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politicalbetting.com » Blog Archive » Your first guide to GE2020 – some of the seats LAB will hav

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  • Options
    JonathanDJonathanD Posts: 2,400
    What cabinet positions are left for Matt Hancock and Andrea Leadsom? Chief Sec and Scottish Office? I thought one of them would get Cabinet Office rather than Letwin.
  • Options
    ArtistArtist Posts: 1,883
    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
  • Options
    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323
    JonathanD said:

    What cabinet positions are left for Matt Hancock and Andrea Leadsom? Chief Sec and Scottish Office? I thought one of them would get Cabinet Office rather than Letwin.

    Would have thought Chief Sec might not be a Cabinet position, but looks like it will be...
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    LennonLennon Posts: 1,736

    Personal vote means very little, anywhere.
    At the polling booth, it's personal interests, personal concerns, personal beliefs that count.
    In my estimation, having stood successfully twice as a councillor and unsuccessfully once as a parliamentary candidate, no MP can count on more than 1000-1500 'personal' votes.

    Indeed - as someone said - Julian Huppert in Cambridge tested to destruction the concept of an independently minded, scientific and hard-working constituency MP being able to buck the trend of his party.
  • Options
    watford30watford30 Posts: 3,474
    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    They were busy, blindly shoving leaflets through letterboxes, convinced that a pamphlet on a doormat equalled a vote, rather than something else for the recycling bin.
  • Options
    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323
    Grandiose said:

    JonathanD said:

    What cabinet positions are left for Matt Hancock and Andrea Leadsom? Chief Sec and Scottish Office? I thought one of them would get Cabinet Office rather than Letwin.

    Would have thought Chief Sec might not be a Cabinet position, but looks like it will be...
    "Greg Hands will become Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He will attend Cabinet."
  • Options
    kingbongokingbongo Posts: 393
    Grandiose said:

    Grandiose said:

    JonathanD said:

    What cabinet positions are left for Matt Hancock and Andrea Leadsom? Chief Sec and Scottish Office? I thought one of them would get Cabinet Office rather than Letwin.

    Would have thought Chief Sec might not be a Cabinet position, but looks like it will be...
    "Greg Hands will become Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He will attend Cabinet."
    is every tory MP attending cabinet? seems that way!
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    JohnOJohnO Posts: 4,215
    edited May 2015
    Grandiose said:

    JonathanD said:

    What cabinet positions are left for Matt Hancock and Andrea Leadsom? Chief Sec and Scottish Office? I thought one of them would get Cabinet Office rather than Letwin.

    Would have thought Chief Sec might not be a Cabinet position, but looks like it will be...
    Oops. Scrub that!
  • Options
    FPT:
    Tissue_Price

    Betting Post

    Next Mayor Of London: Zac Goldsmith @ 22/1


    Why exactly? He seems unremarkable and low profile to me.
  • Options
    MarqueeMarkMarqueeMark Posts: 50,144
    edited May 2015

    Nope, its been sliced three-wise and turned into the lion's share of a work surface in a Poggenpohl kitchen.
    Perhaps a SMEG kitchen.

    Then as he prepares food, Ed can forever heed the risk of hubris.

    As Kryton might say, it will be his "SMEG - heeeeeeeeeed....."
  • Options
    PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 76,002
    edited May 2015
    Artist said:

    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
    Sherwood should have been an absolute penalty kick, there was the Tholliery Colliery pit closure here ffsake !

    Miliband's leader ratings must have been absolutely in the toilet around here.
  • Options
    Life_ina_market_townLife_ina_market_town Posts: 2,319
    edited May 2015
    Grandiose said:

    Would have thought Chief Sec might not be a Cabinet position, but looks like it will be...

    Looks as if the Chief Secretary has been demoted from the Cabinet.
    David Cameron @David_Cameron · 3 mins 3 minutes ago
    Greg Hands will become Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He will attend Cabinet.
  • Options
    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323
    What's happened to Hancock? A good day for Osborne allies except one of his very closest?!
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    OblitusSumMeOblitusSumMe Posts: 9,143

    Nope, its been sliced three-wise and turned into the lion's share of a work surface in a Poggenpohl kitchen.
    Arf - there are several schools of thought as to its possible whereabouts – personally I believe it’s in a pink bus heading for Doncaster North…!
    Some wag has suggested it's turned up in the stone circle discovered on Dartmoor.
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    RobDRobD Posts: 58,990
    edited May 2015
    Grandiose said:

    What's happened to Hancock? A good day for Osborne allies except one of his very closest?!

    Telegraph suggesting he may be Chief Secretary... or not (if I had read further down thread!!)
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    SlackbladderSlackbladder Posts: 9,713
    Not sure about keeping Letwin, he seems impossible to shove out.
  • Options
    Tissue_PriceTissue_Price Posts: 9,039
    edited May 2015

    FPT:
    Tissue_Price

    Betting Post

    Next Mayor Of London: Zac Goldsmith @ 22/1


    Why exactly? He seems unremarkable and low profile to me.

    He's been low profile because he doesn't want to be too associated with the government. Because, I am assuming, he wants to be the next Mayor of London.

    I stress that I have no inside info on this - but looking at the market it was notable how pro-Labour it was, and thus the likely Tories were too big. Doubtless if the Tories could get Seb Coe or Karren Brady to stand they will (and the latter may be a good bet), but Zac looks the most likely otherwise.
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    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323
    RobD said:

    Grandiose said:

    What's happened to Hancock? A good day for Osborne allies except one of his very closest?!

    Telegraph suggesting he may be Chief Secretary.
    Widely thought he might be (or BIS) but now neither...
  • Options
    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323

    FPT:
    Tissue_Price

    Betting Post

    Next Mayor Of London: Zac Goldsmith @ 22/1


    Why exactly? He seems unremarkable and low profile to me.

    He's been low profile because he doesn't want to be too associated with the government. Because, I am assuming, he wants to be the next Mayor of London.

    I stress that I have no inside info on this - but looking at the market it was notable how pro-Labour it was, and thus the likely Tories were too big. Doubtless if the Tories could get Seb Coe or Karren Brady to stand they will (and the latter may be a good bet), but Zac looks the most likely otherwise.
    Brady said 2020 IIRC.

    A Tory win seems unlikely full stop.
  • Options
    FrancisUrquhartFrancisUrquhart Posts: 76,292

    Not sure about keeping Letwin, he seems impossible to shove out.

    I would send Letwin off on sabbatical to think up new policies...maybe hang out with Steve Hilton in California.... i.e. miles away from where he can cause any trouble.

    BTW, just like the Crosby video is interesting, it is well worth watching Hilton video with Joe Rogan...he says a lot of very perceptive and interesting stuff...just ignore Joe Rogan.
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    CD13CD13 Posts: 6,351
    What has Pickles done wrong? He was hidden during the campaign and now packed off to Tower Hamlets (nice one, Grandiose).
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    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594
    David Mundell the new Scottish Secretary.

    Cameron should have been bold and appointed John Redwood as the New English Viceroy of Scotland.
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    Tissue_PriceTissue_Price Posts: 9,039
    Grandiose said:

    FPT:
    Tissue_Price

    Betting Post

    Next Mayor Of London: Zac Goldsmith @ 22/1


    Why exactly? He seems unremarkable and low profile to me.

    He's been low profile because he doesn't want to be too associated with the government. Because, I am assuming, he wants to be the next Mayor of London.

    I stress that I have no inside info on this - but looking at the market it was notable how pro-Labour it was, and thus the likely Tories were too big. Doubtless if the Tories could get Seb Coe or Karren Brady to stand they will (and the latter may be a good bet), but Zac looks the most likely otherwise.
    Brady said 2020 IIRC.

    A Tory win seems unlikely full stop.
    Yes, Labour should be fairly decent favourites, and indeed they are (4/9 best). But neither Tessa nor Sadiq strike me as great candidates, though Sadiq might surprise me on that.
  • Options
    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323

    Grandiose said:

    FPT:
    Tissue_Price

    Betting Post

    Next Mayor Of London: Zac Goldsmith @ 22/1


    Why exactly? He seems unremarkable and low profile to me.

    He's been low profile because he doesn't want to be too associated with the government. Because, I am assuming, he wants to be the next Mayor of London.

    I stress that I have no inside info on this - but looking at the market it was notable how pro-Labour it was, and thus the likely Tories were too big. Doubtless if the Tories could get Seb Coe or Karren Brady to stand they will (and the latter may be a good bet), but Zac looks the most likely otherwise.
    Brady said 2020 IIRC.

    A Tory win seems unlikely full stop.
    Yes, Labour should be fairly decent favourites, and indeed they are (4/9 best). But neither Tessa nor Sadiq strike me as great candidates, though Sadiq might surprise me on that.
    They are both competent enough, and it's Labour's to lose. A decent performance here last week, which would have made Dave's life very difficult if it had been repeated nationally.
  • Options
    FrancisUrquhartFrancisUrquhart Posts: 76,292
    CD13 said:

    What has Pickles done wrong? He was hidden during the campaign and now packed off to Tower Hamlets (nice one, Grandiose).

    I did think that was a bit weird....he was super effective in C+N by-election at getting people to actually stop and listen.
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    GrandioseGrandiose Posts: 2,323
    "Matt Hancock becomes Minister for Cabinet Office & Paymaster General"

    The Treasury were hoping for that latter one back...!
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    OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 32,065
    edited May 2015

    Sean_F said:

    antifrank said:

    JohnO said:

    AndyJS said:

    It's startling how Miliband has achieved the seemingly impossible feat of securing a small swing to Labour overall but at the same time the swing required in the marginals for Labour to win a majority is now 8.7% instead of 4.7%.

    It's the ground game - over a THOUSAND canvassers in one seat alone - wot done it.
    If there's one thing we've learned about campaigning in the last week, it's that a levée en masse doesn't work by itself.
    You can't fatten the pig on market day. If the Tories have been spending a fortune, contacting key voters for two years prior to the Short Campaign, you aren't going to turn that around in a few weeks.
    True, and it's an offence to democracy. We're approachimg the Septic situation where only the rich can fight elections with any prospect of success.
    Businesses are rich..
    Labour pissed them off.

    And now you are complaining the rich won't give you money?

    Read what Sir Alan Sugar wrote...

    No, I'm grumbling about how loudly money talks. I take these canvassing teams get free tea and coffee, at least

    I'd complain jst as much if the unions used their funds to fund such squads.
  • Options
    Bob__SykesBob__Sykes Posts: 1,176
    The Chief Secretary appointment should lead to plenty of corny "Hands Off our..." protest march posters....
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    "Greg Hands will become Chief Secretary to the Treasury. He will attend Cabinet."

    An interesting appointment, if seemingly delayed. As Casino suggeted, I wonder if someone turned it down earlier?
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    AllyPally_RobAllyPally_Rob Posts: 605
    Pulpstar said:

    Artist said:

    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
    Sherwood should have been an absolute penalty kick, there was the Tholliery Colliery pit closure here ffsake !

    Miliband's leader ratings must have been absolutely in the toilet around here.
    Yeah I assumed Sherwood would be easy pickings for the same reason. The gov't lets the county's last pit go under....and the local MP increases his majority!

    I wonder why Sherwood and Bassetlaw are going in opposite directions politically? They have very similar demographics.
  • Options
    PlatoPlato Posts: 15,724
    Tory battlebus canvassers PAID £50 to be part of the effort.

    Sean_F said:

    antifrank said:

    JohnO said:

    AndyJS said:

    It's startling how Miliband has achieved the seemingly impossible feat of securing a small swing to Labour overall but at the same time the swing required in the marginals for Labour to win a majority is now 8.7% instead of 4.7%.

    It's the ground game - over a THOUSAND canvassers in one seat alone - wot done it.
    If there's one thing we've learned about campaigning in the last week, it's that a levée en masse doesn't work by itself.
    You can't fatten the pig on market day. If the Tories have been spending a fortune, contacting key voters for two years prior to the Short Campaign, you aren't going to turn that around in a few weeks.
    True, and it's an offence to democracy. We're approachimg the Septic situation where only the rich can fight elections with any prospect of success.
    Businesses are rich..
    Labour pissed them off.

    And now you are complaining the rich won't give you money?

    Read what Sir Alan Sugar wrote...

    No, I'm grumbling about how loudly money talks. I take these canvassing teams get free tea and coffee, at least

    I'd complain jst as much if the unions used their funds to fund such squads.
  • Options
    Scott_PScott_P Posts: 51,453
    @Roh_Yakobi: . @DMiliband's years out of #British politics should've been a great experience for him.That makes him an even better politician. #Labour
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    SlackbladderSlackbladder Posts: 9,713

    The Chief Secretary appointment should lead to plenty of corny "Hands Off our..." protest march posters....

    Still ever the pessimist Bob!! ;)
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    MarqueeMarkMarqueeMark Posts: 50,144

    Pulpstar said:

    Artist said:

    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
    Sherwood should have been an absolute penalty kick, there was the Tholliery Colliery pit closure here ffsake !

    Miliband's leader ratings must have been absolutely in the toilet around here.
    Yeah I assumed Sherwood would be easy pickings for the same reason. The gov't lets the county's last pit go under....and the local MP increases his majority!

    I wonder why Sherwood and Bassetlaw are going in opposite directions politically? They have very similar demographics.
    I think voters are pretty pragmatic these days, even in pit communities. If pits lose money, they are going to close, just like any other factory or store.
  • Options
    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594
    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7
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    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594

    The Chief Secretary appointment should lead to plenty of corny "Hands Off our..." protest march posters....

    Their best chant was

    "Tories, putting the "n" in cuts"
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    RobDRobD Posts: 58,990

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    I do occasionally feel for the parents of the babies we eat.... oh well.
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    Scott_PScott_P Posts: 51,453
    Aaaaand we're off...

    @JackofKent: Scottish Executive has just confirmed to me it will invite Scottish Parliament to not consent to Human Rights Act repeal.
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    Bob__SykesBob__Sykes Posts: 1,176
    Disappointed that McLoughin remains SoS for Transport.

    Hates motorists. I'd have hoped with a Tory Majority, we might have had more of a "Top Gear" inspired transport policy.

    And thinking of motoring expert Tory mates of Cameron with time on their hands...
  • Options
    SlackbladderSlackbladder Posts: 9,713
    Angus Robertson ‏@ARobertsonSNP 2 mins2 minutes ago

    NEWSFLASH: Officially confirmed that @theSNP now has third party status at House of Commons #SNP
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    Bob__SykesBob__Sykes Posts: 1,176
    I also hoped there might have been a pruning of Government departments and trimming back of Ministers as a result. Shame, would have been consistent with the need to save billions.
  • Options
    AllyPally_RobAllyPally_Rob Posts: 605

    Pulpstar said:

    Artist said:

    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
    Sherwood should have been an absolute penalty kick, there was the Tholliery Colliery pit closure here ffsake !

    Miliband's leader ratings must have been absolutely in the toilet around here.
    Yeah I assumed Sherwood would be easy pickings for the same reason. The gov't lets the county's last pit go under....and the local MP increases his majority!

    I wonder why Sherwood and Bassetlaw are going in opposite directions politically? They have very similar demographics.
    I think voters are pretty pragmatic these days, even in pit communities. If pits lose money, they are going to close, just like any other factory or store.
    As far as I know Thoresby was profitable, it was the fire at Daw Mill colliery that sunk the colliery and the pension obligations made it difficult to sell the pit individually.

    I'm originally from that part of the world, and decent jobs that pay well like at Thoresby are as rare as rocking horse droppings.
  • Options
    ChameleonChameleon Posts: 3,902
    Artist said:

    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
    The main serious problem for Labour is that their canvassing data is absolutely useless - they somehow had no idea of how they were doing. If this isn't rectified we'll see them waste many activists on safe or unassailable seats while ignoring marginals in future.
  • Options
    RobDRobD Posts: 58,990
    Scott_P said:

    Aaaaand we're off...

    @JackofKent: Scottish Executive has just confirmed to me it will invite Scottish Parliament to not consent to Human Rights Act repeal.

    Hasn't been called the Scottish Executive in years. Anyway, I assume things like this are a reserve power?
  • Options
    Casino_RoyaleCasino_Royale Posts: 55,663

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    Oh Lord, give me strength.
  • Options
    FrancisUrquhartFrancisUrquhart Posts: 76,292

    I also hoped there might have been a pruning of Government departments and trimming back of Ministers as a result. Shame, would have been consistent with the need to save billions.

    There are just way way way too many ministers.
  • Options
    Casino_RoyaleCasino_Royale Posts: 55,663

    I also hoped there might have been a pruning of Government departments and trimming back of Ministers as a result. Shame, would have been consistent with the need to save billions.

    Party management.
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    Casino_RoyaleCasino_Royale Posts: 55,663

    Disappointed that McLoughin remains SoS for Transport.

    Hates motorists. I'd have hoped with a Tory Majority, we might have had more of a "Top Gear" inspired transport policy.

    And thinking of motoring expert Tory mates of Cameron with time on their hands...

    Jeremy Clarkson as SoS for Transport would certainly have been interesting.
  • Options
    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    Oh Lord, give me strength.
    I think I might start trolling Comment is Free again.

    The Tory majority government is giving me the horn.

    Billions of welfare cuts to fund tax for millionaires, as we force single mums to go on the game to make ends meet.
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    kjohnwkjohnw Posts: 1,456
    the most enjoyable part of this election is after 5 years of being told by OGH that the tories couldnt possibly win because of 2010 Lib switchers to labour and that Eds 35% strategy made his victory a cert, and that the tories would have be 11% ahead in England and when every time an opinion poll came out we had BJO telling us EICIPM followed by compouter and his goalposts and blue on blue incoming - only to wake up on the 8th May with a Tory overall majority was one of those sweet moments to be savoured. How long before we start to hear that the tories have no chance in 2020 though!
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    DecrepitJohnLDecrepitJohnL Posts: 13,300

    Not sure about keeping Letwin, he seems impossible to shove out.

    I would send Letwin off on sabbatical to think up new policies...maybe hang out with Steve Hilton in California.... i.e. miles away from where he can cause any trouble.

    BTW, just like the Crosby video is interesting, it is well worth watching Hilton video with Joe Rogan...he says a lot of very perceptive and interesting stuff...just ignore Joe Rogan.
    Three hours though. I'm pretty sure women can have babies in less time than that.
  • Options
    ArtistArtist Posts: 1,883
    edited May 2015
    Chameleon said:

    Artist said:

    Pulpstar said:

    felix said:

    antifrank said:

    Looking back to last week, what was the most overheated claim made for any particular seat?

    Maidstone & The Weald must be high on the list. We were told that Helen Grant was "toast". Her majority? 10,709.

    Battersea - hordes of Labour activists poured in last week because it was 'interesting' - Tory maj up over 2000 :)

    The Labour ground game was something else.
    Nick Palmer (Sorry Nick !) - "We've got Labour activists helping us out from Sherwood because it's SOWN UP".
    Something went badly wrong for Labour in the East Midlands in particular, both in the General Election and the local elections.
    The main serious problem for Labour is that their canvassing data is absolutely useless - they somehow had no idea of how they were doing. If this isn't rectified we'll see them waste many activists on safe or unassailable seats while ignoring marginals in future.
    The fact their big hitters were campaigning in seats in the 40-60 range in the last few weeks when they weren't even on course to win their top 10 easiest targets says it all.
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    Scott_PScott_P Posts: 51,453
    @GuidoFawkes: UKIP NEC reject Farage resignation
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    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594
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    ChameleonChameleon Posts: 3,902
    edited May 2015

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous, utterly ridiculous. Bloody champagne socialists. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
  • Options
    Bob__SykesBob__Sykes Posts: 1,176
    edited May 2015

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    I've heard and read some astonishing things from left-wing friends and relatives over the weekend. It's genuine anguish. I mean, yes, I'd have been disappointed if the Tories had lost (or drawn and EdM had got in), but I wouldn't have been slashing my wrists about it.

    I've had great trouble biting my lip and keeping schtum - a sad state of affairs though when, because you're right of centre and economically liberal, you have to keep quiet about it to avoid social ostracision!

    No wonder people lie to pollsters!
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    Sunil_PrasannanSunil_Prasannan Posts: 49,450

    Angus Robertson ‏@ARobertsonSNP 2 mins2 minutes ago

    NEWSFLASH: Officially confirmed that @theSNP now has third party status at House of Commons #SNP

    "In the Year of Our Lord 2015, Scottish patriots, starving and outnumbered, charged the Lobbies of Westminster. They voted like Warrior-Poets. They voted like Scotsmen. And they won their Freedom!"
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    Scott_PScott_P Posts: 51,453
    @steve_hawkes: Nigel Farage has withdrawn his resignation and will stay leader of UKIP - he joins the Establishment !
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    FrancisUrquhartFrancisUrquhart Posts: 76,292
    https://orderorder.files.wordpress.com/2015/05/ibiza.jpg?w=900

    Maybe he is just getting the info through that the Exit Polling isn't looking so good for Labour....
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    Sunil_PrasannanSunil_Prasannan Posts: 49,450
    Un-smoke me a Kipper?
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    ChameleonChameleon Posts: 3,902
    RobD said:

    Scott_P said:

    Aaaaand we're off...

    @JackofKent: Scottish Executive has just confirmed to me it will invite Scottish Parliament to not consent to Human Rights Act repeal.

    Hasn't been called the Scottish Executive in years. Anyway, I assume things like this are a reserve power?
    Scottish executive? Is that Sturgeon et al?
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    Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,820
    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
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    MikeKMikeK Posts: 9,053
    edited May 2015
    As a thread what's going to happen in 2020 is for the birds, and far too soon to think about the future 5 years ahead. A hell of a lot can turn in 5 hours, days, weeks or months.

    I shall be communing with the London office of UKIP in a few days; I'll let you know whats happening within reason if I'm able.
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    RobDRobD Posts: 58,990
    Scott_P said:

    @GuidoFawkes: UKIP NEC reject Farage resignation

    Shame Labour's NEC didn't have the same vision.
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    TGOHFTGOHF Posts: 21,633
    Scott_P said:

    @steve_hawkes: Nigel Farage has withdrawn his resignation and will stay leader of UKIP - he joins the Establishment !

    They should take a lead from LibLab and ditch their failed loser leader.
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    Bob__SykesBob__Sykes Posts: 1,176
    edited May 2015

    Angus Robertson ‏@ARobertsonSNP 2 mins2 minutes ago

    NEWSFLASH: Officially confirmed that @theSNP now has third party status at House of Commons #SNP

    So does that mean the SNP Westminster leader (Robertson?) gets to ask 2 questions a week at PMQs like Nick used to (and presumably Farron - assuming it is he - will now simply have to catch the Speaker's eye?)

    If so, wonder how long before Salmond assumes the mantle?
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    I also hoped there might have been a pruning of Government departments and trimming back of Ministers as a result. Shame, would have been consistent with the need to save billions.

    There are just way way way too many ministers.
    True. He could at least have cut down on Cabinet and merged ministries whilst keeping same number of posts.
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    Sean_FSean_F Posts: 35,974

    Angus Robertson ‏@ARobertsonSNP 2 mins2 minutes ago

    NEWSFLASH: Officially confirmed that @theSNP now has third party status at House of Commons #SNP

    "In the Year of Our Lord 2015, Scottish patriots, starving and outnumbered, charged the Lobbies of Westminster. They voted like Warrior-Poets. They voted like Scotsmen. And they won their Freedom!"
    So, will David Cameron be Malleus Scotorum.
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    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594
    Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband are also going to unresign then?
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    SlackbladderSlackbladder Posts: 9,713
    WTF UKIP?
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    watford30watford30 Posts: 3,474
    edited May 2015

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    I've heard and read some astonishing things from left-wing friends and relatives over the weekend. It's genuine anguish. I mean, yes, I'd have been disappointed if the Tories had lost (or drawn and EdM had got in), but I wouldn't have been slashing my wrists about it.

    I've had great trouble biting my lip and keeping schtum - a sad state of affairs though when, because you're right of centre and economically liberal, you have to keep quiet about it to avoid social ostracision!

    No wonder people lie to pollsters!
    She's another clueless journalist preaching to the converted within The Guardian bubble.

    Labour tried 'Vote Tory, and your children will be eaten' last week, and failed.

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    TGOHFTGOHF Posts: 21,633
    Perhaps Ed left for Ibiza too soon ?
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    ChameleonChameleon Posts: 3,902
    edited May 2015

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    I could see him sitting there at his keyboard, giggling manically while writing that. I mean, it has to be satire, no one, and I mean no one, can be that silly.
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    PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 76,002
    Scott_P said:

    @steve_hawkes: Nigel Farage has withdrawn his resignation and will stay leader of UKIP - he joins the Establishment !

    I hope anyone with a paper betslip on that got down the bookies quickly. Other bets you should probably cash quickly - Bradford West Labour; Belfast South SDLP.
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    OblitusSumMeOblitusSumMe Posts: 9,143

    Disappointed that McLoughin remains SoS for Transport.

    Hates motorists. I'd have hoped with a Tory Majority, we might have had more of a "Top Gear" inspired transport policy.

    And thinking of motoring expert Tory mates of Cameron with time on their hands...

    What things has he done that make you think he is anti-motorist?

    I've heard of lots of road schemes getting funding. There's been no major effort to promote cycling.
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    AlastairMeeksAlastairMeeks Posts: 30,340

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    It does indeed read like a SeanT pastiche. Has anyone investigated the anagrammatic potential of "Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett"?
  • Options
    isamisam Posts: 41,002
    Scott_P said:

    @steve_hawkes: Nigel Farage has withdrawn his resignation and will stay leader of UKIP - he joins the Establishment !

    Yes!!!!

    4/6 was value after all

    So pleased
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    Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,820

    Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband are also going to unresign then?

    Perhaps Tony Blair should unresign.
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    DanielDaniel Posts: 160
    Farage's cult of personality is going to destroy UKIP.
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    SlackbladderSlackbladder Posts: 9,713
    Well, thats the way to make UKIP look professional, and not a bunch of utter fruitloops.
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    TheScreamingEaglesTheScreamingEagles Posts: 114,594
    antifrank said:

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    It does indeed read like a SeanT pastiche. Has anyone investigated the anagrammatic potential of "Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett"?
    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett is a London-based freelance writer. She co-founded The Vagenda blog and is co-author of The Vagenda: A Zero Tolerance Guide to the Media. She tweets @rhiannonlucyc
  • Options
    AlastairMeeksAlastairMeeks Posts: 30,340

    antifrank said:

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    It does indeed read like a SeanT pastiche. Has anyone investigated the anagrammatic potential of "Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett"?
    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett is a London-based freelance writer. She co-founded The Vagenda blog and is co-author of The Vagenda: A Zero Tolerance Guide to the Media. She tweets @rhiannonlucyc
    SeanT it is then.
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    ArtistArtist Posts: 1,883
    With the EU referendum coming up it makes sense for Farage to stay in the meantime. After the referendum they can get Suzanne Evans in, to try and broaden their appeal to the extent they can win seats.
  • Options
    Casino_RoyaleCasino_Royale Posts: 55,663

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    Oh Lord, give me strength.
    I think I might start trolling Comment is Free again.

    The Tory majority government is giving me the horn.

    Billions of welfare cuts to fund tax for millionaires, as we force single mums to go on the game to make ends meet.
    The wailing and howling reaction of the Left to this election victory has been simply hilarious. There really are thousands of them out there who believe their own propaganda.

    Whenever I want a laugh I grab a bag of popcorn and read Comment Is Free.
  • Options
    Sunil_PrasannanSunil_Prasannan Posts: 49,450
    antifrank said:

    antifrank said:

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    It does indeed read like a SeanT pastiche. Has anyone investigated the anagrammatic potential of "Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett"?
    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett is a London-based freelance writer. She co-founded The Vagenda blog and is co-author of The Vagenda: A Zero Tolerance Guide to the Media. She tweets @rhiannonlucyc
    SeanT it is then.
    Where is Sean T BTW?
  • Options
    CarnyxCarnyx Posts: 39,917
    RobD said:

    Scott_P said:

    Aaaaand we're off...

    @JackofKent: Scottish Executive has just confirmed to me it will invite Scottish Parliament to not consent to Human Rights Act repeal.

    Hasn't been called the Scottish Executive in years. Anyway, I assume things like this are a reserve power?
    There's a posting on lallandspeatworrier discussing the issue (and linking to other relevant blog posts).
  • Options
    Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,820
    antifrank said:

    It does indeed read like a SeanT pastiche. Has anyone investigated the anagrammatic potential of "Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett"?

    I particularly liked the 'my best childbearing years' bit. Sean at his best.
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    TGOHFTGOHF Posts: 21,633
    Daniel said:

    Farage's cult of personality is going to destroy UKIP.

    Carswell's interview on DP is a bit awkward now.

  • Options
    Sunil_PrasannanSunil_Prasannan Posts: 49,450
    Sean_F said:

    Angus Robertson ‏@ARobertsonSNP 2 mins2 minutes ago

    NEWSFLASH: Officially confirmed that @theSNP now has third party status at House of Commons #SNP

    "In the Year of Our Lord 2015, Scottish patriots, starving and outnumbered, charged the Lobbies of Westminster. They voted like Warrior-Poets. They voted like Scotsmen. And they won their Freedom!"
    So, will David Cameron be Malleus Scotorum.
    IndyRef = Falkirk?
  • Options
    Sean_FSean_F Posts: 35,974

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    Oh come on, it's a spoof! It's like the racism, sexism and homophobia of Thomas the Tank Engine; the cuts to funding for ethnic minority poets; and "Somewhere today. The First Woman to be Raped in Space has been Born."
  • Options
    RobDRobD Posts: 58,990
    Carnyx said:

    RobD said:

    Scott_P said:

    Aaaaand we're off...

    @JackofKent: Scottish Executive has just confirmed to me it will invite Scottish Parliament to not consent to Human Rights Act repeal.

    Hasn't been called the Scottish Executive in years. Anyway, I assume things like this are a reserve power?
    There's a posting on lallandspeatworrier discussing the issue (and linking to other relevant blog posts).
    Thanks for the pointer.
  • Options
    RobDRobD Posts: 58,990
    Sean_F said:

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    Oh come on, it's a spoof! It's like the racism, sexism and homophobia of Thomas the Tank Engine; the cuts to funding for ethnic minority poets; and "Somewhere today. The First Woman to be Raped in Space has been Born."
    The last one was seriously a thing??
  • Options
    SlackbladderSlackbladder Posts: 9,713
    come back Carswell, you're too good for these guys.
  • Options
    I can see some of those Scottish seats being lost to Labour for good - E Renfrewshire, D&G, etc should be Conservative seats if Ruth D can continue her good work/
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    SimonStClareSimonStClare Posts: 7,976
    On the third day, #edstone was removed from the tomb entrance a Farage was resurrected.
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    DanielDaniel Posts: 160
    TGOHF said:

    Daniel said:

    Farage's cult of personality is going to destroy UKIP.

    Carswell's interview on DP is a bit awkward now.

    We could be about to see the quickest defection
  • Options
    Sean_FSean_F Posts: 35,974
    RobD said:

    Sean_F said:

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    Oh come on, it's a spoof! It's like the racism, sexism and homophobia of Thomas the Tank Engine; the cuts to funding for ethnic minority poets; and "Somewhere today. The First Woman to be Raped in Space has been Born."
    The last one was seriously a thing??
    It was an article about how to ensure there was no racism and sexism on Mars.
  • Options
    OblitusSumMeOblitusSumMe Posts: 9,143
    antifrank said:

    Chameleon said:

    Peak Guardian

    Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett: Why it’s OK to cry about this election

    Emotion is derided as a weakness of the left, but many of us have loved ones likely to suffer under the Tories – or simply feel empathy for those who will

    http://bit.ly/1J5rGL7

    That's ridiculous. 'Waves of despair, punctuated by panic, anxiety, paranoia, and fear. A profound weltschmerz and a curious lack of appetite, not to mention a high-pitched monotone in my left ear that sadly, this time, cannot be put down to our decrepit fridge. I keep remembering and then forgetting; a welcome pleasant thought will be interrupted by the terrifying reminder of what they are going to do to the Human Rights Act. As my father said, “It’s all too awful.”'
    'Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett' must be another of SeanT's pseudonyms, surely? I mean, weltschmerz?
    It does indeed read like a SeanT pastiche. Has anyone investigated the anagrammatic potential of "Rhiannon Lucy Cosslett"?
    There are many not suitable to put into writing on this esteemed site.
This discussion has been closed.