Watched a bit of Le Mans (cheers, Mr. Jessop, turns out Quest is Freeview channel 37). Rather interesting stuff. There's another hour at 10pm, and about four hours or so tomorrow from 10am, I think.
Many thanks for the article, David. An interesting read as usual.
In my youth I used to be very taken with what was then the Liberal Party. I don't recall the EEC or its precursors being anything in UK politics at that time. Probably I lost interest in politics in general as I got older, so wasn't aware of it happening but I would like to know why the Liberals (or Lib Dems) became so totally in favour of the EU, and when that happened.
Does anyone remember?
Good afternoon, everyone.
edited to change 2nd why to when
Good Question,
While I don't have a first hand account of why/how/when the Lib Dems became so pro EU, I think it was related to the merger of the SDP and the Old Liberal party.
Some, perhaps many of the most anti EU members of the Liberal party where also those who opposed the merger and left at about that time, ether to set up the 'continuation' Liberal party or politics altogether.
Meaning that after the merger it was one of the few things that a clear majority of the new party could agree on.
Woy and Shirley were always very keen on the EU. David Owen not so much. The SDP had a range of views within it, as did the old Liberal party. It changed after I had drifted away but Charlie Kennedy and Nick Clegg clearly played important roles.
I think they were already set as the pro-EU party by Ashdown who was probably more in favour than Kennedy.
I was very active in 1988 in the merger of the Liberals and SDP. Although I was a member of the Liberal Party, my political leanings were with the SDP and I welcomed the merger hoping for the best from each party in terms of policies and organisation.
The SDP favoured social democracy and was very supportive of the economic policies of EU countries which were mostly social democratic.
The Liberals, on the other hand, were economically liberal and internationalist. They supported the EU as part of the international order.
The LibDems, like the other parties, are a coalition. In the case of the LibDems of social democrats and liberals. Charles Kennedy was a social democrat. Nick Clegg is an economic liberal. The economic liberals, sometimes called orange-bookers, favour free markets where possible - hence Clegg's support for student fees and Lansley's "reform" of the NHS. This caused the big schism in the LibDems during the coalition and many SDPers left and joined Labour.
Over the years, the EU has moved from social democracy to neo-liberalism under the influence of Germany. This has reduced support for the EU on the left.
SDP LibDems are close to Labour and can switch parties easily. Liberal LibDems are closer to the Tories and could even go into coalition with them but not anymore after their thorough shafting. Newer members don't identify with either the SDP or the Liberals, but are united in their anti-Brexit stance.
Other LibDems might have a different take on it, but this is mine.
LOL at Labour Live. Corbyn’s people are so dumb. Why stage an event like this during festival season and a World Cup weekend. As if many of his voters are going to miss WC games to see Owen Jones et al speak.
Sounds like there are more journalists than punters.
Many thanks for the article, David. An interesting read as usual.
In my youth I used to be very taken with what was then the Liberal Party. I don't recall the EEC or its precursors being anything in UK politics at that time. Probably I lost interest in politics in general as I got older, so wasn't aware of it happening but I would like to know why the Liberals (or Lib Dems) became so totally in favour of the EU, and when that happened.
Does anyone remember?
Good afternoon, everyone.
edited to change 2nd why to when
Good Question,
While I don't have a first hand account of why/how/when the Lib Dems became so pro EU, I think it was related to the merger of the SDP and the Old Liberal party.
Some, perhaps many of the most anti EU members of the Liberal party where also those who opposed the merger and left at about that time, ether to set up the 'continuation' Liberal party or politics altogether.
Meaning that after the merger it was one of the few things that a clear majority of the new party could agree on.
Woy and Shirley were always very keen on the EU. David Owen not so much. The SDP had a range of views within it, as did the old Liberal party. It changed after I had drifted away but Charlie Kennedy and Nick Clegg clearly played important roles.
I think they were already set as the pro-EU party by Ashdown who was probably more in favour than Kennedy.
That's a fair point. The mystery is how an issue with such a range of views became such a defining characteristic.
Watched a bit of Le Mans (cheers, Mr. Jessop, turns out Quest is Freeview channel 37). Rather interesting stuff. There's another hour at 10pm, and about four hours or so tomorrow from 10am, I think.
England 342-8. May be less than they hoped for, but Australia will have to bat pretty well to close in on it.
A brisk first 20 overs and then a downpour might be their best hope.
Edit - they do of course have Mark Wood bowling, which will help quite a lot.
I think that Australia clawed back 30-40 runs in those last 9 overs denying Buttler a well deserved century. I trust the England bowlers were paying attention as to how they did it.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
LOL at Labour Live. Corbyn’s people are so dumb. Why stage an event like this during festival season and a World Cup weekend. As if many of his voters are going to miss WC games to see Owen Jones et al speak.
The free thinkers that came up with this have no concept of how summer time and weekends are spent by actual people.
Alternatively all the order might be built in this country and the factory win other orders from overseas afterwards.
Firstly, it is 'assembled' rather than built (although international supply chains makes this an interesting point). Secondly, the experience of Hitachi and the IEP indicates that this won't be the case.
Of course its assembled, all factories use a mixture of components which come from other suppliers.
And your basis for the investment being a failure is a Hitachi factory which I believe is still operating and employing many hundreds of people and is smaller in any case.
Finally Siemens have already opened an even large factory about twenty miles from the proposed new one so they seem to be making a commitment to the area in various industrial sectors.
There is 'assembly' and there is 'assembly'. The IEP trains assembled at Newton Aycliffe use bodyshells that are made in Japan using friction-stir welding (a UK invention, as it happens). Hitachi have not transferred this critical technology to the UK factory. The bogies and traction systems are also being made in Japan.
I'd argue that if the factory cannot make the bodyshells, bogies or traction kit, it is not really 'making' the trains; it is assembling them from major pieces, and lacks the critical infrastructure to operate in any way independently in design or construction. (And this is why Hitachi could easily shift orders meant to be built in the UK to other EU countries)
If Siemens make the bogies and bodyshells in the UK I'd be less sceptical. But I bet they won't (and will be pleasantly surprised if they do).
Sure, but even lower level assembly is better than not having anything and there's always the possibility of moving up the value chain if the workforce make a success of things.
Just come back from a Pokémon Go community Day event at Weston Park in Sheffield. Absolutely heaving - is Jeremy having similar success at his event in London xD ?
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Hell, looks like a good chance the the Mackintosh may be a complete goner this time. Written in the heat of the moment, so hopefully over pessimistic.
'Lost Glasgow
Having tried, and failed, to get near the site, the latest, tragic word, comes from site fan John Pollock, who writes: "I’ve just left and the floors inside are falling and the buildings going in on itself.
"I can guarantee that it’s the end for the building. Even the fire brigade were saying they’re not saving the building - now it’s a case of damage limitation to the surrounding buildings"
I am weeping here...
And, for all you amateur 'fire investigators', already claiming it's an 'insurance job'; shame on you - men and women are still risking their lives...'
I used the Mackintosh building to create an art studio for a commercial I shot in Glasgow in about 2000. It was one of the finest and most interesting Scottish buildings I've been in. Anyone who hasn't visited has missed a treat. I was recreating something that looked like one of Degas' dancing classes and it looked almost perfect. A very sad day for Glasgow and if it was deliberately started I can only blame Brexit for creating the red mist that seems to be affecting us all.
Alternatively all the order might be built in this country and the factory win other orders from overseas afterwards.
Firstly, it is 'assembled' rather than built (although international supply chains makes this an interesting point). Secondly, the experience of Hitachi and the IEP indicates that this won't be the case.
Of course its assembled, all factories use a mixture of components which come from other suppliers.
And your basis for the investment being a failure is a Hitachi factory which I believe is still operating and employing many hundreds of people and is smaller in any case.
Finally Siemens have already opened an even large factory about twenty miles from the proposed new one so they seem to be making a commitment to the area in various industrial sectors.
There is 'assembly' and there is 'assembly'. The IEP trains assembled at Newton Aycliffe use bodyshells that are made in Japan using friction-stir welding (a UK invention, as it happens). Hitachi have not transferred this critical technology to the UK factory. The bogies and traction systems are also being made in Japan.
I'd argue that if the factory cannot make the bodyshells, bogies or traction kit, it is not really 'making' the trains; it is assembling them from major pieces, and lacks the critical infrastructure to operate in any way independently in design or construction. (And this is why Hitachi could easily shift orders meant to be built in the UK to other EU countries)
If Siemens make the bogies and bodyshells in the UK I'd be less sceptical. But I bet they won't (and will be pleasantly surprised if they do).
Sure, but even lower level assembly is better than not having anything and there's always the possibility of moving up the value chain if the workforce make a success of things.
Alternatively, we could at the very least be making the major components here in the UK - and we can most certainly do it. Hitachi have shown they cannot be trusted on these matters, and I doubt Siemens can either.
But the point remains: I really doubt there is going to be room in the medium term for this number of manufacturers, and one or more will go to the wall. Rolling stock typically has a 20 to 30 year lifespan (sometimes much more, sometimes much less), and once the current backlog of order is completed there will be somewhat of a sparsity. The last thing we need is another entrant.
Many thanks for the article, David. An interesting read as usual.
In my youth I used to be very taken with what was then the Liberal Party. I don't recall the EEC or its precursors being anything in UK politics at that time. Probably I lost interest in politics in general as I got older, so wasn't aware of it happening but I would like to know why the Liberals (or Lib Dems) became so totally in favour of the EU, and when that happened.
Does anyone remember?
Good afternoon, everyone.
edited to change 2nd why to when
Good Question,
While I don't have a first hand account of why/how/when the Lib Dems became so pro EU, I think it was related to the merger of the SDP and the Old Liberal party.
Some, perhaps many of the most anti EU members of the Liberal party where also those who opposed the merger and left at about that time, ether to set up the 'continuation' Liberal party or politics altogether.
Meaning that after the merger it was one of the few things that a clear majority of the new party could agree on.
Woy and Shirley were always very keen on the EU. David Owen not so much. The SDP had a range of views within it, as did the old Liberal party. It changed after I had drifted away but Charlie Kennedy and Nick Clegg clearly played important roles.
I think they were already set as the pro-EU party by Ashdown who was probably more in favour than Kennedy.
That's a fair point. The mystery is how an issue with such a range of views became such a defining characteristic.
I suppose because they have been so unequivocal in their position. When compared to the changing views of the other parties the Lib Dems have always been the ones who were both clear on the position and willing to articulate it whatever the political consequences.
Hell, looks like a good chance the the Mackintosh may be a complete goner this time. Written in the heat of the moment, so hopefully over pessimistic.
'Lost Glasgow
Having tried, and failed, to get near the site, the latest, tragic word, comes from site fan John Pollock, who writes: "I’ve just left and the floors inside are falling and the buildings going in on itself.
"I can guarantee that it’s the end for the building. Even the fire brigade were saying they’re not saving the building - now it’s a case of damage limitation to the surrounding buildings"
I am weeping here...
And, for all you amateur 'fire investigators', already claiming it's an 'insurance job'; shame on you - men and women are still risking their lives...'
I used the Mackintosh building to create an art studio for a commercial I shot in Glasgow in about 2000. It was one of the finest and most interesting Scottish buildings I've been in. Anyone who hasn't visited has missed a treat. I was recreating something that looked like one of Degas' dancing classes and it looked almost perfect. A very sad day for Glasgow and if it was deliberately started I can only blame Brexit for creating the red mist that seems to be affecting us all.
I read something on Facebook that said "most of the salvaged & restored fixtures are off site". Hope, however small, springs eternal!
Of course its assembled, all factories use a mixture of components which come from other suppliers.
Finally Siemens have already opened an even large factory about twenty miles from the proposed new one so they seem to be making a commitment to the area in various industrial sectors.
There is 'assembly' and there is 'assembly'. The IEP trains assembled at Newton Aycliffe use bodyshells that are made in Japan using friction-stir welding (a UK invention, as it happens). Hitachi have not transferred this critical technology to the UK factory. The bogies and traction systems are also being made in Japan.
I'd argue that if the factory cannot make the bodyshells, bogies or traction kit, it is not really 'making' the trains; it is assembling them from major pieces, and lacks the critical infrastructure to operate in any way independently in design or construction. (And this is why Hitachi could easily shift orders meant to be built in the UK to other EU countries)
If Siemens make the bogies and bodyshells in the UK I'd be less sceptical. But I bet they won't (and will be pleasantly surprised if they do).
Sure, but even lower level assembly is better than not having anything and there's always the possibility of moving up the value chain if the workforce make a success of things.
Alternatively, we could at the very least be making the major components here in the UK - and we can most certainly do it. Hitachi have shown they cannot be trusted on these matters, and I doubt Siemens can either.
But the point remains: I really doubt there is going to be room in the medium term for this number of manufacturers, and one or more will go to the wall. Rolling stock typically has a 20 to 30 year lifespan (sometimes much more, sometimes much less), and once the current backlog of order is completed there will be somewhat of a sparsity. The last thing we need is another entrant.
If you're not going to trust foreign businesses who invest in this country then we're limited to British controlled businesses and in particular British controlled businesses without substantial overseas options.
It might even be said that we should have nationalised rail engineering - do we want to start going down that path ?
And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors.
That seems preferable to not having enough production capacity leading to either getting overcharged for new supply and / or having to give some orders to foreign factories.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Cost of baseball cap == £2 to £30 on amazon.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Cost of baseball cap == £2 to £30 on amazon.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
Hell, looks like a good chance the the Mackintosh may be a complete goner this time. Written in the heat of the moment, so hopefully over pessimistic.
'Lost Glasgow
Having tried, and failed, to get near the site, the latest, tragic word, comes from site fan John Pollock, who writes: "I’ve just left and the floors inside are falling and the buildings going in on itself.
"I can guarantee that it’s the end for the building. Even the fire brigade were saying they’re not saving the building - now it’s a case of damage limitation to the surrounding buildings"
I am weeping here...
And, for all you amateur 'fire investigators', already claiming it's an 'insurance job'; shame on you - men and women are still risking their lives...'
I used the Mackintosh building to create an art studio for a commercial I shot in Glasgow in about 2000. It was one of the finest and most interesting Scottish buildings I've been in. Anyone who hasn't visited has missed a treat. I was recreating something that looked like one of Degas' dancing classes and it looked almost perfect. A very sad day for Glasgow and if it was deliberately started I can only blame Brexit for creating the red mist that seems to be affecting us all.
LOL. You really are a tosser of the first order Roger. It is often said that those in the advertising industry have absolutely no morals and you appear to be trying very hard to be living proof if that.
If you're not going to trust foreign businesses who invest in this country then we're limited to British controlled businesses and in particular British controlled businesses without substantial overseas options.
It might even be said that we should have nationalised rail engineering - do we want to start going down that path ?
And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors.
That seems preferable to not having enough production capacity leading to either getting overcharged for new supply and / or having to give some orders to foreign factories.
It's not a matter of 'trust' or not 'trust'; nationalisation or privatisation; and I have nothing against foreign firms investing in the UK. It's about creating a sustainable situation, and the government and DfT are going in exactly the opposite direction.
"And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors."
No, they'll just close the factory. If we do not design or manufacture critical components such as the bodyshells or running gear in this country, then we'll not have the equipment or skills to do so. Without those skills, there are fewer 'different markets or different sectors' that they can move into.
Hell, looks like a good chance the the Mackintosh may be a complete goner this time. Written in the heat of the moment, so hopefully over pessimistic.
'Lost Glasgow
Having tried, and failed, to get near the site, the latest, tragic word, comes from site fan John Pollock, who writes: "I’ve just left and the floors inside are falling and the buildings going in on itself.
"I can guarantee that it’s the end for the building. Even the fire brigade were saying they’re not saving the building - now it’s a case of damage limitation to the surrounding buildings"
I am weeping here...
And, for all you amateur 'fire investigators', already claiming it's an 'insurance job'; shame on you - men and women are still risking their lives...'
I used the Mackintosh building to create an art studio for a commercial I shot in Glasgow in about 2000. It was one of the finest and most interesting Scottish buildings I've been in. Anyone who hasn't visited has missed a treat. I was recreating something that looked like one of Degas' dancing classes and it looked almost perfect. A very sad day for Glasgow and if it was deliberately started I can only blame Brexit for creating the red mist that seems to be affecting us all.
LOL. You really are a tosser of the first order Roger. It is often said that those in the advertising industry have absolutely no morals and you appear to be trying very hard to be living proof if that.
I can only assume Roger is trolling. The last sentence of his comment was quite incredible ...
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Cost of baseball cap == £2 to £30 on amazon.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
Hell, looks like a good chance the the Mackintosh may be a complete goner this time. Written in the heat of the moment, so hopefully over pessimistic.
'Lost Glasgow
Having tried, and failed, to get near the site, the latest, tragic word, comes from site fan John Pollock, who writes: "I’ve just left and the floors inside are falling and the buildings going in on itself.
"I can guarantee that it’s the end for the building. Even the fire brigade were saying they’re not saving the building - now it’s a case of damage limitation to the surrounding buildings"
I am weeping here...
And, for all you amateur 'fire investigators', already claiming it's an 'insurance job'; shame on you - men and women are still risking their lives...'
I used the Mackintosh building to create an art studio for a commercial I shot in Glasgow in about 2000. It was one of the finest and most interesting Scottish buildings I've been in. Anyone who hasn't visited has missed a treat. I was recreating something that looked like one of Degas' dancing classes and it looked almost perfect. A very sad day for Glasgow and if it was deliberately started I can only blame Brexit for creating the red mist that seems to be affecting us all.
I read something on Facebook that said "most of the salvaged & restored fixtures are off site". Hope, however small, springs eternal!
And I am going to ask a rather difficult question: if it has been totally destroyed, should the building be rebuilt as it was (*), or should something else replace it?
(*) With the addition of better fire-suppression systems ...
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Cost of baseball cap == £2 to £30 on amazon.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
Re the Liberals and the EEC: if the former MP for Truro, David Penhaligon had not died in a car crash, and had then followed David Steele as leader of the Liberals, then I think they would have had a somewhat different view. I don't think they would have been outright Eurosceptic, but Europhilia would probably not have been a core policy.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Cost of baseball cap == £2 to £30 on amazon.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
If you're not going to trust foreign businesses who invest in this country then we're limited to British controlled businesses and in particular British controlled businesses without substantial overseas options.
It might even be said that we should have nationalised rail engineering - do we want to start going down that path ?
And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors.
That seems preferable to not having enough production capacity leading to either getting overcharged for new supply and / or having to give some orders to foreign factories.
It's not a matter of 'trust' or not 'trust'; nationalisation or privatisation; and I have nothing against foreign firms investing in the UK. It's about creating a sustainable situation, and the government and DfT are going in exactly the opposite direction.
"And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors."
No, they'll just close the factory. If we do not design or manufacture critical components such as the bodyshells or running gear in this country, then we'll not have the equipment or skills to do so. Without those skills, there are fewer 'different markets or different sectors' that they can move into.
Well we'll have to see but I rather take a chance that things work out well than not bother trying to begin with.
I rather suspect similar discussion were had over inward investment in the 1980s.
And while some of the factories created then have certainly closed others have been great successes.
If you're not going to trust foreign businesses who invest in this country then we're limited to British controlled businesses and in particular British controlled businesses without substantial overseas options.
It might even be said that we should have nationalised rail engineering - do we want to start going down that path ?
And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors.
That seems preferable to not having enough production capacity leading to either getting overcharged for new supply and / or having to give some orders to foreign factories.
It's not a matter of 'trust' or not 'trust'; nationalisation or privatisation; and I have nothing against foreign firms investing in the UK. It's about creating a sustainable situation, and the government and DfT are going in exactly the opposite direction.
"And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors."
No, they'll just close the factory. If we do not design or manufacture critical components such as the bodyshells or running gear in this country, then we'll not have the equipment or skills to do so. Without those skills, there are fewer 'different markets or different sectors' that they can move into.
Well we'll have to see but I rather take a chance that things work out well than not bother trying to begin with.
I rather suspect similar discussion were had over inward investment in the 1980s.
And while some of the factories created then have certainly closed others have been great successes.
Oh, indeed, but you're missing my central point: the market is very limited, and the fact they're not kitting the factory out to make the important parts makes it harder to repurpose and easier to close. I'd feel much happier if Hitachi had actually shown more faith in UK industry, and fear Siemens will be doing the same.
Labour Live... embarrassing, embarrassing, embarrassing....
Probably not as embarrassing as William Hague's baseball cap even though it shows a far bigger failure of decision-making because there must have been many occasions when Labour Live could have been killed. Otoh Hague's hat featured in almost every story about him. The same with Neil Kinnock tripping at the seaside. Ain't life unfair.
Or the Sheffield Rally. Or that pop video he made. Or the fight he was involved in.
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
Yes but however laughable this is, and however inept it shows Jezza's aides to be, it will not be personally embarrassing for Corbyn in the way the baseball cap was for Hague, to take one example. It's the personal link.
Cost of baseball cap == £2 to £30 on amazon.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
So in summary, JezFest uses volunteer bar staff, sells Chinese tat made in sweat shops at massive margins and it packed full of white middle aged middle class folk.
Imagine what Jez would be saying if Tories put on a festival like that.
Re the Liberals and the EEC: if the former MP for Truro, David Penhaligon had not died in a car crash, and had then followed David Steele as leader of the Liberals, then I think they would have had a somewhat different view. I don't think they would have been outright Eurosceptic, but Europhilia would probably not have been a core policy.
The LibDems changed from being a party of SW England to a party of SW London.
I would say SW Sheffield as well but I doubt even Hallam wasn't posh enough for the Cleggs:
' Nick Clegg has defended his wife after she was accused of panning Samantha Cameron’s love of Hellmann’s mayonnaise .
Miriam González Durántez recently had a cookbook published which lifted the lid on the eating habits of Britain’s most powerful politicians.
One anecdote told how she was taken aback to see Mrs Cameron serve roast chicken on a board with a jar of the mayo at a getting-to-know-you lunch with the Cleggs.
Ms González Durántez wrote: “Now that I’ve spent years observing how grand people live, I’ve learned the ultimate grand person’s food, found on all the most upper-class tables, is not caviar, truffles, virgin olive oil or fancy cheese. No, it is Hellmann’s mayonnaise.” '
So in summary, JezFest uses volunteer bar staff, sells Chinese tat made in sweat shops at massive margins and it packed full of white middle aged middle class folk.
Imagine what Jez would be saying if Tories put on a festival like that.
So in summary, JezFest uses volunteer bar staff, sells Chinese tat made in sweat shops at massive margins and it packed full of white middle aged middle class folk.
Imagine what Jez would be saying if Tories put on a festival like that.
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
So in summary, JezFest uses volunteer bar staff, sells Chinese tat made in sweat shops at massive margins and it packed full of white middle aged middle class folk.
Imagine what Jez would be saying if Tories put on a festival like that.
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
Winner.
Only works if Paddington's marmalade is organic and from a local farmers market.
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
Winner.
Only works if Paddington's marmalade is organic and from a local farmers market.
There are local farmers' markets that grow oranges in London?
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
Winner.
Only works if Paddington's marmalade is organic and from a local farmers market.
There are local farmers' markets that grow oranges in London?
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
Winner.
Only works if Paddington's marmalade is organic and from a local farmers market.
There are local farmers' markets that grow oranges in London?
Comments
Watched a bit of Le Mans (cheers, Mr. Jessop, turns out Quest is Freeview channel 37). Rather interesting stuff. There's another hour at 10pm, and about four hours or so tomorrow from 10am, I think.
The SDP favoured social democracy and was very supportive of the economic policies of EU countries which were mostly social democratic.
The Liberals, on the other hand, were economically liberal and internationalist. They supported the EU as part of the international order.
The LibDems, like the other parties, are a coalition. In the case of the LibDems of social democrats and liberals. Charles Kennedy was a social democrat. Nick Clegg is an economic liberal. The economic liberals, sometimes called orange-bookers, favour free markets where possible - hence Clegg's support for student fees and Lansley's "reform" of the NHS. This caused the big schism in the LibDems during the coalition and many SDPers left and joined Labour.
Over the years, the EU has moved from social democracy to neo-liberalism under the influence of Germany. This has reduced support for the EU on the left.
SDP LibDems are close to Labour and can switch parties easily. Liberal LibDems are closer to the Tories and could even go into coalition with them but not anymore after their thorough shafting. Newer members don't identify with either the SDP or the Liberals, but are united in their anti-Brexit stance.
Other LibDems might have a different take on it, but this is mine.
A brisk first 20 overs and then a downpour might be their best hope.
Edit - they do of course have Mark Wood bowling, which will help quite a lot.
Great game Argentina v Iceland. Messi didn’t have the greatest of days. They’ll be comparisons with Ronaldo’s performance last night....
Huzzah for Iceland!
There was spots of it in Le Mans, but nothing to affect the racing.
https://www.betfair.com/exchange/cricket/event/28766438/multi-market?marketIds=1.144684022&marketIds=1.144684313
But this looks like a combination of the lot.
This band is called Reverend and the makers, the crowds are going wild!
So far this WC seems to be more about Ronaldo vs Messi than the actual teams.
https://twitter.com/Martha_Gill/status/1008002669561163777
https://twitter.com/TheRedRoar/status/1007973993809358853
We will see.
But the point remains: I really doubt there is going to be room in the medium term for this number of manufacturers, and one or more will go to the wall. Rolling stock typically has a 20 to 30 year lifespan (sometimes much more, sometimes much less), and once the current backlog of order is completed there will be somewhat of a sparsity. The last thing we need is another entrant.
https://twitter.com/LOS_Fisher/status/1007979328624349185
It might even be said that we should have nationalised rail engineering - do we want to start going down that path ?
And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors.
That seems preferable to not having enough production capacity leading to either getting overcharged for new supply and / or having to give some orders to foreign factories.
Cost of Labour Live == unknown, but estimates are between £ 10^5 to 10^6.
True, Hague looked like a wanker, trying to get down with the kidz.
But Corbyn looks like he can't organise a piss-up, even if he's nationalised the breweries.
Hard to say which is more damaging, but Labour Live is certainly more costly.
I wonder if Labour Live has fewer people there than would have been there in any case.
https://twitter.com/JBickertonUK/status/1007966828851859458
"And if there will be an overcapacity in production capacity then the businesses involved will have to look for other work whether in different markets or different sectors."
No, they'll just close the factory. If we do not design or manufacture critical components such as the bodyshells or running gear in this country, then we'll not have the equipment or skills to do so. Without those skills, there are fewer 'different markets or different sectors' that they can move into.
Hard to say how many there are, given that there are a tonne of journos laughing and tweeting.
https://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/sustainable-fashion-blog/2014/nov/03/feminist-t-shirt-scandal-exposes-entire-system-exploitation-elle-whistles-fawcett-society
(*) With the addition of better fire-suppression systems ...
What is a Power Bank for £9?
(The value of Barclays Bank after it has been nationalized?)
I rather suspect similar discussion were had over inward investment in the 1980s.
And while some of the factories created then have certainly closed others have been great successes.
(I hope I'm wrong about that, though)
Imagine what Jez would be saying if Tories put on a festival like that.
I would say SW Sheffield as well but I doubt even Hallam wasn't posh enough for the Cleggs:
' Nick Clegg has defended his wife after she was accused of panning Samantha Cameron’s love of Hellmann’s mayonnaise .
Miriam González Durántez recently had a cookbook published which lifted the lid on the eating habits of Britain’s most powerful politicians.
One anecdote told how she was taken aback to see Mrs Cameron serve roast chicken on a board with a jar of the mayo at a getting-to-know-you lunch with the Cleggs.
Ms González Durántez wrote: “Now that I’ve spent years observing how grand people live, I’ve learned the ultimate grand person’s food, found on all the most upper-class tables, is not caviar, truffles, virgin olive oil or fancy cheese. No, it is Hellmann’s mayonnaise.” '
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/nick-clegg-defends-wife-after-8759075
If we are going to have political bears, then my suggestions are:
Rupert Bear for the Tories, he's so dapper, with his checked trousers, scarf, and conventional outlook. And the village of Nutwood must be in Toryshire.
Paddington Bear for the Greens, he's a migrant. Also, if you want to buy a Paddington Bear, I think he's the most expensive.
Winnie the Pooh for Labour, I can imagine the bear of very little brain conceiving of, and running, a festival like Labour Live for Eeyore and Tigger. And there is something whimsical about the world of Jeremy Corbyn, his jam-making and his allotment.
Baloo for UKIP, a huge, irresponsible, sleazy bear.
And Fozzie Bear for the LibDems. He's sort of a LibDemy-orange in colour, and he's incurably optimistic, though has very little to be optimistic about.
I heartedly suggest they do it every year.
Ah, trailing back leg.
https://twitter.com/wallaceme/status/1008024456097300480