CUTS CUTS CUTS!

Yes indeed a month since my last blog post, and I am sure my avid readers have missed my musings.

Over last month a heavy workload, plus continuing campaigning around North Cardonald, Penilee, and Damshot, and the postie still delivers a sizeable mailbag, indicating more and more support for the SNP. No sign of the Brown bounce here!

With the Calman commission being a damp squib, the pre-budget report delivering nothing for households with low incomes, it is little wonder.

Today, John Swinney announced more money for Scotland's local authorities, which is of course very welcome. Interestingly New Labour fail to tell that last year the local government slice of the Scottish Budget was the first time it had increased in nine years. Wonder why?

The main danger of course is that the Party that is supposedly against cuts, or so they keep lecturing us, has delivered a £500 million cuts bombshell of their own, with the news that the pre budget report will see this half billion being eliminated from the Scottish budget over the next three years. This outrage makes the case for Scottish fiscal powers unanswerable, and makes the Calman report look naive to be polite.

The SNP government should continue to expose the effects of the downturn and how Scottish residents are being cheated. Union dividend? Price of the union more like!

With the Tory vultures ready to pounce and gain control in London, and the disastrous consequences that they would represent to Scotland, can anyone stop them? YES!

Only voting SNP at the Westminster elections will stop these disastrous cuts in their tracks. Only the SNP can and will protect the people and public services of our nation.

A TALE OF TWO COUNTRIES....

A very difficult few working weeks, and some campaigning in both Glenrothes, and Baillieston, as well as watching the jubilant scenes from America.

What a contrast!

I have not met anyone who is not happy at Obama's victory, though I have to confess that I was surprised by the margin, as I had expected the result to be a lot closer. One thing is for sure, only McCain or Guiliiani could have the Presidency for the Republicans. The main reason why the Republicans didn't is due entirely to the vision and hope which an Obama presidency offers. It was truly inspirational to watch black Americans describe how much an Obama win means to them. A message of hope over fear won the day. Having listened to McCain's concession, you have to wonder how close the result could have been if he had not wandered to the right during the last three months of the campaign. One wonders if Guiliiani had been the running mate, how many other states would have been in play in the electoral college.

Then we have the opposite end of the spectrum, Glenrothes. The vicious and brutal nature of New Labour's campaign would shame many, but not it seems the deployers of the dark arts within New Labour. The lies and half truths over home charges, seem to have won the day, however, I believe that the Bank of England interest rate announcement at midday probably had an effect that could not be countered. Baillieston on the other hand can be put down to voter fatigue, which was clear to me when doing knock up. One wonders how a council by-election on the south side of Glasgow would have panned out, after the disgraceful decision by the GHA to award the Housing Repair contract to the a private sector company, apparently nicknamed CANNOT.

Rather than be a Garscadden moment, I believe this was the reality check. Like Jim Sillars, I believe New Labour's problems will continue after the New Year, when it is expected that the economy will be hit with further job losses, particularly in the banking sector.

So a three nil win for New Labour on Thursday, they held onto a Council ward in Edinburgh, but rather than being a crucial cup final, it is the equivalent of a defeat with a long promising season ahead (The mighty Jags are now unbeaten since their last 3-0 defeat!).

So how have the triumphant forces of New Labour reacted? Well they have learned nothing if it is true that the Calman Commission receive a dossier (another dodgy one perhaps) from Downing Street as reported today, that the Scottish Parliament should not receive any new powers. As in the last few by-elections I have campaigned in, many voters regardless of their political voting intention would vote yes in an Independence Referendum. Our political opponents are sadly mistaken if they believe that the Constitutional question is over.

So a victory of vision, ambition and hope in one country, and a victory of fear in this one.

Everyone in the SNP should hold their nerve, and react positively to this setback. Scotland is a social democratic nation, if not a socialist one. The politics of hope, and a positive outlook will always triumph.

Now I can return to our campaign in Glasgow South West, where I have already consoled myself with opening a large postbag of voters pledging to the SNP in the next Westminster election.....

NEGATIVE PLAYS....

Another good day in Glenrothes yesterday where there appears to be little sign of the Brown Bounce, and the SNP vote looks like holding.

I have now seen with my own eyes the infamous "The Fifer" newspaper, which contains no fewer than 28 references to the SNP, and only 1 which mentions Labour, yes folks its a Labour leaflet. I have now come to the view that if New Labour were a football team, they would be so negative they would be playing a 8-1-1 formation!

Their latest efforts have turned to SNP led Fife Council's Social Work Care charges. 10 Labour Controlled Councils charge for care services but this doesn't stop the hypocrisy. Despite the fact that 94% of people in Fife who receive care in Fife will not pay a penny, New Labour in Fife are engaging in Scaremongering, that would shame a US Republican.

They claim that people will be paying £11 an hour for care, when in reality the few who are paying will contribute £17 a week. Interestingly, of the two Councils who don't charge for care, one of them is Shetland - largely due to them having an Oil Fund!

Sadly, New Labour have learned nothing from their disastrous negative campaign in Glasgow East. Until people know what they stand for, what they believe in - apart from bashing the SNP, and scaremongering vulnerable people in society, they continue to be shown the door by the voters.

Only the SNP provide a positive vision and campaign in Glenrothes, and the whole of Scotland.

END OF OUTSOURCING...

A very good SNP Conference in Perth, with a good fringe meeting for the Trade Union Group, and despite what I thought was a little nervousness at the start, I believe that all delegates left with a spring in their step as the FM delivered a speech which will resonate across Scotland. For my avid readers, they can see my speech to Conference on the Sunday morning at the BBC website.

Indeed if the opinion poll for Channel 4 news is a reflection then Gordon Brown is getting the blame for the present Credit Crunch.

The best news for me, was the announcement by Nicola Sturgeon to end the outsourcing of Cleaning and Catering contracts in the NHS. A similar move put in place by the Welsh Assembly has seen hospitals being viewed by the public as cleaner, and the reported number of secondary infections being slashed in number.

For me this backs up Jimmy Reid's view, sadly Jimmy was unable to attend Conference, that the SNP Government are adopting the values of the Labour Government of 1945/51. Arguably the greatest British Government ever, their legacy is still felt today as they ushered in the Welfare State and the NHS. Today's Labour Party are a very pale imitation.

The importance of Public Sector provision, is at the heart of SNP philosophy in dealing with Public Services. Universal Public Health Services provision is among them.

You only have to watch Michael Moore's excellent documentary film "Sicko", where an American man is viewed stitching up his own leg, as he cant afford the health insurance, to realise the importance of Universal Health Care.. Perhaps most disappointingly for Americans, only Obama was the top Democrat to not support implementing this in the Presidential Primaries.

Like the great post war Labour Government, the Scottish Government is values led, and even with limited powers is achieving a lasting legacy on health.

The NHS is safe in the hands of the SNP.

SHAMELESS GLEE

A busy time as always with a Pay Dispute, Restructures, preparing for Conference and of course campaigning in Glasgow South West.

My shock today at Gordon Brown's rant is only matched by what I understand to be wide spread alarm at my last post prior to editing, where I understand one avid reader suspected that Steven Purcell, was resigning from the Council!

Today's suggestion from Gordon Brown that an Independent Scotland would not be able to deal with the emerging financial crisis is wrong, but more than anything else, it is partisan party political politics at its worst, and at completely the wrong time. To insult other countries is crass as it is stupid. Norway and Ireland in their own specific ways have managed to deal with the crisis, and indeed it was Ireland who led the way by securing savers money in their banks which led to Irish Banks being flooded with applications from UK customers.

Norway with its dedicated fund from Oil and Gas Taxation has managed to ease concerns.

Engaging it partisan politics now, when the voters wish to see politicians come together is a gross error of judgement. Just when, after some dithering mind you, Brown starts to piece the jigsaw, it comes with disbelief. However, with the Lloyds TSB takeover of HBOS starting to unravel as a bad deal for Scotland, you would think that he has more important matters to contend with rather than having cheap shots at his opponents.

However he is not alone. Jim Murphy's Arc of Insolvency remarks will not help him and is up there with Gus McDonald's "Dublin nice place for a stag do' " in insults to your neighbours. If you add the constant anonymous New Labour briefings suggesting that this global economic crisis is good for them, and gleefully stating at every opportunity, there can only be one conclusion.......They are not fit for office.

The Fib Dems gain to marks for gross stupidity for its 2p income tax policy that would equate to £800 million being chopped from the Scottish budget. What public services are they going to slash?

The Conservatives are saying not very much, exposing their policy vacuum.

Meanwhile the SNP Government is putting together a plan within the limited powers at its disposal, looking at fast-tracking infrastructure programmes for instance, and quite rightly is requesting £1 billion from Westminster. For Glasgow South West, based on population, this would equate to around £15.5 million. Add that figure to £800 million plus being invested in a new hospital, it its clear that in Glasgow South West and elsewhere;

ONLY THE SNP IS ON YOUR SIDE.....

SUPER THURSDAY....

So it now looks certain that the 6Th November will "Super Thursday" with potentially four by-elections to keep political interest in Scotland. The first of course will be held in Glenrothes, which I had the privilege of visiting on Sunday. I was out canvassing in Buckhaven, and if that is the strongest Labour area, it should be a good night for the SNP. No one of course should take anything for granted.

The second is of course the Forth ward in Edinburgh, caused by the death of a Labour Councillor. This one will be hard to call, but my Edinburgh comrades remain upbeat.

The third will be held in Baillieston, caused by the death of Dougie Hay, Labour Councillor who passed away only a few weeks ago. This will be third by-election in which the voters of this ward will be heading to a polling station, the third in as many months - which must be a record.

Potentially there is a fourth to be held on the same day with news that the Leader of the Labour Group in East Ayrshire has resigned his seat.

Will it be a single, a double, a treble or will the SNP go for the quad?

One thing is certain is that the last few weeks have once again found Gordon Brown and Alastair Darling dithering over the state, and what a state, of the economy. Whilst Ireland and Greece, and now Germany take action, Brown and Darling have been found wanting.

The turmoil in the economy is hitting everyone, and the sooner New Labour take action to address economic concerns, the better.

If it is four to be held on the same day, only a quad will send a message to Downing Street that they need to buck up their ideas....

IS THE NEW OFFER ENOUGH....

The above is the very question that will be occupying every Local Government office this morning. The employers late yesterday afternoon offered a two year package of 3% and 2.5% respectively, enough the Trade Unions say to consult.

From first impressions, having discussed the offer with colleagues who were due to take art in selective action, I have my doubts. We will wait and see what consultation brings.

What remains clear is that the Westminster Governments public sector pay policy of holding pay rises to 2% needs to be scrapped. A policy that is restricting local councils and devolved administrations has inevitably led to industrial action, as administrations who receive budgets from Westminster have to fund pay awards over the 2% figure from elsewhere in their finances.

The argument that public sector pay leads to a rise in inflation is in tatters as the economic events of the last few months have shown.

To eliminate further strife, Westminster need to change this policy very quickly, but with all other economic matters recently, we shouldn't hold our breath.

NEW LABOUR, NEW LEADER = NO CHANGE

Before heading to work this morning I listened to Iain Gray's speech to the British Labour Party Conference, to a, it must be said, a sparse crowd in the Hall.

The speech proved one thing. New Leader, no change.

A speech littered liberally with distortions, including his dubious claim that he passed the first piece of legislation in the Scottish Parliament, but more specifically, the delusional claim that the SNP is a right wing party.

It is a bit like a bully calling someone else a bully.

It is utterly misguided to continue a line of attack that the public find as lacking credibility. A party who have allowed the markets to produce the current economic chaos, leading a country, where even Dubya Bush's America has better protection for Workers, a pathological love affair for regressive taxation, and a party who believe passionately that funds for public service assets should go into the pockets of privateers not remain in public hands, that is the right wing party Mr.Gray - the problem is YOU are a member of it.

I have to confess I did laugh at the thanks at the end, when the Chair of the session reminded him, he is Leader of the Labour Holyrood Group.

New Labour's hatred for all things SNP is continuing to lead New Labour to its decline. To continue a myth that the SNP are Tories is not only laughable, its also hypocrisy.

Another thing that doesnt seem to have changed is the dodgy practice of Labour gaining access to Trade union membership records as evidenced by Charlie Whelan's admission that Unite members in Glenrothes are more likely to vote SNP in the forthcoming by-election. This has happened before, and it is practice that must be stopped. One for the Data Protection Commission methinks.

New Labour, same old negativity, New Leader, same result.........

FOR JAMIE....

I have just returned from the sight of another SNP victory, as David Turner wins the Baillieston Council By-election, replacing John Mason. This of course makes David MacDonald the Senior SNP Councillor for the ward, which I am sure he would not have imagined when he was elected last year.

My thoughts however, turn to Jamie Williamson. For readers of my previous blog, Chris for pollok, will recall that Jamie passed away just weeks before the Holyrood election last year. Jamie of course was a father figure for many SNP members in the East of End of Glasgow, and beyond, and offered every encouragement of every SNP member. There was a poster in the campaign rooms during the Glasgow East by-election that said quite simply "lets do it for Jamie".

I make no apologies for sentiment. Jamie would have been so proud for us to win Glasgow East and then win the following Council By-election. I hope he is looking down on us, and feeling proud. Jamie we miss you.

AN HONEST ASSESSMENT....

An extraordinary day in the office and then out to Baillieston in the evening, and of course there was only one topic of conversation, Mr David Cairns.

His interview with the BBC was a heartfelt, brutal, but ultimately honest assessment of Brown's leadership. His assessment that the politicians and the public are discussing Gordon Brown's leadership qualities, or lack thereof, and when not if he will go is completely and utterly true.

His assessment that even though other European Government's are unpopular, that Brown is not doing enough to persuade people that he is on their side, is the correct one. The fact that Brown has been unable to show up the shallowness and the policy vacuum of Cameron and the Tories

The fact that David Cairns is usually an ultra loyalist is what makes this resignation more stark. As stated elsewhere, the leadership question is now compulsive viewing, a bit like a controversial moment in Big Brother, when it was popular. Pure Car Crash TV.

For Labourites, it seems that carrying a knife in Manchester for their upcoming Conference is compulsory.

The odds on a Westminster election being held in 2010 just got longer.

Friend and foe cannot dispute Cairns honesty or his assessment.

MORE OF THE SAME......

So the British Labour Party (Scotland Region) has elected its nightmare ticket to lead its Parliamentary Section. In what may very well be a signal to the future, I tried to log onto the BBC website to watch Mr.Gray's speech. The message "Sorry this isn't working" flashed across the screen!

Todays result very much reminds me of Joe Bidens speech to the Democratic Convention a few weeks ago. "That's not change that's more of the same".

The election of Johann Lamont for Deputy seems bizarre. The nation was very fortunate on election night, as was she, that her speech did not make the elite club that makes the Glasgow You tube clips. Thankfully for the nation, the coverage went to Kilmarnock rather than listen to the most vile and ridiculous rant of the evening. Just like Wendy, plenty of TV appearances for Ms Lamont will see the SNP shoot up in the polls to unparalleled levels.

Now, UK Labour has Brown and Scotland has Gray. Both completely colourless.

Today is the final confirmation that New Labour in Scotland has learnt nothing.

Negative attacks that completely backfire - that's not change that more of the same.

A defence of PFI/PPP so that taxpayers money should go into the pockets of Private profiteers not the public - that's not change that's more of the same.

To be in favour of regressive taxation - that's not change that's more of the same.

To tell fellow Scots they do not have the capacity to run all of our affairs - that's not change that's more of the same.

The list will go on and on.......

Added to New Labours woes across the UK, the public will ask why someone who recently polled at 3% as the peoples choice for First Minister is the person New Labour believe will lead Scotland.

At least the Conservatives will provide some opposition in Holyrood. Which should suit those of us of an SNP persuasion, a typical left versus right debate.

All of us in the SNP must now press home that only we have the vision, ambition and ideals to make our Country a better place to live and work.

PROGRESSIVE GOVERNMENT

So the new season has started, The Jags have started off quite well, and look to be competing for promotion. I have been watching both the US Presidential Conventions when I get the chance, which I believe will be extremely close, and the new season of the Scottish Parliament has kicked off with 15 proposed pieces of legislation to keep MSP's busy.

I am often asked why I joined the SNP. I joined in December 1989, as a third generation SNP supporter, inspired by the Govan By-election victory, and like many others in the party, joined to kill off the Poll Tax, as the feeble fifty as they became known, sat and did nothing. I have always been a passionate advocate of local income tax.

The unfairness of the Poll Tax was due to it not taking into account the ability to pay. The Council Tax was a quick fix, moved by Heseltine to get the Tories off the hook. Why New Labour in Scotland and particularly Andy Kerr defend it with such vigour remains a mystery.

The argument that Property is an indication of wealth is nonsense.

A progressive government means using progressive taxation to raise income. New Labour and Tories are passionate defenders of regressive, and stealth taxes. Additionally welcome is the decision, and will be universally welcomed in Govan for those who live near the Southern General Hospital, is to end hospital parking charges from 2009 onwards. Another tax on the ill allowed to be introduced by New Labour, finally brought to an end.

Whilst some detail needs to be modified to the LIT proposal, i.e. those who have "unearned" income, the Bill to abolish the Council Tax is and will be warmly welcomed by the Scottish people. A society where taxes are based on the ability to pay, is a key principle of SNP thinking.

Other parties only promote more of the same....

THE BOGEYWOMAN....

After all these years it seems that Maggie Thatcher is still the bogeywoman of Scottish Politics, and even though they have fallen in love with her politics, New Labour have been trying to kick up a fuss over comments Alex Salmond made this week.

As Ian Dale, whose interview has stirred up this farce, quite rightly says, you must be delusional to believe that the SNP is Thatcherite.

Alex Salmond quite rightly pointed out that the social devastation of her policies are what is mostly resented by the Scottish people. For Labour politicians and bloggers to kick up a stink, is simply ludicrous. For it is they who have supported her legacy, through STILL arguing for more privatisation and PFI schemes, STILL supporting regressive taxation policies, STILL giving low income households a kicking, STILL pursuing a foreign policy that is based on greed, lust of power, and disregarding human rights, and STILL leave Scottish workers with less protective employment legislation than Dubya's America.

It is the SNP who are commanding the left of centre, and centre left of Scottish politics.

Even now, after its humbling in Glasgow East, New Labour think that to smear opponents with unbelievable statements is going to bring back electoral success. They are wrong.

Having taken Industrial Action this week, it was surreal seeing the contenders for British Labour Party (Scotland Region), Scottish Parliament Branch Leadership contest, there, showing their support. Pity they showed little regard for Public Sector pay in office and under better economic conditions than now. More and more, the analysis of New Labour's record when the economy was allegedly booming will come back to haunt.

Still, they never complained when the bogeywoman, was invited by New Labour leaders for tea either............

THE COST OF LIVING......

Preparations for my sisters wedding, and preparations for a National Strike have restricted my capacity for blogging, however, today me and my campaign team were out in Cardonald, which should keep, as recent polling is suggesting, New Labour on its toes.

More and more the cost of living is leading the political debate. Firstly, though I was saddened to hear of the death of John McDougall the MP for Glenrothes from mesothelioma, a horrific disease for which only two years ago a friend and fine trade union activist died from. Tragically, families of victims of this disease do not receive the compensation they deserve as companies who were to blame are no longer in trading, some decades ago. I firmly believe that all of us involved in politics can and should do more for families who have lost loved ones due to industrial injury and disease.

This week on Wednesday Scotland's Local Government workers will undertake Industrial Action, quite rightly, due to a paltry pay offer of 2.5% each year for the next three years. Quite what the rate of inflation will be in three years time is anyone's guess. Scottish Power's scandalous 35% increase in the cost of electricity and gas compound the feelings of workers as to the necessity of the dispute. The often trotted out argument from the right wing press that public sector wages affect inflation is risible, as today's events show.

It is my belief that more and more people see the SNP as being on the side of the people, whereas New Labour seem to be erupting into internal chaos and civil war. As recent polling evidence shows that the SNP have never ever been more popular, indeed more popular than ever, the Scottish Government's determination to utilise powers to help families appears to being reaping dividends in the polling stations. Two recent polls showing the SNP having a 19% lead for Holyrood, and a lead in Westminster voting intentions, can only give tribal New Labourites, Ian Davidson and Johann Lamont, and others sleepless nights.

The next few elections, by-elections included, will be decided by who voters believe is helping them through these current economic difficulties. New Labour appear to be offering no solutions whilst the SNP is, given the limited powers of Scotland's Parliament. More and more, people in Scotland realise that a parliament in Scotland with more powers is the best option.

THE 3RD EARTHQUAKE

Well did the earth move for you on Thursday night?

The promised earthquake arrived, the third in a month for yours truly, and no doubt the tremors will be felt all the way to London looking for a spine on the Labour Benches to crawl up.

A full 24 hour day spent in Glasgow East was enjoyable, and there many little signals that the victory was on. Having spent most of the morning at Wellshot Primary, many voters were saying this was their first SNP vote. The abandonment of polling stations by New Labour in mid evening was another signal. In saying that, I have never seen the level of anger voters had for New labour that i witnessed at most polling stations I visited in the afternoon and early evening.

The atmosphere at the count was incredible. The Labour faces said it all.

Margaret Curran's speech where she said and I quote "Inequality in the greatest gift of humankind, and New Labour will continue to champion its cause" typified a gaffe-prone campaign, as did the fact that Labour lost votes in the recount. It was the final nail. As someone posted in the Herald Forum, John Lewis staff breathed a collective sigh of relief that they narrowly avoided an awkward customer.

I am delighted for John Mason, a thoroughly decent man, who will work hard for Glasgow East, as he has proved in Glasgow City Council, and work with others to ensure that they get the best. As others said at the count, the voters love him. He will repay the East End their trust.

It is my belief that Glasgow East is a landmark by-election, and New Labour are heading into the wilderness. Like the Tories in the 1990's, it will take a generation for New labour to gain the trust of the electorate.

The voters of Glasgow East know that there is a perfectly acceptable social democratic alternative, that they are comfortable with, as they are on the Constitutional question. The number of those identifying themselves as Labour who would support Independence in a referendum was breathtaking. I am surprised that the so-called experts haven't taken into consideration the fact that the glass ceiling was removed forever in May last year.

For the SNP every vote is now up for grabs, and the challenge is to go out, work hard, and pile on the votes for Europe, Westminster and the Holyrood elections. There are no safe havens for New labour in Scotland.

Our campaign in Glasgow South West is well underway, and whilst like Glasgow East we face a considerable task, it is one which we can win. That will be the another earthquake......

BELIEVE.........

Today is the Glasgow East by-election.

Today is about believing.

New labour has led the most negative by-election campaign in modern electoral history. Not once have they articulated a position they believe in. Not once have they articulated a positive message. Their candidate has even lied about where she lives. They cannot be trusted anymore than the Government they claim to support. Glasgow East has laboured for far too long.

In contrast the SNP have run a positive upbeat campaign. A campaign of vision, of hope, and a sensible programme people can believe in.

Today is about believing.


Only 1 party believes in people. The people should only believe in 1 party.

Believe.......

if you live in Glasgow East,

Today, VOTE SNP.............

A TALE OF TWO CAMPAIGNS....

Since coming back from holiday on Thursday morning, I have been fully into the breach in the Glasgow East By-election, and like others I am noticing the huge difference in campaigning between New Labour and the SNP.

It is indeed a tale of 2 campaigns. As I predicted when Margaret Curran became the candidate, New Labour have led the most negative campaign in living memory. It is however, one that is becoming more risible by the day. To suggest that the quiet spoken, mild mannered SNP candidate is a dangerous extremist is the most ludicrous piece of political spin even by their lowly standards. Scaring pensioners over free bus passes badly backfired, as it appears from voters I have spoken to, as has Labours leaflet in black and yellow, with John Mason's face. Most people believe that the leaflet is one of ours. Throw a lie about where the labour Candidate lives, a supposed endorsement of a 93 year old, who is actually almost 30 years younger, and you have a recipe for disaster.

In addition, to react with horror, to John's remarks that many people don't see the difference between a Tory and Labour Government is ultimately true, and one which has resonated on the doorsteps.

Today's Sunday Times article on the New Labour campaign is just the tip of the iceberg. It is has been simply barking.

Meanwhile, the SNP campaign has been a joy to be a part of. A ruthless voter id strategy appears to be paying dividends, not just for this campaign but for the future. Today I was out for the second time this week in Craigend and on the evidence of knocking in supporters letters, the canvassing has been remarkably consistent. Indeed, today we identified an 86 year old woman who was voting SNP for the first time. It is these stories which fill all SNP activists with hope for Thursday.

Hope is the watchword. The SNP is offering hope in this election. Hope and vision on its record in the Scottish Government where people are seeing tangible benefits to assist the people of Scotland in a time of economic difficulty, and ever rising fuel and food prices. Hope that Scotland can be a better place to live.

More and more SNP activists come back with smiles on their faces, with good stories to tell, and new voters switching to the SNP for the first time being identified.

Justice would decree, that hope will defeat fear, and that the dog whistle approach to politics can be beaten forever. A victory for Social Democracy.

The stakes are very high indeed in Glasgow East. I am looking forward to playing my part in the last four days.

THE FIRST TREMOR .....

Having predicted a tremor, even I didnt realise that one would occur, whilst on holiday in Rhodes! This of course is the first tremor, with the next one due very soon.

I am flying back tonight, and will be helping the SNP in the final push to secure Glasgow East. Perhaps in the final week, New Labour will get through a day without screwing up!

A POSTCARD FROM RHODES

A very smashing holiday here in Pefkos, in what Christina McKelvie and John Mason call a unique pairing system!, but my mind still keeps wandering back what is happening in Glasgow East which i have been following via the media. Top marks for spin go to Ritchie Venton who suggested that the SSP candidate might struggle for votes, having the same surname as the New Labour one!

One thing is for sure, is that the entire British establishment is roaring on New Labour to hold on, which will result in the old order being maintained.

Its the same old negative attacks from Margaret Curran, which i predicted, and I cant help feel that should she win, the Labour Party in Scotland will have learned nothing, and will carry on regardless.

Their contempt for the electorate is unforgivable. Not only do we have a candidate who takes the local populace for a mug, by saying she has lived in the East End all her life, she doesnt, she cannot explain what her position would be on an Indepependence referendum. Interestingly, before I left, the high number of Labour supporters, who were largely undecided, were massively in favour of Independence in a Referenedum. To ask an Interviewer whether he thought she would win the by-election smacks of supreme arrogance that deserves to be punished at the ballot box.

I will be back for the run in on Thursday, for what will be a big week for Scottish Politics, the SNP must stick to the positives of its record in the Scottish Government. Before I went away on holiday, I spent some time with Trade union Legend, Jimmy Reid. Jimmy stated then that the only credible socialist in the field was John Mason, quite right too.

The tremor is coming.......

CARRY ON CANDIDATE - TAKE 7!

The only sensible conclusion to reach after the weekends extraordinary events within the confines of the British Labour Party - Scotland Region, is that they have truly and utterly lost whatever is left of their senses.

We are now being asked to believe that Margaret Curran is the true choice of Labour for the Glasgow East By-election. After trying to smear John Mason, as the "4th choice" candidate, a charge that is completely untrue, and of the evidence of the doors I've been to in Glasgow East is a very popular local councillor, who as the candidate is day by day taking votes from Labour based on his record, we now have 7th choice Curran.

First we had George Ryan - gone, and the speculation is becoming ugly on why
Second Irene Graham who was obviously only there to make up the numbers
Third Doug Maughan - see above
Fourth Self confessed New Labour Sith Lord Steven Purcell - who would have been barking to accept, indeed as I said to an SNP activist on Saturday, try and give me one reason why he should put his name forward
Fifth Lesley Quinn, again why?
Sixth the accident prone Frank McAveety
and now

Margaret Curran.

The spinmeisters at BLP Scottish Region HQ must be regretting issuing that 4th choice spin message. A classic example as to why you should think before speaking.

If it is indeed Ms Curran, who will be the candidate, and I for one will not be surprised if someone else emerges, it confirms that New Labour will run a brutal, negative campaign, a la the Daily Record, with the most obscene scare stories imaginable. Having been caught out once already with scaring Pensioners witless on the free bus pass issue, only to see that disappear up in smoke, don't be surprised if the have nothing positive to say. Why should they? Attacking low paid workers with a 10p tax rise, arguing that Private Equity Holders should continue to rip off the tax payer by supporting PPP/PFI, arguing that there should be more efficiency savings not less, and having a record in the East end of Glasgow that is nothing short of lamentable will not I suspect appear anywhere on Labour literature!

The selection process already looks like a scene from a carry on film, however, New Labour will now get dirty, because they have no positive vision for the electorate.

The SNP Government has quite rightly tried to help people during difficult economic times, and I for one believe that the move to free prescriptions will bring a lasting legacy to the East end of Glasgow and beyond. On the 60th anniversary of the NHS, we would do well to remember that.

Finally, lets see how Ms Curran descends into hypocrisy in this campaign. I for one will be going on a pre-booked holiday on Wednesday, for a week, before coming back to help with the final push to oust the dark side, and I have a bet with my good lady, a bottle of champers, over who wins the by election, and the good lady is safe with the knowledge that I will share it anyway!

A bottle of champers to the avid reader, who can produce a quote of Curran attacking the FM on two mandates.........................

POSITIVE FORCES OUT EAST.....

I have over the last week been assisting in the Glasgow East by-election, and whilst it is always foolish to make predictions in these circumstances, the positive energy from all SNP activists is contagious.

This is of course in contrast to NEW LABOUR who have started the campaign in an extremely negative fashion, issuing scare stories that have to be read to be believed, with the only thing missing being the suggestion that the Nasty Nats wish to kill the first born. The SNP are rightly exposing their nonsense, especially on free buses for Pensioners, as the SNP are actually extending free buses to War veterans. In addition, the SNP are fighting this by-election on a positive message, and a proud record in Government which on the evidence of my experience is resonating on the doorsteps.

Having spent some time with John Swinney last night, a very enjoyable experience, Labour voters are extremely angry with Labour, and are genuinely undecided. The good news of course, is that I can exclusively reveal that a Mr.John McLean has confirmed that he will be voting SNP!

With the BREAKING NEWS that George Ryan the likely contender for New Labour was posted missing at their selection tonight, it is a delicious irony that their smears over Councillor John Mason being the "4th choice" candidate have backfired so spectacularly, given that the other 2 candidates can only presumably have attended to make up the numbers.

So a flying start for the SNP, with hundreds of activists expected to arrive tomorrow, whilst New Labour stutter at the starting line. Sounds all so familiar..........

AN UNGRACIOUS EXIT.........

So Wendy has finally gone, in what has been a tumultuous weekend in Scottish politics, and either the beginning of the end, or the end of the beginning for the British Labour Party - Scotland Region. In one of those where were when moments, I was attending the SNP TUG meeting, when mobiles were either ringing or buzzing with the news. Probably the first time in a meeting when folk didn't get into trouble for having their mobiles on!

Wendy's resignation address was however, an ungracious exit, with no apology or regret for her actions, which rather sadly reflects her arrogance over the whole donation issue. This is an essential part of New Labours problem. Looking for someone to blame when your own actions have led to bad headlines will always be political dynamite.

BLP Scotland Region resembles a patient in need of mouth to mouth resuscitation, and there does not appear to be an outstanding candidate who can turn the Party around.

Whilst New Labour in Scotland continue their arrogance and contempt for the electorate, find themselves supporting ridiculous lines of attack that are completely against rational, indeed popular thinking in the Scottish Parliament, protecting themselves and the establishment, then they are destined for heavy defeat after defeat in the polling booth.

Glasgow East will only be the first test of how much they have learned from the last few days.

In fairness, it is a scandal that the fascist BNP defeated them in Henley, and that should worry any rational political activist. Having only scored 3% of the poll suggests a deeper malaise, and that New Labour will be out of Government at Westminster.

On today's standards, here's hoping they will be more gracious when that day comes..........

THE EMPLOYERS GET IT RIGHT FOR ONCE....

Good news yesterday at the gathering of employers known as COSLA, who rejected New Labour efforts to continue to support the regressive and discredited Council Tax, in favour of Local Income Tax.

With 72% of glaswegians expected to save money, this is good news for the voters, and as we expect a by-election in Glasgow East, should be a good news story for the doorsteps. Indeed the discredited report from Glasgow City Council, now a footnote, should see an end to the silly scaremongering tactics. To not include in their calculations on £400 million owed in Council Tax benefit was just plain wrong.

So the employer gets it right for once, now about my £1000 flat rate pay claim ...................

A BACKWARD STEP........

Now returned from the UNISON UK Conference in Bournemouth, it what was a thrilling but ultimately disappointing end to the Conference. A bit like watching the Jags under Lambie, when having outplayed the opposition, we would ultimately lose out on penalties.

The motion calling for a review of the affiliated political fund entitled "New Labour what do we get for our money", was amended by the Unions NEC, some might say butchered, so that any review will look at strengthening the affiliated section, at least for now, after a card vote where the NEC amendment was carried by 511,000 votes to 450,000 - a 6% margin.

Unfortunately, I did not get to make my contribution as I was behind a long queue of speakers, when the "question was put", a procedural motion that means the Conference should vote on the issue.

My own view is that the speakers for the motion, all belonged to the Socialist Party in England, which allowed the Depute General Secretary to question the political motivation of the motion. It was indeed a poor tactic, and probably led to the amendment being carried.

It is however a backward step. Interestingly, one of the observers was former UNISON president Anne Moffat, soon to be the outgoing MP for East Lothian. Ms Moffat would have gained an honourable mention, if I was allowed to speak!

The issue for me is that the Labour Link, is no such thing. It is Labour's voice in Unison not the other way around. It allows a situation where the General political Fund, which is used for general campaigning sees its work destroyed by the affiliated fund, which often argues against what the general Fund is saying. Indeed Ms Moffat is a classic example. A member of the UNISON group of MP's, she has voted in the Westminster Parliament for Foundation Hospitals, Voted in favour of the Iraq War, and has consistently voted to butcher the civil liberties the Trade Union seeks to protect.

Having delivered a blistering attack on the New Labour Government all week, it seems a strange decision, and those, albeit well intended Labour members who went to the rostrum to try and differentiate between the Party and the Government, will, in my view soon learn, that New Labour is not for turning.

The debate also suffered from a lack of perspective regarding the political diversification in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Indeed the diversity of political opinion within the Trade Union, is one of its greatest strengths.

All in all, a backward step for UNISON.

I confidently, however, predict that the issue of its Political fund will not leave UNISON, and will return next year. The dichotomy of its funding arrangements urgently needs to be addressed.......

ITS THE PUBLICS MONEY.....

I am currently in Bournemouth for the UNISON UK Conference where New Labour are getting a kicking from speaker after speaker, vilifying their moves towards privatisation, outsourcing, lack of funding for public services and their disgraceful international agenda. Over the last few weeks the developing political arguments mirror those being heard here. Its the public's money.



Indeed, over the last few weeks, BLP Scotland have found themselves on the wrong side of the debate. Firstly, sending their MSP'S to argue in the Finance Committee that PPP/PFI is a good thing. So, only months after Wendy's great Socialist fightback, we see their MSP's arguing that it is acceptable for the taxpayer to be ripped off and for millions to be sent to private equity holders.

Next, the current high oil price has inevitably brought back discussion on oil revenues and the prospect of a Scottish Oil Fund looks more promising and the correct thing to do with each passing day.

More importantly, however, the stark choice between New Labour and the Tory Vultures on the one hand and the SNP could not be clearer. The hiving off of millions to the private sector, or the someone who can be trusted with public funds. Indeed, the Scottish Government has received praise at this Conference for many of its measures, not least the ending of PFI/PPP in Health.

Tomorrow, we may well be discussing whether UNISON should re-ballot its members on whether New Labour should receive access to funds form the union.......I think you can guess how I will be voting!

BYE BYE NEW LABOUR..........

A very busy week or so, campaigning and Trade Union work, ensures that I have been unable to blog, however, i hope to put this right in the next few days.

Like many i tuned in to "Thriller Thursday" or the result from Crewe and Nantwich!

New Labour are finished. Like the liberals last century they have alienated their core base of support. David Cameron, the author of the most right wing manifesto in living memory, has no philosophical differences with Gordon Brown. Privatisation, PFI, means tested benefits, regressive taxation, and imperialist wars are all key components of both their economic programme.

New Labour got what it deserved for running a campaign of class politics as a student stunt, rather than on a political programme, and for running a xenophobic campaign that alienated many of its supporters.

There is now only one way to stop the Tory vultures from ruling Scotland from Westminster, and that is to elect as many SNP Candidates as possible. Only the SNP represent a social democratic programme that chimes with the views of most Scots.

An NHS free at the point of use, the ending of PFI/PPP and ensuring that Public Assets remain in public hands, Taxation based on fairness and the ability to pay, show that the Scottish Government and the SNP represent the only social democratic route to ensure the Tories do not govern Scotland.

New Labour are reaping the rewards of abandoning everything the Trade Union and Labour Movement stood for.

The Conservatives would bring disaster to Scotland, and an even more right wing agenda, which would punish the most vulnerable in our society.

Only the SNP can stop them.

THE EGO'S HAVE LANDED....

What a disastrous Sunday for New Labour. After the historic ultimate u-turn announced last Sunday by Wendy Alexander, today's newspapers announce that Wendy has effectively been slapped down by Gordon Brown, emphasising the British Labour Party (Scotland Region) at its very worst. A u-turn on a u-turn.

Wendy's bizarre performance on television today, does nothing to bring to clarity to New Labour's position on an Independence referendum.

To suggest that the SNP are running scared is the most ridiculous political spin since Comical Ali was briefing the press during the Iraq invasion.

For BLP (Scotland Region), the most worrying part of this episode is the clash of ego's, for it shows that the Labour Party in Scotland can't make any strategic decisions without Brown's say so. For Wendy, she needs to explain to the public why she told Newsnight Scotland on Tuesday night that Gordon Brown approved of her plans. Both being control freaks, their ego's have combined to make New Labour in Scotland reach unparalleled depths of popular support. New Labours press coverage over the last week look like an unedifying Jerry Springer episode, which has the rest of us gawping in shock at our TV screens.

The Conservatives of course fully believe that they are now the only party who can defend the Union in any coherent way.

There shall be a referendum on Independence in 2010, with the SNP selling a positive message on why this is the best for Scotland. Whether Clunking fist or Comical Wendy are around by then remains to be seen.

.....THE ULTIMATE UTURN...

I have been thinking a lot about last year, but even I could not have foreseen the ultimate uturn as displayed in the last few days by Wendy Alexander and New Labour in Scotland, for they now support a referendum on Independence for Scotland!

Only a year ago, Wendy was lecturing the Scottish people that the Scottish Parliament could not legislate for a referendum, now obviously things has dramatically changed. Interestingly, the British Labour Party (Scotland Region) was lagging in the polls until 2 weeks before the election, when someone had a brain wave in John Smith House, and decided to remove Wendy from our screens - cue New Labour fightback, and removing the threat of a Nationalist landslide.

Where this leaves other Unionist parties will the source of some debate, but to put in my tuppence worth, it signals the end of the Calman Commission before it has even started! A fact that was emphasised by both Annabel Goldie and Nicol Stephen tonight.

More importantly, the media have extracted that there was a complete miscommunication between the BLP in Scotland and Downing Street.

For Wendy, this appears to be the last throw of the dice in a controversially laden leadership, the end game for Wendy and the Union. With New Labour in a mess, Wendy has added to the chaos. Given the Scottish Government have committed to a referendum in 2010, many impartial observers will see this move as needless, except that this is the last desperate act by a very desperate person.

One thing is for sure, New Labour have surrendered the constitutional debate in Scotland for a least a generation.

As Wendy says..... Bring it on!

ONE YEAR ON.......

Out campaigning with Glasgow Pollok and Glasgow Govan SNP, and a sensational poll reveals that the SNP are now scoring at 45% in the latest opinion polls. Whether in Cardonald, Govan or Cessnock, SNP support is rising as the scare stories from those prophets of doom, New Labour, are no longer believed by the electorate.

One year ago, we could only dream about an SNP Government and what it could achieve. Today, the report card reads;

(1) Keeping Health Services local - including announcing a £842 million package for the Southern General - all from public funds.
(2) More visible police on our streets.
(3) Froze the deeply unpopular Council Tax, a fact emphasised by people on the streets today.
(4) Committed to abolishing prescription charges - ending the tax on the sick.
(5) Ending the Graduate Endowment - restoring the principle of free education.

Whilst the SNP achieve, New Labour appear to now be on life support, and it is somewhat ironic that the biggest casualty yesterday was Ken Livingstone. The election of Boris the Barmy, shows that London and England are preparing for a Conservative Government. Scotland must not allow this ragbag of hard right wingers to grab their hands on our country, or our finance.

The case and need for Independence grows stronger with each passing day.....

A PARTY FOR THE WORKERS

The last two days at the STUC Congress has once again exposed the differences between the SNP and the British Labour Party (Scotland Region). It has also confirmed that New Labour has still lost the plot with no signing of waking up.

Firstly, we had Gordon Brown re-writing history in respect to Scotland's Trade Union Leaders. To omit Jimmy Reid from a list of Trade Union greats is a disgrace. What is also a disgrace is to suggest that all Trade Union leaders supported the Union. Indeed, Mick McGahey who was a member of Democratic Left, an organisation which supported Scotland's right to self determination, is incorrectly put on that list.

On the same day, John Swinney addressed Congress and met with rail unions, a meeting arranged through the SNP Trade Union Group, to discuss the recent Scotrail extension. Two things are clear. The contract agreed by the Labour/Lib Dem administration was a scandal, which put the Scottish Government in a weak position. However, i believe the Government have negotiated a good package in difficult circumstances. I also agree with John that consultation could have been better, and that the Government will look at ways of dealing with this in future, however, I do believe that the advice given in this respect was incorrect. Second thing that is clear is that the Unions would not have been entertained had the Lab/Lib Dem Executive had made the extension decision.

Yesterday, the STUC was addressed by the First Minister, Alex Salmond, who spent some time talking to Trade Unionists and visited stalls before his address, something Jack McConnell never did.

The announcement of the new Southern General Hospital being funded exclusively form Public Sector funding, and not PPP or PFI, is a fantastic boost to the city of Glasgow, to Govan, and fantastic boost to the Westminster campaign in Glasgow South West. This announcement is a clear signal from the Scottish Government that PPP/PFI is "the only game in town" as New Labour have consistently called it.

The rest of the First Minister's speech concentrated on themes consistent with Trade Union values, and was well received by the delegates at the STUC.

This of course is compared to the strange ranting of Wendy Alexander, who exposing her hypocrisy, suggested that the SNP Government was made up of special interests. Given that 80% of New Labour funding comes from those who are later awarded with a Peerage or other bawbles, it seems that Wendy is still engaged in some parallel universe.

At Congress I counted that criticism of the UK Government compared to criticism of the Scottish Government was a 8 to 1 ratio, which suggests that the STUC are more comfortable with the Scottish Government.

A move towards free prescriptions, a freeze on a regressive tax, no private prisons, Public sector capital funding of a new hospital are hardly the choices of a right wing government. SNP policy of removing the Thatcher anti Trade Union laws which New Labour have kept is longstanding.

The values of the Scottish Government are equal to those of the Scottish Trade Union movement.

The SNP is clearly the Party for Scotland's Workers.

MOVING FORWARD

Moving forward was the theme for this years Spring Conference, and the recent developments regarding Scotland's constitutional future shows that the country is indeed moving in positive direction.

Many achievements which have been covered here ad nausem, and recent polling show the SNP are indeed at its most popular in its history. One example given by Nicola Sturgeon was the fact that under the New Labour Executive only 6 Council Houses were built, and yet 250 Council houses have been built under a SNP Government within less than a year.

It is fair to say that the rubbish espoused last month by Labour that they are Socialist and the SNP are right wing was firmly laid to rest.

It was a busy conference for me personally and for the SNP Trade Union section, and we will be heading up to Inverness tomorrow in a positive frame of mind.

This weekends press coverage was interesting, but 2 particular stories gained my attention.

Firstly, the news that Steven Purcell, a New Labour Sith Lord from Yoker, believes that Independence should be discussed, debated and shares a prominent part in Scotland's future political direction was stating the bleeding obvious. However, I suspect that the British Labour Party's (Scotland Region) Holyrood Group will continue to bury its collective heads in the sand and denounce him in vitriolic terms, in what will be a predictable outcome.

Talking of the Holyrood Group, my opponent in the Holyrood elections, one Johann Lamont will have been choking on her muesli with the coverage that she ignored what appears to have been sage advice to call in a PPP deal in Stirling, whilst being a Minister. This story smacks of the arrogance which is legendary within New Labour. One suspects that we will hear more of this and the story will continue to run.

All in all, a good weekend which hopefully will be a launch pad for the STUC Congress this week. In a year where the SNP have broken new ground, new ground will be broken with both John Swinney and Alex Salmond addressing the Congress. Scotland's political landscape has changed forever as both Steven Purcell and the Trade Unions note (not normally bedfellows it must be said!).

Onwards and upwards.........

INDEPENDENCE SUPPORT IS RISING

A very good week for the SNP with support for Independence rising, and a new poll showing that Independence is ahead of the status quo.

The news that Independence support is growing, at a time when many of you will know I'm losing mine ( I got engaged recently for those who do not read the Herald), is perhaps ironic.

This news complements the excellent work done by the SNP Government in Holyrood, whose main difference with the previous administration is that it looks like a Government, looks like it has bright people in charge, following a social democratic programme, the first such Government in 30 years.

With New Labour launching a viscious assault on the low paid by scrubbing the 10p lower rate of Income Tax, appearing to look like it has lost total control of the economy, and in Glasgow hiving off Council Services, more trouble looms, for a party stuck in a parallel universe.

The fact that the First Minister, Alex Salmond appears as one poll put it "assertive", only goes to show that the Scottish people want and expect the First Minister to stand up for the Scottish interest.

This message is clearly hitting home in the Westminster Boundary of Glasgow South West, which produces a bigger mailbag every time survey cards are distributed.

Independence is coming, with a strong government and an ethos in helping the disadvantaged, support can only get bigger.

UNDERSTANDING THE POLITICAL COMPASS

A number of months ago I took a test on a website which it stated would tell me where I am on the political compass. I was placed right next to Nelson Mandela which is not a bad accolade at all.

After her address to the Conference in Aviemore, it is clear that Wendy Alexander doesn't have a clue about what a political compass is.

I watched her speech live, and to be honest flat would be a polite description. Firstly there was the wee jokes at the beginning and trying to obtain a touchy feely image - cue tumbleweed (in true shooting stars tradition!)

Her constant sniping at the SNP was woeful, and to describe the SNP as right wing and herself as a socialist shows she ain't got a scooby doo about a political compass.

Wendy is the same person who gave Glasgow the great white elephant that is the GHA, supports private sector involvement in education and health, and like Gordon Brown believes in the free market, with little state involvement, and her international agenda is akin to George.W.Bush because yes she supported the Iraq War. Some socialist!

As Iain McWhirter concludes today, The Scottish Government has introduced a freeze on the Council Tax across Scotland, therefore, sending a signal that regressive tax is bad, is on the way to delivering free prescriptions, abolished student fees, begun a pilot for free school meals, given equal rights to children of asylum seekers to name just a few. Not very right wing is it.

The fact is that the SNP has delivered the most socially democratic programme for Government for a generation.

Silly smears wont work just as they didn't work in May last year. Whilst Wendy and her band of followers continue to snipe and obtain ridicule for their analysis of Scottish politics and Scottish life, The SNP will continue to deliver, and continue the legacy of Hardie, Wheatley and others who brought major positive change to the Scottish people.

AN EXERCISE IN DELUSION

Gordon Brown's address to the British Labour Party (Scotland Region) at its Regional Conference in Aviemore, and Wendy Alexander's self appraisal can only be described as a wasteful exercise in self delusion.

The main crux though is that they have learnt the square root of nothing since their election defeat in May. Hearing Gordon Brown today attack the SNP was also an exercise in rewriting history. For him to lecture anyone on Local Government cuts when he presided over Tory spending plans in his first few years as Chancellor which meant real cuts in Local Government, and jobs, is complete hypocrisy. He also seems to forget that he is responsible for allowing globalisation to grow without state interference in the market. In addition it is he who wrote the cheques for the Iraq War, and we will take no lessons from him on International affairs.

It is the SNP Government who are the real protectors of the National Health Service, cutting prescription charges, and reducing them still further until they are free, saving vital accident and emergency services from closure, and ensuring Health Boards become more accountable by ensuring that board members become elected, are just some of the achievements that the Scottish Government are doing to ensure that the NHS in Scotland is free at the point of need.

Turning to Wendy. In fairness she was almost right, it's just that no one told her there wasn't anything behind the zero in out of ten!

So far, and its only Day 1, New Labour are attacking the SNP, producing scaremongering tactics, and generally suggesting that the world will end if the Nats got in. Someone will really need to tell them that the SNP are elected, doing a very good job, and are well ahead in the polls. A fact underpinned in Glasgow South West when the postie arrives with more survey cards with more voters identifying themselves as voting SNP at the next Westminster election.

Who knows what more hysterical nonsense will be produced over the next 2 days, though the smart money is on Johann Lamont to be the most outrageous in contribution.

Negative, scaremongering, and delusional - its as if time hasn't moved!

On a weekend when the clocks go forward, New Labour in Scotland are going backwards!

THINGS CAN ONLY GET BITTER

An adaptation of their song of 1997, is probably the correct synopsis to describe the current state of affairs within the British Labour Party (Scotland Region).

A 75% polling lead for First Minister, Alex Salmond over Wendy Alexander is even better than yours truly predicted in my beginning of the year predictions for 2008! However, it does show that Wendy may be mortally wounded politically. An sizeable lead in the polls for Westminster and Holyrood show the malaise that is creeping into New Labour. Indeed the positive returns with my current survey show more and more people deserting New Labour for the SNP.

Since May, the Holyrood New Labour group has found itself on the wrong side of every debate affecting the lives of the Scottish people. It is little wonder then that they are so far behind.

The latest mistake being their opposition to Local Income Tax and their stupid defence of the Council Tax, arguably the second most detested piece of taxation in Scottish history. A right wing alliance with the Tories, they are the last defenders of the Council Tax, opposing the introduction of a progressive tax that is based on the ability to pay.

More and more Scots are no longer fooled by a Party that increased Council Tax by 60% in 10years.

The BLP (Scotland Region) gathering at Aviemore, where they have already insulted the host!, will be an interesting gathering. Many will surely attend, concerned at their current plight, and many will blame the Holyrood Group for their current downfall, though Alastair Darlings anti-Scottish budget will not have helped. It is surely only a matter of time before they descend into civil war, indeed things can only get bitter!

PALTRY MINIMUM WAGE RISE

A long time since my last post, due to some technical hitches this week.

One of the biggest stories for me was the Paltry rise of 21p announced by the Westminster Government, which quite rightly drew criticism from the Trade unions. This rise is below the current RPI rate of inflation which stands at 4.1%. This poor rise will be one part of a double whammy to hit low paid workers in April, when the Westminster Governments plan to abolish the lower rate of income tax kicks in.

In addition, a paltry rise does nothing to address the folly of the state effectively subsidising major corporations who insist on paying workers low wages. In effect, anyone on the NMW csan claim benefit, and work for say MacDonalds.

This shows clearly that New Labour have no interest in dealing with Poverty. With rising prices in food, energy and travel, this paltry rise will not help low paid workers in Scotland.

The SNP has a proud record of supporting a real Minimum wage having established a minmum wage at half male median earnings as party policy since the early 1990's. Currently that rate would be £6.75 an hour which would lift more families out of poverty.

Only under Independence with a SNP Government at the helm, will have the vision, ambition and ideals to lift Scotland families out of poverty.

ACCOUNTABILITY WILL BOOST THE SNP

A legal first achieved by Wendy Alexander, the only person to plead guilty only to get a not proven verdict (from the electoral commission), the utter chaos that poses itself as New Labour in Scotland (Or the British Labour Party Scotland Region as my avid readers like me to call it!), where their Westminster, Holyrood and Council Groups appear to be at odds with each other, and a disgraceful slur by a North Lanarkshire Labour Councillor on the SNP have all gained headlines recently.

The main issue to dominate however, is the excellent news that Scotland's local authorities have signed up to freeze the Council Tax, perhaps the second most hated piece of taxation in Scottish history - with its predecessor being the first.

My thoughts have concentrated on Glasgow, where unforgivably local government workers find that their jobs are under threat via the media, rather than through consultation and negotiation with the Trade Unions. This is completely unacceptable in a modern and democratic society.

The tax freeze and the concordat between the Scottish Government and Scotlands Councils give the SNP an opportunity to show local communities our priorities. A more accountable Council, will provide the local electorate a focus on priorities.

Accountabilty can only boost the party, with a message of hope, ambition, vision and ideals, Scotland's communites know the SNP care.

Whilst our opponents detest accountablity as an inconvenience, Scotland's Party know that being more accountable, and transparent is the correct way forward, and right for the good governance of the nation as a whole.

TACTICS ARE A PEPPERMINT

The above is the only analysis to describe the behaviour of New Labour MSP's today in the vote for Scotland's budget.

Having lodged an amendment which was accepted by the Scottish Government, they then decided, inexplicably, to abstain in the final vote. They obviously believe that tactics are a peppermint!

However, whilst BLP (Scotland Region) go full steam ahead into the iceberg, it is worth considering the many benefits of the budget, which they were unable to support:

Freezing the unfair Council Tax
More Nursey provision
Reducing Class sizes
Extending the free school meals pilot
Funding to cap Public Transport fares
Phasing out of prescription charges

To name just a few....!

The irony of course is that New Labour were making a demand which only a few days ago was agreed between the STUC and the Scottish Government, which is now incorporated into a Memorandum of Understanding between them. This will involve utilisations of skills, and dealing with Poverty and Health Inequalities. The STUC have produced a number of press releases over the last few weeks broadly supporting the objectives of the Scottish Government.

Whilst New Labour in Holyrood make gestures and indulge in posturing in dealing with Social issues which blight our country, the SNP are getting on with the job of banishing poverty and injustice for all.

Elections can't come quickly enough.........

THE MELTDOWN

The official meltdown of the British Labour Party (Scotland Region) has begun. News that both Wendy Alexander and Andy Kerr have been reported to the Procurator Fiscal for failing to register gifts/donations, show quite clearly that they have learned nothing from last years election defeat.

Indeed the comparisons between them and a former French Royal who proclaimed "let them eat cake" are completely founded upon. The contempt and arrogance since May never ceases to amaze.

Firstly, for a then health minister to accept hospitality from the worlds biggest fast food company really says it all about their priorities. As for Wendy, her leadership has been a disaster from day one. Only the most ardent Wendy fan suggests she can survive. I for one cannot understand why an expericienced politician did not adopt the safety first rule. If you are unsure of whether something is registerable, register it anyway.

The devastating headlines today, show up the lack of political talent that exists in the Holyrood New Labour Group. An irony, probably not lost on my Westminster opponent Ian Davidson, who was declared as "not being good enough" by Labour for the list of Holyrood hopefuls 8 years ago. Whether this is an example of how bad the process of selecting candidates is within that party, or of my opponents talents is a matter for others to judge.

What remains is a political party that is rotten and lost touch with the Scottish people. The party of Hardie and Wheatley has been destroyed by careerists. However the mantle left by these fine men remains - and only the SNP can lay claim to it. As New Labour dies, the SNP Scottish Government have a unique opportunity to transform this country into a better place to live. This weeks budget will be the start............

WHINGERS AND WRECKERS

A very busy week for me and a very busy week in Politics. I was sad to hear the news that fellow uncompromising left winger John Edwards had pulled out of the US Presidential race. I feel that Edwards was the candidate who had an appealling message, and certainly brought Hilary Clinton and Barack Obama to focus on the issues that matter to people. Unfortunately, money talks in US politics and it was clear that the war chest amassed by Clinton and Obama were always going to out spend the former Senator for North Carolina.

In Scotland however, a charge that used to be thrown at the SNP, has boomeranged and hit our Unionist oppononets square in the eyes. Yes ....... Whingers and Wreckers!

Here we have New Labour and the Lib Dems who wish to destroy the most socially democratic budget to effect Scotland in over 30 years. A move towards free prescriptions, giving local authorities the freedom to set their own priorities to meet their local needs, increased free nursery provision, increased police on our streets and a freeze on the unfair Council Tax, are all to be targetted. From political parties who claim to be centre left, you couldnt make it up.

The people of Scotland will not forgive or forget should they succeed in bringing down this budget.

Then we have the extraordinary performace from Nicol Stephen who, having claimed that the NHS in Scotland has hidden waiting lists, saw this move backfire, after it was uncovered that the date of the letter was before the Scottish Governments announcement to remove such lists.

So there we have it. With a recent poll showing a 71% approval rating for the Scottish Government, the British Labour Party (Scotland Region) and the Fib Dems are reduced to whinging from the sidelines, and seriously putting the improvement of public servies under threat.

Who's the whingers and wreckers now?

PEOPLE BEFORE PROFIT

Another busy week for yours truly, but found the time to see Glasgow's No.1 football team emerge victorious against Dunfermline in the Scottish Cup, which believe it or not was for the first time ever. The main focus this week, and the constant thought going through my head, is another key difference between the SNP and our Unionist opponents.

Tonight, I watched my unionist opponent, bizarrely attack the shipbuilding Trade unions for their concerns over the future of the shipyards on the Clyde. I would now doubt whether the GMB fund Mr.Davidson's campaign after that faux pas! To describe their concerns as scaremongering is either ignorance or downright stupidity.

Ever the loyalist, Ian probably thinks that the flak should move from the Westminster Government to someone else over this latest crisis. A similar tactic that is used by the Republicans in America. Make you scared of it, and find someone to blame.

Let there be no doubt, the Trade unions are correct to be worried. The decisions by the New Labour led Westminster Government over contracts continues to put penny pinching before the common good. The recommendation to class six "auxiliary" vessels, which will be used by the Royal Navy, as commercial rather than military, bear this out, as does the decision to delay aircraft carrier work.

With a tight budget being given to the MOD, can New Labour be trusted? Just ask workers at Ferguson's in Port Glasgow, where a similar stunt was pulled. Trade Union leaders like Jamie Webster, who care passionately for the future of shipbuilding on the Clyde, have every right to be concerned.

My other focus this week, as well as over the last few months, was the awful decision by Nicol Stephen, then Transport Minister, to market test the NADICS service, a traffic control service provided by Glasgow City Council, for the whole of Scotland. An ideal service being provided by what politicians now call partnership working.

The rationale behind this being suspect, was made worse by Transport Scotland botching the contract, having questionably made the contract specification difficult for Glasgow to compete for, was then made even worse by the failure to put proper protections in place for existing staff who now face being transferred to private sector providers with a large cut in pension provision, or what I like to call deferred pay. The lack of detail in the contract covering Protocols agreed by the then Scottish Executive and the STUC, and more incredibly the Cabinet Office Guidance on Staff Transfers in the Public sector, prove that our unionist opponents have little regard for workers. Transport Scotland, an unaccountable quango ripe for culling, have only a few days to sort this out, or else the legal channels beckon. There can be no excuse for ignoring Government documents which clearly describe that these types of contracts should have staff protection clauses in place.

So another choice for the voter, penny pinching versus the common good, or putting People before Profit.

I know what I would choose every time.

TIME FOR LOCAL ACCOUNTABILITY

Well the sleep cycles are back on track, after being off work during the festive season, and the workload is back to its high level, the campaigning is back on track, and so I've now got the time for another blog post.

The main political struggle over the last few weeks is about accountability. On the one hand we have Wendy Alexander and New Labour who believe that their own Councillors cannot be trusted, and are determined to weaken local democracy, as opposed to the well received news from the SNP Government that Councils are to receive funding with less ring-fencing.

It really is staggering that Labour, who only just longer than a decade ago were demanding protection for local authorities under a Conservative Government, are adopting the Thatcherite tactic, that local authorities have to be instructed on what to do. The repeated statements from Wendy Alexander in particular, that Councils and Councillors will not fund programs to protect the weak and disadvantaged in society is grossly insulting to those who seek local office no matter which political affiliation they have. The whole point is that Councils should they choose can now spend additional monies on these programs if they so desire.

Moves away from ring-fencing strengthen local democracy, they give voters a greater opportunity to hold Councils to account for their budget commitments and give voters clear choices when it comes to election time. As the move towards separating Council elections from Holyrood will bear out, they deliver voter participation on local issues.

Wendy Alexander's recent media performances have been nothing short of disgraceful, whilst Brian Currie's thoughtful article in the Evening Times regarding the split between New Labour Councillors and their Holyrood counterparts show that New Labour have learned nothing from the elections, as Brian notes.

The real agenda against ending ring-fencing, is that New Labour want to increase our Council Tax, a grossly unfair tax, as they perceive regressive taxation as the way forward.

Another excellent piece of news, is the Scottish Government's announcement that it is intending to move towards elections for Health Boards. This will bring real changes to how Health Boards operate, will increase increased interest in its work, and will finally bring real accountability on the decisions these health boards make. Unquestionably, this will make health care more local and more responsive. No more will hospitals be threatened with closure after a health board has narrowed the parameters for consultation. Elections to health boards will bring a new broom to the Health Service and will see a fresh approach.

All in all, a good time for local accountability.

PREDICTIONS 2008

A guid new year tae yin and a!

A very busy time over the festive season, and I hope all my avid readers had a special time. As Calum Cashley has correctly pointed out, I have not yet made my predictions for 2008. No doubt New Labour have issued the press release over another broken promise!

Anyway here goes....

JANUARY

The SNP celebrate Burns' nicht with a 20 point lead in opinion poll ratings due to Donorgate, Good Governance and more outrageous revelations exposed under the 30 year rule.

Strathclydes' finest visit Paisley and arrest Wendy Alexander. Under pressure to resign, New Labour issue a press release about the Scottish Governments broken promises. Gordon Brown is reported to have smiled at least once during the month, however this is dismissed by an official spokesperson as the PM having suffered from toothache.

Giuliani wins the Republican and Edwards wins the Democrat New Hampshire primaries.

FEBRUARY

In a sensational St.Valentines day, the SNP win 6 local Council by elections just days after Charlie Gordon resigns his seat. The press call this the ST.Valentines day massacre, as a reported 40% swing goes from New Labour to the SNP.

Wendy Alexander finally resigns the leadership of the British Labour Party (Scotland Region).

Nicol Stephen volunteers to step in until a successor is found, until it is pointed out that Lib Dem Leaders can only do so, in the event that New Labour are in government. Hell will freeze over when that happens again comments Tavish Scott.

MARCH

The SNP emerge victorious in the Cathcart by-election with a majority of 7000, and a record swing. New Labour's campaign of "TRUST NEW LABOUR TO DELIVER" is seen as a disaster, and a reason for their 4th place showing.

The Conservatives now paint themselves as the official opposition in waiting.

In an extraordinary twist, Darth Vader and an ageing Emperor Sidious pull out of the race to succeed Wendy Alexander, a close aide to the Dark ones claims that the evil within New Labour is too strong.

Four major Trade Unions, ahead of the next months STUC announce their support for Independence, as this is viewed as the only way to achieve Trade Union policy being put into practice.

APRIL

Amid much fanfare, on the 1st April the dream ticket of George Foulkes and Jim Devine is revealed as the new leadership team for the British Labour Party (Scotland Region).

The new team announce their first engagement as meeting Nicol Stephen and Annabel Goldie on how to make the union stronger.

All major Presidential Candidates meet the First Minister and his team in Washington for the Tartan Day celebrations, as they all want to be seen with a major International Leader.

The SNP lead 30 percentage points in the opinion polls with New Labour and the Conservatives tied on 15% each.

The STUC Annual Congress votes to support Independence as part of the National Conversation consultation.

MAY

The nation celebrates the first anniversary of the election of the SNP Government, as confidence in the Public and Private Sectors reach unparalleled levels. Whilst the Westminster Government forecast more economic doom, Scotland is flourishing. Alex Salmond offers a loan to Westminster to ease its troubles and in the spirit of International relations.

This offer of generosity is rejected.

JUNE

John Edwards edges out Hilary Clinton for the Democratic nomination. His Convention slogan "ITS TIME" is viewed as one of the major reasons for his success.

JULY

After ten recounts at the Republican Convention, a nomination for Jeb Bush from the floor, results in Governor Bush emerging victorious. The Republicans election strategy is how the Democrats sums don't add up, and that a Democratic White House will result in Armageddon (sound familiar?).

AUGUST

The Scottish Parliament reconvenes with whispers of defections and mergers. The SNP start the new session on 67% in the opinion polls with New Labour, Conservatives and Lib Dems on 10% each.

The Independence Referendum Bill is published.

In an unfortunate sense of timing Wendy Alexander and Charlie Gordon receive custodial sentences, just 2 days prior to the Paisley North By-Election.

SEPTEMBER

In contrast to last years euphoria, Gordon Brown resigns in disgrace prior to the British Labour Party Conference. The Conference ends with new anthem "Always look on the bright side of life".

In a hastily called Leadership Battle, George Foukles backs David Milliband. Jack Straw is elected leader.

The Conservatives allow their Scottish Branch federal status.

OCTOBER

An opinion poll published prior to the SNP Conference shows a huge lead for Independence much to the chagrin of Unionist commentators. The Conference is a positive and uplifting occasion, with no mention of the opposition. The first Conference with several Trade Unions in attendance in a voting capacity is dubbed a success. Its a pleasure to be among the most socially democratic political party for decades says one General Secretary.

In shocking news, a New Labour MSP makes a positive and constructive contribution in the Scottish Parliament. The media speculates whether this individual is about to defect to the SNP.

NOVEMBER

With their support in freefall, many New Labour MSP's discuss forming an electoral pact with their fellow unionists. George Foulkes and Jim Devine, having been devoid of an idea since they took office give this a ringing endorsement. Nicol Stephen states quite clearer that he will do what George tells him. Annabel Goldie gives the idea a cautious welcome, though Gerald Warner writes an article about how the Tories don't need them. The Scotland on Sunday leads with the headline "SNP support in freefall" as it emerges that the SNP has "only" 60% support.

The Edwards/Clinton ticket win New Mexico after 3 recounts to win the Presidential Election. Despite Republican attempts to take the result to court, Jeb Bush finally concedes 2 weeks later.

On St.Andrews Day, at a hastily convened Press Conference with George Foulkes, Annabel Goldie and Nicol Stephen, it is announced that they are to merge Political parties in order to "Save the Union". After a Special Conference, and in Internal Session, this New Party decides on a new name that will encompass all that they believe. After much fanfare they decide on.......

British Unionist Reform Party (Scotland Region).

DECEMBER

All remaining Trade Unions which were still part of New Labour, resign and join the SNP. After a complex electoral college, the leadership team for BURP (Scotland Region) of Annabel Goldie and Jim Devine is announced.

However, 10 former New Labour MSP's resign to form the New Labour Popular Party, 3 Conservative MSP's form the Peoples Scottish Conservative Party, and 4 Lib Dems announce a new party called Liberal Democratic Peoples Scottish Party.

After a lively debate in the Scottish Parliament, the Independence Referendum Bill passes with a wafer thin majority, thanks to the Greens, who announce that they have no plans to merge with anyone.

The referendum is to be brought forward 1 year early. The current poll shows 69% in favour for Independence.


Have a good new year everyone.