I'm sure Jams will be pleased to hear this
It sounds like something out of a kid's show; but it's real.
23 July 2010
19 July 2010
AJJE: A fuller summary
But not complete. That will have to wait until the report, which will be about 20 pages long.
Basically, LOTW's Parliament Leader decided to ban a player from the club after he defamed another player in a bunch of emails; both were operational leaders and the former was trying to persuade the latter to resign.
The entire team bar the player agreed to the ban, after gaining legal advice from three separate solicitors.
AJJE's President announced a review of the ban. The Parliament Leader submitted a 28-page legal defence of it. Most of the review panel chose not to read it; the President (who took the decision solely by herself without a wider vote) overturned the ban and the review panel actually considered blacklisting the defamed player.
We decided to launch a peaceful protest as we felt the overturning of the ban was unfair; not RPing in LOTW from 30 days and the CO's replacing or adding strike messages to their pages. The President and the Board of Founders accepted our right to protest.
Four days into the protest, the President posted messages of her position on the sims without permission from the COs and in violation of written policy, as well as common practice. The defamee announced his resignation from AJJE. Other players started to resign as well.
Shortly after that, LOTW went down for "maintenance". I resigned Sunday lunchtime when it became clear that the head Webmaster had lied to me. He told players to either end the strike, return to AJJE and accept the decision, or leave. So we left, our accounts being scrambled as we left; the Parliament Leader had to get his wife (a fellow AJJE player) to post his resignation as his account was scrambled before he could do it himself.
Basically, I left AJJE because, in my opinion, the leadership violated its own rules and ignored the facts, then tried to suppress the issue.
Basically, LOTW's Parliament Leader decided to ban a player from the club after he defamed another player in a bunch of emails; both were operational leaders and the former was trying to persuade the latter to resign.
The entire team bar the player agreed to the ban, after gaining legal advice from three separate solicitors.
AJJE's President announced a review of the ban. The Parliament Leader submitted a 28-page legal defence of it. Most of the review panel chose not to read it; the President (who took the decision solely by herself without a wider vote) overturned the ban and the review panel actually considered blacklisting the defamed player.
We decided to launch a peaceful protest as we felt the overturning of the ban was unfair; not RPing in LOTW from 30 days and the CO's replacing or adding strike messages to their pages. The President and the Board of Founders accepted our right to protest.
Four days into the protest, the President posted messages of her position on the sims without permission from the COs and in violation of written policy, as well as common practice. The defamee announced his resignation from AJJE. Other players started to resign as well.
Shortly after that, LOTW went down for "maintenance". I resigned Sunday lunchtime when it became clear that the head Webmaster had lied to me. He told players to either end the strike, return to AJJE and accept the decision, or leave. So we left, our accounts being scrambled as we left; the Parliament Leader had to get his wife (a fellow AJJE player) to post his resignation as his account was scrambled before he could do it himself.
Basically, I left AJJE because, in my opinion, the leadership violated its own rules and ignored the facts, then tried to suppress the issue.
18 July 2010
No, Mr. Bond, I expect you to choose another level...
IGN Video: CollegeHumor: Videogames Video - GoldenEye Stand-Off
First of an irregular series of links to the internet's best stuff.
(Contains bloody violence)
First of an irregular series of links to the internet's best stuff.
(Contains bloody violence)
12 July 2010
Absence from the blog
Apologies for the rather large gap in blogging; something truly nasty went down in AJJE Games that required a lot of my attention.
In simple terms, I and a lot of others walked from the site after the leadership took a totally unjustified decision regarding a ban, telling people to either accept it or leave.
A fuller explanation will follow in due course. It'll be fascinating reading, but in the meantime, I refer you to this blog, which goes up to my resignation yesterday.
In simple terms, I and a lot of others walked from the site after the leadership took a totally unjustified decision regarding a ban, telling people to either accept it or leave.
A fuller explanation will follow in due course. It'll be fascinating reading, but in the meantime, I refer you to this blog, which goes up to my resignation yesterday.
25 June 2010
60 Years of War in the Korean Peninsula
Today is the 60th anniversary of the North Korean invasion of South Korea. The war has yet to formally end and could flare up again.
I hope that one day soon Kim Jong-Il and his ilk will face justice for their crimes against the people of North Korea.
I hope that one day soon Kim Jong-Il and his ilk will face justice for their crimes against the people of North Korea.
07 June 2010
01 June 2010
Perfect Storm of Stupidity
So, an unarmed vessel decides to try and run a blockade by a highly capable navy to get news coverages. Said navy then decides to use commandos for riot control.
As a result, several people are dead.
I despair at times.
As a result, several people are dead.
I despair at times.
22 May 2010
Pentecost
Tomorrow is the day Christians mark the coming of the Holy Spirit to a bunch of scared guys in a room- and the Church's birthday.
Jesus had gone to heaven, but they were still worried about the Jewish authorities. Then the room turns distinctly flamy and tongues of fire land on all of their heads.
They're transformed after this, speaking in dozens of languages to a large crowd- the disciples don't do public speaking before that, I believe.
They were transformed by one element of the Trinity, that still transforms people today.
Happy Pentecost!
Jesus had gone to heaven, but they were still worried about the Jewish authorities. Then the room turns distinctly flamy and tongues of fire land on all of their heads.
They're transformed after this, speaking in dozens of languages to a large crowd- the disciples don't do public speaking before that, I believe.
They were transformed by one element of the Trinity, that still transforms people today.
Happy Pentecost!
17 May 2010
BA Strike Injunction
Just my two cents:
If you want a deal, it's not a good idea to keep taking legal action against the people you are in dispute with.
If you want a deal, it's not a good idea to keep taking legal action against the people you are in dispute with.
11 May 2010
Change of Government
Well, 13 years of Labour rule are over. It's made a big impact on British politics, much of it good, some of it bad.
We're back in opposition now and it's probably a good thing. We ran out of steam in the last two years and the recession really finished us off.
Congratulations to Mr. Cameron.
We're back in opposition now and it's probably a good thing. We ran out of steam in the last two years and the recession really finished us off.
Congratulations to Mr. Cameron.
08 May 2010
VE Day
65 years ago today, the Second World War ended in Europe.
The biggest historical event ever, one man's megalomania resulted in millions of deaths.
May it never happen again.
The biggest historical event ever, one man's megalomania resulted in millions of deaths.
May it never happen again.
07 May 2010
A coalition from the jaws of a landslide: an early analysis of the 2010 election
Before we start, I want to say that I feel that David Cameron has, by gaining the most votes and the most seats by a fairly clear margin, earned the right to try and form a coalition with the Liberal Democrats. He will probably be our next PM and should be congratulated for that.
However, he managed to throw away a commanding lead and now has a very hard task ahead of him.
Basically, everyone lost this election. I'll try and give three possible reasons for each of the parties doing badly in.
Conservatives
1. Europe, specifically Lisbon: Cameron's change of policy on the issue of the Lisbon Treaty and strange position with the European People's Party block was a fudge that pleased now. The result was a rise in BNP and UKIP support, which in at least three seats including Gedling and Eltham was greater than the Labour majority. Worth a serious study that.
2. Scotland: Still has bad memories of the Thatcher years. Cameron needed to win seats up there and didn't. Probably didn't focus enough on it.
3. Too slick: Cameron came across as too slick and smooth. For an electorate who'd spent ten years with Tony Blair, it wasn't the best idea.
Labour
1. 13 years in office: Only one government since the war has exceeded that period and that was the Thatcher-Major one. Most administrations have been far shorter. After that time and a third term that frankly wasn't brilliant, many people had enough of Labour. A hung parliament in 2005 might have been better for Labour.
2. The economy: You do not preside over a major recession and expect to remain in office. Full stop.
3. Gordon Brown: While the soon-to-be former Labour leader and PM has some strong qualities, charisma isn't one of them. Brown could have worked better in a radio age, but politics has changed. He also was too associated with the previous 13 years.
Liberal Democrats
1. The electoral system: What gain in the Liberal Democrat vote was spread too thinly across the country to swing seats.
2. Immigration and Europe: The Liberal Democrat views on them are not in tune with the rest of the electorate and the third debate's discussion on the subject was
3. Lack of publicity apart from the debate: I didn't see one publicly displayed Lib Dem billboard and never received a leaflet from them.
Summary
Despite the support of Ashcroft's millions and most of the British press against a tired government in a weak economy, David Cameron failed to gain an overall majority due to policy problems and a poor campaign.
It's going to be a fun next couple of years.
However, he managed to throw away a commanding lead and now has a very hard task ahead of him.
Basically, everyone lost this election. I'll try and give three possible reasons for each of the parties doing badly in.
Conservatives
1. Europe, specifically Lisbon: Cameron's change of policy on the issue of the Lisbon Treaty and strange position with the European People's Party block was a fudge that pleased now. The result was a rise in BNP and UKIP support, which in at least three seats including Gedling and Eltham was greater than the Labour majority. Worth a serious study that.
2. Scotland: Still has bad memories of the Thatcher years. Cameron needed to win seats up there and didn't. Probably didn't focus enough on it.
3. Too slick: Cameron came across as too slick and smooth. For an electorate who'd spent ten years with Tony Blair, it wasn't the best idea.
Labour
1. 13 years in office: Only one government since the war has exceeded that period and that was the Thatcher-Major one. Most administrations have been far shorter. After that time and a third term that frankly wasn't brilliant, many people had enough of Labour. A hung parliament in 2005 might have been better for Labour.
2. The economy: You do not preside over a major recession and expect to remain in office. Full stop.
3. Gordon Brown: While the soon-to-be former Labour leader and PM has some strong qualities, charisma isn't one of them. Brown could have worked better in a radio age, but politics has changed. He also was too associated with the previous 13 years.
Liberal Democrats
1. The electoral system: What gain in the Liberal Democrat vote was spread too thinly across the country to swing seats.
2. Immigration and Europe: The Liberal Democrat views on them are not in tune with the rest of the electorate and the third debate's discussion on the subject was
3. Lack of publicity apart from the debate: I didn't see one publicly displayed Lib Dem billboard and never received a leaflet from them.
Summary
Despite the support of Ashcroft's millions and most of the British press against a tired government in a weak economy, David Cameron failed to gain an overall majority due to policy problems and a poor campaign.
It's going to be a fun next couple of years.
06 May 2010
Election Day
Vote for a secure recovery. Vote for experience. Vote for a future fair for all.
Vote Labour!
Vote Labour!
03 May 2010
The General Election Result
For the first time that I can remember, it's not entirely clear who will be PM come Monday.
That's a rather unusual feeling.
That's a rather unusual feeling.
02 May 2010
More repression in Iran
Critical director arrested
I think that time is running out for the regime one way or another. However, every day that regime attacks its own people and destabilises the Middle East is one day too many.
I think that time is running out for the regime one way or another. However, every day that regime attacks its own people and destabilises the Middle East is one day too many.
30 April 2010
29 April 2010
The Third Debate
If you've not decided how to vote yet, please make your decision on the issues, not who looks best in a debate.
Good government is more than style.
Good government is more than style.
28 April 2010
A quick thought on immigration
There's more than one reason that people from Africa want to come to Britain.
Man insults woman when he thinks no-one is listening
It's fair to say that Gordon Brown's off-mic comment today was a gaffe of the first order.
It's worth pointing out, though, that few people haven't done that sort of thing at some point. They're not just politicians.
It's worth pointing out, though, that few people haven't done that sort of thing at some point. They're not just politicians.
17 April 2010
Well, there goes my prediction model...
I've been doing a spreadsheet predicting the results of every seat in the upcoming election. The basic model assumed a swing from Labour to the Tories of about 6%, bigger in the marginals.
Looks like I might have to rip up my prediction if the polls held.
Clegg won that debate on Thursday. Cameron came second and Brown third, but neither did too badly. The thing is, ten million people at least have now had an exposure to Clegg they wouldn't otherwise have had.
The large boost to the Lib Dems in the polls is going to put a lot of attention on them now- especially from the more right-wing tabloids who want a Tory government.
However, I think at least some of this increase in support, possibly half, will hold.
It's going to be a very interesting May.
Looks like I might have to rip up my prediction if the polls held.
Clegg won that debate on Thursday. Cameron came second and Brown third, but neither did too badly. The thing is, ten million people at least have now had an exposure to Clegg they wouldn't otherwise have had.
The large boost to the Lib Dems in the polls is going to put a lot of attention on them now- especially from the more right-wing tabloids who want a Tory government.
However, I think at least some of this increase in support, possibly half, will hold.
It's going to be a very interesting May.
13 April 2010
"Big Society"
Or "compassionate conservatism" under another name. Just ask the Americans how eight years of that felt.
Electing police chiefs isn't a good idea.
Electing police chiefs isn't a good idea.
11 April 2010
Reason to Vote Labour #2
Party Political Broadcast
Do you really think that cutting public sector jobs now will help the recovery? If we're going to make people unemployed, they ought to have jobs they can go to.
Otherwise, they'll just end up on the dole, not helping us recover.
Do you really think that cutting public sector jobs now will help the recovery? If we're going to make people unemployed, they ought to have jobs they can go to.
Otherwise, they'll just end up on the dole, not helping us recover.
10 April 2010
Comment moderation is back on
I don't appreciate being insulted- the offending comment has been deleted.
If you're going to criticise my world view (which said post completely distorted), please be civil about it.
If you're going to criticise my world view (which said post completely distorted), please be civil about it.
04 April 2010
Happy Easter!
So on the third day, Jesus rose again. The apostles didn't believe it initially. Thomas needed to see proof.
A man triumphing over death is something awesome in itself. However, through this act, Jesus opened the way for us to follow. On the last day, we will be all be raised and those of us who follow Jesus will get our eternal reward. It will be frightening for those alive beforehand, but it will be worth it.
Happy Easter!
A man triumphing over death is something awesome in itself. However, through this act, Jesus opened the way for us to follow. On the last day, we will be all be raised and those of us who follow Jesus will get our eternal reward. It will be frightening for those alive beforehand, but it will be worth it.
Happy Easter!
03 April 2010
Holy Week 6: Dead and Buried
So, Jesus was dead. In fact, they stabbed him with a sword just to make sure. A Jewish leader kindly let Jesus be buried in his family tomb- I don't know where he would have been buried otherwise, but I doubt it would be pleasant.
The tomb was sealed and two soldiers were placed on guard. A fully healthy man would have had difficulty getting out, let alone a dead one.
But the stone would be removed. Clearly you're not dealing with any ordinary man.
Jesus: fully human and fully divine. Omnipotent, omniscient and now, in the Holy Spirit, omnipresent.
There's more awesome to come.
The tomb was sealed and two soldiers were placed on guard. A fully healthy man would have had difficulty getting out, let alone a dead one.
But the stone would be removed. Clearly you're not dealing with any ordinary man.
Jesus: fully human and fully divine. Omnipotent, omniscient and now, in the Holy Spirit, omnipresent.
There's more awesome to come.
02 April 2010
Holy Week 5: Good Friday
Good Friday's name seems like a bit of a misnomer. How can Jesus' death be good?
He was convicted of stirring up rebellion in a show trial. In fact, it wasn't even that- it was done "in camera" at night and with a bunch of bribed witnesses.
Then he was subjected to the most agonising form of execution imaginable, a humiliating barbaric punishment that often took days to kill its victims. The Roman Empire did not allow it be used on Roman citizens (a status held by a minority of Roman people, although Paul held it).
Jesus died in three hours, but those hours would be agonising to watch (especially for his mother), let alone actually experience.
However, it wasn't the action, but the result. Jesus opened the way to heaven for us sinners. Only the shedding of blood could ensure forgiveness in Jewish tradition- and God's son was the ultimate blood price.
That's why we call this Friday "Good".
He was convicted of stirring up rebellion in a show trial. In fact, it wasn't even that- it was done "in camera" at night and with a bunch of bribed witnesses.
Then he was subjected to the most agonising form of execution imaginable, a humiliating barbaric punishment that often took days to kill its victims. The Roman Empire did not allow it be used on Roman citizens (a status held by a minority of Roman people, although Paul held it).
Jesus died in three hours, but those hours would be agonising to watch (especially for his mother), let alone actually experience.
However, it wasn't the action, but the result. Jesus opened the way to heaven for us sinners. Only the shedding of blood could ensure forgiveness in Jewish tradition- and God's son was the ultimate blood price.
That's why we call this Friday "Good".
01 April 2010
Holy Week 4: A Final Meal and a Final Night
Today is Maundy Thursday, the day when we remember the Last Supper.
Jesus and his disciples were having the traditional Passover meal, remembering another awesome moment of God, the rescuing of the Israelites from Egypt long previously. Then Jesus said "Take eat, this is my body".
Jesus was symbolising the fact that he was about to become a human and divine sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins. This was very much his last meal before the horror of the following day.
Now, I was a Doctor Who fan before it was cool. Russell T Davies may be an atheist, but he's worked a fair number of religious metaphors into his scripts.
One scene you may well remember (in fact, you almost certainly do if you watch the show) is that scene from "The End of Time". The Time Lords have vanished and Wilf is stuck in the radiation booth. The Doctor realises that the only way he is going to stop Wilf getting a lethal dose of radiation is to go in there and take it himself.
Now, the Tenth Doctor rather likes being the Tenth Doctor and doesn't want to die. He gives an anguished, angry speech, then he sacrifices himself.
The Garden of Gethsemane is basically what was recreated (it's happened more than once in this show). Jesus, a man who makes the Guardians and the Time Lords look like Paul Daniels, wasn't happy about what he was about to go through.
But he did it. For all us poor Wilfs.
Jesus and his disciples were having the traditional Passover meal, remembering another awesome moment of God, the rescuing of the Israelites from Egypt long previously. Then Jesus said "Take eat, this is my body".
Jesus was symbolising the fact that he was about to become a human and divine sacrifice for the forgiveness of our sins. This was very much his last meal before the horror of the following day.
Now, I was a Doctor Who fan before it was cool. Russell T Davies may be an atheist, but he's worked a fair number of religious metaphors into his scripts.
One scene you may well remember (in fact, you almost certainly do if you watch the show) is that scene from "The End of Time". The Time Lords have vanished and Wilf is stuck in the radiation booth. The Doctor realises that the only way he is going to stop Wilf getting a lethal dose of radiation is to go in there and take it himself.
Now, the Tenth Doctor rather likes being the Tenth Doctor and doesn't want to die. He gives an anguished, angry speech, then he sacrifices himself.
The Garden of Gethsemane is basically what was recreated (it's happened more than once in this show). Jesus, a man who makes the Guardians and the Time Lords look like Paul Daniels, wasn't happy about what he was about to go through.
But he did it. For all us poor Wilfs.
31 March 2010
Holy Week 3: The Treachery of Judas
30 pieces of silver for telling someone where someone was and identifying them in an age without photographs.
Judas got a fairly large sum for his treachery and his name became a synonym for treason.
It was all part of God's plan, although I can imagine that Jesus still wouldn't have been happy. He knew that he was going to be betrayed, but it still would have been a cruel moment.
Let's go back to the Pharisees. They wanted Jesus dead for one reason: to protect their position. The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil, as our Lord said.
May we never love material things more than God and may we never allow our greed to make us do terrible things.
I say that, of course, but we have all been Judases at some point or another.
Judas got a fairly large sum for his treachery and his name became a synonym for treason.
It was all part of God's plan, although I can imagine that Jesus still wouldn't have been happy. He knew that he was going to be betrayed, but it still would have been a cruel moment.
Let's go back to the Pharisees. They wanted Jesus dead for one reason: to protect their position. The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil, as our Lord said.
May we never love material things more than God and may we never allow our greed to make us do terrible things.
I say that, of course, but we have all been Judases at some point or another.
29 March 2010
Holy Week 2: Driving Out The Thieves
A short one today and some food for thought:
There are still thieves in the House of God. They just con people in different ways and for different goals.
There are still thieves in the House of God. They just con people in different ways and for different goals.
28 March 2010
The Ultimate Crowning Moment of Awesome: Holy Week
I'm a member of a site called TV Tropes (see my link bar), where we have a section of great, punch-the-air moments called "Crowning Moment of Awesome".
As a Christian, there is one moment that outshines them all as it involves the King of Kings, Jesus himself. Namely his death upon the cross and resurrection, allowing the forgiveness of our sins and admittance into the Kingdom of Heaven, which will put even the finest palaces to shame.
I'm starting this series, which I hope to do daily up to Easter Sunday, to reflect on this period and share the awesomeness of Jesus.
Firstly, there's the donkey-riding bit. Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, the crowd throwing palm leaves in his path. I guess that's to protect the feet of the donkey, who is really the ultimate donkey. Donkeys are a bit of maligned species, compared to horses and ponies. It's a sign of our Lord's humility that he chose a donkey rather than the traditional horse of a conqueror.
Since we're on the subject of conquest, the crowd thought that Jesus would come to liberate them from the tyranny of the Romans. He wasn't, but he will one day (we don't know when) come to liberate all of us from sin, evil and the works of the ultimate Big Bad, Satan.
That final battle will be ultimate form of Nightmare Fuel, but what we get afterwards will be worth it for those who follow Jesus.
As a Christian, there is one moment that outshines them all as it involves the King of Kings, Jesus himself. Namely his death upon the cross and resurrection, allowing the forgiveness of our sins and admittance into the Kingdom of Heaven, which will put even the finest palaces to shame.
I'm starting this series, which I hope to do daily up to Easter Sunday, to reflect on this period and share the awesomeness of Jesus.
Firstly, there's the donkey-riding bit. Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, the crowd throwing palm leaves in his path. I guess that's to protect the feet of the donkey, who is really the ultimate donkey. Donkeys are a bit of maligned species, compared to horses and ponies. It's a sign of our Lord's humility that he chose a donkey rather than the traditional horse of a conqueror.
Since we're on the subject of conquest, the crowd thought that Jesus would come to liberate them from the tyranny of the Romans. He wasn't, but he will one day (we don't know when) come to liberate all of us from sin, evil and the works of the ultimate Big Bad, Satan.
That final battle will be ultimate form of Nightmare Fuel, but what we get afterwards will be worth it for those who follow Jesus.
08 March 2010
23 February 2010
20 February 2010
Reason to Vote Labour #1
In November 2009, we had an unemployment rate lower than France, Italy, the USA and Spain.
(Source: Eurostat)
(Source: Eurostat)
18 February 2010
17 February 2010
11 February 2010
27 January 2010
Holocaust Memorial Day
Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.
May we never forget.
May we never forget.
20 January 2010
Happy Anniversary, Mr. President. Here's a Republican Senator!
Barack Obama's first year in office has been a lot of construction work and little actual results. I'm struggling to think of an actual thing he's achieved.
The goodwill that he's initially had is evaporating fast, in many ways he's more hawkish than Bush and people are getting impatient. As demonstrated in Massachusetts (yes, spelt it right first time!), although other factors really came into play, where it was more Democrats staying at home that led to Brown's victory.
Healthcare is in serious trouble and if Obama loses that, he's in serious trouble.
I refer you to my post last year.
The goodwill that he's initially had is evaporating fast, in many ways he's more hawkish than Bush and people are getting impatient. As demonstrated in Massachusetts (yes, spelt it right first time!), although other factors really came into play, where it was more Democrats staying at home that led to Brown's victory.
Healthcare is in serious trouble and if Obama loses that, he's in serious trouble.
I refer you to my post last year.
17 January 2010
Haiti
The devastation in Haiti is simply mind-boggling. It's going to be years before the infrastructure will be rebuilt to even pre-quake standard.
Aid is starting to arrive and hopefully, with the grace of God, it will save lives.
God didn't cause this quake- why would he? - but he is helping through the hands of many people giving their money and time.
My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by a disaster still unfolding.
Aid is starting to arrive and hopefully, with the grace of God, it will save lives.
God didn't cause this quake- why would he? - but he is helping through the hands of many people giving their money and time.
My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by a disaster still unfolding.
12 January 2010
Miep Gies dies
Jams says it all.
One of the many who risked their lives to protect Jews from the Nazis.
Rest in Peace.
One of the many who risked their lives to protect Jews from the Nazis.
Rest in Peace.
02 January 2010
31 December 2009
Thank you, David Tennant
It's the end, but the moment has been prepared for.
It's certainly been trailered like nobody's business.
In about 26 hours time, Matt Smith will take on the most iconic role in British science fiction and David Tennant will join an elite club of former Doctors.
Before 2005 and the revival, I'd never really heard of David Tennant. When he was cast as the Doctor, I was willing to give him a chance and I was also willing to give the costume a chance.
From his initial appearances, it appeared that this Doctor was going to be a "Cockney wideboy in space".
But Tennant provided so much more than that. His Doctor was truly multi-faceted and varied. From the manic motormouth, to the lonely god, to the voice of time itself, to the oncoming storm that proved so terrible to the Family of Blood, Tennant played them all brilliantly. He (and his expressive face) was always enthralling and it must be said that the only poor episode of his reign hardly had him in.
Mr. Tennant's charisma and sheer talent kept the show strong and made it stronger. A hugely recognisable man, he will personify the Doctor for many of the young generation. Matt Smith has some big Converse All-Stars to fill.
I would like to say, from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Mr. Tennant. You are simply the best of the Doctors.
It's certainly been trailered like nobody's business.
In about 26 hours time, Matt Smith will take on the most iconic role in British science fiction and David Tennant will join an elite club of former Doctors.
Before 2005 and the revival, I'd never really heard of David Tennant. When he was cast as the Doctor, I was willing to give him a chance and I was also willing to give the costume a chance.
From his initial appearances, it appeared that this Doctor was going to be a "Cockney wideboy in space".
But Tennant provided so much more than that. His Doctor was truly multi-faceted and varied. From the manic motormouth, to the lonely god, to the voice of time itself, to the oncoming storm that proved so terrible to the Family of Blood, Tennant played them all brilliantly. He (and his expressive face) was always enthralling and it must be said that the only poor episode of his reign hardly had him in.
Mr. Tennant's charisma and sheer talent kept the show strong and made it stronger. A hugely recognisable man, he will personify the Doctor for many of the young generation. Matt Smith has some big Converse All-Stars to fill.
I would like to say, from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Mr. Tennant. You are simply the best of the Doctors.
30 December 2009
Revolution or war
The excellent Jams at The Poor Mouth (see my sidebar) continues with his commentary on the Iranian protests, which the regime is going to increasing lengths to try and suppress- but not succeeding.
It's clear that 2010 will be a significant year for Iran. If the regime is not overthrown and replaced by a less belligerent administration, Israel, the likely target for any nuclear weapons produced by Iran, will launch an airstrike against Iranian nuclear facilities.
If that happens, I don't know whether the regime will be strengthened or not. The populace might well rally around the government and democratic ambitions will be frustrated further.
I hope we don't have to find out.
It's clear that 2010 will be a significant year for Iran. If the regime is not overthrown and replaced by a less belligerent administration, Israel, the likely target for any nuclear weapons produced by Iran, will launch an airstrike against Iranian nuclear facilities.
If that happens, I don't know whether the regime will be strengthened or not. The populace might well rally around the government and democratic ambitions will be frustrated further.
I hope we don't have to find out.
27 December 2009
19 December 2009
A Lot Of Hot Air
I actually reached 300 posts two posts back, but didn't notice it.
So the Copenhagen summit ends in an non-legally binding agreement that the conference merely "notes" rather than "approves". Many of the poorer countries are livid and with good reason.
One cause of this mess is that a treaty requires a two-thirds vote in the US Senate to be ratified and only 58 of the Senate are Democrats. Saunders would be friendly, but Lieberman...
Change you can believe in? Yeah, right.
So the Copenhagen summit ends in an non-legally binding agreement that the conference merely "notes" rather than "approves". Many of the poorer countries are livid and with good reason.
One cause of this mess is that a treaty requires a two-thirds vote in the US Senate to be ratified and only 58 of the Senate are Democrats. Saunders would be friendly, but Lieberman...
Change you can believe in? Yeah, right.
18 December 2009
Words fail
Someone has stolen the "Arbeit Macht Frei" sign from the gates of Auschwitz.
That is just tasteless. Some people have no shame.
That is just tasteless. Some people have no shame.
07 December 2009
Advent
It's a time of year when we look forward to Christmas and all that it entails.
As a Christian, it's also a time of hope. The coming of Jesus was prophesied and it is prophesied that he will come back again. You won't have to worry about hunger, illness or tiredness if you belong to his kingdom then.
As a Christian, it's also a time of hope. The coming of Jesus was prophesied and it is prophesied that he will come back again. You won't have to worry about hunger, illness or tiredness if you belong to his kingdom then.
06 December 2009
Navy Field
I signed up for Navy Field today and tried out a Great Battle, sinking pretty quickly (I tried some of the training missions first).
I've gained a new appreciation for naval gunnery as a result, as well as for those who did it for real in the two World Wars.
I've gained a new appreciation for naval gunnery as a result, as well as for those who did it for real in the two World Wars.
28 November 2009
23 November 2009
46 Years of Doctor Who
Today is the 46th anniversary of one of the world's greatest TV programmes.
Check out an animated adventure if you live in the UK. It's pretty good.
Check out an animated adventure if you live in the UK. It's pretty good.
13 November 2009
07 November 2009
A Lie Can Get Around The World...
The attack at Fort Hood on Thursday is a deep tragedy and my condolences go out to the victims and their families.
I get the horrible feeling that whether this was a terrorist attack or not, people are going to look at the suspect’s Muslim faith and retaliate against Muslims anyway. Even if he denied it was a terrorist related attack, people aren’t going to believe it...
05 November 2009
The Water Torture Strategy: Thoughts On Afghanistan
Since it was on every front page in the country today, I am sure my British readers will have not missed the story of five British soldiers being gunned down by an Afghanistan while having tea. My condolences go out to their families.
It has struck me that what the Taliban and “Al-Qaeda” (the whole disparate movement, hence the speech marks) are trying to do is a repeat of what the North Vietnamese did in Vietnam. Not inflict one massive military victory, but inflict drip by drip by drip by drip- a steady stream of losses, which turn public opinion at home against a conflict.
It’s a strategy that only works when the leaders actually give in. South Vietnam fell two years after the US withdrawal and a carrier group or two there might have made a decisive impact. I am sure there are other cases. When the military goes ruthless, it generally fails- France and Poland were only liberated (yes, that ought to be in inverted commas for the latter) from the Nazis by direct military intervention, although Yugoslavia is the exception that proves the rule. Four decades of intifada in the Palestinian Territories haven’t altered the situation. I also refer to Northern Ireland, where the military didn’t go ruthless.
While there are definitely issues of strategy, human rights and corruption, I still believe we should stay and train up the forces properly. If we don’t, we won’t just be fighting them there, we’ll be fighting them here and there, because it’s going to stink to be female, a Christian or a supporter of democracy in Afghanistan.
An old friend of mine is currently in the Army, although I don’t think he’s deploying to the country any time soon. When he does, I hope he stays safe.
04 November 2009
US Elections
While the usual caveats about protest votes and stuff apply, it cannot honestly be said to be a good night for Barack Obama- and for the Republicans.
The NY-23 pickup was by a Blue Dog Democrat, gay marriage got banned again in Maine and there’s the obvious governor losses.
However, Bloomberg got back in only narrowly, the Republican brand is still fairly toxic (understandable really, it’ll take a decade to self-clean) and there’s NY-23.
02 November 2009
29 October 2009
Pillars Of Sand
The US economy grew last quarter, officially ending the recession there.
I can’t help but feel, though, that said recovery is entirely due to TARP and “Cash for Clunkers” and that there’s still a lot of fragility in the real economy... Remember the jobless rate.
25 October 2009
Griffin and Question Time
I haven't posted here for a while- trying to resolve a crisis at AJJE Games that looks about to spill into the open.
I'm not sure about whether it was a good idea to invite Griffin onto Question Time. It certainly gave him the oxygen of publicity, but it also gave people some good quotes to attack him on. Defending the Ku Klux Klan, for example.
Speaking of indigenous Brits, how far back does he want to go with "voluntary repatriation"?
We'll have to see what this does to the success of the BNP.
I'm not sure about whether it was a good idea to invite Griffin onto Question Time. It certainly gave him the oxygen of publicity, but it also gave people some good quotes to attack him on. Defending the Ku Klux Klan, for example.
Speaking of indigenous Brits, how far back does he want to go with "voluntary repatriation"?
We'll have to see what this does to the success of the BNP.
13 October 2009
An interesting picture
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/shared/spl/hi/pop_ups/08/entertainment_enl_1255430698/html/1.stm
I saw someone similar- it may have been these people- in Chicago last year. I remember some dude telling people to die. I guess it was an attempt at a joke.
09 October 2009
Apparently You Get Points For Trying
The decision of the Norwegian Storting to award President Obama the Nobel Peace Prize bemuses me to say the least.
The man apparently got it for strengthening international institutions and promoting global nuclear disarmament. By this logic, FDR should have got one for setting up the UN and Reagan for ending the Cold War.
The word “premature” comes to mind. I really wish people would stop waving pom-poms for this guy before he actually achieves something.
PS Can someone brighten up Mile End tube station please?
08 October 2009
Sir Richard Dannatt and the Tories
May not be an opportunist political gimmick...
But the timing looks mighty suspicious. It’s very rare for a serving officer to make public criticisms of policy (Sir John Hackett did it once and got away with it by wearing his NATO hat) and to go straight into a political advisory role to the Shadow Cabinet isn’t really cricket.
I naturally favour our troops having what they need to succeed in Afghanistan, but Dannatt has possibly done them a disservice.
30 September 2009
Iranian Evasion
Testing a feature of Blogger that I haven’t yet utilised, namely creating posts by email.
The discovery that Iran had a secret nuclear facility is rather alarming. They’re clearly being very sneaky. That said, considering the likely results of an attack on Iran by Israel or anyone else, I am not inclined to military action as yet. That said, I favour economic sanctions, as it’s time to hit the mullahs where it hurts.
I don’t want a nuclear-armed Iran. In fact, I don’t want nuclear-armed anybody, although I’m not a unilateralist.
26 September 2009
"The whole point of the doomsday machine is lost if you keep it a secret!"
I knew about this already, but still it's interesting reading.
There's actually a system of similar purpose in British service, known as the Last Resort letters. These letters from the PM are placed in a safe on each Vanguard missile submarine. In the event that the UK ceases to exist, the letters are opened and the crew follow his or her instructions, which are probably one of four options.
1. Take out Moscow (or whoever)
2. Contact the Americans or the Australians (if they're still around)
3. Do nothing
4. Use your own judgement.
I'm sure other nuclear powers have their own systems.
There's actually a system of similar purpose in British service, known as the Last Resort letters. These letters from the PM are placed in a safe on each Vanguard missile submarine. In the event that the UK ceases to exist, the letters are opened and the crew follow his or her instructions, which are probably one of four options.
1. Take out Moscow (or whoever)
2. Contact the Americans or the Australians (if they're still around)
3. Do nothing
4. Use your own judgement.
I'm sure other nuclear powers have their own systems.
22 September 2009
18 September 2009
Historical Unemployment Figures
Just a little study I'm doing, partly to make myself feel better about the recession and Labour's likely electoral defeat next year.
17 September 2009
Obama and Missile Defence
Obama's announcement cancelling the "third site" in Central Europe today is not an end to missile defence by any means, contrary to how many right-wing sources are reporting this.
He's just moving to another method, namely AEGIS and the SM-3.
I'm actually a supporter of missile defence. I'd rather have protection than deterrence, with all that entails.
He's just moving to another method, namely AEGIS and the SM-3.
I'm actually a supporter of missile defence. I'd rather have protection than deterrence, with all that entails.
16 September 2009
I sunk your Plucky Comic Relief!
They're making a movie of the board game Battleship.
I'd say the world has gone mad, but that happened years ago.
I'd say the world has gone mad, but that happened years ago.
11 September 2009
9/11 Eight Years On
It was when I went to the Ground Zero exhibition and was told that the debris was ten storeys high that it really, really sunk in.
May we never forget.
May we never forget.
09 September 2009
Book about the Long Beach Naval Shipyard
RustyBattleship, from World Affairs Board has a book out on the Long Beach Naval Shipyard.
If you're interested in shipbuilding, check it out.
If you're interested in shipbuilding, check it out.
08 September 2009
Dropping A Blood Clot On Her
I'm not entirely sure whether the demise of a certain female character in a certain UK crime drama last night was poor writing or not.
Having a character die off-screen from a medical complication does seem a bit strange, but then again it's a subtle statement about life. People don't always get better and surgery isn't perfect.
Let's hope we're not dealing with a Replacement Scrappy...
Having a character die off-screen from a medical complication does seem a bit strange, but then again it's a subtle statement about life. People don't always get better and surgery isn't perfect.
Let's hope we're not dealing with a Replacement Scrappy...
05 September 2009
Realpolitik Stinks- Libya and Afghanistan
So, we've had a convicted terrorist (although there are doubts about his guilt) essentially released from prison to secure an oil deal and bring a former state sponsor of terrorism in from the cold.
These are the choices you sadly have to make though in international politics. I don't personally think al-Megrahi should have been released on compassionate grounds or as part of a "prisoner transfer arrangement", but I understand why Gordon Brown did it.
Meanwhile, the election in Afghanistan looks to have been seriously corrupt, on many sides. I hope, frankly, this ends up in a run-off and that Karzai loses. The "marital rape" law that he allowed to be enacted is fundamentally wrong and should be repealed immediately.
That said, I still support our mission in Afghanistan, provided we put a lot of pressure on Karzai and the warlords. There are many Afghans who are not corrupt, oppose these restrictive laws and they deserve a decent future that does not involve the Taliban. We definitely need an altering of strategy.
However, my view on an exit strategy is this:
These are the choices you sadly have to make though in international politics. I don't personally think al-Megrahi should have been released on compassionate grounds or as part of a "prisoner transfer arrangement", but I understand why Gordon Brown did it.
Meanwhile, the election in Afghanistan looks to have been seriously corrupt, on many sides. I hope, frankly, this ends up in a run-off and that Karzai loses. The "marital rape" law that he allowed to be enacted is fundamentally wrong and should be repealed immediately.
That said, I still support our mission in Afghanistan, provided we put a lot of pressure on Karzai and the warlords. There are many Afghans who are not corrupt, oppose these restrictive laws and they deserve a decent future that does not involve the Taliban. We definitely need an altering of strategy.
However, my view on an exit strategy is this:
- Define the job
- Do the job
- Go when it's done
03 September 2009
70 Years Ago Part Two
Chamberlain's announcement of war from 1939.
If I'd have heard that in 1939, I'd have been very worried. The announcements after hardly sound reassuring.
If I'd have heard that in 1939, I'd have been very worried. The announcements after hardly sound reassuring.
01 September 2009
70 Years Ago Today...
Hitler invaded Poland, starting the Second World War in Europe.
The Polish people would suffer tremendously in the six years to come, as 7 million Poles were killed in the fighting or murdered by the Nazis in their "Final Solution".
Poles played a key part in defeating Hitler, delaying his invasion of France until spring 1940 by their resistance in Poland, flying in the Battle of Britain, fighting in other theatres such as Italy and, perhaps most importantly, providing key information on Enigma.
As we remember the destruction caused by one man's megalomania, may we also remember those who gave everything to stop it.
The Polish people would suffer tremendously in the six years to come, as 7 million Poles were killed in the fighting or murdered by the Nazis in their "Final Solution".
Poles played a key part in defeating Hitler, delaying his invasion of France until spring 1940 by their resistance in Poland, flying in the Battle of Britain, fighting in other theatres such as Italy and, perhaps most importantly, providing key information on Enigma.
As we remember the destruction caused by one man's megalomania, may we also remember those who gave everything to stop it.
29 August 2009
Gordon Brown's Surprise Visit To Afghanistan
Is a clear indication that the country is still very dangerous.
I've probably said something like that before.
I've probably said something like that before.
26 August 2009
Unfairly Maligning The Eurofighter
There's a lot of discussion over British equipment in Afghanistan and a lot of criticism of the Eurofighter Typhoon, with critics describing it as an "interceptor" and a "Cold War relic".
Yet again, people don't bother to check their facts.
Yet again, people don't bother to check their facts.
- The Tranche 2 and Tranche 3 Typhoons are capable of doing air-to-ground operations just as well as the Tornado GR.4.
- The Eurofighter is a Cold War design, true. So is the A-10, F-16, F-15 and the Harrier.
- We're not going to be fighting Taliban-style enemies (i.e. air defence borderline non-existent) for the next 50 years. At some point we will be against someone with fighter aircraft and decent SAMs. In fact, we did that only a decade ago.
- The Eurofighter is a highly capable air-to-air fighter, perhaps second only to the F-22. It can also self-escort.
- We're not buying the original 232 planned anyway.
25 August 2009
US Torture
I'll say one thing about this.
This isn't even in the top ten of human rights abuses committed by the US government.
This isn't even in the top ten of human rights abuses committed by the US government.
21 August 2009
15 August 2009
VJ Day
Today is the 64th anniversary of the Japanese surrender that ended World War Two.
May we never forget the sacrifice of US, British and Commonwealth soldiers in defeating another form of fascism in Asia.
May we never forget the sacrifice of US, British and Commonwealth soldiers in defeating another form of fascism in Asia.
14 August 2009
New Layout
I've changed the layout, mostly because I like to do it every now and again.
What do you think?
What do you think?
13 August 2009
France and Germany exit recession
France and Germany grew economically last quarter.
That said, a double-dip recession there and elsewhere is a real possibility.
That said, a double-dip recession there and elsewhere is a real possibility.
Twenty Years On: The Cold War and Its Legacy, Introduction
Twenty years ago last month, Solidarity won a landslide victory in Polish elections that the Communists had tried to rig. The result was the collapse of communism across Eastern Europe and ultimately the fall of the USSR.
I've had a long interest in the Cold War, as those who play Covert-81 can clearly see. The period is hugely interesting.
I'd like to start this series by making something very clear to certain members of the left. The Cold War was not a time of peace by any means and having a challenger to the United States actually made things worse.
The Cold War was a time of war by proxy, most notably in Vietnam and Afghanistan, but also in Central America and Africa. Human rights mattered far less to either side than retaining or gaining allies.
I would not want to go back to that period, that's for sure
I've had a long interest in the Cold War, as those who play Covert-81 can clearly see. The period is hugely interesting.
I'd like to start this series by making something very clear to certain members of the left. The Cold War was not a time of peace by any means and having a challenger to the United States actually made things worse.
The Cold War was a time of war by proxy, most notably in Vietnam and Afghanistan, but also in Central America and Africa. Human rights mattered far less to either side than retaining or gaining allies.
I would not want to go back to that period, that's for sure
07 August 2009
The Fourth Test
Not playing too well at the moment...
What's up with the wickets in this series anyway?
What's up with the wickets in this series anyway?
06 August 2009
Hiroshima - 64 Years On
Today is the 64th anniversary of the single largest act of destruction of humans by their fellow humans.
As someone with a large knowledge of nuclear weapons and their effects, I have no desire to see any more nuclear weapons used in anger.
I hope that we can actually see some further reductions in global stockpiles in this coming year. Much of the US and Russian stockpile is storage and it is time to start destroying these weapons- along with all other nuclear weapons.
As someone with a large knowledge of nuclear weapons and their effects, I have no desire to see any more nuclear weapons used in anger.
I hope that we can actually see some further reductions in global stockpiles in this coming year. Much of the US and Russian stockpile is storage and it is time to start destroying these weapons- along with all other nuclear weapons.
30 July 2009
So called "non-jobs"
Daily Mail article
Six months work experience will be very helpful when applying for later jobs. Being a museum guide is not a "non-job".
I welcome this initiative.
Six months work experience will be very helpful when applying for later jobs. Being a museum guide is not a "non-job".
I welcome this initiative.
25 July 2009
Harry Patch RIP
The last man who served in the trenches has died. Rest In Peace.
While the Western Front has now faded from living memory, let us ensure it is never forgotten.
While the Western Front has now faded from living memory, let us ensure it is never forgotten.
24 July 2009
Norwich North
Well, it was always like we'd lose, but that was a bad loss. What appears to be the case is our voters are staying at home and probably will for a good few years.
We need to start thinking beyond 2010 and towards 2014/15. We need a "New New Labour", one that combines social justice with toughness.
We need to start thinking beyond 2010 and towards 2014/15. We need a "New New Labour", one that combines social justice with toughness.
20 July 2009
Cricket and Academic Punk
Nice one England. We might just win back the Ashes on a performance like that.
The new Doctor's costume has been released to the press and I have to say that I like it. It's just the right kind of look for a Time Lord. Credit to RealJamie at Gallifrey Base for "academic punk", which should get a wide use.
Story I was going to relate but other events overtook it - a non-fan mate of mine saw a picture of Karen Gillan on the front cover of Doctor Who Magazine and said that he might have to start watching the show. Interpret that how you will.
The new Doctor's costume has been released to the press and I have to say that I like it. It's just the right kind of look for a Time Lord. Credit to RealJamie at Gallifrey Base for "academic punk", which should get a wide use.
Story I was going to relate but other events overtook it - a non-fan mate of mine saw a picture of Karen Gillan on the front cover of Doctor Who Magazine and said that he might have to start watching the show. Interpret that how you will.
18 July 2009
11 July 2009
General Musings
Jams has a thought-provoking article on women in Afghanistan. I don't agree with his conclusion, but he makes a good point nonetheless.
I don't frankly know why David Cameron employed a guy who resigned over phone-hacking in the first place, as well as edited a trashy tabloid. Personally, I think that spin doctors are one of the biggest threats to democracy at present- they are only increasing cynicism and driving people to the BNP et. al.
The Tory 10% cuts are also an extremely bad idea. This will lead to job losses and we all know that people in work spend more money. If I was to spend £100 in any shop, I'd probably be helping several businesses indirectly. Even billionaires help keep textile workers in work.
The "agreement about an agreement" that is the Joint Understanding on the START replacement treaty is interesting and helpful. That said, both sides ought to be looking at tactical nukes as well.
I don't frankly know why David Cameron employed a guy who resigned over phone-hacking in the first place, as well as edited a trashy tabloid. Personally, I think that spin doctors are one of the biggest threats to democracy at present- they are only increasing cynicism and driving people to the BNP et. al.
The Tory 10% cuts are also an extremely bad idea. This will lead to job losses and we all know that people in work spend more money. If I was to spend £100 in any shop, I'd probably be helping several businesses indirectly. Even billionaires help keep textile workers in work.
The "agreement about an agreement" that is the Joint Understanding on the START replacement treaty is interesting and helpful. That said, both sides ought to be looking at tactical nukes as well.
29 June 2009
26 June 2009
Michael Jackson: 1958-2009
While his personal life may have left much to be desired, his music most certainly did not.
Quite simply a legend. Rest in Peace.
Quite simply a legend. Rest in Peace.
15 June 2009
12 June 2009
08 June 2009
Local and European Election Results
No denying it- that was awful with a capital A for Labour.
Why we did so badly
The first and most important thing is to stop this infighting, which just generates bad press. We are not going to win the general election with Gordon Brown, but we are not going to win it with anyone else either. The only thing we can do now is damage control- limiting the Tory majority.
I suggest that Mr. Brown subjects himself to a leadership contest like Major did in 1995. Whoever wins, the other side accepts that and supports them. If no-one gets the necessary support among MPs, so be it. Let's get this stupid thing over with.
I suggest we drop ID cards. More trouble then they're worth frankly. The Tories will only do it when they come in otherwise.
We need to focus our resources on the seats we can actually win. If this means not contesting places, so be it. We need to save money.
We also need to find ways to get our message across that do not involve the press. The Tory media don't care about our message- they never have.
Finally, we need to prepare for 2013/4. That's the key election for us.
Why we did so badly
- We've been in power for 12 years. People tend to get sick of any government after 12 years.
- The economy is in a mess.
- The MPs expenses scandal.
- Hazel Blears, a woman who should never get near a ministerial box again, stabbed Gordon Brown the day before the election.
- Our voters didn't turn up.
- The other lot did.
- Infighting.
The first and most important thing is to stop this infighting, which just generates bad press. We are not going to win the general election with Gordon Brown, but we are not going to win it with anyone else either. The only thing we can do now is damage control- limiting the Tory majority.
I suggest that Mr. Brown subjects himself to a leadership contest like Major did in 1995. Whoever wins, the other side accepts that and supports them. If no-one gets the necessary support among MPs, so be it. Let's get this stupid thing over with.
I suggest we drop ID cards. More trouble then they're worth frankly. The Tories will only do it when they come in otherwise.
We need to focus our resources on the seats we can actually win. If this means not contesting places, so be it. We need to save money.
We also need to find ways to get our message across that do not involve the press. The Tory media don't care about our message- they never have.
Finally, we need to prepare for 2013/4. That's the key election for us.
06 June 2009
D-Day: 65 Years On
Today is 65 years since the Allied invasion of Western Europe that helped bring down Hitler.
I've been to Normandy on three occasions and when you see the American cemetery there, you get an idea of the scale of the invasion and the losses involved.
May their sacrifices never be forgotten. We owe you a lot.
I've been to Normandy on three occasions and when you see the American cemetery there, you get an idea of the scale of the invasion and the losses involved.
May their sacrifices never be forgotten. We owe you a lot.
03 June 2009
Rodents and descending water vessels
So, a woman who was about to sacked has decided to resign at a highly embarrassing time for her boss. To think I actually gave her my second preference for the Deputy Leadership.
It seems that poor Gordon has not been having a good few weeks. The "amateur Kremlinologists" are talking of his imminent departure following an extremely likely Labour whipping at the European and local elections tomorrow (we won't get the results on the former, by the way, until Sunday- everybody else has to vote too. Anything you hear before then is rumour).
I don't think that removing Brown now will do the party any good. It would just mean that the next leader would go down as the PM who got defeated in a landslide (I'm a realist, it's likely to happen) and we'd probably have to have another leadership contest. While Wilson came back from a defeat, he's the only PM who really has.
I think it's best that we focus on trying to reduce the Tory majority and deal with other issues later. That way, we'll be like a submarine- coming back when the Tories least expect it.
By the way, please go and vote tomorrow. I'd like you to vote Labour, but anybody bar the BNP will be good enough for me. Let's keep these fascists out of Brussels.
It seems that poor Gordon has not been having a good few weeks. The "amateur Kremlinologists" are talking of his imminent departure following an extremely likely Labour whipping at the European and local elections tomorrow (we won't get the results on the former, by the way, until Sunday- everybody else has to vote too. Anything you hear before then is rumour).
I don't think that removing Brown now will do the party any good. It would just mean that the next leader would go down as the PM who got defeated in a landslide (I'm a realist, it's likely to happen) and we'd probably have to have another leadership contest. While Wilson came back from a defeat, he's the only PM who really has.
I think it's best that we focus on trying to reduce the Tory majority and deal with other issues later. That way, we'll be like a submarine- coming back when the Tories least expect it.
By the way, please go and vote tomorrow. I'd like you to vote Labour, but anybody bar the BNP will be good enough for me. Let's keep these fascists out of Brussels.
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