The changing face of the electorate – politicalbetting.com

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

Stuartinromford said:

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.

Stuartinromford said:

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

HYUFD said:

kinabalu said:

CatMan said:

williamglenn said:

viewcode said:

williamglenn said:

viewcode said:

Leon said:

Taz said:

Leon said:

Nigelb said:

This is imbecility, but imbecility that we have to take seriously.

Trump says US owning Greenland ‘absolute necessity’
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5053319-trump-greenland-purchase/

Greenland might say Yes

It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.

Hah

If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes

Probably I'm alone in PB. on that

I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.

There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.

Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?

On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.

The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!

Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.

No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him

HYUFD said:

numbertwelve said:

Omnium said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.

I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.

Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage

Flatlander said:

Stuartinromford said:

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.

I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.

Sunil_Prasannan said:

HYUFD said:

kinabalu said:

CatMan said:

williamglenn said:

viewcode said:

williamglenn said:

viewcode said:

Leon said:

Taz said:

Leon said:

Nigelb said:

This is imbecility, but imbecility that we have to take seriously.

Trump says US owning Greenland ‘absolute necessity’
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5053319-trump-greenland-purchase/

Greenland might say Yes

It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.

Hah

If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes

Probably I'm alone in PB. on that

I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.

There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.

Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?

On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.

The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!

Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.

No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him

Just for a bit of fun:

USA including DC 538
Puerto Rico 5
Guam, Marianas, etc. 2
Canadia 60
England 92
Scotland 9
Wales 5
Northern Ireland 3
UK Dependencies & Territories 1
Ireland 8
Australia and territories 43
New Zealand and territories 9

Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!

ohnotnow said:

Flatlander said:

Stuartinromford said:

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.

I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.

I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.

ohnotnow said:

Flatlander said:

Stuartinromford said:

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.

I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.

I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.

Carnyx said:

HYUFD said:

numbertwelve said:

Omnium said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.

I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.

Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage

You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.

Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.

And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.

https://www.thenational.scot/news/24816246.reform-uk-mp-condemned-calling-scottish-devolution-scam/
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/scotland/article/reform-uk-support-anas-sarwar-labour-9x579ghlf

Sunil_Prasannan said:

HYUFD said:

kinabalu said:

CatMan said:

williamglenn said:

viewcode said:

williamglenn said:

viewcode said:

Leon said:

Taz said:

Leon said:

Nigelb said:

This is imbecility, but imbecility that we have to take seriously.

Trump says US owning Greenland ‘absolute necessity’
https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5053319-trump-greenland-purchase/

Greenland might say Yes

It’s not up to them. It’s up to people on random bulletin boards.

Hah

If Trump offered the UK American statehood, and we were allowed to swerve American gun law, avoid the American healthcare system, and find some compromise over the monarchy where we get to keep it but they don't have to adopt it, I would absolutely say Yes

Probably I'm alone in PB. on that

I will never get over the propensity of the rich to be patriotic to every country but their own. What was the point of Brexit if the first thing you do is to kneel to another country? First it was CANZUK, now it's USA.

There's a sense in which CANZ and the USA are not really foreign but part of Greater Britain.

Yes. And that sense was "we used to be close in the past but aren't any more". There is a difference between alliances and identities, and the British aren't American, Canadian, whatevs. May and Goodhart were correct about "citizens of nowhere", but since when was being right an advantage in politics?

On the other hand, the growth of the internet means that we have never been closer. We share memes on social media and are part of the same political conversation. In addition the rise of China means that we will inevitably be pushed closer together geopolitically as well.

The UK becoming part of the USA would guarantee 70 or so electoral college votes for the Democrats. Let's do it!

Would have kept Trump out. I think I'd give up our sovereignty for that. Just as a temporary emergency measure you understand.

No, Trump would still have won 312 to 296 for Harris even with 70 UK EC votes. It would have needed Canada or Australia/NZ too to defeat him

Just for a bit of fun:

USA including DC 538
Puerto Rico 5
Guam, Marianas, etc. 2
Canadia 60
England 92
Scotland 9
Wales 5
Northern Ireland 3
UK Dependencies & Territories 1
Ireland 8
Australia and territories 43
New Zealand and territories 9

Remember, this is just for a bit of fun!

ohnotnow said:

HYUFD said:

numbertwelve said:

Omnium said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.

I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.

Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage

Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.

Carnyx said:

ohnotnow said:

Carnyx said:

HYUFD said:

numbertwelve said:

Omnium said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.

I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.

Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage

You're still aggrieved over Bannockburn?! Just think how the *locals* felt about being invaded.

Some of us have moved on, however, in contrast.

And if you were not so busy being a PBScotchplainer, you would be aware that Reform are very firmly in bed with you in the Unionist sleeping-bag.

https://www.thenational.scot/news/24816246.reform-uk-mp-condemned-calling-scottish-devolution-scam/
https://www.thetimes.com/uk/scotland/article/reform-uk-support-anas-sarwar-labour-9x579ghlf

I rewatched Peter Watkins "Culloden" recently :

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culloden_(film)

Really is a remarkable bit of work. I think Culloden and Year of the Sex Olympics are two of the most prescient bits of work from that era.

No mention of the War Game, too? Very much more in the PB zeitgeist than that pair for better or worse, probably unfairly.

HYUFD said:

ohnotnow said:

HYUFD said:

numbertwelve said:

Omnium said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.

I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.

Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage

Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.

No Lodgemen were always Unionist, Tory and liked Farage, 'Gibson nationalists' are just nationalists ie voted Yes, loved Salmond, hate Sturgeon, Labour and the Tories but have a soft spot for Farage

ohnotnow said:

HYUFD said:

ohnotnow said:

HYUFD said:

numbertwelve said:

Omnium said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

Farage at 15% is astonishing there. Scotland, Farage, it makes no sense. Mind you they do allow the orange fool to flatten and make comedy out of some acres of their country too.

I think there’s a certain type of Scottish voter who would be prepared to vote for a more right wing party but who would never, ever be able to bring themselves to vote Tory, such is the incredibly deep seated distrust and aversion to the party among large swathes of Scottish society. Those are the sorts of voters I could see Reform attracting. There must be similar potential in places like Merseyside.

Yes Scots who champion Bannockburn over woke social democracy who loved Salmond but loathe Swinney, Sturgeon, Starmer and Kemi and Davey as establishment liberals could certainly vote for Farage

Just say Lodgemen. It's much quicker. And you get the helpful mental image of them dragging their knuckles behind the drums and flutes.

No Lodgemen were always Unionist, Tory and liked Farage, 'Gibson nationalists' are just nationalists ie voted Yes, loved Salmond, hate Sturgeon, Labour and the Tories but have a soft spot for Farage

And there was me thinking just growing up amongst them, visiting the lodge, being in the segregated bowling clubs (yes) gave me a little insight.

I stand corrected once again! Thank you!

bondegezou said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Peter_the_Punter said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

bondegezou said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.

Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.

My experience of jury service made me think an IQ test would be more appropriate than an age limit.

Northern_Al said:

Nigelb said:

Nigelb said:

rcs1000 said:

FPT:

Here's a silly one.

If the United States does something stupid, like make Bitcoin part of national reserves, it will have the impact of driving energy prices through the roof.

Why?

Because the higher the Bitcoin price, the greater the value of Bitcoin mined. And the greater the value of Bitcoin mined, the more it becomes financially viable to spend money to mine Bitcoin.

Essentially, the amount of money spent on Bitcoin mining will be 90% of the value of Bitcoin mined.

Currently (and for the next four years) around 13,500 Bitcoin are mined per month.

So, if Bitcoin were (say) $1m. Then 90% of $13.5 billion (say $12.3bn) would be spent on electricity for Bitcoin mining.

Per month.

That would send electricity prices through the roof in most developed economies. To put it in context, that's about 3x the amount of energy that got taken off the market by the closing of the gas pipelines out of Russia.

The US doing something stupid under Trump is pretty much a given.
The question is really how many stupid things. And how far will they take them.

Here's another one.

https://x.com/Craig_A_Spencer/status/1870910690917257625
It’s being reported that the Trump administration plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization on day one.

This is not a huge surprise.

But it IS an absolutely stupid and self-defeating move.

And I say this as a longtime critic of the WHO…

The list of things that Trump's going to do on day one gets longer and longer.
He's going to have fuck all left to do on day two.

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line

You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line

You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to

There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.

If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%

Carnyx said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line

You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to

There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.

If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%

That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line

You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to

There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026

Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme

I would vote for Reform over Labour if they were the only choices but otherwise I will vote Tory still

Carnyx said:

Peter_the_Punter said:

BlancheLivermore said:

Peter_the_Punter said:

BlancheLivermore said:

In the latest on good reasons for cash..

Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card

I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer

One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me

Hi Blanche

We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?

A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty

I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas

Your postie should love you!

She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.

I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.

Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.

Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line

You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to

There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026

Look back at all your posts and there is a consistent pro Reform theme

I would vote for Reform over Labour if they were the only choices but otherwise I will vote Tory still

Of course you would vote Reform, thereby demonstrating your utter hypocrisy on the purity of your conservative vote

Sunil_Prasannan said:

HYUFD said:

Carnyx said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

HYUFD said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

RandallFlagg said:

Northern_Al said:

Big_G_NorthWales said:

Labour continue their fall in Scotland

https://x.com/ElectionMapsUK/status/1871256076584374592?t=dpRpwVLwL0yjAgeuzP17Vw&s=19

That one's more than a fortnight old.
I'm sure Labour will be under 5% by now.

I suspect when it comes to it much of that Reform vote will hold their nose and vote for SLAB come 2026. At the least when it comes to the constituency vote.

I think what is is telling us is the SNP are finally getting their act together, and Farage continues to attrack the protest vote, though our Scots colleagues will have their own view no doubt on Labour's collapse in Scotland

No they aren't SNP are still miles behind their 2015, 2019 and even 2017 voteshares, what is clear is that some of the nationalist Scottish vote that backed Salmond has now switched to Farage after his passing and some of the Scottish Tory vote has gone to Farage too. SLab are down to 2021 levels

I can't believe that. At least not in significant numbers. I do think a lot of Scottish nationalists voted for Brexit, believing (correctly) that it would weaken the Union, and a few Sillars types believing EU independence was a necessary prerequisite for Scottish independence. But I just can't see those people ever gladly declaring for Reform.

They must be mostly Labour voters, and a few Tories.

Given on that poll the SNP are still on only a mere 31% clearly some former SNP voters and likely Yes voters from the 45% too are voting Reform now, not just Leave voting Unionists even if they remain the largest bulk of support for Farage in Scotland

Still no seats for Reform in that poll

Only because of FPTP, Reform will certainly elect a number of MSPs at Holyrood in 2026 if they are now on 15% in Scotland. Even if Reform MPs still only come from England, for now

It is curious how you maintain you are the purest of conservatives but consistently ramp the Reform and Farage line

You should be honest and join Reform - you know you want to

There is nothing 'ramping' about saying 15% of Scots back Reform in that poll which given Holyrood has PR will lead to roughly 15% of MSPs being from Farage's party in 2026.

If even I went Reform the Tories would near cease to exist given I voted Tory even in the 2019 EU elections when the Conservatives got just 9% and Farage's Brexit Party got 30.5%

That's nothing. I know of a PBer who voted PC when they were getting about 5% for all I know.

I believe the same PBer still voted for every Tory candidate on that ballot paper even then

And he channelled his inner LibDem by voting Remain in 2016

Taz said:

Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur @viewcode @bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.

HYUFD said:

Peter_the_Punter said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

bondegezou said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.

Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.

My experience of jury service made me think an IQ test would be more appropriate than an age limit.

Rather defeats the point, you may as well just leave it to judges to deliver verdicts as well as sentence rather than have an IQ tested jury

Carnyx said:

BlancheLivermore said:

Carnyx said:

Peter_the_Punter said:

BlancheLivermore said:

Peter_the_Punter said:

BlancheLivermore said:

In the latest on good reasons for cash..

Blanche's bonus Christmas cash tips total is up to £340, with a day to go. Three more people today checked that I'm working tomorrow so that they can give me my card; it's never just a card

I've also been given two boxes of biscuits, five boxes of chocolates, two bottles of wine and a pack of six bottles of beer

One very kind family gave me SIXTY QUID! I think that their lovely labrador, Puddles, who I make a fuss of every day, must have put in a good word for me

Hi Blanche

We give our lovely Postie £20 and a card each year. I take it that is fairly normal? Maybe she's due an inflation increase next year?

A twenty quid tip is a very fine tip, the most I'd hope for from one house. I've only had two more than twenty

I remember the three people who gave me twenty quid tips from my old round last Christmas

Your postie should love you!

She's an angel, and loves our dogs, so we tip her with pleasure.

I used to give similarly to the dustmen who worked my patch in East London. They were brilliant. Around here they are surly and unhelpful. They get nowt.

Blanche, Mrs C has made noises about expressing appreciation for our local posties - but we never know who is coming around any particular day: whetehr the regular two, or someone rostered in at random, and it's difficult to catch them.

Does dropping off some nice biscuits and a card at the sorting office cut it?

I'd recommend giving something directly to the regular posties. Food gifts to the sorting office get enjoyed by the greediest

I can't imagine any postie would mind getting a Christmas gift after Christmas, so I'd wait until you see them

Many thanks. Will pass on to Mrs C. Maybe add a nice letter anyway - but separate and sent to the manager.

Richard_Tyndall said:

bondegezou said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.

Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.

Malmesbury said:

rcs1000 said:

Nigelb said:

The leaders of @eurofighter and #NETMA (the @NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) today signed the contract for up to 24 @ItalianAirForce Eurofighters in #Rome. The announcement comes at a strategically important time for the Eurofighter programme and follows the contract signing last Friday (20 December) for 25 Eurofighters for the Spanish Air Force. The new Italian Eurofighter Typhoon jets will replace Italian Tranche 1 versions that are currently in service.
https://x.com/Leonardo_live/status/1871239691758104867

The tranche 1 Eurofighters aren't *that* old - surely their airframes are serviceable, and their avionics could be upgraded to the latest version.

There are still some Block 15 (early 80s) F-16s in use, albeit mostly for training purposes. And I believe Israel still flies some of the very earliest F-16s made.

Fundamental structural issues in the Tranche 1 prevent them receiving various upgrades. Including significant air-ground capabilities.

IIRC there is no plausible way round this.

rcs1000 said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

bondegezou said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.

Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.

I think Jury Service is a good compare: if someone's not mentally capable of deciding their fellow man's fate in a court of law, they're not capable of voting.

rcs1000 said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

bondegezou said:

Richard_Tyndall said:

HYUFD said:

I doubt it makes much difference electorally, 18 year olds have a low turnout at election time and 16 year olds will likely have an even lower one.

Given 16 year olds cannot drive, watch an 18 film or play an 18 rated computer game, be interviewed by police without an appropriate adult present, be on a jury, buy and drink alcohol at a bar or get married without parental consent not sure why they should be entitled to vote on who their government is yet. Given 16 and 17 year olds can't stand as an MP or councillor yet not sure why they should be voting for them yet either

Yep. I would suggest that the only way it would be aceptable is if we decided on a single age of adulthood for everything. So give children the vote but also allow them to serve on juries, drink, get married without parental consent, drive and serve on the front line in wars. Why should we trust them with the future of the country if we don't trust them with alcohol, cars or the fate of the accused.

I don’t see why you need a single age for everything. One vote has very little effect, democracy comes in very small increments, but being drunk and driving a car can have a huge impact.

Democray is far more important than either driving or drinking. As is jury service. I expect you might be happy having a 16 year old decide your fate but I woudn't.

I think Jury Service is a good compare: if someone's not mentally capable of deciding their fellow man's fate in a court of law, they're not capable of voting.

rcs1000 said:

Nigelb said:

The leaders of @eurofighter and #NETMA (the @NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency) today signed the contract for up to 24 @ItalianAirForce Eurofighters in #Rome. The announcement comes at a strategically important time for the Eurofighter programme and follows the contract signing last Friday (20 December) for 25 Eurofighters for the Spanish Air Force. The new Italian Eurofighter Typhoon jets will replace Italian Tranche 1 versions that are currently in service.
https://x.com/Leonardo_live/status/1871239691758104867

The tranche 1 Eurofighters aren't *that* old - surely their airframes are serviceable, and their avionics could be upgraded to the latest version.

There are still some Block 15 (early 80s) F-16s in use, albeit mostly for training purposes. And I believe Israel still flies some of the very earliest F-16s made.

another_richard said:

Perhaps people should only get the vote after being employed for a year.

Few things mature you more than having to make a useful contribution in the company of people different to yourself.

ohnotnow said:

Flatlander said:

Stuartinromford said:

ydoethur said:

Stuartinromford said:

HYUFD said:

Luckyguy1983 said:

kle4 said:

So much principal in foreign affairs

Mauritius is a despicable country, and any Government worth its salt would grasp this opportunity to say OK, f**k off then.

A nice country to lie on a beach at and explore with a friendly population but its government leaves a bit to be desired.

Though I once went to a wedding there with its then PM who was surrounded by security staff and spent most of the reception half asleep

That's probably a decent summary of any country with a coastline.

I wouldn't personally want a beach day in Greenland or the Falkland Islands, but each to his own,

One of the many benefits of a geology education. It recalibrates your idea of what counts as a nice beach day.

I would 100% rather spend a day on a beach in Greenland than some boring resort.

I sometimes have a weeks holiday over on Arran - and it's always quite delightful to watch the Geology students get very excited by the rocks and stratum.

Stuartinromford said:

Meanwhile, have we done this one yet?

Westminster Voting Intention:

LAB: 29% (=)
CON: 23% (-2)
RFM: 22% (+1)
LDM: 11% (+1)
GRN: 10% (+1)
SNP: 3% (=)

Via @opiniumresearch.bsky.social, 18-20 Dec.
Changes w/ 27-29 Nov.

https://bsky.app/profile/electionmaps.uk/post/3ldu3zuvkfk2c

another_richard said:

I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.

BartholomewRoberts said:

Taz said:

Christmas TV is shite but @ydoethur @viewcode @bondegezou dont forget War Games in colour is on BBC4 tonight and after it is a ghost story for Xmas from the truly magnificent Mark Gatiss.

Why would War Games not be in colour? It was only released in 1983.

How about a nice game of chess?

Foxy said:

another_richard said:

I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.

I was having a conversation with our nursing staff over the bring and share Christmas buffet. One of our Somali nurses is having Halal Turkey and Turkey sausages wrapped in Turkey blankets.

Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.

rottenborough said:

Foxy said:

another_richard said:

I believe we've reached Christmas without the annual tradition of the media forecasting a pigs-in-blankets shortage.

I was having a conversation with our nursing staff over the bring and share Christmas buffet. One of our Somali nurses is having Halal Turkey and Turkey sausages wrapped in Turkey blankets.

Does that show assimilation? or that she should be deported? I need the PB opinion.

What is a turkey blanket?