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.
https://slate.com/technology/2020/03/florida-climate-change-coronavirus.html As of Friday morning, there were 520 cases of COVID-19 in the state, as well as 10 deaths from the virus. Florida’s many seniors—more than 20 percent of the state’s 21.5 million residents are over 65—are at heightened risk of dying, and there are already suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases at 19 long-term care facilities. The actual number of current infections in Florida is undoubtedly far, far higher, since there is a dire lack of tests. Meanwhile, DeSantis, a Republican, has repeatedly promoted misinformation about the virus: He contradicted infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci’s assertion that the state had community spread and asserted, falsely, that asymptomatic people cannot test positive. Meanwhile, it is business as usual at the state capitol, where more than 100 Florida legislators gathered on Thursday for votes. Yes, in person. Even though a Florida congressman tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday.
The consequences of the state’s collective inaction are only starting to become apparent. As the number of confirmed cases skyrockets with (slowly) accelerated testing, so too will the number of deaths. On Thursday, a man who had visited Disney World earlier in the month died from COVID-19. He was 34 years old. It is extremely likely that the families who strolled around the Magic Kingdom during a pandemic spread the virus between one another. So, too, did the beachgoers and spring breakers who tanned and swam and drank together well after COVID-19 became a national emergency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention begged Americans to avoid crowds and large gatherings. But who wants to listen to the CDC when the party is still raging outside on the beach that the governor isn’t worried enough to close?...
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?
I disagree. First, because nobody has ever attacked Hyufd for no discernible reason - why bother when there are lots of discernible ones we can use? - but second because there’s just no fuchsia in talking about plants.
It will be a disaster zone, especially because of the time year. It has an old population in general with retirees, but winter is when all the "snow birds" from across the US move there for a few months to take advantage of the warmer climate.
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.
Corbyn would have been much worse.
I doubt it. I think he would have tried to follow the example of other countries that have had some success in limiting the spread the virus. He doesn't have the need that Boris does for people to like him, and I think he'd have been quicker to make a potentially unpopular early decision to lock down.
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?
He’d be telling the bush to prune itself and get over it.
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.
It’s OK. Tony Shalhoub is brilliant in just about everything.
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.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
Jm1 said s/he was a teacher. I don’t think, after some of the things he said about fifteen year old girls in public including on this board, that Mr Thomas would be allowed to be a teacher.
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?
I disagree. First, because nobody has ever attacked Hyufd for no discernible reason - why bother when there are lots of discernible ones we can use? - but second because there’s just no fuchsia in talking about plants.
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
The issue is not breach but enforcement. Is the EU going to take enforcement proceedings? I don't see that from the article or from anywhere else. A man who breaks the speed limit taking someone to A&E breaks the law. The issue arises when he is punished for it. We are breaking the law but no one is, so far as I can see, minding.
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?
I disagree. First, because nobody has ever attacked Hyufd for no discernible reason - why bother when there are lots of discernible ones we can use? - but second because there’s just no fuchsia in talking about plants.
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.
Corbyn would have been much worse.
I doubt it. I think he would have tried to follow the example of other countries that have had some success in limiting the spread the virus. He doesn't have the need that Boris does for people to like him, and I think he'd have been quicker to make a potentially unpopular early decision to lock down.
Also he’d have been quicker to the helicopter money approach, recovering a significant proportion of the cost through the tax system, that I remain convinced would have been simpler and quicker. The government is doing a lot for targeted groups but through “schemes” that are going to need rules and administration and inevitably have people falling through the gaps. Our media is going to be full of all the loopholes and inadequacies and unfairnesses of the governments approach, whereas they could just have dropped enough money to get by on everyone.
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?
I disagree. First, because nobody has ever attacked Hyufd for no discernible reason - why bother when there are lots of discernible ones we can use? - but second because there’s just no fuchsia in talking about plants.
https://slate.com/technology/2020/03/florida-climate-change-coronavirus.html As of Friday morning, there were 520 cases of COVID-19 in the state, as well as 10 deaths from the virus. Florida’s many seniors—more than 20 percent of the state’s 21.5 million residents are over 65—are at heightened risk of dying, and there are already suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases at 19 long-term care facilities. The actual number of current infections in Florida is undoubtedly far, far higher, since there is a dire lack of tests. Meanwhile, DeSantis, a Republican, has repeatedly promoted misinformation about the virus: He contradicted infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci’s assertion that the state had community spread and asserted, falsely, that asymptomatic people cannot test positive. Meanwhile, it is business as usual at the state capitol, where more than 100 Florida legislators gathered on Thursday for votes. Yes, in person. Even though a Florida congressman tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday.
The consequences of the state’s collective inaction are only starting to become apparent. As the number of confirmed cases skyrockets with (slowly) accelerated testing, so too will the number of deaths. On Thursday, a man who had visited Disney World earlier in the month died from COVID-19. He was 34 years old. It is extremely likely that the families who strolled around the Magic Kingdom during a pandemic spread the virus between one another. So, too, did the beachgoers and spring breakers who tanned and swam and drank together well after COVID-19 became a national emergency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention begged Americans to avoid crowds and large gatherings. But who wants to listen to the CDC when the party is still raging outside on the beach that the governor isn’t worried enough to close?...
They did a plot, I think it shows pneumonia cases way above what is implied by the official numbers
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
Jm1 said s/he was a teacher. I don’t think, after some of the things he said about fifteen year old girls in public including on this board, that Mr Thomas would be allowed to be a teacher.
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.
He shouldn't be selectively briefing to the press and furthering his (or her) internal political cause.
The government followed advice from their scientific leadership. There was a minority view (which turned out to be correct) but which took time to convince the scientific leadership.
If you think Boris is struggling and he isn't a moron (but not as smart as he thinks he is), Corbyn would be totally overwhelmed by the speed and level of information flowing in. Corbyn didn't understand with the EU withdrawal agreement, you think he would be able to comprehend all the stuff coming from SAGE.
Well Corbyn wouldn't have a f##king clue, McDonnell would have already nationalized half of the businesses.
He doesn't have the need that Boris does for people to like him, and I think he'd have been quicker to make a potentially unpopular early decision to lock down.
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
The issue is not breach but enforcement. Is the EU going to take enforcement proceedings? I don't see that from the article or from anywhere else. A man who breaks the speed limit taking someone to A&E breaks the law. The issue arises when he is punished for it. We are breaking the law but no one is, so far as I can see, minding.
They did during the financial crisis and forced the government to sell Worldpay for a pittance. It's not beyond the realm of possibility that the EU would try and enforce the rules once all of this is over. It's one of the reasons leaving is the right decision.
"Britain. A nation of shopfighters, presided over at a time of mortal peril by a newspaper columnist, who has for three decades moonlighted as his generation’s leading liar. Still, as the words clawed into the side of the plague pit probably once read, “We are where we are.” "
...
"The government’s crisis communications strategy could not be going worse if it was being led by the last speaker of a dead language, with Typhoid Mary on bass."
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.
During the transition period EU rules still apply. But of course you know that.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
Jm1 said s/he was a teacher. I don’t think, after some of the things he said about fifteen year old girls in public including on this board, that Mr Thomas would be allowed to be a teacher.
JM1 also had good medical knowledge, even direct involvement. That rules out him being a panic stricken hypochondriac.
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.
Boris Johnson is speaking to supermarket bosses today about how to overcome the panic buying that is gripping the UK. They will also discuss efforts to keep supplies flowing.
The meetings come ahead of the government’s daily press conference, which will be hosted by the environment secretary, George Eustice, in place of Johnson.
Eustice is expected to be joined by government scientific and medical experts for the briefing, which takes place at 2pm.
Wonder which journalist is going to win dickhead question of the day award today?
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
Jm1 said s/he was a teacher. I don’t think, after some of the things he said about fifteen year old girls in public including on this board, that Mr Thomas would be allowed to be a teacher.
?? I must have missed those comments!
He made them quite a lot at one time. He may have been told to cool them off because they were really quite creepy. I remember I did snap at him once over some particularly inappropriate comments.
Along with his frequent discussions about ephebophiles and his drunken rantings, they were among the less attractive sides of his posts.
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?
Turns out that a big chunk of the world's ventilators are made in Luton
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
I ma sure they have more to bother them at present than a technical breaking of rules that all members will be participating in, worst outcome is it requires a letter, no lives will be lost. It kind of sums up the state of the UK however , outrage about the most trivial points but gloss over major injustices on a daily basis. The UK really is rotten to the core.
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?
Turns out that a big chunk of the world's ventilators are made in Luton
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.
Have we stopped to ask why we would want to give big companies and chains more than that in the first place? The crisis is for the little guy, right now.
Companies like BA and the railways can be nationalised, as an alternative.
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.
Milleniums are a bunch of whining lazy no mark woke losers, wanting everything for nothing.
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?
Turns out that a big chunk of the world's ventilators are made in Luton
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.
Have we stopped to ask why we would want to give big companies and chains more than that in the first place? The crisis is for the little guy, right now.
Companies like BA and the railways can be nationalised, as an alternative.
BA has £10 billion in reserves, it can ride out the crisis better than most airlines
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?
Turns out that a big chunk of the world's ventilators are made in Luton
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.
Have we stopped to ask why we would want to give big companies and chains more than that in the first place? The crisis is for the little guy, right now.
Companies like BA and the railways can be nationalised, as an alternative.
No, the crisis is for everyone. Big or small, all companies are getting hammered. We're going to lose up to 10% of economic output in the next couple of quarters.
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
The issue is not breach but enforcement. Is the EU going to take enforcement proceedings? I don't see that from the article or from anywhere else. A man who breaks the speed limit taking someone to A&E breaks the law. The issue arises when he is punished for it. We are breaking the law but no one is, so far as I can see, minding.
They did during the financial crisis and forced the government to sell Worldpay for a pittance. It's not beyond the realm of possibility that the EU would try and enforce the rules once all of this is over. It's one of the reasons leaving is the right decision.
Something not being beyond the realms of possibility is not the same thing as it happening now. What The Times has done is written an undergraduate legal essay, pointing out to its readers the law, with no context as to the likelihood of enforcement.
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.
Oy, Hector's House was one of the must-sees of my childhood! I expect that Mr Gompertz is also of my vintage
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?
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
The issue is not breach but enforcement. Is the EU going to take enforcement proceedings? I don't see that from the article or from anywhere else. A man who breaks the speed limit taking someone to A&E breaks the law. The issue arises when he is punished for it. We are breaking the law but no one is, so far as I can see, minding.
They did during the financial crisis and forced the government to sell Worldpay for a pittance. It's not beyond the realm of possibility that the EU would try and enforce the rules once all of this is over. It's one of the reasons leaving is the right decision.
Something not being beyond the realms of possibility is not the same thing as it happening now. What The Times has done is written an undergraduate legal essay, pointing out to its readers the law, with no context as to the likelihood of enforcement.
True, but it would be good to get the EU to commit not to chase countries who have taken extraordinary measures to save the economy. We didn't get that last time before nationalising the banks and it backfired as the government were forced to sell off valuable assets for no money. Once bitten and all that...
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?
What's the polling evidence?
What, on pruning wisteria? 52% For and 48% Against.
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.
Nandy has gone right down in my estimate during the leadership race.
In all honesty, we don't really have the lots of the likes of say a Steve Webb sitting on the opposition benches, somebody with really expert knowledge.
I went to see Nandy speak about a month ago in a small intimate venue and she was very impressive. She really got why Labour lost, and she was not willing to “play to the room” just to get cheap applause. I haven’t seen much of the TV content, but she was honestly very impressive.
I'd have agreed but she was very poor on the gender issue - not a problem unique to any party - the LDs are worse but in Labour it's causing ridiculous rifts and of course will leave the bulk of the population wondering WTF!
Is 'poor on gender issues' code for 'not a transphobe'?
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting 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.
Milleniums are a bunch of whining lazy no mark woke losers, wanting everything for nothing.
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?
What's the polling evidence?
What, on pruning wisteria? 52% For and 48% Against.
We should pull it out by the roots. It's the will of the people. We should never have planted it in the first place.
Must be spring. Solar energy has topped 20% of supply for the first time in a while. Indeed, coupled with the strong winds, low demand and high water flows, nearly 60% of electricity is being generated from non-carbon or nuclear sources, helped somewhat by lowered demand.
This is a really interesting, thought-provoking article. How this government and others handle the aftermath of the crisis will shape the world for decades to come. They better make the right choices!!
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.
Milleniums are a bunch of whining lazy no mark woke losers, wanting everything for nothing.
Do you like anyone?
To misquote Elizabeth Peters, Malcolm is quite impartial and despises people equally.
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?
He’d be telling the bush to prune itself and get over 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
The issue is not breach but enforcement. Is the EU going to take enforcement proceedings? I don't see that from the article or from anywhere else. A man who breaks the speed limit taking someone to A&E breaks the law. The issue arises when he is punished for it. We are breaking the law but no one is, so far as I can see, minding.
They did during the financial crisis and forced the government to sell Worldpay for a pittance. It's not beyond the realm of possibility that the EU would try and enforce the rules once all of this is over. It's one of the reasons leaving is the right decision.
Something not being beyond the realms of possibility is not the same thing as it happening now. What The Times has done is written an undergraduate legal essay, pointing out to its readers the law, with no context as to the likelihood of enforcement.
True, but it would be good to get the EU to commit not to chase countries who have taken extraordinary measures to save the economy. We didn't get that last time before nationalising the banks and it backfired as the government were forced to sell off valuable assets for no money. Once bitten and all that...
Ideally they should. But that moves the goalpost. The Times clickbaity headline suggested that there were active attempts by the EU to undermine the Chancellor, rather than soberly pointing out that his measures are technically (and technically is all it is until they are enforced) in breach of EU rules.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
I don`t understand being petrified of getting the virus, assuming you are under 70 and in good health. I`m not worried. Not even slightly.
(If I suddenly stop posting please disregard the above post.)
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
I don`t understand being petrified of getting the virus, assuming you are under 70 and in good health. I`m not worried. Not even slightly.
(If I suddenly stop posting please disregard the above post.)
I don't know how old you are, but unless you are under 20 you should be very concerned. The rates of hospitalization of people even in their 40s is significant, the difference with them compared to the oldies is that with the correct treatment most will to make it through.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
I don`t understand being petrified of getting the virus, assuming you are under 70 and in good health. I`m not worried. Not even slightly.
(If I suddenly stop posting please disregard the above post.)
I don't know how old you are, but unless you are under 20 you should be very concerned. The rates of hospitalization of people even in their 40s is significant, the difference with them compared to the oldies is that with the correct treatment most will to make it through.
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?
I'm not talking about the general public surviving a pandemic with long periods of lockdown and many deaths, getting their calculators out and working out their new moral aesthetics through accountancy. We're controlling our borders now, some of the demands for the most strict measures are coming from people who were most ardently Remain to the point of wanting a People's Vote, and psychologically fears of infection are linked to desire for lower immigration.
I'm not making a moral claim there as to whether it's a bad thing to want lower immigration because there's some psychological reasons behind it btw. I also think that after this, everyone will want a smaller simpler world. Which is maybe what people wanted when they voted for Brexit.
QUICK EDIT: For clarity, "No" to the thing about the states.
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.
It sounds less desolate than last week at any rate. I hope your daughter's delicious meals win her a whole new customer base for when times return to normal.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
It was rather strange that having suggested that him, his wife and her mother had all been infected he had subsequently stockpiled huge amounts of sanitizer, gloves and masks.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
I don`t understand being petrified of getting the virus, assuming you are under 70 and in good health. I`m not worried. Not even slightly.
(If I suddenly stop posting please disregard the above post.)
I don't know how old you are, but unless you are under 20 you should be very concerned. The rates of hospitalization of people even in their 40s is significant, the difference with them compared to the oldies is that with the correct treatment most will to make it through.
I`m 55 and fit as fuck
The fit did doesn't appear to make that much difference in terms of needing hospitalization for younger people. If your body has a particular reaction to it, you will be in trouble.
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?
What's the polling evidence?
What, on pruning wisteria? 52% For and 48% Against.
We should pull it out by the roots. It's the will of the people. We should never have planted it in the first place.
Very mean. I have had wisteria at all of my homes, except the flat on the Archway Road, often transplanted from one to another. Only two have I lived there long enough to really enjoy it, but that first week of May each year makes it all worthwhile.
""The government’s crisis communications strategy could not be going worse if it was being led by the last speaker of a dead language, with Typhoid Mary on bass."
Some people are even bigger partisan bell-ends than you could ever imagine. Some clearly would literally be cheering on Hitler in the WWII, given some of his socialist policies.
And you compare that to the real grown-ups like Dougie Alexander who used to run the Labour Party.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
I don`t understand being petrified of getting the virus, assuming you are under 70 and in good health. I`m not worried. Not even slightly.
(If I suddenly stop posting please disregard the above post.)
I don't know how old you are, but unless you are under 20 you should be very concerned. The rates of hospitalization of people even in their 40s is significant, the difference with them compared to the oldies is that with the correct treatment most will to make it through.
I`m 55 and fit as fuck
Makes little difference. Young fit people are getting hospitalised with serious pneumonia
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.
Have we stopped to ask why we would want to give big companies and chains more than that in the first place? The crisis is for the little guy, right now.
Companies like BA and the railways can be nationalised, as an alternative.
Because if they go under it has a bigger impact on the economy.
I`ve been off line for a bit. Did we find out who JM1 is?
And when was the last time we heard from our resident doomsday merchant. I presume he hasn't got an internet access in his nuclear bomb shelter.
Oh, you suspect JM1 is SeanT?
No, just saying, we haven't heard from Mr Doomsday.
Presumably because, despite having spun us all the yarn of having had the virus, he is now holed up in some Cornish shack with his family petrified of still getting it.
It was rather strange that having suggested that him, his wife and her mother had all been infected he had subsequently stockpiled huge amounts of sanitizer, gloves and masks.
Not once you realise that he gets his kicks from being the centre of attention and is a professional at making up stories for people’s entertainment.
Must be spring. Solar energy has topped 20% of supply for the first time in a while. Indeed, coupled with the strong winds, low demand and high water flows, nearly 60% of electricity is being generated from non-carbon or nuclear sources, helped somewhat by lowered demand.
62% if you include hydro and biomass. We are sending energy to France at the moment as well.
This is a really interesting, thought-provoking article. How this government and others handle the aftermath of the crisis will shape the world for decades to come. They better make the right choices!!
The days when this or any other UK Govt shaped the world vanished long ago
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?
What's the polling evidence?
What, on pruning wisteria? 52% For and 48% Against.
We should pull it out by the roots. It's the will of the people. We should never have planted it in the first place.
Very mean. I have had wisteria at all of my homes, except the flat on the Archway Road, often transplanted from one to another. Only two have I lived there long enough to really enjoy it, but that first week of May each year makes it all worthwhile.
One of my favourite towns, Petworth, has an amazing house in the Square with a vast mature Wisteria. I hope it is still there at any rate, it was glorious.
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.
Have we stopped to ask why we would want to give big companies and chains more than that in the first place? The crisis is for the little guy, right now.
Companies like BA and the railways can be nationalised, as an alternative.
Because if they go under it has a bigger impact on the economy.
Which large companies that it wouldn’t be possible to nationalise are about to go under despite a cash grant from the government of almost a £million?
Some people are even bigger partisan bell-ends than you could ever imagine. Some clearly would literally be cheering on Hitler in the WWII, given some of his socialist policies.
And you compare that to the real grown-ups like Dougie Alexander who used to run the Labour Party.
Sometimes you wonder who would play the role of Lord Haw-Haw in the present day - and sometimes you're sure!
Must be spring. Solar energy has topped 20% of supply for the first time in a while. Indeed, coupled with the strong winds, low demand and high water flows, nearly 60% of electricity is being generated from non-carbon or nuclear sources, helped somewhat by lowered demand.
62% if you include hydro and biomass. We are sending energy to France at the moment as well.
Also the 62% doesn't include nuclear. Only wind and solar.
Some people are even bigger partisan bell-ends than you could ever imagine. Some clearly would literally be cheering on Hitler in the WWII, given some of his socialist policies.
And you compare that to the real grown-ups like Dougie Alexander who used to run the Labour Party.
In fairness, that seems just a little unlikely given Hitler attacked the unambiguously socialist USSR.
I will admit Oswald Mosley as an ex-Labour minister and John Beckett as an ex-Labour MP were dazzling exceptions.
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.
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.
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.
During the transition period EU rules still apply. But of course you know that.
Just pointing out the horse manure on here about how BREXIT IS DONE being a fantasy of the idiotic leavers on here looking through their rose tinted specs. If it walks like an EU member and quacks like an EU member ...............
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?
What's the polling evidence?
What, on pruning wisteria? 52% For and 48% Against.
But you've combined the people who believe in pruning to the 2nd bud and those who believe in the 7th bud approach.
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.
Milleniums are a bunch of whining lazy no mark woke losers, wanting everything for nothing.
Do you like anyone?
Certainly not whining jessies of which the UK is full of. I long for the days when men were men and beer was 2 bob a pint.
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 would think they will. Perhaps they closed BECAUSE of the package even?
Some people are even bigger partisan bell-ends than you could ever imagine. Some clearly would literally be cheering on Hitler in the WWII, given some of his socialist policies.
And you compare that to the real grown-ups like Dougie Alexander who used to run the Labour Party.
In fairness, that seems just a little unlikely given Hitler attacked the unambiguously socialist USSR.
I will admit Oswald Mosley as an ex-Labour minister and John Beckett as an ex-Labour MP were dazzling exceptions.
The Communist Party of Great Britain (at least) was dead in favour of the Nazi-Soviet pact until, you know, the whole Operation Barbarossa thing. Until then it campaiged for peace, and described the war as the product of imperialism on both sides, in which the working class had no side to take
Nearly time for the daily government update. Why are we still doing these in person? Surely that isn't a good idea.
I'm amazed they are still* letting journalists film outside No. 10. It is a pointless thing to be doing at the best of times, and right now it is surely irresponsible.
* Certainly yesterday there were reports from there.
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 would think they will. Perhaps they closed BECAUSE of the package even?
I haven`t asked, but I suspect that is correct, i.e. they closed because of the deal thinking they would qualify. So, do you think that the gov package covers all businesses that voluntarily pause trading because of the virus? Any business?
Some people are even bigger partisan bell-ends than you could ever imagine. Some clearly would literally be cheering on Hitler in the WWII, given some of his socialist policies.
And you compare that to the real grown-ups like Dougie Alexander who used to run the Labour Party.
In fairness to all the leaders of the UK countries they have all played this with a straight bat - even when there were slightly different approaches they shut down attempts to play Peter against Paul.
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.
Milleniums are a bunch of whining lazy no mark woke losers, wanting everything for nothing.
Do you like anyone?
Certainly not whining jessies of which the UK is full of. I long for the days when men were men and beer was 2 bob a pint.
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?
I'm not talking about the general public surviving a pandemic with long periods of lockdown and many deaths, getting their calculators out and working out their new moral aesthetics through accountancy. We're controlling our borders now, some of the demands for the most strict measures are coming from people who were most ardently Remain to the point of wanting a People's Vote, and psychologically fears of infection are linked to desire for lower immigration.
I'm not making a moral claim there as to whether it's a bad thing to want lower immigration because there's some psychological reasons behind it btw. I also think that after this, everyone will want a smaller simpler world. Which is maybe what people wanted when they voted for Brexit.
QUICK EDIT: For clarity, "No" to the thing about the states.
It's not immigration that has been spreading this virus; it's air travel and cruises.
Comments
https://slate.com/technology/2020/03/florida-climate-change-coronavirus.html
As of Friday morning, there were 520 cases of COVID-19 in the state, as well as 10 deaths from the virus. Florida’s many seniors—more than 20 percent of the state’s 21.5 million residents are over 65—are at heightened risk of dying, and there are already suspected or confirmed coronavirus cases at 19 long-term care facilities. The actual number of current infections in Florida is undoubtedly far, far higher, since there is a dire lack of tests. Meanwhile, DeSantis, a Republican, has repeatedly promoted misinformation about the virus: He contradicted infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci’s assertion that the state had community spread and asserted, falsely, that asymptomatic people cannot test positive. Meanwhile, it is business as usual at the state capitol, where more than 100 Florida legislators gathered on Thursday for votes. Yes, in person. Even though a Florida congressman tested positive for coronavirus on Wednesday.
The consequences of the state’s collective inaction are only starting to become apparent. As the number of confirmed cases skyrockets with (slowly) accelerated testing, so too will the number of deaths. On Thursday, a man who had visited Disney World earlier in the month died from COVID-19. He was 34 years old. It is extremely likely that the families who strolled around the Magic Kingdom during a pandemic spread the virus between one another. So, too, did the beachgoers and spring breakers who tanned and swam and drank together well after COVID-19 became a national emergency. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention begged Americans to avoid crowds and large gatherings. But who wants to listen to the CDC when the party is still raging outside on the beach that the governor isn’t worried enough to close?...
‘Mr Speaker, we must be prepared to give up if necessary not just a part but even the whole of our constitution, to preserve the remainder.’
Tony Shalhoub is brilliant in just about everything.
https://twitter.com/Steven_Swinford/status/1241300115094147072?ref_src=twsrc^tfw|twcamp^tweetembed&ref_url=https://politicalbetting.vanillacommunity.com/discussion/8546/politicalbetting-com-blog-archive-looking-on-the-bright-side-another-decade-of-austerity-at-be/p7
https://twitter.com/Steven_Swinford
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8137731/Alcohol-replaces-toilet-paper-number-one-panic-buyers.html
The government followed advice from their scientific leadership. There was a minority view (which turned out to be correct) but which took time to convince the scientific leadership.
Well Corbyn wouldn't have a f##king clue, McDonnell would have already nationalized half of the businesses.
...
"The government’s crisis communications strategy could not be going worse if it was being led by the last speaker of a dead language, with Typhoid Mary on bass."
https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2020/mar/20/boris-johnson-covid-19-prime-minister-brexit
Marina Hyde. Harsh, but very funny.
The meetings come ahead of the government’s daily press conference, which will be hosted by the environment secretary, George Eustice, in place of Johnson.
Eustice is expected to be joined by government scientific and medical experts for the briefing, which takes place at 2pm.
Wonder which journalist is going to win dickhead question of the day award today?
Along with his frequent discussions about ephebophiles and his drunken rantings, they were among the less attractive sides of his posts.
https://www.smiths.com/news-and-media/2020/03/smiths-group-significantly-ramping-up-weekly-production-of-ventilators
Companies like BA and the railways can be nationalised, as an alternative.
https://www.smiths.com/news-and-media/2020/03/smiths-group-significantly-ramping-up-weekly-production-of-ventilators
https://twitter.com/johnmcdonnellMP/status/1241068378456043521?s=20
(If I suddenly stop posting please disregard the above post.)
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/05/170501094306.htm
I'm not making a moral claim there as to whether it's a bad thing to want lower immigration because there's some psychological reasons behind it btw. I also think that after this, everyone will want a smaller simpler world. Which is maybe what people wanted when they voted for Brexit.
QUICK EDIT: For clarity, "No" to the thing about the states.
https://twitter.com/gsoh31/status/1241351701271056385?s=20
And you compare that to the real grown-ups like Dougie Alexander who used to run the Labour Party.
https://twitter.com/D_G_Alexander/status/1239491903386763264?s=20
(Agreed that there is no chance of it.)
I will admit Oswald Mosley as an ex-Labour minister and John Beckett as an ex-Labour MP were dazzling exceptions.
https://twitter.com/ChloeInCurve/status/1241026855605547009?s=20
Clearly under FPTP the 48% would win.
* Certainly yesterday there were reports from there.