Another week on tenterhooks in the great will he, wont he saga that is becoming the proposed date for the next Westminster election.
Apart from Monday's disgraceful performance from Wendy, and Brown's speech which wouldn't look out of place at this week's gathering in Blackpool, Blackpool a place dear readers where yours truly emerged victorious at a bonnie baby contest some years ago!, my attention was struck at the behaviour of the Trade Union establishment at the Labour Party conference.
You would expect that this conference would have been the ideal opportunity to flex muscles and gain some support. Instead on the whole they remain tight lipped, not upsetting the apple cart.
New Labour must continually be exposed for its lack of commitment to the Trade Union movement. This year they wish to cut civil service numbers by 100,000 ,which will result in Industrial Action from PCS, are allowing a bitter dispute to fester in Royal Mail, a company where the Westminster government are the biggest share holder, where the CWU quite rightly are fighting to protect jobs, pay and pension provision, and on the whole are expecting public sector workers to accept below inflation pay increases.
This of course in stark contrast to the behaviour of New Labour MSP's - BLP Scotland Region - who are now coming across to the public at large as a comical sect who have completely lost the plot, to the extent that had they emerged victorious in May, we no doubt would have a ministry for silly walks!
First we had the bizarre rantings of one George Foulkes, and now we have the rantings of Pauline McNeill, both arguing for more money and allowances. The latter demanding more money as "I have to write my own speeches".
Dearie me! Its such a difficult life having to think for yourself Pauline! Yet another sign that those poor wee souls have still to cope with life in opposition.
Perhaps an advertisment along these lines might just help them out;
WANTED!
Speechwriter required for MSP. Must provide speeches which sound like the rantings of a banshee, a capacity to ensure that the employer makes a complete fool of themselves on National Live Television, and a requirement to emphasise the ungraciousness of the employer is essential.
Apply to any BLP Scotland Region MSP
Scottish Parliament
The sad fact is that while workers in the country are expected by New Labour to tighten their belt, they expect their politicians earning more that 50k to get more. A modern day British Gas if you will.
Hopefully GB will make the announcement soon, so that we can expose this hypocrisy to its fullest.
30 September 2007
24 September 2007
WENDY APOLOGISES - BUT NOT TO THE PEOPLE
In the house thanks to a Public Holiday generously given by my employer, and just before settling down to listen to see if GB will give any hint of an early election, and for what its worth I believe that it was an election speech, had the misfortune to listen to Wendy Alexander, in a section in the Conference programme dubbed "Scottish Report".
Wendy decided it is prudent to apologise to the British Labour Party for its defeat in the Scottish elections! How very arrogant!
It we fall this logic, it is their fault that they couldn't keep the Scottish people in line. HOW VERY UNDEMOCRATIC!
This strikes at the very heart of why BLP will be facing opposition for a very long time to come. No apology for Iraq, no apology for privatisation and leaving an awful budget legacy thanks to PFI deals, no apology for threatening NHS services in Scotland.
Given that she was the architect of the most negative campaign in Scottish political history, is it any wonder we get this attitude.
And then she surpassed even her own standards for being disingenuous.
One the one hand she argues that the SNP and Tories work together, - without backing it up with any substance, whilst on the other sees no shame in working with the Tories to scupper any plans for a referendum on Scotland's future.
All this hypocrisy in only 6 minutes.
As an aside I noticed George Foulkes and Dennis Skinner sitting next to each other, which brought this analogy in my head, one is an eccentric buffoon who cant be controlled and embarrasses the party with his every utterance, the other of course is the much respected Dennis Skinner!
I'm sure we will look forward to more double speak from our British opponents.
In what has been a bad week for them, one thing is clear...........
WENDY MUST STAY!
Wendy decided it is prudent to apologise to the British Labour Party for its defeat in the Scottish elections! How very arrogant!
It we fall this logic, it is their fault that they couldn't keep the Scottish people in line. HOW VERY UNDEMOCRATIC!
This strikes at the very heart of why BLP will be facing opposition for a very long time to come. No apology for Iraq, no apology for privatisation and leaving an awful budget legacy thanks to PFI deals, no apology for threatening NHS services in Scotland.
Given that she was the architect of the most negative campaign in Scottish political history, is it any wonder we get this attitude.
And then she surpassed even her own standards for being disingenuous.
One the one hand she argues that the SNP and Tories work together, - without backing it up with any substance, whilst on the other sees no shame in working with the Tories to scupper any plans for a referendum on Scotland's future.
All this hypocrisy in only 6 minutes.
As an aside I noticed George Foulkes and Dennis Skinner sitting next to each other, which brought this analogy in my head, one is an eccentric buffoon who cant be controlled and embarrasses the party with his every utterance, the other of course is the much respected Dennis Skinner!
I'm sure we will look forward to more double speak from our British opponents.
In what has been a bad week for them, one thing is clear...........
WENDY MUST STAY!
23 September 2007
WILL HISTORY REPEAT ITSELF?
A very interesting week in Scottish politics. In addition to this I have noticed some blogs who are utilising my State of Play blog to inspire their own efforts at merging football punditry with Scottish politics. Imitation and flattery and all that!
However, this weekend's events in particular bring my mind back to a conversation with one of our more seasoned activists at last years SNP conference in Perth. I had remarked to him that the conference was one of the best in terms of atmosphere, and the contagious positive and upbeat energy proved to be the launch pad for the most successful election in SNP history. The seasoned activist remarked to me that the best conference he could remember was the 1974 conference in Elgin, just weeks after Scotland had elected Scotland's XI.
The comparisons between this year and 1974 are becoming surreal.
The possibility of GB asking Brenda to call an early election gives the SNP a very real possibility to record another fantastic election result, and the 2nd in a year just like 1974. For Brown read Wilson wanting a mandate, for Heath there is the unpopular Cameron and Tory activist unrest.
Every SNP activist I speak to believes an early election will be good for us, and bad for the Tories and the Fib Dems.
BLP Scotland Region however, are having a terrible time, spurning the opportunity to rethink by being more and more negative, my predicted "dressing room unrest" caused by Wendy Alexander - quicker than even I expected though!, and allowing their eccentrics free publicity - for Foulkes sake keep talking George!
An early election gives the Scottish people a chance to elect MP's who will fight Scotland's corner, to give the Scottish Government increased support for the changes they wish to implement and to increase the pressure for more powers to be transferred, as well as add fresh impetus to the National Conversation.
Another chance for positive politics to defeat doom and gloom.
I guess we will all be on tenterhooks to see if GB will make his move in Bournemouth or just after the gathering of the dark side.
Go for it Gordie - We're ready, and history may just be on our side!
However, this weekend's events in particular bring my mind back to a conversation with one of our more seasoned activists at last years SNP conference in Perth. I had remarked to him that the conference was one of the best in terms of atmosphere, and the contagious positive and upbeat energy proved to be the launch pad for the most successful election in SNP history. The seasoned activist remarked to me that the best conference he could remember was the 1974 conference in Elgin, just weeks after Scotland had elected Scotland's XI.
The comparisons between this year and 1974 are becoming surreal.
The possibility of GB asking Brenda to call an early election gives the SNP a very real possibility to record another fantastic election result, and the 2nd in a year just like 1974. For Brown read Wilson wanting a mandate, for Heath there is the unpopular Cameron and Tory activist unrest.
Every SNP activist I speak to believes an early election will be good for us, and bad for the Tories and the Fib Dems.
BLP Scotland Region however, are having a terrible time, spurning the opportunity to rethink by being more and more negative, my predicted "dressing room unrest" caused by Wendy Alexander - quicker than even I expected though!, and allowing their eccentrics free publicity - for Foulkes sake keep talking George!
An early election gives the Scottish people a chance to elect MP's who will fight Scotland's corner, to give the Scottish Government increased support for the changes they wish to implement and to increase the pressure for more powers to be transferred, as well as add fresh impetus to the National Conversation.
Another chance for positive politics to defeat doom and gloom.
I guess we will all be on tenterhooks to see if GB will make his move in Bournemouth or just after the gathering of the dark side.
Go for it Gordie - We're ready, and history may just be on our side!
15 September 2007
THOSE MERGER RUMOURS........
Regular readers will know that i have suggested for sometime the merger of 2 unionist parties. This theory is of course on the premise that appear to agree with each other on many issues in their pursuit of anti-Scottish, centre right politics.One can only speculate as to what was discussed when these two icons of centre right, free market unionism met the other day.
Any guesses?
Was an oath to the dark side declared?
Undoubtedly we will see this image during the next Westminster elections.
STILL UNBEATEN!
Yes indeed! Scotland's International football team remain unbeaten under a SNP Government! One can only speculate at to the result of an Independence referendum had we decided to go for it on Thursday! Attaching a referendum on the back of a Scotland is however a very, very risky strategy.
It was absolutely fantastic to watch it in the pub. WHAT A NIGHT! The moment Faddy hit the ball their seemed like a few minutes of silence, which was probably only a second. It took just one person to shout YES! Cue mass hysteria.
A very enjoyable night indeed.
The key point however is that once again we appear to be able to produce high quality footballers, and that can only be good for the country. I believe that this is partly down to the re-emergence of an organised structure appearing at youth and school level. When i attended secondary school, there was not one school football team in the 5 years i was there, not that i would have made it mind you, although we certainly had a lot of talent on display at our 15 a side games either in the playground or at the local park when lunchtimes where 90 minutes! The aftermath of a very bitter teachers dispute put paid to any sports teams which did not emerge until i had left.
It looks like the dark days for our football team have been dispensed with too.
The fact that our international team is relatively young suggests we could be in for some very good times indeed. If Scotland were in any other group we would qualify for sure.
Every country needs a culture and sport outlet. Now is the time to re-inforce it. With Glasgow, potentially hosting the Commonwealth games, we need to make sure that we invest in proper sporting facilities for all, in all sports. Lets make sure we don't face those dark days again, when any Scottish performance was dreaded. Now is the time to ensure the dark days are in the history books.
Perhaps then we can attach a referendum to a Scottish match - World Cup Final anyone?
06 September 2007
THE STATE OF PLAY
Well the football season is now in full flow, and transferring football journalism to political prediction, lets look at the coming season now that the Parliament has reconvened!
SNP
A triumphant return for manager, Alex Salmond, similar to the managerial record of the Great Lambino (John Lambie), transforming a struggling team only a few seasons ago to champions this year, pipping their greatest rivals thanks to a last minute interception and strike from veteran Dave Thompson, on a memorable Friday afternoon.
And how they celebrated!
Salmond though is determined that they are not resting on their laurels, and has led from the front with sterling performances in Europe and against English Premiership opponents.
With Swinney and Sturgeon key players in the Public Sector engine room, fans can expect to see open and exciting play, also look for MacAskill to operating on both flanks outmanoeuvring the opposition from time to time.
Given the fact they now have the biggest squad in SNP history, look out for some new names to shine in this free flowing team.
SNP fans are also looking forward to upcoming Anglo Scottish Cup ties (or the Westminster election if you prefer!).
Prediction - To remain champions for another season.
BLP SCOTLAND REGION
A last minute managerial change, with W.Alexander expected to finally take the reins next month, having taken over from previous Manager McConnell, who resigned shortly before facing the dreaded vote of confidence after ending 50 years of glorious history. McConnell is compensated by being offered a coaching role in Africa. BLP fans are not expecting much from Temporary Coach Jamieson.
Still look to have never really recovered from their foreign operations policy, and must surely regret the takeover 6 years ago from eccentric American owner Dubya Bush.
With a failed takeover bid from a small co-operative called Campaign for Socialism, it looks like this team will be hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
The appointment of Alexander is of course a huge risk. A hectoring style of player management, plus the inevitable language problems, may upset the dressing room, and may face criticism of failing to inspire the fans.
A lot depends on how Alexander utilises the transfer window, will there be big changes or will Alexander go for the tried and tested.
BLP need changes and it is doubtful if continuing with old attacker Zebeddee Foulkes will have the fans flocking back, amid harsh criticism of a boring and predictable offensive style of play. There must also be worries about defender Kerr, who keeps getting exposed and caught out of position, particularly in Live TV performances.
There could be a very difficult season in John Smith Stadium, but may hold their own in the Anglo Scottish.
Prediction - Looks like their bad run will continue, but should secure runners up spot holding off the Tories.
TORIES
Another uninspiring season, and they look a pale shadow of the team that reached the heights of the 1980's, when they encountered many European nights, plus a memorable adventure in South America. Now relegated to feeder club status from their English owners. Also this club is frustrated at having their coaching manual stolen by BLP in the mid nineties.
Manager Goldie is once again looking for another season of consolidation, and will look to ensure that their defensive style of play will pick up vital points during the course of the upcoming season.
Look out for celebrity fans like Gerald Warner to call for a return of the glory days when Thatcher and Forsyth were in charge, to make the headlines.
This team need a long term strategy, and must look to replace their old, dwindling fan base, and must make a better effort of attracting a younger fan to their newly called Cameron Modern Arena.
Some of course believe that a merger with BLP Scotland Region is inevitable given the close proximity of the clubs.
Prediction - Another season of mid table showing, but look out for those merger talks to take place in mid season.
LIB DEM
After last seasons disastrous end, the 4 year extension to beleaguered manager Nicol Stephen, surprised many. With a very unpopular and uncharismatic chairman in Minging Campbell, one wonders how team morale is affected. The expectation level for the Anglo Scottish cup ties is at rock bottom and may suffer more heavy defeats. Season ticket sales have hit their lowest level in many years, having been caught out proclaiming title contender status, only to be found wanting on match days.
An uninspiring manager, and an uninspiring team, could be extinct in the next few years if they are not careful.
Prediction - will be one of the candidates in the relegation dog fight.
GREENS
A disappointing end to a promising season and lost too many games that were there for the taking.
Although they have a smaller squad expect their big players Harper and Harvie to catch out the opposition on home turf, Environmental Issues Park.
Prediction - A respectable season for a team who know their level.
TROTS FC AND TROTARITY FC
Both clubs relegated to Junior status after a very public falling out between their Co-Manager coaching staff, and the splitting of TROT UNITED, which ended in a very bitter court battle. With more court battles expected, it looks clear that both sides are light years away from regaining senior status.
Prediction - OH DEAR!
Lets hope for another entertaining season!
SNP
A triumphant return for manager, Alex Salmond, similar to the managerial record of the Great Lambino (John Lambie), transforming a struggling team only a few seasons ago to champions this year, pipping their greatest rivals thanks to a last minute interception and strike from veteran Dave Thompson, on a memorable Friday afternoon.
And how they celebrated!
Salmond though is determined that they are not resting on their laurels, and has led from the front with sterling performances in Europe and against English Premiership opponents.
With Swinney and Sturgeon key players in the Public Sector engine room, fans can expect to see open and exciting play, also look for MacAskill to operating on both flanks outmanoeuvring the opposition from time to time.
Given the fact they now have the biggest squad in SNP history, look out for some new names to shine in this free flowing team.
SNP fans are also looking forward to upcoming Anglo Scottish Cup ties (or the Westminster election if you prefer!).
Prediction - To remain champions for another season.
BLP SCOTLAND REGION
A last minute managerial change, with W.Alexander expected to finally take the reins next month, having taken over from previous Manager McConnell, who resigned shortly before facing the dreaded vote of confidence after ending 50 years of glorious history. McConnell is compensated by being offered a coaching role in Africa. BLP fans are not expecting much from Temporary Coach Jamieson.
Still look to have never really recovered from their foreign operations policy, and must surely regret the takeover 6 years ago from eccentric American owner Dubya Bush.
With a failed takeover bid from a small co-operative called Campaign for Socialism, it looks like this team will be hitting the headlines for all the wrong reasons.
The appointment of Alexander is of course a huge risk. A hectoring style of player management, plus the inevitable language problems, may upset the dressing room, and may face criticism of failing to inspire the fans.
A lot depends on how Alexander utilises the transfer window, will there be big changes or will Alexander go for the tried and tested.
BLP need changes and it is doubtful if continuing with old attacker Zebeddee Foulkes will have the fans flocking back, amid harsh criticism of a boring and predictable offensive style of play. There must also be worries about defender Kerr, who keeps getting exposed and caught out of position, particularly in Live TV performances.
There could be a very difficult season in John Smith Stadium, but may hold their own in the Anglo Scottish.
Prediction - Looks like their bad run will continue, but should secure runners up spot holding off the Tories.
TORIES
Another uninspiring season, and they look a pale shadow of the team that reached the heights of the 1980's, when they encountered many European nights, plus a memorable adventure in South America. Now relegated to feeder club status from their English owners. Also this club is frustrated at having their coaching manual stolen by BLP in the mid nineties.
Manager Goldie is once again looking for another season of consolidation, and will look to ensure that their defensive style of play will pick up vital points during the course of the upcoming season.
Look out for celebrity fans like Gerald Warner to call for a return of the glory days when Thatcher and Forsyth were in charge, to make the headlines.
This team need a long term strategy, and must look to replace their old, dwindling fan base, and must make a better effort of attracting a younger fan to their newly called Cameron Modern Arena.
Some of course believe that a merger with BLP Scotland Region is inevitable given the close proximity of the clubs.
Prediction - Another season of mid table showing, but look out for those merger talks to take place in mid season.
LIB DEM
After last seasons disastrous end, the 4 year extension to beleaguered manager Nicol Stephen, surprised many. With a very unpopular and uncharismatic chairman in Minging Campbell, one wonders how team morale is affected. The expectation level for the Anglo Scottish cup ties is at rock bottom and may suffer more heavy defeats. Season ticket sales have hit their lowest level in many years, having been caught out proclaiming title contender status, only to be found wanting on match days.
An uninspiring manager, and an uninspiring team, could be extinct in the next few years if they are not careful.
Prediction - will be one of the candidates in the relegation dog fight.
GREENS
A disappointing end to a promising season and lost too many games that were there for the taking.
Although they have a smaller squad expect their big players Harper and Harvie to catch out the opposition on home turf, Environmental Issues Park.
Prediction - A respectable season for a team who know their level.
TROTS FC AND TROTARITY FC
Both clubs relegated to Junior status after a very public falling out between their Co-Manager coaching staff, and the splitting of TROT UNITED, which ended in a very bitter court battle. With more court battles expected, it looks clear that both sides are light years away from regaining senior status.
Prediction - OH DEAR!
Lets hope for another entertaining season!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
