Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
There are few points where you can make politically unpopular changes and get away with because you have a justified reason.
This is one of them where the better option would have been bin the triple lock or increase taxes because you have someone else to blame.
Now when taxes need to be increased (because seeing the finances they need to be) or the triple lock removed (because again it will need to be) there won’t be any chance you can blame the changes on the orange peril in Washington
Cutting the triple lock will only happen if it’s a cross party decision . It’s now electoral kryptonite to go anywhere near it .
Labour burnt a lot of political capital on the WFA and that would be nothing compared to what would happen if they touched the triple lock .
Which is very much why you do it now when you can point at Russia / Trump and say sorry but needs absolutely must
I think, on balance, you are right. A small window of opportunity but a window of opportunity nonetheless and the defence angle would mean they take less of a hit for it.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Peter Navarro is a bad 'un.
He was up to his neck in Trump's attempts to steal the 2020 Elections (ruled to have violated the Hatch Act), and went to prison for 4 months for Contempt of Congress when he refused to answer a subpoena to testify about it. He was involved in Project 2025.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
There are few points where you can make politically unpopular changes and get away with because you have a justified reason.
This is one of them where the better option would have been bin the triple lock or increase taxes because you have someone else to blame.
Now when taxes need to be increased (because seeing the finances they need to be) or the triple lock removed (because again it will need to be) there won’t be any chance you can blame the changes on the orange peril in Washington
Cutting the triple lock will only happen if it’s a cross party decision . It’s now electoral kryptonite to go anywhere near it .
Labour burnt a lot of political capital on the WFA and that would be nothing compared to what would happen if they touched the triple lock .
Which is very much why you do it now when you can point at Russia / Trump and say sorry but needs absolutely must
I think, on balance, you are right. A small window of opportunity but a window of opportunity nonetheless and the defence angle would mean they take less of a hit for it.
Sadly this govt doesn’t have a spine.
It announced the cut to the WFA to much wailing and gnashing of teeth, and pressed ahead regardless, which suggests it does have more of a spine than its predecessor when it comes to dealing with the national Union of pensioners.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
There’s a peculiarly spiteful edge to their behaviour with Canada that goes beyond what they do with other countries. Sibling rivalry I suppose.
I'm wondering about doing a header on it, since @TSE called for some.
AFAICS Canada was the last place the USA invaded for territorial expansion when they were simply defeated - by the British Empire in 1812.
Chump has a sort of 19C mindset, and is probably resentful about it.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Peter Navarro is a bad 'un.
He was up to his neck in Trump's attempts to steal the 2020 Elections (ruled to have violated the Hatch Act), and went to prison for 4 months for Contempt of Congress when he refused to answer a subpoena to testify about it. He was involved in Project 2025.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
There are few points where you can make politically unpopular changes and get away with because you have a justified reason.
This is one of them where the better option would have been bin the triple lock or increase taxes because you have someone else to blame.
Now when taxes need to be increased (because seeing the finances they need to be) or the triple lock removed (because again it will need to be) there won’t be any chance you can blame the changes on the orange peril in Washington
Cutting the triple lock will only happen if it’s a cross party decision . It’s now electoral kryptonite to go anywhere near it .
Labour burnt a lot of political capital on the WFA and that would be nothing compared to what would happen if they touched the triple lock .
Which is very much why you do it now when you can point at Russia / Trump and say sorry but needs absolutely must
I think, on balance, you are right. A small window of opportunity but a window of opportunity nonetheless and the defence angle would mean they take less of a hit for it.
Sadly this govt doesn’t have a spine.
It announced the cut to the WFA to much wailing and gnashing of teeth, and pressed ahead regardless, which suggests it does have more of a spine than its predecessor when it comes to dealing with the national Union of pensioners.
Good political judgment is another matter.
Or they wouldn’t back down, like with the farmers IHT, as they didn’t want to seem weak but it’s made them wary of taking strong action in future. Hence kicking care funding decision into touch.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Reduce it to AUKUS and have Australia annex New Zealand.
I can't see AUKUS surviving. The Aussies now think they were ripped off by Boris and Biden anyway. Trump will come out with something soon enough that will make the whole thing untenable.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
There are few points where you can make politically unpopular changes and get away with because you have a justified reason.
This is one of them where the better option would have been bin the triple lock or increase taxes because you have someone else to blame.
Now when taxes need to be increased (because seeing the finances they need to be) or the triple lock removed (because again it will need to be) there won’t be any chance you can blame the changes on the orange peril in Washington
Cutting the triple lock will only happen if it’s a cross party decision . It’s now electoral kryptonite to go anywhere near it .
Labour burnt a lot of political capital on the WFA and that would be nothing compared to what would happen if they touched the triple lock .
Which is very much why you do it now when you can point at Russia / Trump and say sorry but needs absolutely must
I think, on balance, you are right. A small window of opportunity but a window of opportunity nonetheless and the defence angle would mean they take less of a hit for it.
Sadly this govt doesn’t have a spine.
Maybe the triple lock is better removed after the overseas aid has already gone.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Peter Navarro is a bad 'un.
He was up to his neck in Trump's attempts to steal the 2020 Elections (ruled to have violated the Hatch Act), and went to prison for 4 months for Contempt of Congress when he refused to answer a subpoena to testify about it. He was involved in Project 2025.
I'm claiming a measure of insight, since I mentioned the risk to Five Eyes in May last year .
I'm wondering what contingency planning our Govt are doing, on the prospect of a man who declares himself able to declassify Top Secret material by a thought, and then give it to anyone who gives him enough money, around such things as US access to our Five Eyes material.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
I think the Triple Lock has to go. I also think removing the age limit on NI should go as well. I am not into the generational warfare in the way some on here appear to be - not least because I am only a few years off being a pensioner myself - but I do think that bribes and iniquities in our revenue system should be removed.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Remove the US and bring in France in their place. If the US want to side with the enemy then they should not continue to have access to our intelligence systems.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Reduce it to AUKUS and have Australia annex New Zealand.
I can't see AUKUS surviving. The Aussies now think they were ripped off by Boris and Biden anyway. Trump will come out with something soon enough that will make the whole thing untenable.
OTOH the first stage of Aukus is the US sale of secondhand submarines to Oz.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
I think the Triple Lock has to go. I also think removing the age limit on NI should go as well. I am not into the generational warfare in the way some on here appear to be - not least because I am only a few years off being a pensioner myself - but I do think that bribes and iniquities in our revenue system should be removed.
That’s a laudable attitude and I do agree the triple lock should go but parties will avoid doing it and giving their opponents an open goal .
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
I think the Triple Lock has to go. I also think removing the age limit on NI should go as well. I am not into the generational warfare in the way some on here appear to be - not least because I am only a few years off being a pensioner myself - but I do think that bribes and iniquities in our revenue system should be removed.
That’s a laudable attitude and I do agree the triple lock should go but parties will avoid doing it and giving their opponents an open goal .
As someone has already said, this might be the perfect opportunity. If we are to face a serious threat over the next 4 years as a result of the Trump idiocy then I think that by the time the next election comes around the Triple Lock will be small fry in the grand scheme of things.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Remove the US and bring in France in their place. If the US want to side with the enemy then they should not continue to have access to our intelligence systems.
It might eventually come to that, but it's a bit too early for now.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
I think the Triple Lock has to go. I also think removing the age limit on NI should go as well. I am not into the generational warfare in the way some on here appear to be - not least because I am only a few years off being a pensioner myself - but I do think that bribes and iniquities in our revenue system should be removed.
That’s a laudable attitude and I do agree the triple lock should go but parties will avoid doing it and giving their opponents an open goal .
As someone has already said, this might be the perfect opportunity. If we are to face a serious threat over the next 4 years as a result of the Trump idiocy then I think that by the time the next election comes around the Triple Lock will be small fry in the grand scheme of things.
But as someone else said it would need to be cross - party I think. You'd hope both Starmer and Badenoch could get together to agree a cross party approach - it has pretty widespread support across the political spectrum on here.
Though I suppose Badenoch (or both) might be watching their Reform flank.
Starmer has taken the right decision and it seems it has been complimented by the US defence secretary
It was good to hear Kemi endorse the defence uplift though I expect there will be pressure to spend more and quickly
Certainly it does undermine Reform and it may just be that we have seen peak Reform
It will be interesting how this plays out in public opinion over the coming weeks but before we get a bit ahead of ourselves the UK still faces serious issues from Reeves ill-conceived budget
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
There are few points where you can make politically unpopular changes and get away with because you have a justified reason.
This is one of them where the better option would have been bin the triple lock or increase taxes because you have someone else to blame.
Now when taxes need to be increased (because seeing the finances they need to be) or the triple lock removed (because again it will need to be) there won’t be any chance you can blame the changes on the orange peril in Washington
Cutting the triple lock will only happen if it’s a cross party decision . It’s now electoral kryptonite to go anywhere near it .
Labour burnt a lot of political capital on the WFA and that would be nothing compared to what would happen if they touched the triple lock .
Which is very much why you do it now when you can point at Russia / Trump and say sorry but needs absolutely must
I think, on balance, you are right. A small window of opportunity but a window of opportunity nonetheless and the defence angle would mean they take less of a hit for it.
Sadly this govt doesn’t have a spine.
It announced the cut to the WFA to much wailing and gnashing of teeth, and pressed ahead regardless, which suggests it does have more of a spine than its predecessor when it comes to dealing with the national Union of pensioners.
Good political judgment is another matter.
Or they wouldn’t back down, like with the farmers IHT, as they didn’t want to seem weak but it’s made them wary of taking strong action in future. Hence kicking care funding decision into touch.
Surely the most consequential decision was to increase employers' NI, which will raise an amount of money that dwarfs the tinkering stuff like WFA, farmers' IHT and VAT on school fees.
The fact that the government has stuck to the employers' NI rise despite it being lambasted throughout PB and almost everywhere else suggests that it is not spineless and is content to carry through unpopular decisions.
Touching the triple lock after the WFA would be disastrous politically. Could the government have borrowed more ? I’m not sure about that but there were 3 options available and Labour went for the least damaging to their future prospects . Cynical it might be but welcome to the world of politics!
The public well of sympathy for overseas aid isn’t what it was and I’m sorry to say that the outcry amongst charities and social media isn’t going to be representative of the public at large .
I think the Triple Lock has to go. I also think removing the age limit on NI should go as well. I am not into the generational warfare in the way some on here appear to be - not least because I am only a few years off being a pensioner myself - but I do think that bribes and iniquities in our revenue system should be removed.
That’s a laudable attitude and I do agree the triple lock should go but parties will avoid doing it and giving their opponents an open goal .
As someone has already said, this might be the perfect opportunity. If we are to face a serious threat over the next 4 years as a result of the Trump idiocy then I think that by the time the next election comes around the Triple Lock will be small fry in the grand scheme of things.
IMHO there would be very little political cost to the government if they abandon the link with earnings but guarantee a double lock instead. If enacted in this year's budget it wouldn't kick in until 2026-27 and would mean a marginal loss of pensioner income while preserving its buying power. The richest wouldn't notice and the poorest would be covered by pension credits that could be tweaked to compensate. Do it now.
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Peter Navarro is a bad 'un.
He was up to his neck in Trump's attempts to steal the 2020 Elections (ruled to have violated the Hatch Act), and went to prison for 4 months for Contempt of Congress when he refused to answer a subpoena to testify about it. He was involved in Project 2025.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
Peter Navarro is a bad 'un.
He was up to his neck in Trump's attempts to steal the 2020 Elections (ruled to have violated the Hatch Act), and went to prison for 4 months for Contempt of Congress when he refused to answer a subpoena to testify about it. He was involved in Project 2025.
One of the very many other topics which this forum is ignoring. Something which English cricketers could have done but chose not to.
This forum certainly isn't ignoring it. It was discussed extensively when the tour was announced. Indeed on 30th December there was a whole thread on the subject written by Cyclefree.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
That’s the January figures which will include a lot of cars sold in December but delivered in January imagine what the ones for February onwards will look like
Although this aid cut will go down very badly with charities I expect in the wider public using that to increase the defence budget will play well .
There weren’t many options open to the government , putting up taxes or cutting more from public services wasn’t a choice they wanted to make .
What the government spend money on and what the public thinks we spend on are miles apart. Junk the Triple lock to fund defence.
So:
The state pension cost £110.5bn in 2022-2023, just under half the total amount the government spends on benefits.
The Office for Budget Responsibility expected this to grow to £124bn for 2023-2024.
That would be equivalent of taking the defence budget of 2.5% of GDP to 3.2%
Starmer is moving 0.2% of GDP from aid to defence. Why not just keep the budgets the same, but make clear that 0.2% of the aid budget will go to Ukraine in military aid?
Perhaps because 0.2% of GDP will not be going to Ukraine?
The current "headline" number for Ukraine is £3bn, which is about 1.2% of GDP.
I understand the point you are making I think but 3bn is not 1.2% of GDP.
I overestimated afaics ! I guestimated £2.5bn.
GDP is estimated to grown by 0.4% in December compared to November. This followed growth of 0.1% in November. The services sector grew by 0.4% in December and production grew by 0.5%, but construction fell by 0.2%. In cash terms, GDP was £2,848 billion in 2024.
3/2848 = 1.05%.
So for 0.2% it would have to be £5.7 bn for Ukraine.
Although this aid cut will go down very badly with charities I expect in the wider public using that to increase the defence budget will play well .
There weren’t many options open to the government , putting up taxes or cutting more from public services wasn’t a choice they wanted to make .
What the government spend money on and what the public thinks we spend on are miles apart. Junk the Triple lock to fund defence.
So:
The state pension cost £110.5bn in 2022-2023, just under half the total amount the government spends on benefits.
The Office for Budget Responsibility expected this to grow to £124bn for 2023-2024.
That would be equivalent of taking the defence budget of 2.5% of GDP to 3.2%
Starmer is moving 0.2% of GDP from aid to defence. Why not just keep the budgets the same, but make clear that 0.2% of the aid budget will go to Ukraine in military aid?
I couldn't give the tiniest of shits about the wailing of Save The Children in cutting the aid budget because they'll have to scale back their operations and sack people.
The BBC has reported this pretty uncritically (together with the emotion) and James Lansdale is one of the worst offenders.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
One of the very many other topics which this forum is ignoring. Something which English cricketers could have done but chose not to.
This forum certainly isn't ignoring it. It was discussed extensively when the tour was announced. Indeed on 30th December there was a whole thread on the subject written by Cyclefree.
And it would have been a pointless gesture. Some people are acting as if had England boycotted the match it would have brought down the Taliban. Such thinking is somewhat misplaced.
The ICC should get their act together and ban Afghanistan, who are in breach of the regulations, but that's the appropriate forum to sort it out.
Apparently the script kiddies at DOGE are writing an AI AutoRIF that will fire people.
Perhaps the one time in history AI really did take someones job...
So they are looking for a lazy federal employee, who often clocks off early to go and play golf, is disruptive at work, and doesn’t understand his job?
I know one of them. I wonder if the algorithm will find him.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
Apparently the script kiddies at DOGE are writing an AI AutoRIF that will fire people.
Perhaps the one time in history AI really did take someones job...
So they are looking for a lazy federal employee, who often clocks off early to go and play golf, is disruptive at work, and doesn’t understand his job?
I know one of them. I wonder if the algorithm will find him.
How about ketamine addicts? Are they good employees?
Although this aid cut will go down very badly with charities I expect in the wider public using that to increase the defence budget will play well .
There weren’t many options open to the government , putting up taxes or cutting more from public services wasn’t a choice they wanted to make .
What the government spend money on and what the public thinks we spend on are miles apart. Junk the Triple lock to fund defence.
So:
The state pension cost £110.5bn in 2022-2023, just under half the total amount the government spends on benefits.
The Office for Budget Responsibility expected this to grow to £124bn for 2023-2024.
That would be equivalent of taking the defence budget of 2.5% of GDP to 3.2%
Starmer is moving 0.2% of GDP from aid to defence. Why not just keep the budgets the same, but make clear that 0.2% of the aid budget will go to Ukraine in military aid?
I couldn't give the tiniest of shits about the wailing of Save The Children in cutting the aid budget because they'll have to scale back their operations and sack people.
The BBC has reported this pretty uncritically (together with the emotion) and James Lansdale is one of the worst offenders.
I'm sure the charity directors will still take home six figure salaries despite any funding cuts. They'll find a way to maintain that spending, no doubt.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
As so many Labour supporters remind us as they dived in the polls come back in 4 years
If the last 4 weeks is anything to go by, ii is utterly impossible to predict the next election other than by wish casting
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
I thought Starmer gave a good speech before the news conference and whether people like him or not he does seem to have found his mojo .
The first responsibility of any government is the defence and security of its people and you can disagree with where the money might be coming from but the increase in defence spending will be popular with the general public.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the reassuring warmth of an arctic blast.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the reassuring warmth of an arctic blast.
Is this a spoof? I have always appreciated your pep talks for the Tories, but before this I have sort of thought any hilarity was unintended.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the warm of an arctic blast.
I have no idea but I doubt you are her target voter
She may be replaced next year after the 2026 Senedd and Holyrood elections but for now the media are all about Trump and his geo political wrecking balls he is delivering
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the reassuring warmth of an arctic blast.
Is this a spoof? I have always appreciated your pep talks for the Tories, but before this I have sort of thought any hilarity was unintended.
Perhaps sense? There's always a risk that it leaks into the PB discussions.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the warm of an arctic blast.
I have no idea but I doubt you are her target voter
She may be replaced next year after the 2026 Senedd and Holyrood elections but for now the media are all about Trump and his geo political wrecking balls he is delivering
I am not her target voter. But as a a patriotic Brit concerned about Putin I want a viable plan B. Germany points the way.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the reassuring warmth of an arctic blast.
Is this a spoof? I have always appreciated your pep talks for the Tories, but before this I have sort of thought any hilarity was unintended.
Perhaps sense? There's always a risk that it leaks into the PB discussions.
As risks go, I'd class that one as fairly minimal.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
Similar kit homes are available, for not dissimilar prices.
But then you have to factor in the vast cost of the land and the 25 years of planning process before you can actually click on add to basket.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the warm of an arctic blast.
I have no idea but I doubt you are her target voter
She may be replaced next year after the 2026 Senedd and Holyrood elections but for now the media are all about Trump and his geo political wrecking balls he is delivering
I am not her target voter. But as a a patriotic Brit concerned about Putin I want a viable plan B. Germany points the way.
I wouldn't put Germany anywhere near UK in defence against Putin
The UK from Johnson to Starmer are in a different league
It’s brilliant how debate on PB ranges wildly from slightly-to-the-left of Keir Starmer to slightly-to-the-right of Rishi Sunak
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
Similar kit homes are available, for not dissimilar prices.
But then you have to factor in the vast cost of the land and the 25 years of planning process before you can actually click on add to basket.
You can buy land, in the nice bits of the U.K. for a few thousand pounds an acre.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
Similar kit homes are available, for not dissimilar prices.
But then you have to factor in the vast cost of the land and the 25 years of planning process before you can actually click on add to basket.
You can buy land, in the nice bits of the U.K. for a few thousand pounds an acre.
It’s brilliant how debate on PB ranges wildly from slightly-to-the-left of Keir Starmer to slightly-to-the-right of Rishi Sunak
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
It’s brilliant how debate on PB ranges wildly from slightly-to-the-left of Keir Starmer to slightly-to-the-right of Rishi Sunak
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
I've just flagged you as a Troll old bean.
Yeah go fuck yourself with Albania’s biggest frozen saveloy
One of the very many other topics which this forum is ignoring. Something which English cricketers could have done but chose not to.
This forum certainly isn't ignoring it. It was discussed extensively when the tour was announced. Indeed on 30th December there was a whole thread on the subject written by Cyclefree.
And it would have been a pointless gesture. Some people are acting as if had England boycotted the match it would have brought down the Taliban. Such thinking is somewhat misplaced.
The ICC should get their act together and ban Afghanistan, who are in breach of the regulations, but that's the appropriate forum to sort it out.
Pretending that the only gesture you can make is one that brings down a government is pathetic. It doesn't seem to apply when it is something that affects men. It would have meant something. It might even have shamed the ICC into enforcing its own rules or, even, funding the Afghani refugee women's cricket team, which they have refused to do.
What other topics have been ignored?
1. The AD Bill - lots to mention here, including the fact that pain will not be a criteria for AD but manageable conditions such as diabetes will be and that the Committee voted down an amendment requiring a doctor to tell patients about palliative care options, with Kinnock, the Minister for Care voting against this amendment and then saying that while he was in favour of it, the government wasn't. (Eh?) Presumably he will now resign given the obvious conflict of interest he is under. Much more under this heading. 2. 4 significant legal developments - including one on free speech and one on libel. 3. Israel / Gaza and the hostages.
It’s brilliant how debate on PB ranges wildly from slightly-to-the-left of Keir Starmer to slightly-to-the-right of Rishi Sunak
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
I've just flagged you as a Troll old bean.
Yeah go fuck yourself with Albania’s biggest frozen saveloy
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
Similar kit homes are available, for not dissimilar prices.
But then you have to factor in the vast cost of the land and the 25 years of planning process before you can actually click on add to basket.
You can buy land, in the nice bits of the U.K. for a few thousand pounds an acre.
Try building on it though….
You can build on it.
You just can't build on it legally.
It’s the one crime that is definitely prosecuted in rural areas.
It’s brilliant how debate on PB ranges wildly from slightly-to-the-left of Keir Starmer to slightly-to-the-right of Rishi Sunak
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
I've just flagged you as a Troll old bean.
Yeah go fuck yourself with Albania’s biggest frozen saveloy
Scary.
You should be. I’ve seen it in Tirana. They keep it in a special freezer unit inherited from Enver Hozha’s saucissonerie assault team
It’s brilliant how debate on PB ranges wildly from slightly-to-the-left of Keir Starmer to slightly-to-the-right of Rishi Sunak
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
I've just flagged you as a Troll old bean.
Yeah go fuck yourself with Albania’s biggest frozen saveloy
Scary.
You should be. I’ve seen it in Tirana. They keep it in a special freezer unit inherited from Enver Hozha’s saucissonerie assault team
What gets me is that PB, surely the most intense concentration of autism in human history - a kind of super black hole of neurodivergents wearing black jeans that don’t reach their ankles and yet are belted around the waist - have the spergy gall to diss Elon “going to Mars” Musk for being “socially awkward and unsuccessful”
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
Did people see Badenoch’s speech this morning? I quote:
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
More relevant did you see her support Starmer at the dispatch box and his appreciation?
Basic minimum requirements of LoO at times like these. Tories still need a new leader if they are to return to power like the CDU. It’s time for a reassuring Tory leader not a hyper partisan , divisive novice.
Maybe, maybe not. There's a long, long period where Badenoch can improve her game.
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
I don’t buy the nation turning to her in a crisis in the same way as they did with Merz. This not 1997. Experience seems to win at the ballot box.
She will have 4 more years of experience
The mission of the Tories is to save Britain from the Putinistas if Labour stumbles. Is Kemi Badenoch the best they have for that mission? Is she a big tent Tory? Can she reach voters beyond her heartland?
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the warm of an arctic blast.
I have no idea but I doubt you are her target voter
She may be replaced next year after the 2026 Senedd and Holyrood elections but for now the media are all about Trump and his geo political wrecking balls he is delivering
I am not her target voter. But as a a patriotic Brit concerned about Putin I want a viable plan B. Germany points the way.
I wouldn't put Germany anywhere near UK in defence against Putin
The UK from Johnson to Starmer are in a different league
Um. Germany are the biggest providers of military aid to Ukraine by some distance, now the US has left the scene.
Too much psychodrama but at least they are coughing up the cash and weapons. Maybe they should inherit the "right thing, once all other possibilities have been exhausted" quip now it so clearly doesn't apply to the original country.
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
It really does beggar belief that Labour are doing things the Conservatives couldn't bring themselves to do for 14 years.
The only conclusion I can reach is that, fundamentally, the Conservatives were deeply embarrassed at being as such in their middle-class/establishment social circles, lacked the courage of their convictions, and constantly felt the need to qualify themselves.
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
A friend of mine today described the Pope, with his complexion and his silly little hat, as looking like a pallid pepperami.
Which I thought was quite brilliant.
I was in a briefing call with a journalist today who said she couldn’t confirm an upcoming diary appointment because “I’m on standby for papal duties and may need to go out to Rome for a couple of weeks of it happens”.
FT Exclusive: Peter Navarro, one of the US president’s closest advisers, is pushing for the US to remove Canada from the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing network.. https://x.com/FT/status/1894410479923077584
... with Russia to replace them ?
If that's true then any attempt by Starmer to talk sense into Trump is likely to fail and very soon. Starmer will have to revise his defence plans immediately.
BREAKING: The FAA is investigating the *near collision* of a landing Southwest Airlines 737 and a Flexjet Challenger 350 that taxiied across the same runway "without authorization" at Chicago Midway Airport.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
After WWII the government resorted to prefab homes. No doubt, sooner or later, they will come round to that sort of thing.
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
It really does beggar belief that Labour are doing things the Conservatives couldn't bring themselves to do for 14 years.
The only conclusion I can reach is that, fundamentally, the Conservatives were deeply embarrassed at being as such in their middle-class/establishment social circles, lacked the courage of their convictions, and constantly felt the need to qualify themselves.
I think it's reflective of the rise of the career politician. If we take Sunak as an example (I have nothing against him), then he imagined his political career being one of just skimming over the surface, the polish on the shiny stuff. Worthwhile governance of this country never crossed his mind.
Starmer is actually doing the job of being PM. As an ex-Tory it's a bit humbling.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
After WWII the government resorted to prefab homes. No doubt, sooner or later, they will come round to that sort of thing.
The builder most interested in prefab homes (was Bovis but can’t remember it’s new name) was issued 3 profit warnings over the past few months
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
Probably not. But it has been mentioned that Sir Keir needed a way to deal with the threat of Reform in his red-wall seats. Looks like he might have been handed a gold-plated opportunity to do just that by your man Trump.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
After WWII the government resorted to prefab homes. No doubt, sooner or later, they will come round to that sort of thing.
We aren’t remotely close to limits on actual building. The problem is starting projects.
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
BREAKING: The FAA is investigating the *near collision* of a landing Southwest Airlines 737 and a Flexjet Challenger 350 that taxiied across the same runway "without authorization" at Chicago Midway Airport.
BREAKING: The FAA is investigating the *near collision* of a landing Southwest Airlines 737 and a Flexjet Challenger 350 that taxiied across the same runway "without authorization" at Chicago Midway Airport.
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
After WWII the government resorted to prefab homes. No doubt, sooner or later, they will come round to that sort of thing.
The builder most interested in prefab homes (was Bovis but can’t remember it’s new name) was issued 3 profit warnings over the past few months
Mm. Though part of the whole point re prefab homes was that they were made by other firms, and didn't need much in the way of a specifically building industry workforce.For instance, the Sunderland flying boat factory at Dumbarton was still making them into the late 1940s.
A friend of mine today described the Pope, with his complexion and his silly little hat, as looking like a pallid pepperami.
Which I thought was quite brilliant.
I was in a briefing call with a journalist today who said she couldn’t confirm an upcoming diary appointment because “I’m on standby for papal duties and may need to go out to Rome for a couple of weeks of it happens”.
It's remarkable it's still considered such a big story.
Firstly, we're not a Catholic country and, secondly, Popes pop off every 10-12 years anyway, due to their age, so it's hardly like the death of a long beloved monarch or global leader.
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
Probably not. But it has been mentioned that Sir Keir needed a way to deal with the threat of Reform in his red-wall seats. Looks like he might have been handed a gold-plated opportunity to do just that by your man Trump.
This vibe shift to foreign and defence policy to meet the threat of Trump is a gift to SKS. The previous "growth" shibboleth was a political meat hook.
What gets me is that PB, surely the most intense concentration of autism in human history - a kind of super black hole of neurodivergents wearing black jeans that don’t reach their ankles and yet are belted around the waist - have the spergy gall to diss Elon “going to Mars” Musk for being “socially awkward and unsuccessful”
Ooh, Leon using "autism" as a base insult, who'd have thought?
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
It really does beggar belief that Labour are doing things the Conservatives couldn't bring themselves to do for 14 years.
The only conclusion I can reach is that, fundamentally, the Conservatives were deeply embarrassed at being as such in their middle-class/establishment social circles, lacked the courage of their convictions, and constantly felt the need to qualify themselves.
Labour are governing in the national interest (as they see it) and have a big majority. The Tories were in power for 14 years but not sure they satisfied both conditions. Maybe for a brief moment under Cameron.
I can remember being ridiculed before the election for saying that Keir Starmer's election would represent a shift to the right in British politics, but it is now surely beyond any doubt that this is what has happened with objectively the most right-wing government for several decades at least.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
It really does beggar belief that Labour are doing things the Conservatives couldn't bring themselves to do for 14 years.
The only conclusion I can reach is that, fundamentally, the Conservatives were deeply embarrassed at being as such in their middle-class/establishment social circles, lacked the courage of their convictions, and constantly felt the need to qualify themselves.
It could also be that the machinery of government somehow "refused" to carry out the government's policies when the Tories were in charge, but they do with Labour running things.
Comments
Albeit they usually prefer to remain in the shadows I thought.
Sadly this govt doesn’t have a spine.
He was up to his neck in Trump's attempts to steal the 2020 Elections (ruled to have violated the Hatch Act), and went to prison for 4 months for Contempt of Congress when he refused to answer a subpoena to testify about it. He was involved in Project 2025.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peter_Navarro
Good political judgment is another matter.
AFAICS Canada was the last place the USA invaded for territorial expansion when they were simply defeated - by the British Empire in 1812.
Chump has a sort of 19C mindset, and is probably resentful about it.
Peter Zeihan is interesting in his briefing on this, particularly on Tulsi Gabbard. Very sinister indeed. Worth a watch.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eqdVmz8G6gQ
Good evening, everyone.
I'm wondering what contingency planning our Govt are doing, on the prospect of a man who declares himself able to declassify Top Secret material by a thought, and then give it to anyone who gives him enough money, around such things as US access to our Five Eyes material.
I suspect the Ghost of Paul Daniels has the answer.
https://vf.politicalbetting.com/discussion/comment/4765323#Comment_4765323
Alleged centrist-dads see furthest !!!
We'll know for sure soon enough.
Though I suppose Badenoch (or both) might be watching their Reform flank.
It was good to hear Kemi endorse the defence uplift though I expect there will be pressure to spend more and quickly
Certainly it does undermine Reform and it may just be that we have seen peak Reform
It will be interesting how this plays out in public opinion over the coming weeks but before we get a bit ahead of ourselves the UK still faces serious issues from Reeves ill-conceived budget
Thumping fall in Tesla sales in Jan across Europe (EU +Efta + UK)… down 45%, to 9,945 from 18k last Jan. In EU alone halved to 7,500… at the same time EV sales in general up 37%.
Shares down 10%.
Overtaken by JLR and Mazda. And BYD in UK.
https://x.com/faisalislam/status/1894431893434597772
The fact that the government has stuck to the employers' NI rise despite it being lambasted throughout PB and almost everywhere else suggests that it is not spineless and is content to carry through unpopular decisions.
(edited to correct implementation date)
“We must … get serious within our own nation. We no longer have time for fripperies and inconsequentials. […] before someone else again accuses me of fighting culture wars, this goes well beyond personal interest. Every single second that we spent on these matters is a second lost while our adversaries are advancing.”
She’s saying we need to stop being distracted by culture wars… Badenoch is saying this.
a) Musk is a dick
b) there's much more EV competition out there, or
c) a+b?
https://www.standard.co.uk/news/politics/tesla-sales-elon-musk-fall-donald-trump-uk-b1209226.html
It's 0.105% you're still an order of magnitude out.
The BBC has reported this pretty uncritically (together with the emotion) and James Lansdale is one of the worst offenders.
Perhaps the one time in history AI really did take someones job...
Also, because the Starmer government is reasonably sensible overall she should have time to think about good policies. And anyway there really isn't a wealth of talent on the Tory benches. (A problem Labour had and has too)
The ICC should get their act together and ban Afghanistan, who are in breach of the regulations, but that's the appropriate forum to sort it out.
I know one of them. I wonder if the algorithm will find him.
If the last 4 weeks is anything to go by, ii is utterly impossible to predict the next election other than by wish casting
The first responsibility of any government is the defence and security of its people and you can disagree with where the money might be coming from but the increase in defence spending will be popular with the general public.
Can’t see it. At least not yet. Hyper partisan and the reassuring warmth of an arctic blast.
She may be replaced next year after the 2026 Senedd and Holyrood elections but for now the media are all about Trump and his geo political wrecking balls he is delivering
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/realestate/you-can-buy-a-2-story-tiny-home-with-floor-to-ceiling-windows-a-spacious-kitchen-and-a-balcony-at-amazon/ar-AA1zJWfH?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=5fcd347a023b4dedbee7a07915ce14d1&ei=35
"Amazon has made securing a tiny home as easy as clicking “add to cart,” and then expanding your new home upon delivery day. Whether you’re looking to purchase your first home, downsize, or tack on square footage to your existing home with an office or mother-in-law suite, a tiny house can be a great option, and Amazon has no shortage to choose from.
Our latest tiny home discovery is a spacious two-story model, which includes all the practical accessories, like plumbing and electrical, to make it move-in ready. The customizable pick starts at less than $35,000 — a fraction of the price of a traditional home. "
There are two models shown in the article, which cost even less. And here's a question for those of you who know something about housing costs in the UK: What would a house of a similar size and quality, built on site, cost in the UK. Roughly.
But then you have to factor in the vast cost of the land and the 25 years of planning process before you can actually click on add to basket.
The UK from Johnson to Starmer are in a different league
And if ever that heady diet somehow becomes stale (how???) we are always allowed to talk about REDACTED or THING or FORBIDDEN or NOT ALLOWED TO TALK ABOUT THAT
And then there are those mad googlies bowled by @bondegezou when he manages, as always, to say something easily as boring and tedious as @Nigelb or even @kinabalu who are in turn as boring as @Eabhal, @turbotubbs and @Carnyx
Honestly, if PB really was a pub it would be packed to the rafters with developers desperately trying to turn it into a car park, due to public demand
Try building on it though….
You just can't build on it legally.
What other topics have been ignored?
1. The AD Bill - lots to mention here, including the fact that pain will not be a criteria for AD but manageable conditions such as diabetes will be and that the Committee voted down an amendment requiring a doctor to tell patients about palliative care options, with Kinnock, the Minister for Care voting against this amendment and then saying that while he was in favour of it, the government wasn't. (Eh?) Presumably he will now resign given the obvious conflict of interest he is under. Much more under this heading.
2. 4 significant legal developments - including one on free speech and one on libel.
3. Israel / Gaza and the hostages.
There is probably more.
Which I thought was quite brilliant.
Starmer has graduated from ramping up deportations to slashing the aid budget and beefing up the military. As we know, the slide into right-wing dictatorship doesn't happen overnight, but we should beware of thinking that it can't happen here.
Too much psychodrama but at least they are coughing up the cash and weapons. Maybe they should inherit the "right thing, once all other possibilities have been exhausted" quip now it so clearly doesn't apply to the original country.
The only conclusion I can reach is that, fundamentally, the Conservatives were deeply embarrassed at being as such in their middle-class/establishment social circles, lacked the courage of their convictions, and constantly felt the need to qualify themselves.
Just cc Canada on everything we receive?
BREAKING: The FAA is investigating the *near collision* of a landing Southwest Airlines 737 and a Flexjet Challenger 350 that taxiied across the same runway "without authorization" at Chicago Midway Airport.
https://x.com/petemuntean/status/1894452849729270039
@kaitlancollins
Elon Musk will be at the Cabinet meeting tomorrow, per the press secretary.
Starmer is actually doing the job of being PM. As an ex-Tory it's a bit humbling.
already posted
Firstly, we're not a Catholic country and, secondly, Popes pop off every 10-12 years anyway, due to their age, so it's hardly like the death of a long beloved monarch or global leader.
The Tories were in power for 14 years but not sure they satisfied both conditions. Maybe for a brief moment under Cameron.
Hey Elon Musk: What did you do last week? List five things.
https://x.com/harryjsisson/status/1894451982804373907
Such a creep.