, as it should be, by the EU immediately granting an exemption
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
G, it is absolute bell end rubbish, how can you be taken in so easily by absolute horse manure
It is not though Malc.
It is in breach of EU state aid rules and as of now nobody has been able to prove the report as false. Saying it is false is not any better than saying it is true
I have no idea how true or false it is but it is very important to receive the ok
I doubt they will be sending the police over G. I thought we were supposedly out and a sovereign nation , with our blue passports, and able to do as we wished. What about all that crap about Brexit is done etc, you Tories cannot have it all ways.
With the greatest respect there is no reason at all why we should believe you
Thinking cap please.
If the EU blocks any part of Sunak's package I will self immolate for the rest of 2020.
And I find it hard to believe they would be so stupid but the chancellor did break state aid rules yesterday and in the circumstances EU approval should be similar to the Danes, unconditional and within 24 hours
It is an important issue and for EU supporters one that is essential to be rejected, as I cannot even start to imagine how terminal it would be for the EU if it was true
And no need to attack those of us who are seeking clarification - it is in the EU interests to do so
Just let it go. The only people this non-story reflects badly on are the ones promoting it. We have more important things to think about, and so does the EU.
Why let it go.
It is clear state aid rules are breached and the EU permission is required
Coronavirus in N.Y.: ‘Deluge’ of Cases Begins Hitting Hospitals There are already critical shortages: A Bronx hospital is running out of ventilators. In Brooklyn, doctors are reusing masks.
Johnson has taken advice from scientific experts but has he taken advice from experts in economics? This is starting to matter greatly. Johnson should invite people with economic expertise to the next COBRA meeting such as the Governor of the Bank of England and the Treasury Chief Economist, and consider their advice.
Indeed. Follows on from what Herdson says: "Attempting to prevent the deaths of millions across the globe from Covid-19 is an absolutely understandable aim. Any humane society would try to do so. Yet we must also understand what we place in the balance as we try to do so."
Johnson should have been flanked by three advisers: chief scientist, chief economist and chief philosopher, in order to give regard to health, economics and freedom.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
No idea why you should attack a Cabinet Minister for getting it right and helping to propel the Govt to act.
I think we all know by now that the Govt acted way too slowly and believed one subset of scientists instead of having the humility to listen to others including from overseas. The net result of that will probably be a massive surge in cases and deaths in the short term. But at least they are gradually improving.
I also don't know why anyone is very surprised. Johnson won a great victory against the most unelectable leader in Labour's history - a man so toxic that even his own MPs deserted him.
I don't know if this has been referenced before but it addresses an issue which has always exercised me; how may ADDITIONAL deaths are caused by Covid 19? The high risk groups will have a high attrition rate without Covid 19 and the quoted data for Covid 19 deaths is of people who have died with the virus present (not causal). Flu deaths are counted as additional to deaths from other causes. I would have thought that counting Covid 19 deaths in a similar fashion would reduce percentages in 70+ set and increase them in all other sets.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
I think it's true, but irrelevant
Essentially some bureaucrat upped the limits on state aid to Eur 800K
But there is the exemption process to approve anything outside the rules (it took Denmark 24 hours). Now I don't see why you should need to get approval, but hey, we're leaving.
But the journo is shit stirring
Thought we had left and Brexit was done, were the thousands of posts on here praising nay revering Boris for getting Brexit done a pack of lies.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
The issue can then be resolved, as it should be, by the EU immediately granting an exemption
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
G, it is absolute bell end rubbish, how can you be taken in so easily by absolute horse manure
If it's complete rubbish, why did the Danes have to ask nicely for an exemption?
Jingoistic outrage , how very Tory. Worst case it requires a note and an instant exemption. However I will say again , where is the fabled BREXIT IS DONE that has been constantly trumpeted on here.
Johnson has taken advice from scientific experts but has he taken advice from experts in economics? This is starting to matter greatly. Johnson should invite people with economic expertise to the next COBRA meeting such as the Governor of the Bank of England and the Treasury Chief Economist, and consider their advice.
The bank has already acted in cutting rates and QE - the first part of the process. They are involved and have been from the start.
I don't know if this has been referenced before but it addresses an issue which has always exercised me; how may ADDITIONAL deaths are caused by Covid 19? The high risk groups will have a high attrition rate without Covid 19 and the quoted data for Covid 19 deaths is of people who have died with the virus present (not causal). Flu deaths are counted as additional to deaths from other causes. I would have thought that counting Covid 19 deaths in a similar fashion would reduce percentages in 70+ set and increase them in all other sets.
I heard Germany’s low fatality rate was due to them not deciding everyone who died with Coronavirus in them, died of Coronavirus
Could be that Coronavirus is to underlying illnesss what pneumonia is to AIDS
This claim keeps circling round and round, but I've never seen anyone provide any evidence to support it. Where did you hear this?
The more likely explanation is some combination of the relative youth of those initially infected, more widespread testing and the excellent German medical system.
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
Next week: wisteria?
Wisteria is easy... In August cut the stems back to five buds each, leaving any you intend to form new branches. Train as required. In January trim the same stems back to three buds. Otherwise leave well alone.
"7 and 2" is the rule for wisteria.
In the 7th month (July) cut stems down to the 7th bud. Then in the 2nd month (Feb) cut stems down to the 2nd bud.
I haven't seen anyone mention this yet but, erm, millenials being asked to behave in order to save boomers and gammons might stick in the throat somewhat.
They might reasonably point out that the oldies screwed this country over with Brexit.
So the fact that most of them are so gracious is testament to what a fabulous generation they are. I mean it. The shits are the likes of Peter Hitchens and Piers Morgan.
Are the EU really banning part of the Chancellors rescue package?
Interesting move.
What is this?
It seems to be a nonsense story briefed to the Times in order to stir up some anti-EU feeling.
Entirely predictable I'm afraid. The Brexit evangelists are nothing if not exhibitionists. They'll feel that the virus crisis has stolen their limelight and are desperate to be centre of attention again.
Then provide a link to denial of the story
If true it a devastating own goal and will see any support for the EU collapse
Dear oh dear.
Please provide the denial then the issue is dealt with
I'll let you in on a little secret, Big_G.... I don't think there is one. That's why he's just mouthing off about Brexiteers instead.
And this is the problem with the EU
It is so easy to believe the story and in the absence of a denial it must be assumed this is their position, and devastating for their remaining support in the UK
If the EU had to deny every dubious claim about them promulgated by the British media they'd need a press department the size of the Chinese army.
But this is important.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Here’s confirmation of Denmark’s exemption, granted within 24 hours:
The issue can then be resolved, as it should be, by the EU immediately granting an exemption
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
G, it is absolute bell end rubbish, how can you be taken in so easily by absolute horse manure
If it's complete rubbish, why did the Danes have to ask nicely for an exemption?
Jingoistic outrage , how very Tory. Worst case it requires a note and an instant exemption. However I will say again , where is the fabled BREXIT IS DONE that has been constantly trumpeted on here.
I have made my point on this issue and intend leaving it there
However, you know we are still in transistion until the end of the year and accordingly under the EU state aid rules which the chancellor broke yesterday
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
How is your daughter coping?
Yesterday was, understandably, quite an emotional day for her. For her team. For us all. It’s a family business now.
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Our garden centre has a modest farm shop attached to it. It has started a delivery service. For which it is getting huge kudos with the Crumblies in the surrounding countryside.
Tell your daughter to do some fliers - and get them out there. Once people know it is an option, it will get taken up. And it will hold her in extremely good stead once something like normal returns.
People WILL remember.
She has sent the fliers out already - on Tuesday- and on social media. Positive response so far. Some of her stock is being bought by a firm which will use it for its workers. The local newspaper is also highlighting independent venues - basically giving them free advertising so have urged her to take that up. It’s a close community here so that will I hope help.
Today, for instance, I have been offered freshly baked scones by a neighbour. They can be my husband’s birthday tea - we were due to celebrate at her restaurant.....
Instead he’s repairing the beach hut looking out onto the Irish Sea - for when/if things get really bad.
You also doing a line in Isolation Huts now?
It has a kettle, an old sofa and magnificent views. What’s not to love?
I haven't seen anyone mention this yet but, erm, millenials being asked to behave in order to save boomers and gammons might stick in the throat somewhat.
They might reasonably point out that the oldies screwed this country over with Brexit.
So the fact that most of them are so gracious is testament to what a fabulous generation they are. I mean it. The shits are the likes of Peter Hitchens and Piers Morgan.
Cabinet member playing politics. Johnson got it wrong. Cummings is too close to Vallance and just ignoring other scientists. Rishi was too little too late.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
Yes - a disturbing read.
If true it lessens my confidence in the government.
I'm not convinced - it basically said that there was a hell of an argument in SAGE and it took a while for the government to shift its position because it waited for SAGE to age. That's actually reasonable.
Criticism that the government was looking to scientists ("outsourcing leadership") rather than making a "political decision on which group of scientists to back". Good. Evidence led policy.
"Data from Italy changed all that"... when the facts changed they changed their position. Good.
Concern that the Chief Scientific Advisor is a "close ally" of Cummings. I mean, WTF. Just listen to the guy, right.
"Greatly reassured by new committees" - you mean you've personally got involved...
"personal style of some aides made it harder". just shut the fuck up about Cummings. It's petty bullshit and just doesn't matter right now
"Expectation that Sunak will need to go further and announce help for self-employed". Yes. Evolving situation. Sometimes you just have to move fast with what you can rather than get everything perfect.
"criticism of Johnson's press conference cut through message being optimism that coronavirus can be defeated". That's a style point, but I think optimism is important.
[NB "quotes" are summarising the article's points not direct quotes]
The government has been moving quickly in a rapidly evolving situation. They are rushing policies out as quickly as they can and triaging. They are not getting everything right, but they are doing as well as can be hoped for in the situation.
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
Next week: wisteria?
Wisteria is easy... In August cut the stems back to five buds each, leaving any you intend to form new branches. Train as required. In January trim the same stems back to three buds. Otherwise leave well alone.
"7 and 2" is the rule for wisteria.
In the 7th month (July) cut stems down to the 7th bud. Then in the 2nd month (Feb) cut stems down to the 2nd bud.
Three buds is better, more flowers, which a mature bush ought to be able to support.
Coronavirus in N.Y.: ‘Deluge’ of Cases Begins Hitting Hospitals There are already critical shortages: A Bronx hospital is running out of ventilators. In Brooklyn, doctors are reusing masks.
There is a massive effort across Spain to produce masks, from volunteer Civil Protection members through to asking anyone with a sowing machine volunteer, materials to be provided, anything similar happening in the uk?
Question: my hairdresser closed yesterday - not because the government told them to, but voluntarily. Am I correct that they won`t be able to access the 80% of salary deal for the employees because they closed voluntarily?
I haven't seen anyone mention this yet but, erm, millenials being asked to behave in order to save boomers and gammons might stick in the throat somewhat.
They might reasonably point out that the oldies screwed this country over with Brexit.
So the fact that most of them are so gracious is testament to what a fabulous generation they are. I mean it. The shits are the likes of Peter Hitchens and Piers Morgan.
If inconveniencing yourself to save older generations from a miserable death counts as being 'gracious', then the voting age needs to be radically increased.
I write as someone who is - technically - a millennial.
Johnson has taken advice from scientific experts but has he taken advice from experts in economics? This is starting to matter greatly. Johnson should invite people with economic expertise to the next COBRA meeting such as the Governor of the Bank of England and the Treasury Chief Economist, and consider their advice.
Well, given that the Bank of England Governor announced the QE policy and that the Chancellor runs the Treasury I very much suspect there was involvement.
I don't understand what this obsession is with people attending a specific committee meeting.
The PM will be getting the briefing that he needs to make decisions. IIRC the Treasury has a standing representative at COBRA.
Given the circumstances we find ourselves in I am going to take a slightly different approach to the review this week. As opposed to selecting a single subject to critique, I thought it would be more helpful to pick out five 5-star (IMO) hidden gems freely accessible online, which can be enjoyed at home.
I've tried to mix it up a bit, taking in a classic kids TV series, an amazing speech, a great documentary, magnificent opera, and tip top pod.
I'm sure some PBers can themselves suggest other things of interest.
I am quite enjoying Monk on Amazon Prime at the moment. Think autistic Colombo with OCD, in San Fran. Each episode is stand alone and contains a crime mystery, so it’s an engaging way to spend chunks of 45 minutes.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
No idea why you should attack a Cabinet Minister for getting it right and helping to propel the Govt to act.
I think we all know by now that the Govt acted way too slowly and believed one subset of scientists instead of having the humility to listen to others including from overseas. The net result of that will probably be a massive surge in cases and deaths in the short term. But at least they are gradually improving.
I also don't know why anyone is very surprised. Johnson won a great victory against the most unelectable leader in Labour's history - a man so toxic that even his own MPs deserted him.
As I've mentioned before, it's not that Boris believed one subset of scientists, it's that he made the wrong choice of the scientifically-based options placed before him. He gambled on the high-risk, low-cost option, and lost. He screwed up the single most important decision, and then he compounded his mistake by dithering afterwards. Other than Trump, the Ayatollahs and possibly the Dutch prime minister Rutte, it's hard to think of a leader who has dealt more ineptly with the pandemic.
In response to @MattW’s question re pruning of forsythia.
1. Get some sharp clean secateurs so the cut is a clean one. You don’t want to be tearing at the twigs or branches.
2. No problem with pruning now - or you could wait until it’s finished flowering. The advantage of pruning now is that the stems with flowers you cut off can be put in the house to brighten it. The forsythia will still flower next year. It’s a tough old plant.
3. Lop off all the long extra stems that are sticking out. Then gradually cut down to the height and width you want. Aim to make it a rounded shape - a bit like a rounded arch - so that it looks pleasing to you and so as you pass it there aren’t bits sticking into you or catching. There is no magic to this - just step back every few minutes just to look at it form different angles.
4. The key to this is to remember that all plants will grow up to the light so if you leave the they will just reach for the sky. If untouched this ends up leaving you with lots of flowers at the top and bare branches at the bottom. So by cutting at the top and cutting the shoots heading skywards you force the plant to send out side shoots which will flower and it will look rounder and squatter and fatter so you get a burst of really bright yellow sunshine just where you want it.
5. Cut just above a flower or bud - a nice neat cut and sloping downwards. This minimises the possibility of any infection. Cut right down to the base any stems which look empty or straggly.
Plants are fine with pruning. It generally makes them stronger. Forsythia is as tough as old boots.
Next week: wisteria?
Wisteria is easy... In August cut the stems back to five buds each, leaving any you intend to form new branches. Train as required. In January trim the same stems back to three buds. Otherwise leave well alone.
"7 and 2" is the rule for wisteria.
In the 7th month (July) cut stems down to the 7th bud. Then in the 2nd month (Feb) cut stems down to the 2nd bud.
Three buds is better, more flowers, which a mature bush ought to be able to support.
I think we should get into a heated nasty debate about this in PB style. Maybe criticise HYUFD for no discernible reason?
Coronavirus in N.Y.: ‘Deluge’ of Cases Begins Hitting Hospitals There are already critical shortages: A Bronx hospital is running out of ventilators. In Brooklyn, doctors are reusing masks.
The key metric, and one I have not seen reported anywhere, is ICU capacity by location. It is that we are trying to maintain.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
No idea why you should attack a Cabinet Minister for getting it right and helping to propel the Govt to act.
I think we all know by now that the Govt acted way too slowly and believed one subset of scientists instead of having the humility to listen to others including from overseas. The net result of that will probably be a massive surge in cases and deaths in the short term. But at least they are gradually improving.
I also don't know why anyone is very surprised. Johnson won a great victory against the most unelectable leader in Labour's history - a man so toxic that even his own MPs deserted him.
As I've mentioned before, it's not that Boris believed one subset of scientists, it's that he made the wrong choice of the scientifically-based options placed before him. He gambled on the high-risk, low-cost option, and lost. He screwed up the single most important decision, and then he compounded his mistake by dithering afterwards. Other than Trump, the Ayatollahs and possibly the Dutch prime minister Rutte, it's hard to think of a leader who has dealt more ineptly with the pandemic.
Had to renew my passport. Went into main post office on Monday afternoon. They took the digital photo, e mail address and mobile number. It was tracked all the way and I was informed at each stage. TNT delivered it today. Good service, I would recommend it.
Also for those who care , it was a dark blue Brirish one.
Given the circumstances we find ourselves in I am going to take a slightly different approach to the review this week. As opposed to selecting a single subject to critique, I thought it would be more helpful to pick out five 5-star (IMO) hidden gems freely accessible online, which can be enjoyed at home.
I've tried to mix it up a bit, taking in a classic kids TV series, an amazing speech, a great documentary, magnificent opera, and tip top pod.
I'm sure some PBers can themselves suggest other things of interest.
A 1960s low budget French hand puppet show...yeah ok Will, I think I will give it a miss thanks. And I can't imagine the generation of tik tok will be entertained by it.
I haven't seen anyone mention this yet but, erm, millenials being asked to behave in order to save boomers and gammons might stick in the throat somewhat.
They might reasonably point out that the oldies screwed this country over with Brexit.
So the fact that most of them are so gracious is testament to what a fabulous generation they are. I mean it. The shits are the likes of Peter Hitchens and Piers Morgan.
What an idiot you are. Milleniums screwed themselves over Brexit by not bothering to vote. Stop trying to sow discord with your miserable dreary efforts to politicise everything.
Comments
The pub/restaurant is right in the centre of the village - everyone goes there to meet, chat, share gossip,information, look out for each other. A lot of business gets done there - it’s not just a drinking and eating venue. So it will be missed and my daughter will find the social isolation by contrast with her normal every day busyness very hard - harder than for me, I suspect.
She has a good business brain though and a toughness which will help. I am so proud of her.
She has already started a takeaway / delivery service - including for some essential goods - targeted on the isolated so as a social service as much as anything. She has volunteers to help. She will look to see how the latest proposals will help and she will need to have a conversation with her landlord about the rent.
The biggest difficulty is not knowing the timescale. If this goes on for a year, the decision is a very different one to a 3-month shutdown. And no-one knows.
What breaks my heart is that a few weeks ago she was talking excitedly about various plans she had to expand business / had prepared lots of varied menus - they were changed every week - and had plans to go into the holiday rental / B&B market. All on hold and very possibly ended now. All that hope crushed - or so it feels like. So I am going to do whatever I can to support her.
I have also urged my 2 sons, who were job-hunting to look at those supermarket jobs. Any work is better than none. This is no time for snobbery about graduate jobs, frankly.
Best wishes to @Charles for his Dad, @MaxPB and @GideonWise.
Any idea the EU would block any part of the chancellor's proposals is outrageous and it does need confirmation that it will not interfere in UK policy re covid 19.
Surely all the EU supporters on here can see how toxic for the EU this could become
Those rules are for normal times. There is not the remotest possibility of the EU stopping any aspect of the package.
All one needs to realize this is what I said - a brain cell.
A denial has to be produced.
With the greatest respect there is no reason at all why we should believe you
https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/IP_20_454
Tell your daughter to do some fliers - and get them out there. Once people know it is an option, it will get taken up. And it will hold her in extremely good stead once something like normal returns.
People WILL remember.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-51979654
Very disturbing article.
Cabinet member playing politics. Johnson got it wrong. Cummings is too close to Vallance and just ignoring other scientists. Rishi was too little too late.
Whoever the fuck that Cabinet Minister is they should be sacked
However, I think I am going to have to get rather agressive with the pruning. It already has a slightly malevolent presence. I'm thinking a flowerng version of the Whomping Willow....
That then resolves the matter
Let us hope that is what happens, anything else is unacceptable
Today, for instance, I have been offered freshly baked scones by a neighbour. They can be my husband’s birthday tea - we were due to celebrate at her restaurant.....
Instead he’s repairing the beach hut looking out onto the Irish Sea - for when/if things get really bad.
Do you think the long-term response in the USA will be restrictions on movement between states?
https://twitter.com/jsuedekum/status/1241089308993433602
If the EU blocks any part of Sunak's package I will self immolate for the rest of 2020.
Very good article, though, David.
If true it lessens my confidence in the government.
It is an important issue and for EU supporters one that is essential to be rejected, as I cannot even start to imagine how terminal it would be for the EU if it was true
And no need to attack those of us who are seeking clarification - it is in the EU interests to do so
In a tweet, Milani said: “In the early hours of this morning, my father tragically passed away after having contracted COVID-19.
“Please keep him in your prayers. This virus is taking millions all across the world. Please ISOLATE and listen to medical advice!”
In a separate tweet, he shared a link for a fundraising effort for Islamic Relief, which his friends had set up in his Dad’s memory.
Essentially some bureaucrat upped the limits on state aid to Eur 800K
But there is the exemption process to approve anything outside the rules (it took Denmark 24 hours). Now I don't see why you should need to get approval, but hey, we're leaving.
But the journo is shit stirring
It is in breach of EU state aid rules and as of now nobody has been able to prove the report as false. Saying it is false is not any better than saying it is true
I have no idea how true or false it is but it is very important to receive the ok
But Rishi's proposal is > Eur 800K for the biggest companies. (It is defined as selective because it only applies to some sectors)
So it is therefore outwith the rules, unless you limit the benefit to the big hotels and airlines.
You know that Corbyn would have nationalised a whole bunch of companies and kept people on in employment.
Iodinated Impalas?
I've tried to mix it up a bit, taking in a classic kids TV series, an amazing speech, a great documentary, magnificent opera, and tip top pod.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-51968653
I'm sure some PBers can themselves suggest other things of interest.
It is clear state aid rules are breached and the EU permission is required
You cannot wish away an inconvenient story
Lets just have the clarity
Coronavirus in N.Y.: ‘Deluge’ of Cases Begins Hitting Hospitals
There are already critical shortages: A Bronx hospital is running out of ventilators. In Brooklyn, doctors are reusing masks.
Johnson should have been flanked by three advisers: chief scientist, chief economist and chief philosopher, in order to give regard to health, economics and freedom.
I think we all know by now that the Govt acted way too slowly and believed one subset of scientists instead of having the humility to listen to others including from overseas. The net result of that will probably be a massive surge in cases and deaths in the short term. But at least they are gradually improving.
I also don't know why anyone is very surprised. Johnson won a great victory against the most unelectable leader in Labour's history - a man so toxic that even his own MPs deserted him.
Could be that Coronavirus is to underlying illnesss what pneumonia is to AIDS
The more likely explanation is some combination of the relative youth of those initially infected, more widespread testing and the excellent German medical system.
But the river of debate flows and we sail on.
In the 7th month (July) cut stems down to the 7th bud. Then in the 2nd month (Feb) cut stems down to the 2nd bud.
They might reasonably point out that the oldies screwed this country over with Brexit.
So the fact that most of them are so gracious is testament to what a fabulous generation they are. I mean it. The shits are the likes of Peter Hitchens and Piers Morgan.
However, you know we are still in transistion until the end of the year and accordingly under the EU state aid rules which the chancellor broke yesterday
https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2020/mar/21/lewis-hamilton-self-isolating-but-showing-no-coronavirus-symptoms
I did speak to my doctor and double checked if I needed to take a test but the truth is, there is a limited amount of tests available and there are people who need it more than I do, especially when I wasn’t showing any symptoms at all. So what I’ve done is keep myself isolated this past week...
Criticism that the government was looking to scientists ("outsourcing leadership") rather than making a "political decision on which group of scientists to back". Good. Evidence led policy.
"Data from Italy changed all that"... when the facts changed they changed their position. Good.
Concern that the Chief Scientific Advisor is a "close ally" of Cummings. I mean, WTF. Just listen to the guy, right.
"Greatly reassured by new committees" - you mean you've personally got involved...
"personal style of some aides made it harder". just shut the fuck up about Cummings. It's petty bullshit and just doesn't matter right now
"Expectation that Sunak will need to go further and announce help for self-employed". Yes. Evolving situation. Sometimes you just have to move fast with what you can rather than get everything perfect.
"criticism of Johnson's press conference cut through message being optimism that coronavirus can be defeated". That's a style point, but I think optimism is important.
[NB "quotes" are summarising the article's points not direct quotes]
The government has been moving quickly in a rapidly evolving situation. They are rushing policies out as quickly as they can and triaging. They are not getting everything right, but they are doing as well as can be hoped for in the situation.
I write as someone who is - technically - a millennial.
I don't understand what this obsession is with people attending a specific committee meeting.
The PM will be getting the briefing that he needs to make decisions. IIRC the Treasury has a standing representative at COBRA.
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2020/03/20/boris-must-become-socialist-face-nationalising-entire-economy/
Went into main post office on Monday afternoon.
They took the digital photo, e mail address and mobile number.
It was tracked all the way and I was informed at each stage.
TNT delivered it today.
Good service, I would recommend it.
Also for those who care , it was a dark blue Brirish one.