Blog Feed: Subrosa's Blog

Farewell To 'The Mighty'

Published on 2013-05-21 03:05:00

Yesterday hundreds of people turned out to wave goodbye to the Royal Navy's flagship HMS Ark Royal on her last voyage before being broken up for scrap.The aircraft carrier, which was formally decommissioned in 2011, was towed out of Portsmouth Harbou

Our 'Modern' Army

Published on 2013-05-20 03:11:00

A couple of friends emailed me this morning asking my opinion of the Telegraph's article 'Army launches recruitment drive for 10,000 new young soldiers ahead of redundancies'. (I don't subscribe to the Telegraph but was able to access it on my iPad,

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-05-19 03:04:00

Apogee's choice this week.

Paul Shane

Published on 2013-05-18 03:21:00

Gone are the days when the BBC provided quality family entertainment.RIP Paul Shane.

A Bad Day For Scotland

Published on 2013-05-17 03:20:00

I'm ashamed of some of my countrymen - or, to be more precise, those who were part of the disgraceful 'protest' against Nigel Farage's presence in Edinburgh yesterday.What did they think they would achieve by yelling "scum, scum, scum"?

Recycling

Published on 2013-05-16 03:32:00

There are several videos showing the conversion of plastic to oil and, although this one is rather light on the finer technical detail, I think it's one of the better ones. As a particular supermarket says 'every little helps'. The machine, produced

For Once I Support The MoD

Published on 2013-05-15 03:35:00

Try as I may I can't download a BBC video and then embed it here so please view

A Bygone Era

Published on 2013-05-14 03:25:00

Most of my generation were brought up to respect our personal material items because after the war our parents had little, if any, spare money to buy them.Some people were more 'lucky' than others and came from wealthier households, but that didn't m

Scotland's Double-Edged Sword

Published on 2013-05-13 03:11:00

The furore UKIP's success in the English council elections has shown a few of the true colours of Westminster politicians.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-05-12 03:14:00

Some of you may know that I'm a fan of Jonathan and Charlotte, the two teenagers who were finalists on last year's BGT.They've been very busy this past year and another of his fans recorded this during a cruise when the two were the top entertainment

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-05-11 03:22:00

I've been knocked off my feet for the past 36 hours by a lurgy, so apologies for the hastily composed links this morning.Better Together?The Splitting Up Of British IndiaBring Cameron his booze, fags and easy womenHitler and the Mr MenHow Your Tax Mo

Scotland The Brave ... Or Brave New Scotland? Guest Post

Published on 2013-05-10 03:04:00

click to enlargeA guest post by Sheila.In October 2010, Kenneth Roy of the Scottish Review (possibly the only real journalist left in Scotland) began a long running series on the surveillance nightmare that is Big Brother Scotland and I began to coll

Pedestrian Crossing In China

Published on 2013-05-09 03:51:00

Not a pelican in sight!

The EU Behemoth

Published on 2013-05-08 03:35:00

I dislike the EU as many of you know.

Banking In An Independent Scotland

Published on 2013-05-07 03:17:00

The news that Sainsbury is to take full control of the joint banking venture it established with the Bank of Scotland 16 years ago brought to mind a conversation I had with a friend recently.She's a widow and lives in an attractive bungalow.

Poll Result 'Should School Holidays Be Reduced'

Published on 2013-05-06 03:17:00

The result of the 'Should School Holidays Be Reduced' poll doesn't show any real enthusiasm for fewer school holidays, with only slightly over half deciding it would be a good idea.Is that because our children are now grown up and school holidays don

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-05-05 03:15:00

The mellow sound of the bassoon this morning.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-05-04 03:44:00

There is a link somewhere in hereAmazing diagram shows who really runs the WorldAfghanistan's Multibillion Dollar Heroin TradeDWP Unit Stole Seligman's TestLatin Monetary UnionLinwood no more.

An Answer To Bureaucracy

Published on 2013-05-03 03:19:00

Click to enlargeI'm sure the sender felt so much better once this dropped into the postbox.

Dirty Tricks

Published on 2013-05-02 03:35:00

England goes to the polls today to elect local councillors.

Too Heavy A Price

Published on 2013-05-01 07:24:00

Eighteen hours of the past twenty four must have been hell for the families of those serving in southern Afghanistan.Yesterday, around noon, the media reported there had been three fatalities in the region, but no further details were provided by the

Murder In The Name Of Profit

Published on 2013-04-30 03:16:00

Photo courtesy of the GuardianI can hardly bring myself to watch the television pictures of the devastated Rana Plaza building in Savar, a suburb of the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka.

That's Globalisation

Published on 2013-04-29 03:41:00

Recently I had a post about GM food and the reluctance of the EU to allow consumers to make informed choices by labelling foods if they are GM.In the US companies are seeking government approval to 'grow' controversial salmon.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-04-28 03:49:00

Bus stop Dancing Queen. Wouldn't the world be a better place if we all started off our day like this?

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-04-27 03:08:00

An inquiry into the organisation known as Common Purpose (e-petition)Government is bad for your health and worse for your libertyScots are abandoning their religionWorst justification everWith friends like these...And Then It's Underway...Cyprus Leak

Benefits for Pensioners

Published on 2013-04-26 03:50:00

Far too often I hear the left wing of politics complain about benefits - or the lack of them.Certainly there are flaws in the investigation system handled by ATOS and I appreciate that we should support people who are unable to work, owing to some fo

Australians Remember

Published on 2013-04-25 03:33:00

Earlier today, with an almost full moon still beaming, thousands gathered in Brisbane's CBD for the Anzac Day dawn service (pictured).The Australian prime minister attended the dawn service in Townsville, north Queensland.

A Walk With A Difference

Published on 2013-04-24 03:24:00

On the 8th of August last year an ex-soldier started a walk with a difference, one which will take between 18 months and 2 years to complete.Christian Nock, 38, is taking on the challenge of walking round the coast of Britain to raise awareness of ho

A Message To Our English Friends

Published on 2013-04-23 03:02:00

GM: Yes Or No

Published on 2013-04-22 03:05:00

Last week the PM's personal scientific adviser said he wants to relax rules on crops because the rise of GM foods is 'inexorable'.Sir Mark Walport (pictured), says the food is proving its worth its worth and production is increasing globally.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-04-21 03:44:00

I hope this makes you smile.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-04-20 03:22:00

A wee change from the usual list of links.RT has picked up on how the BBC treat Scottish independence. See from 2:13 or so.

Should School Holidays Be Reduced?

Published on 2013-04-19 03:38:00

Michael Gove wants to reduce the length of holidays in English schools.

Monetary Union Between An Independent Scotland And The Remainder Of The UK

Published on 2013-04-18 03:41:00

Finally the card playing season has drawn to a close and the past week has involved far too much food followed by hours of

A Conundrum

Published on 2013-04-17 03:34:00

A conundrum although Thomas Sowell has a point.

Could UKIP Be A Threat To Scottish Independence?

Published on 2013-04-16 03:10:00

On my Facebook page I have several requests a week to become 'friends' with various UKIP members.

An Idea For Budding Entrepreneurs

Published on 2013-04-15 03:11:00

With a few adjustments, such as a safety bar to avoid the feet contacting the blades, I think this would be the answer for all those males who spend hundreds of pounds buying ride on mowers.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-04-14 04:02:00

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-04-13 03:55:00

"There's no such thing as public money" - Mrs ThatcherPolitical PornWowing a crowdBig brother at TescoBBC: only short-clip of 'distasteful' Ding-dong song will be playedScotland as a Good Global Citizen: A Discussion with First Minister Alex SalmondW

Another Joker At No 10

Published on 2013-04-12 03:46:00

I've be a fan of Beryl Cook's paintings for many years and have a reasonable collection of her postcards.For years I've also been a Gregor Fisher fan, starting with his appearances in Naked Video.Put the two together and what do you get?

A Husband's Point Of View

Published on 2013-04-11 03:20:00

Red Lines

Published on 2013-04-10 03:01:00

There's an article in today's Herald which clearly shows the stupidity of the unionists.It appears the Lords Economic Affairs Committee has suggested the Westminster and Holyrood parliaments should publish their 'red lines' for independence talks bef

Margaret Thatcher 1925 - 2013

Published on 2013-04-09 03:14:00

Whatever your political views, Margaret Thatcher was an incredible woman and worked hard for her country.

Does Scotland Need Islamic Schools?

Published on 2013-04-08 03:05:00

Last year it was reported that Muslims in Glasgow intended to purchase the former Holmlea Primary

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-04-07 03:33:00

This winter birds were scarce in my garden.

The Answer To Scotland's Power Line Aesthetics

Published on 2013-04-05 03:56:00

Thanks to Joe Public for the graphic.

Magic Golf

Published on 2013-04-04 03:39:00

Gleneagles last year.

Evidence2Success - Update

Published on 2013-04-03 03:23:00

posed by modelI received a response to the email I sent to Perth and Kinross Council about their latest intrusion into children's lives and the blatant lies they told in order to achieve their aims.Thank for your email, the content of which has been

How To Green The World's Deserts

Published on 2013-04-02 03:07:00

The ecologist Allan Savory makes sense.

A 'Not An April Fool' Story

Published on 2013-04-01 03:15:00

You could be forgiven if you thought the following story was an April Fool, but sadly you'd be wrong.WPC Kelly Jones (pictured above on Saturday) is suing burglary victim Steve Jones (no relation) after she tripped on a 6 inch kerb at his garage.

Happy Easter

Published on 2013-03-31 03:38:00

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-03-30 05:57:00

The Ten Commandments of Eurozone Membership

Hot Cross Buns And Orange Walks

Published on 2013-03-29 04:42:00

It's Good Friday.

How Green Is The Earth?

Published on 2013-03-28 04:04:00

A Sign Of The Times Down Under

Published on 2013-03-27 04:45:00

It's only four years since the Australian government passed its Expanded Renewable Energy Target policy to ensure that renewable energy obtains a 20% share of electricity by 2020. Other renewable energy programmes preceded this one and Australia and

Where Is Our Spartacus When We Need Him?

Published on 2013-03-26 04:40:00

Guest post by Apogee.I am hoping that the average person is starting to ask how

Should All Children Be Vaccinated Against Influenza?

Published on 2013-03-25 04:52:00

Last year it was suggested by 'experts' that a new universal vaccination programme should be introduced to protect our children against influenza.At the time I thought it was another ridiculous idea which would drift into the long grass.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-03-24 04:41:00

Later I'm off to a lunchtime jazz event (which includes lunch too). It would be difficult for any musician to reach the heights of Charlie Parker, but I'm sure it will be enjoyable all the same.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-03-23 04:58:00

Thursday 18 September 2014

Published on 2013-03-22 04:22:00

Alex Salmond seemed a little emotional yesterday when he announced the date of the independence referendum.Now the date has been set I'd like to see a constructive debate on why the SNP think Scotland would benefit from being part of the EU and also

Cyprus - An Interesting Analysis

Published on 2013-03-21 04:31:00

A guest post from Edward Spalton.

The Top 10 Unionist Myths Debunked

Published on 2013-03-20 04:17:00

The North Disconnect

Published on 2013-03-19 04:34:00

Less than a year go Alex Salmond was hailing the introduction of the Scotland-Norway interconnector which would link hydro power from Norway with wind energy from Scotland.The project received £553,000 in a grant from the EU last March and the Scott

The EU/Cyprus Deal Is In A League Of Its Own - Or Is It?

Published on 2013-03-18 04:00:00

As many of you know I'm an avid reader of crime novels, particularly political crime novels.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-03-17 04:24:00

This is for the wife of one of my loyal readers.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-03-16 05:00:00

Well, at least one of the bastards is behind barsPope Frankie's OathThe answer is: simplesPowerless against MaladministrationNow that is a VICTORYOh Dear! New Labour's Control of BBC Scotland Must Be Curbed

Fake Curry Coverup

Published on 2013-03-15 04:29:00

I like curries but I prefer to make my own because most curry houses use turmeric and it doesn't like me.

A Pre-School Test For You

Published on 2013-03-14 04:42:00

A PRE-SCHOOL TEST FOR YOUWhich way is the bus below travelling?To the Left or to the Right?Can't make up your mind?Look carefully at the picture again.Still don't know?

Please Help Save Scotland

Published on 2013-03-13 04:31:00

The Germans are arguing and it's not about the EU or immigration.

An Important Petition

Published on 2013-03-12 04:08:00

I've no idea how many of you saw the documentary You've Been Trumped

Life Saving

Published on 2013-03-11 04:17:00

Every child should be taught this at the earliest age possible and this foolish LibDem councillor could suggest the council's time was used more wisely if he pushed for this to be introduced.It's not often I suggest we adopt an American idea but this

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-03-10 04:56:00

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-03-09 03:08:00

Letter from the Minister for ImmigrationNot a surprise to meReal ScienceThe impact of the limitedA Species Facing ExtinctionScandal around Slovak solar energy industryCompare and contrast

RIP Kenny Ball

Published on 2013-03-08 03:43:00

Taken from the 1963 British film 'Live It Up'.

The Food Of Gods

Published on 2013-03-07 03:20:00

This is an image of one of my favourite meats.

Britain And Its Agricultural Policy

Published on 2013-03-06 03:24:00

In his email accompanying the paper published below, Edward said:

Retribution

Published on 2013-03-05 03:54:00

So, through the media, four anonymous priests (one of them ex) have managed a thorough character assassination on the now retired Cardinal O'Brien.

Police And Their Thug Culture

Published on 2013-03-04 03:30:00

Before you view the video: The driver of the Range Rover is 74 year old Robert Whatley. Earlier he had been pulled over by the two police officers (in the chasing car), for failing to wear a seatbelt.Mr Whatley was fined £135 for failing to wear a

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-03-03 04:03:00

Puccini's Tosca Act 2.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-03-02 03:53:00

Carry On, Home SecretaryCommon sense immigrationPassive Eating Causes Obesity EpidemicJust a quick reminder about what they said about old winters...Two Popes, One SecretarySchools and Parents

Eastleigh

Published on 2013-03-01 02:55:00

So there we have it. The Libdems kept hold of Eastleigh with UKIP coming a close second.Nowadays there's nothing between the Tories, Labour and Libdems.

The Demise Of Scotsman.com?

Published on 2013-02-28 03:38:00

It appears the Scotsman online has been brought to its knees by flowers.No matter how incredulous it seems to an IT ignoramus such as myself, it appears the Johnston Press broke Google's search engine rules.

Ah, Recognition Of Scotland As A Country

Published on 2013-02-27 03:20:00

click to enlargeI was pleased to see yesterday that the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP) recognises Scotland as a country. Aye, the ATP may be small fry in the great scheme of things, but every little recognition counts.When I suggested on a

Something To Think About - Guest Post

Published on 2013-02-26 03:15:00

A guest post from John Soutar.Something to Think About"As Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith has rightly pointed out, it is"madness" for the state to subsidise large numbers of children born to parents who do not stop to wonder first if th

We Need A Change In Food Culture

Published on 2013-02-25 03:18:00

One of the surprising developments in recent years has been the amount of fast food businesses which now seem to decorate town centres.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-02-24 03:41:00

Mood music.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-02-23 04:01:00

Mixed Economy v Neoliberalismthe plot sickens...Independence vote split by genderThe Tories should beware of Martha AndreasenThe Brain NetNaming of streets after heroes is a bad idea

Common Purpose #2

Published on 2013-02-22 03:12:00

Yesterday's post resulted in some excellent comments, not least this one from Apogee:Could just be me this morning, but I get a strong feeling that a problem was needed to result in a particular

Evidence2Success

Published on 2013-02-21 03:25:00

Have a read of this.

The Prediction Of A New Ice Age

Published on 2013-02-20 03:32:00

click to enlargeCredit for this post must be given to Edward Spalton because he has supplied me with the information.Says Edward: '1972 was the year when severe frost destroyed all the Soviet Autumn-sown wheat crop. We had a great shortage in 1973.'

Drugs Test

Published on 2013-02-19 03:29:00

The following was written by a serving British solder.I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit.In order to earn that pay, I train for war and eventually deploy.

The Kingdom's Claim To Fame

Published on 2013-02-18 03:27:00

In 2009 the Kingdom of Fife had the highest teenage pregnancy rate, in the under-16s.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-02-17 03:15:00

Barbara Dickson always mentions this isn't one of her favourite songs yet audiences hanker for it.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-02-16 03:45:00

From Russia with LoveAnd finally... #20If you die in jail, few will shed a tearNorth Sea BubbleSmithfieldcataclysm!

Them And Us

Published on 2013-02-15 03:31:00

I'm spitting tacks.

Support For Independence Increases

Published on 2013-02-13 03:17:00

An Audience With A Difference

Published on 2013-02-12 03:04:00

Forget The EU, We Need A Moratorium on Meat Imports Now

Published on 2013-02-11 03:36:00

Yesterday I listened to the stuttering and muttering UK environment secretary while he was doing the rounds of the television studios in a desperate attempt to assure us that our food is safe for consumption.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-02-10 03:26:00

Which performance of this song from Caruso do you prefer? (Translation below).

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-02-09 03:44:00

'Global Warming' was never about climate change!Era of Fast Growth Ends for Wind Energy in EuropePachauri Takes WWF MoneyFindus MafiaClimate change: apocalypse postponedWhen to campaign is to choose...Englishness and Suburbia

Scottish NHS - MRSA Cases Down By 81.5%

Published on 2013-02-08 03:38:00

Today's Anti-SNP article in the Herald is laughable.Alex Neil, the Scottish Health Secretary, was

Not Exactly Driving Miss Daisy

Published on 2013-02-07 03:31:00

The Scottish Government are spending £2.6million on charging points for electric cars. Or are they?

'No One Size Fits All'

Published on 2013-02-06 03:44:00

The ConDems really have opened a can of worms with their Bedroom Tax policy.Whilst I can understand the need to reduce the £21 billion housing benefit paid out, the policy is so disjointed it will be unworkable.When Margaret Thatcher introduced the

Let The North Wind Blow

Published on 2013-02-05 03:13:00

Originally three wind turbines were erected just north of the beautiful East Neuk of Fife village of Crail.Now there are two left standing and both have bent blades.

The QT Remark

Published on 2013-02-04 03:52:00

My thanks to Moridura for the video.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-02-03 04:01:00

It's amazing what some accordionists can do.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-02-02 03:28:00

We Are Truly MadAs Above, So BelowWith charity for allCameron's Proclamation of Continuing Complicity in CorruptionThe problem with raw 'volume data' on police complaintsWhat is science?Science Select Committee member David TredinnickPaint your space

Tommy

Published on 2013-02-01 03:41:00

Edward emailed the following and I thought today would be an appropriate time to publish it. After listening to David Cameron's weasel words yesterday I would not advise anyone to join the British military, because it's now blatantly obvious our poli

A Truthful Politician - Sadly Not From The UK

Published on 2013-01-31 03:20:00

Dognamedblue, a regular reader of this blog, left the link to this video in the comments of yesterday's post.To see the English subtitles you will have to view it on the Youtube site (click the Youtube icon) and then click on the first button of the

What A Difference Two Days Make

Published on 2013-01-30 03:46:00

French troops boarding transport to MaliOn Saturday it was reported that David Cameron had offered to send aircraft to Mali to assist the French fight against the rebels. His offer involved the transportation of foreign troops and equipment, but Down

Sexist?

Published on 2013-01-29 03:43:00

Recently the Scottish Government has launched a new mobile App directed at women and alcohol consumption.It purports to show a woman's change in appearance over a period of 10 years if she drinks 10 glasses of red wine per week.

Calm Down Dear

Published on 2013-01-28 03:26:00

"What is wrong with the SNP and its adoration of the EU?" a friend of mine asked this weekend.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-01-27 03:08:00

Apogee's choice this morning and I completely approve. Takes me back to a most exciting part of my life.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-01-26 03:29:00

George Osborne Must AbdicateCast Iron PromisesCameron pledges the Uk to a war without end and without meaningThis Does Not Make Us IslamophobesArticle 50 and WithdrawalEU behind Leveson CircusThe tyranny of equality lawsUK Pension Scandal

Tae The Bard

Published on 2013-01-25 03:54:00

Delivered by David Sibbald of robertburns.plus.com.To A Mouse.On turning her up in her nest with the plough, November 1785.Wee, sleekit, cowrin, tim'rous beastie,O, what a panic's in thy breastie!Thou need na start awa sae hastyWi bickering brattle!I

My Blackberry's Not Working

Published on 2013-01-24 03:20:00

A little something to brighten the day.

Busybodies

Published on 2013-01-23 03:41:00

In the past I've written about complainers; people who complain about anything and everything, but I'm realising there is now a hidden organisation called hardcorecomplainters.busybodies which enjoys officially complaining.Few, if any, of these indiv

A Letter To The Dean

Published on 2013-01-22 03:02:00

Westminster Abbey is to honour two 20th century Prime Ministers with memorials. The 'chosen' are Edward Heath (1970-74) and James Callaghan (1976-79).The Dean of Westminster, the Very Reverend Dr John Hall, said:‘The men and women who have contribu

The Penny's Dropping

Published on 2013-01-21 03:45:00

What a strange weekend, one of those weekends when you wonder if some journalists have had their beer

Shocking European Politics

Published on 2013-01-20 03:27:00

The above took place in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-01-19 03:30:00

The State Department and EU are natural alliesWarnings Not to Use 'E15' Gas in Your Car (video) - although not (yet) produced here this is a must read.Dick Out And AboutListening to General Sir Peter WallNot sure whether to laugh or cry

Neigh Problem

Published on 2013-01-18 06:15:00

What a stooshie about the Irish food agency's findings of horse meat in hamburgers. Tesco, in particular, appears to have had the highest percentage of the meat in its burgers.The food agency found that 10 out of 27 hamburger products analysed contai

More Death In Afghanistan

Published on 2013-01-17 03:22:00

Yet another member of HM Forces is dead.

Favourite Scots Words

Published on 2013-01-16 03:25:00

During the festive season I helped a friend in her kitchen. She asked me to add some spices to a sauce and provided me with the container. In order to find the quantity required I asked her how much would I use. She replied, "Just a bit."

A Little Self-Indulgence

Published on 2013-01-15 03:16:00

The Australian Open started yesterday and Andy played his first match in the very early hours of this morning. He won comfortably 6-3, 6-1, 6-3.Like the graphic?

Scotland's Aid Budget Will Make Scotland 'A World Leader"

Published on 2013-01-14 03:32:00

To say I shook my head in disbelief when I read this article in the Herald would be an understatement.A couple of quotes from Humza Yousaf, the first Scottish minister to hold a foreign portfolio:"The aim should be, when independence comes, hopefully

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-01-13 03:33:00

Remember this man?

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-01-12 03:18:00

A Remarkable EscapeThinking about thoriumstopgreensuicide.com

World Battleground

Published on 2013-01-11 03:39:00

The image is the beginning of a short video which I am unable to embed here, but fthink it's a superb animation. It can be viewed here on Youtube.It shows all the important battles that took place over the last ten centuries.

My First Computer - What Was Yours?

Published on 2013-01-10 03:34:00

During the set up of my new Mac, my thoughts turned to how far technology has come since I purchased my first computer. Sadly my own skills have lagged far behind but I

Another Tragedy In Afghanistan

Published on 2013-01-09 03:08:00

What If?

Published on 2013-01-08 03:51:00

When Margaret Thatcher was in charge of these islands, she made some decisions which left me speechless. Two which still irk me today are the decimation of the coal and steel industries.At the time she took on Arthur Scargill, (odious man), I was wor

Child Benefit - Should It Be Scrapped?

Published on 2013-01-07 03:25:00

According to the Guardian 4.6 million women, who receive child tax credit directly, will be affected by the reforms to child benefit.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2013-01-06 03:46:00

Apogee's choice this week and it's the wonderful Melissa Venema. There's nothing like a well played brass instrument to brighten the day.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2013-01-05 03:31:00

Nestle KitKat SpatThe End of BritainLiving next to a wind farmSneer And Loathing In The UKWhy Ireland's new abortion law is madSteps Leading to the Stepping Stone of Independence (part 8)Another year of madnessAl Gore gives Big-Oil-Government a TV ch

John Logie Baird Probably Is Birling In His Grave

Published on 2013-01-04 04:05:00

I'm out of touch with the days this week. Until an hour ago I was convinced today was Saturday and was preparing my usual Take Your Pick post.

The Proposal

Published on 2013-01-03 03:42:00

Is Scotland's Renewables Policy Unrealistic?

Published on 2013-01-02 03:02:00

Yesterday this part of Scotland was bathed in sunshine: a bright beginning to a New Year.

Happy New Year

Published on 2012-12-31 18:00:00

May I wish all my readers a Happy New Year, good health and contentment in 2013.

The Untouchables

Published on 2012-12-31 03:29:00

I couldn't decide what to write for the final post of 2012 but Apogee made my decision for me by sending the following email.As I grow older my faith in politicians fades and I now realise few politicians have any power whatsoever. Big banks failed o

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-12-30 03:49:00

Since March I've been following the progress of Jonathan Antoine and Charlotte Jaconelli.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-12-29 03:16:00

Westminster's bedroom tax to deepen Scots austerity painHunting Foxes With HoundsBack To Blogging!EU politics: why integration must failReasons to be fearfulTime to say no.Fake Charitiesi's not dottedUnionist nutters leave the internet as they abando

New Technology

Published on 2012-12-28 03:20:00

Stupidly I upgraded my OS X system yesterday and now find my Mac is terribly slow.

What Is Normal Anyway?

Published on 2012-12-27 03:30:00

I would call myself 'normal'.

Retirement

Published on 2012-12-26 03:16:00

Q:

Christmas Music

Published on 2012-12-25 03:54:00

What a wonderful shine he has on his cello.

Merry Christmas

Published on 2012-12-24 04:08:00

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-12-23 03:23:00

The choir of Christ Church Cathedral, Oxford sing Dvorak in D which is traditionally sung on the fourth Sunday of Advent.

The EU Proposes A Single Language For Europe

Published on 2012-12-22 03:39:00

This week my main topic has been the EU so I thought I'd end the week on a cheerier note.A few of you may have seen this proposal already. The European Commission has just announced an agreement whereby English will be the official language of the Eu

The Paradox of Politics and Cost/Benefit Ratios

Published on 2012-12-21 03:52:00

A guest post from John Souter.Many column inches (or should that be centimetres) have been allocated to the utterances of Mr Barroso on the 'in's and out's' of an independent Scotland and the EU.

Sex Education Has Let Down Our Children

Published on 2012-12-20 03:43:00

"Another one sexting Sarge. Chuck him in theback with the others."

A Day In Brussels

Published on 2012-12-19 03:21:00

MEPs at work.This is productivity in Brussels.They get €8,000+ a month for their efforts.They receive very generous expenses too.€8,000+ a monthWorking for the good of their countriesYes they're paid €8,000+ a month.

Van Rumpuy Rejects Democracy

Published on 2012-12-18 03:24:00

At a public conference in Brussels last month The European Council Commission President Herman Van Rompuy, said directly electing the European Commission President at the 2014 EU elections would "organise the disappointment in advance".

Crime in TV provides a munificent bounty for the EU

Published on 2012-12-17 03:15:00

A guest post from Joe Public.Whoever suggested 'Crime doesn't Pay' obviously didn't work for the EU.When LCD screen in televisions and computer monitors began to become popular, makers of cathode-ray tubes (CRT) realised their market was rapidly shri

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-12-16 03:03:00

This laddie is 7 years old.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-12-15 04:01:00

The United Federation of Planets says YesThe Armageddon ShowAs The West Meddle AgainJust SayingWho pulled the switch?Misuse of PowersThe EU's P45Give The Lady A BreakSleeping in The Car

A Seasonal Reminder

Published on 2012-12-14 03:15:00

Useless Fact

Published on 2012-12-12 03:30:00

Unless you live another 88 years of course!

Is Modern Society To Blame?

Published on 2012-12-11 03:38:00

King Edward V11 hospitalHow could a hoax telephone call cause the death of Mrs Saidanha, a well respected nurse at London's King Edward V11 hospital?The answer isn't known, but what is known is that Mrs Saidanha took her work very seriously and she w

Sir Patrick Moore 1923 - 2012

Published on 2012-12-10 03:34:00

One of my first recollections of Sir Patrick Moore was back in the late 50s when he presented The Sky At Night. Hi accelerated speech intrigued me and his monocled eye led me to assume he was extraordinarily rich.He mesmerised me, so much so that my

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-12-09 06:53:00

Another Isaac Guillory piece as so many enjoyed the last one. He died in 2000 of undetected cancer (according to Wiki).

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-12-08 03:50:00

Why Should Strasbourg Decide On Our Human Rights?Scottish NewsIs television upside down Down Under?A curious transformationPriests are not press meat, says StrasbourgImpounding Drink Drivers' VehiclesThe 4th estate we never hadI'm Already On Strike"M

Can You Read This At Normal Reading Speed?

Published on 2012-12-07 03:32:00

I've seen this before with the letters out of order but this is the first time I've seen it done with numbers.7H15 M3554G353RV35 7O PR0V3H0W 0UR M1ND5 C4ND0 4M4Z1NG 7H1NG5!1MPR3551V3 7H1NG5!1N 7H3 B3G1NN1NG17 WA5 H4RD BU7N0W, 0N 7H15 LIN3Y0UR M1ND 1S

Safe Walking

Published on 2012-12-06 03:20:00

It's been freezing the last few nights and although I have winter tyres, walking from the warmth of my card-playing haunts to the car.A few years ago I was given a pair of ice grips to attach to my boots/shoes for such occasions and I've been truly g

Public Information Signs

Published on 2012-12-05 03:36:00

The Country With People Power

Published on 2012-12-04 03:21:00

The country is Iceland - the butt of politicians sarcastic

Scotland And Press Regulation

Published on 2012-12-03 03:15:00

It wasn't a particularly comfortable time for the Westminster coalition in the past week.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-12-02 04:21:00

Barney's choice this week. I was never a Grappelli fan although I admired his talent.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-12-01 03:39:00

Levenson(sic), Power and the Freedom of SpeechThe BBC in overdrive for global warming and the EUMcAlpine LawsuitsWhoops, someone slipped upRotherham: a missed opportunity for UKIPDon't wish Beveridge a happy birthdayNorway, Scotland, and why I was wr

Happy St Andrew's Day

Published on 2012-11-30 07:52:00

Poll Results - TLP

Published on 2012-11-30 03:11:00

The result of the poll which asked the question 'Should The Liverpool Pathway Be Scrapped?' has produced 76.04% in favour of ridding the Scottish and other health services of the 'target'.Politicians are becoming aware caring is a skill slowly recedi

Another Attempt To Weaken My Identity

Published on 2012-11-29 03:35:00

How often these days do we hear of grossly overpaid bureaucrats deciding some action didn't fit their pre-planned agenda?The usual reason is "We had a complaint."

I Dare You Not To Smile

Published on 2012-11-28 03:27:00

Perhaps some of you missed this video which is 'doing the rounds', so do enjoy. Leo's Mum, who took it while he was sitting in his car seat, uploaded it to Youtube in 2009 but it's been hidden away until now.I dare you not to smile.

Care Before Targets Please

Published on 2012-11-27 03:21:00

The MSP Keith Brown has been blowing the Scottish government's trumpet about the NHS.Welcoming a newly published annual report into the 2100/2012 performance of the NHS in Scotland, which revealed the NHS has delivered some of its best ever performan

It Doesn't Do It For Me

Published on 2012-11-26 03:01:00

The Scottish Tories have launched a new logo (image above).Ruth Davidson, the party leader, said it was: "bold, fresh and easy to recognise. Obviously inspired by the St Andrew's Cross, it is distinctly Scottish but with colours which clearly reflect

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-11-25 03:09:00

Chosen by Demetrius this week. Recorded during a live performance in 1987.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-11-24 03:33:00

The mystery man of the BBC in ScotlandChristmas Lights Go Out in EuropeAbandoned Suitcases Reveal Privates Lives Of Insane Asylum PatientsWho Killed Holly and Jessica?The Real Doh! About DohaLatest Screen Cleaning TechnologyPrisoners and PowerBringin

American States Call For Independence

Published on 2012-11-23 03:17:00

There hasn't been much talk in the popular media about America's

To Whom It May Concern

Published on 2012-11-22 03:28:00

click to enlargeHAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!

An Important Reason To Vote Yes

Published on 2012-11-21 03:16:00

click to enlargeCourtesy of the superb BBC Scotlandshire

Flawed Science Costs Us Dearly

Published on 2012-11-20 03:42:00

The average annual household energy bill is £1,330 - twice what it was five years ago.The 'big six' energy companies are claiming that aside from the wholesale gas price, the biggest factor in rising tariffs is the raft of subsidies for wind farms a

Alex Salmond's Gay Marriage Dilemma

Published on 2012-11-19 03:34:00

The subject of gay marriage is of little interest to me but it continues to be in the headlines. I supported the Civil Partnership legislation because I thought it only right that two people who care deeply for each other have the choice of making th

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-11-18 04:01:00

One of Hazel Lowry's favourites - Isaac Guillory. This recording of Blues Is Just A Bad Dream was made at the Freight and Salvage, Berkeley in 1989.

Just When The Public Think BBC Standards Can't Go Lower

Published on 2012-11-17 03:20:00

Check out the 'injured' male at around 2:11 and witness his remarkable recovery at around 2:42.

Angela Merkel

Published on 2012-11-16 03:39:00

Click to enlarge

The EU And Afghanistan

Published on 2012-11-15 03:35:00

While America is enthralled in the sexual behaviour of two of their top brass, little has been mentioned in the US press about the EU's cut in financial aid to Kabul.The EU cites inefficiency - rather hypocritical when the same EU's books have never

Hung Out To Dry

Published on 2012-11-14 03:12:00

Sally Nightingale (pictured above with her husband Danny) is a woman of courage.

Our Next War

Published on 2012-11-13 03:17:00

A British soldier was killed in Afghanistan on Sunday.

We Will Remember Them

Published on 2012-11-11 04:58:00

This video was produced before hundreds of British troops were killed in Afghanistan.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-11-10 03:10:00

Orange Order Material Used In Primary SchoolsSlow learnersDeath by the Clyde...Focus on alcoholTransactions and deathHugely Dissatisfied...

An Unusual Bank

Published on 2012-11-09 03:22:00

To celebrate the 130th anniversary of the founding of Banco Sabadell, earlier this year the Banco organised a campaign 'Som Sabadell' as a way of paying homage to the people of the city.The above is the 'flashmob' that the Banco arranged as a final c

Can Small Towns Be Regenerated?

Published on 2012-11-08 03:23:00

Regularly I receive emails about the regeneration of small town centres.

The US Has Chosen

Published on 2012-11-07 03:32:00

It was a long night for political pundits as the US election votes were, until around 3am, continually too close to call.I feel asleep listening to Radio5 Live's commentary and wondering how many BBC staff were in the US covering the event.

The Best US Campaign Video

Published on 2012-11-06 03:06:00

Biden doesn't even notice his mistake which goes to prove most politicians don't listen to themselves yet expect us to listen.My thanks to Alan and his eagle eyes.

Palliative Care, Negligence Or Murder?

Published on 2012-11-05 03:47:00

The older I become the more aware I am of my own mortality.It's not just the increase in the number of funerals I attend or hearing of friends who are no longer able to do tasks they could do ten years ago (that includes myself), but it's a deepening

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-11-04 03:28:00

Julia Fowlis, accompanied by her husband Eamon Doorley (gouzouki) and good friend Duncan Chisholm on the fiddle.Enjoy.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-11-03 04:31:00

Smoke SignalsWhat Every Parent Should Know About Steiner-Waldorf SchoolsComing Undone (should be read together with above link)Scottish Constitutional Futures Forum (new site)The Scale of the Universe 2Nothing Short Of BarbaricBannedIt's Official. Th

Am I Missing Something?

Published on 2012-11-02 04:33:00

Membership of the European Union is a problem, not only for Westminster Tory MPs who want to leave the EU, but for those formally debating the membership of an independent Scotland.The goings-on in Westminster will be of little interest to the Scotti

A Tacky Effort To Pacify Complainants

Published on 2012-11-01 04:11:00

National Express buses operate throughout Scotland.

More Fatalities

Published on 2012-10-31 04:27:00

Yesterday the bodies of two soldiers killed in Afghanistan last week were returned to their families here. The circumstances of their death is still being investigated, although the initial review ruled out friendly fire.In Afghanistan, earlier in th

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-10-30 04:24:00

Scotland and SpainA run-of-the-mill superpowerMichael MarraWhy shouldn't porn stars be in panto?Where are you, great Oden?The Scale of the Universe

Alex Salmond's Position Is Secure

Published on 2012-10-29 04:22:00

Somehow I have an overwhelming desire to throw something at the television whenever Danny Alexander appears. Often I've pondered on my dislike of the Libdem MP and only today I realised what irritates me.

An Example of A Renewable Energy Policy

Published on 2012-10-27 03:20:00

EDF became the fifth big energy company to announce a price hike yesterday. They are increasing prices by 10.8% from 7 December, citing the (disputable) excuses of higher network charges, energy efficiency and social schemes and wholesale energy costs. Folk living in the north of Scotland will pay even more than the rest of the UK.The company insisted its new standard variable prices would still be lower than those of the other four big suppliers to have announced price rises recently.E.ON is th [..]

Two More Fatalities

Published on 2012-10-26 03:44:00

Two British military personnel were killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday and a third was injured.

NATO And The EU

Published on 2012-10-25 03:23:00

After a conference in which the SNP leadership's main aim was to convince the delegates that it was essential for an independent Scotland to join NATO and attained their goal by a very slim margin of consent, Alex Salmond and the rest of the leadership could have been forgiven for congratulating themselves and returning to the humdrum business of running the country. Before I leave the NATO issue, I have yet to find verification for Angus Robertson's adamant statement in which he insisted 75 % o [..]

Disappearing Car Door

Published on 2012-10-24 03:13:00

Inventions never cease to amaze and although there are a multitude of questions yet to be answered about such car doors, the idea is superb and very practical.

Power Over Principle?

Published on 2012-10-22 03:43:00

The above building is well on its way to completion for 2015 at a cost of a mere £105m to the UK taxpayers.The resplendent glass structure is the new NATO HQ building, situated on the northern side of the dual carriageway leading from Brussels towards Zaventem Airport, in an area which previously could only be described as 'no man's land'. No doubt Alex Salmond is pleased SNP delegates narrowly voted for his proposal for an independent Scotland to join NATO, but will the newly adopted

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-10-21 03:03:00

A delightful video which is a favourite of JRB's.The summary from Youtube:Evangelos Odysseas Papathanassiou (born 29 March 1943) is a Greek composer of electronic, progressive, ambient, jazz, pop rock and orchestral music, under the artist name Vangelis.In a career spanning 50 years, writing and composing more than 52 albums, Vangelis is also regarded by some music critics as one of the greatest living composers of electronic musicTrack from "China" 1979Thank you JRB. A most enchanting way to st [..]

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-10-20 03:39:00

Free Speech?

The New BBC Test Card

Published on 2012-10-19 03:16:00

Courtesy of BBC Scotlandshire

Minimum Pricing Halted

Published on 2012-10-18 03:27:00

My views on a minimum price for alcohol in Scotland haven't changed since I wrote this post

Another Britishness Project From Cameron

Published on 2012-10-17 03:26:00

My apologies for not mentioning this before now, but I make no apology for this being a continuation of yesterday's post.David Cameron wants to spend more that £50 million on nationally commemorating the Great War under plans to mark its centenary starting in August 2014 and finishing on Armistice Day 2018.I'm not going to discuss

How Will The Unionists Cope With The Commonwealth Games?

Published on 2012-10-16 03:47:00

Argh!The PM arrived, the FM greeted him on the doorstep of St Andrew's House, the deal was duly signed and the press acted according to plan by photographing every stage-managed move.All is well with the progress of the independence referendum and if one commentator is correct (I think it was Brian Taylor), then Mr Salmond will have control over the details of the various campaigning parties.Last night I had a telephone call from an English friend who has lived in Scotland for nearly 50 years. O [..]

A Historic Day For Scotland

Published on 2012-10-15 03:23:00

Salmond and Cameron at Wimbledon FinalToday is being described as 'historic' in some of the media, however one reason I would describe it in that way is because David Cameron has been forced into another 'must keep it as brief as possible because I don't like the place' visit. Another reason is because the signing of the deal signals the start of a 100 week battle over the UK's constitutional future.The drawn out process of the ballot question has turned many away from the independence debate.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-10-14 03:10:00

Andy Murray plays Novak Djokovic in the final of the Beijing Masters in China this morning.I thought the music would be appropriate for the occasion as I always need a little calming before and during one of his matches.If you don't enjoy tennis I hope you enjoy the music.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-10-13 03:29:00

Can't, won't, but probably will, payMichael Yon - Stunning LetterIs the IMF now recommending capital controls...?Ruth Davidson's stoking up a political disasterYoung NationalistsRemember Thalidomide?Time limits, gender and abortionRevealed at last: The Hunt - Bottomley linkNow she can write more novelsA late addition for readers in England: How the NHS was lost

What Is A Nation?

Published on 2012-10-12 03:23:00

Throughout the summer, during the Diamond Jubilee celebrations, the Olympics and now in the round of irritatingly dull party conferences, one word more than any other, has dripped off the lips of the desperate unionist politicians and that is 'nation'.

At Long Last The EU Will Ban Mercury Fillings

Published on 2012-10-11 03:44:00

In the 50s and 60s dentists filled the teeth of children with dental amalgam, the black/silver fillings which contain anywhere from 49 to 54 per cent mercury.

Rewarding Failure

Published on 2012-10-10 03:08:00

Image courtesy of WikipediaIt wouldn't surprise me if you don't recognise Lin Homer (pictured); not many of us know what Whitehall and Holyrood mandarins look like as they tend to prefer to stay in the background and well out of range of the media.Ms Homer was named by Richard Branson last month as one of the handful of officials at the Department of Transport whom his Virgin Rail team met during 2011 to voice concerns over the bid process for the West Coast rail franchise.The compensation estim [..]

Home Made Ice Cream Using Condensed Milk

Published on 2012-10-09 03:37:00

Dr Rohen Kapur

Grannies, Childcare And Parenting

Published on 2012-10-08 03:17:00

Last week two bloggers had a conversation on Twitter about childcare. It was started by Ellen who asked opinions about the plans for a National Parenting

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-10-07 03:43:00

I don't know which version you prefer so I've post my two favourites.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-10-06 03:24:00

Scotland makes the world seem smallWhat Doctors Don't Tell You24 reasons for 24 weeksJohanna Lamont is correct shockerooni!What do fruits and vegetables look like inside an MRI?Who does Scotland want to be Prime Minister in 2015?

Carnation Milk In 1947

Published on 2012-10-05 03:25:00

Whether this is a true story or not, I hope it brightens your day.A little old lady from Jervois had worked in and around her family dairy farms since she was old enough to walk, with hours of hard work and little compensation.When canned Carnation Milk became available in grocery stores in approximately the 1940s, she read an advertisement offering $5,000 for the best slogan.

A Modern Medical Scandal

Published on 2012-10-04 03:11:00

I've a dose of the cold.

Where's Tennis?

Published on 2012-10-03 03:44:00

While this morning's papers report on Chris Hoy's delight at having a brand new velodrome emblazoned with his name and ready well in advance of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow 2014, my thoughts turned to another sport.It's tennis.

Nearing The End Of The Beginning - Alex Salmond - 1, David Cameron - 0

Published on 2012-10-02 03:10:00

Most Sunday papers this weekend suggested David Cameron must be feeling rather smug because, in the final stages of the more than tedious negotiations for the independence referendum, he denied Alex Salmond the right to have a second question on the ballot paper.The media consensus appears to be Westminster has won the battle of the legal aspects.I disagree.

Is A National Parenting Strategy Needed?

Published on 2012-10-01 03:08:00

The Scottish Government intends to introduce a National Parenting Strategy and I've been asked by Ross McCulloch - @ThirdSectorLab on Twitter - to write a post about what I think would make Scotland the best place in the world to bring up children.Firstly, society has changed radically in the last 60 years.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-09-30 03:08:00

A friend suggested this video for the Sunday music post.The artiste is Scottish comedian Dean Park.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-09-29 03:28:00

Trans-Carpathian RutheniaIntentions, Profiles and PredictabilityAndrew Mitchell and our rude new rulersEast Coast tweets it like it is ...The pain in Spain is mainly inhumaneIs this the end of 'Scottish' Labour?Serco Shareholders have donated £1m to the Tories and Lib Dems as 5 government politicians benefit directly.Darling reveals no vote means nothing for ScotlandWell-dressed protesters gatecrash HMRC boss's black-tie party (video)Troublesome slags: What Rochdale reveals about our attitudes [..]

EU Poll Results

Published on 2012-09-28 03:43:00

The media often mention, when reporting matter relating to the European Union, that the Scots are far more in favour of belonging to the 'club' than the English.The poll asked 'Should an independent Scotland be in the EU?' and the results may surprise some - they did me.

The Last Of The Crooners

Published on 2012-09-27 03:31:00

Andy Williams died on Monday at the age of 84.His rendition of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' brings back some particularly happy days for me.Along with the likes of Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jnr., his music was labelled 'easy listening'.

The Missing Video

Published on 2012-09-26 03:03:00

My apologies for the omission of the video in yesterday's post.

Keeping The Lights On

Published on 2012-09-25 03:29:00

Edward Spalton kindly sent me the above video in which Roger Helmer launches UKIP's new energy policy at their national conference in Birmingham.According to Edward Mr Helmer speaks a lot of sense.

The Libdems Are About To Join Forces With The Scottish Tories

Published on 2012-09-24 03:07:00

Nick Clegg has signed the death warrant of the Liberal Democrats.'Riches are evil' stated the Deputy Leader of the Westminster Government at his party's conference this weekend.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-09-23 03:27:00

Can you pick out the odd photograph in the following album?Last orders at the Devil's KitchenWelcome to ScotlandLabour MP Ian Davidson Calls On Removal Of Nationalist From Commonwealth GamesSpoof BBC website is unashamedly biased, but can you tell it from the real thing?Plods and Plebs

The Spoils Of War

Published on 2012-09-22 03:10:00

The spoils of war are depicted as material gains seized from the enemy during or after a conflict.

Perfect Subtitles

Published on 2012-09-21 03:39:00

This week Libdems struggled to explain Nick Clegg's apology over his tuition fees policy.

Organised Retreat Of Defeated Armies

Published on 2012-09-20 03:39:00

Helmand is the largest of the 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

Ball Games

Published on 2012-09-19 03:27:00

In yesterday's Scottish Review Kenneth Roy was scathing about the 'amorphous mass adulation of Olympic medal winners' and described it as an increasingly odd phenomenon, yet he insists the hero worship given to Jock Stein is perfectly normal human behaviour. Football managers Willie Waddell and Jock Stein are still regarded with affection, even reverence he write yet his article suggests no Olympic medalist is worthy of such adulation.His taxi driver's loyalties to the Celtic team derived from i [..]

It's A Wonderful World

Published on 2012-09-18 03:17:00

It's a wonderful world - the world of music that is.Last week the Burd wrote a post in support of the Scotland on Sunday's campaign for the introduction of free musical tuition for all in schools.

An Engineering Marvel

Published on 2012-09-17 03:02:00

Whether you're a 'bird person' or not this is stunning. Not to detract from the sheer magic of it, but in practical terms,how many trips would a bird have to make with that tiny quantity of mud/clay it could carry?How does the bird come up with the windbreak/entrance design that shields the eggs/chicks from the elements?

Bring Captain Wales Home

Published on 2012-09-16 03:27:00

Yesterday the MoD announced the deaths of another three British soldiers in Afghanistan.One soldier, from the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, was killed on Friday when the vehicle in which he was travelling struck an improvised explosive device in the Nahr-e Saraj of Helmand Province. The other two, from the 3rd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, were shot dead by a man wearing a local police uniform and were killed at a checkpoint in the south of Nahr-e Saraj yesterday.The news of their deaths w [..]

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-09-15 03:38:00

SNP reveals £1.35bn cost of overseas baseInterns - The Road To Political SuccessAn Elizabethian SummerEurocrash: Germany - a tale of many pollsIf I wanted Britain to FailNew Olympic sport: sneering at squaddiesThat Starbucks LogoHootsmon HeadlinesThe real meaning behind Section 30Legislating for Scottish IndependenceNow We Know!Sex work and the London 2012 Olympics - How was it for you?Sloe Gin and the Shameful history of Britain

Paddy Power

Published on 2012-09-14 03:18:00

Today there is a procession of Scots Olympians and Paralympians in Scotland's biggest city to celebrate their achievements in London 2012.I understand Andy Murray will be unable to attend.

It's The Least David Cameron Can Do

Published on 2012-09-13 03:09:00

It's taken 23 years for the real story of the Hillborough disaster and it's horrendous reading.

Police Constable Or Political Correctness?

Published on 2012-09-12 03:47:00

A guest post from Edward Spalton (pictured above).The following article was published in the British Church newspaper on 7 September.The Guardian of the Law -Police Constable or Political Correctness?COMPARE AND CONTRAST the following (as they used to say in examination papers).I …....do solemnly and sincerely declare and affirm that I will well and truly serve our Sovereign Lady the Queen in the office of Constable, without favour or affection, malice or ill will; and that I will to the best [..]

The 76-Year Wait Is Over

Published on 2012-09-11 03:17:00

Britain has another male Grand Slam champion after 76 years and Scotland has its first. A brilliant, gutsy performance and achieved without a penny of taxpayer's money. The fact that Djokovic had won four of the previous seven Grand Slam tournaments, including the last three played on hard courts, underlined the magnitude of Andy's achievement.He should have the freedom of Dunblane.Let's not forget his predecessor:Fred Perry US Open - 10 Sept 1936picture courtesy of the Daily MailMore facts: And [..]

Another Casualty

Published on 2012-09-10 03:03:00

A soldier from The Light Dragoons has been killed by a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.The vehicle in which he was travelling hit an improvised explosive device in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province.His death follows that of Guardsman Karl Whittle, 22, who died in hospital in Birmingham on Friday.The number of members of UK forces to have died since this futile war began in October 2001 is now 427.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-09-09 03:33:00

Something a little unusual this morning. The mix of heavy metal and classical is superb.

Seldom Remembered

Published on 2012-09-08 04:57:00

On 14 August a soldier, from 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards, was serving in Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province when he was seriously injured during enemy action.He was flown back to the UK for treatment at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham, but died from his wounds on Friday.He is the 32nd member of the armed forces to die in Afghanistan this year and the 426th since the unwinnable war began.Seldom remembered are those seriously or very seriously injured in this war. From January [..]

A Guid Scottish Makeover

Published on 2012-09-07 03:19:00

Alex Salmond changed some faces round the Cabinet table this week and within 48 hours George Osborne paid a brief visit to Scotland to peddle another scaremongering message - taxes would rise in an independent Scotland.

Britain's Unsung - Most Decorated Paralympian

Published on 2012-09-06 03:38:00

Most of the Scottish media will be reporting upon Alex Salmond's reshuffle this morning but I prefer to mention an unsung hero.Mike Kenny (pictured) has won 16 gold medals in the Paralympics over the years yet few, if any, know of the unassuming swimmer.Mr Kenny was paralysed in an accident in 1971 and although he was a keen swimmer beforehand, it was under Ludwig Guttermann at Stoke Mandeville, that he developed his competitive streak.

Wine Humour

Published on 2012-09-05 03:03:00

An Independent Scotland And The EU

Published on 2012-09-04 03:29:00

Yesterday's post from Apogee produced some excellent comments and one of the main points was the SNP's policy regarding membership of the EU.I've yet to hear of any SNP MP or MSP questioning the policy in recent times and this gives me cause for concern.Why is the SNP so determined to be dependent upon Brussels yet so determined to be independent of London? After the financial crash in 2008 Iceland's politicians hurriedly made application for EU membership in the belief that they would gain mone [..]

Independence And 'Yes Scotland'

Published on 2012-09-03 03:19:00

A guest post by Apogee.The more I read about this the more I feel I am being asked to sign a blank cheque. The more I read the less I know.I still do not have a clue what the aim of independence is apart from changing the captain in the middle of the sargasso sea and the ones on the boat are as slippery as the eels in the water and with as many teeth.If I am asked to jump out of the frying pan I want to know what I am jumping into.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-09-02 03:25:00

Today's music is the preferred choice of Clarinda who requested this videoin memory of the the five Australian soldiers killed in Afghanistan this week. Two of the soldiers were named yesterday. Both were special forces and one was on his sixth deployment to Afghanistan.Clarinda's email said:'The lyrics get me every time and although written for the dead almost 100 years ago – nothing much changes.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-09-01 03:45:00

Why Labour should fear Boris as PMWhat's so special about Sundays?Medicating the healthyWomen and Alex SalmondNato - Snow White and the 27 DwarvesBusting an EU MythIslands of isolationI should have done moreAsking Questions

A Maori Farewell

Published on 2012-08-31 03:47:00

On 19 August an IED explosion took the lives of three New Zealand troops in Afghanistan.Lance Corporal Jacinda Baker, 26, was the first New Zealand female killed in that war and her colleagues who also perished were Richard Harris, 21, and Lance Corporal Luke Tamatea, 31.

Wi-fi On The High Street

Published on 2012-08-30 03:39:00

At last one of Britain's top retailers has decided to offer free wi-fi in all its stores.Some may wonder at my subdued excitement at this announcement, but only very recently I realised how inconvenient it is when wi-fi isn't available if you don't have an expensive mobile contract.My washing machine decided the time had come for it to go to the spare parts department and I was in urgent need of a replacement.

The Gask Frontier

Published on 2012-08-29 03:36:00

My interest in Roman history began when I lived in Shropshire.

Cartoons For the Mature Reader

Published on 2012-08-28 03:31:00

Click to enlarge any cartoon.

A Good Weekend For Burying Bad News

Published on 2012-08-27 03:11:00

As the furore about the behaviour of one over-privileged citizen continues unabated, the self-promoting John Bercow has asked MPs, Lords and civil servants to explore a refit of the Palace of Westminster.As Speaker he chairs the House of Commons Commission which oversees the day to day running of the Westminster Parliament.The refit is estimated to cost £3 billion and those supporting the move say it is needed to avoid paying a further £7 billion over the next 30 years.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-08-26 03:14:00

Jeanne's (J R Tomlin) choice for a Sunday morning today. Johnny Cash was never a favourite of mine but perhaps that's because my best friend flooded my senses with his recordings.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-08-25 03:23:00

Smart MetersLand Reform Review GroupSome light on a key legal issue surrounding the Assange caseDog ShamingCan consent ever be seen as a 'grey area'?Policy Exchange on 'expensive social housing" - reasons to be miserableSwiss keep religion at a distanceOn So Many Levels

Abandoned Scotland

Published on 2012-08-24 03:17:00

I was introduced to a series of videos which record areas of Scotland which have been left to rot.

Did Democracy Die In Scotland Yesterday?

Published on 2012-08-23 03:09:00

Union Street in the '50sA couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of entertaining visitors from Aberdeen. They'd lived there all their lives and we enjoyed recalling the pre-oil days in the 1950s when a bustling Union Street was a definite competitor to Edinburgh's Princes Street for the accolade of the most attractive city street in Scotland.As a wee girl I used to spend my school summer holidays near Aberdeen with my grandmother's sister.

One Woman Who David Cameron Should Insist Is Recognised By The Honours Committee

Published on 2012-08-22 03:29:00

Winnie Johnson died at the weekend.

Referendum Question Solved

Published on 2012-08-21 03:21:00

The media is still preoccupied with Julian Assange's latest self-preservation tactic and none, apart from the Scotsman, has reported David Cameron's latest remarks regarding independence for Scotland.The MP's message was relayed courtesy of 'sources close to the Prime Minister' who warned a substantial increase in financial powers for Holyrood is not an option if Scotland wants to remain within the UK.The warning, according to Eddie Barnes, appears to rule out both devo-max and other forms of fi [..]

The Third Death This Month

Published on 2012-08-20 03:43:00

On Friday a British soldier was killed in Afghanistan.Twenty year old Guardsman Jamie Shadrake was serving with the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards and was killed while on sentry duty.Three British soldiers have now been killed in Helmand this month and all were expected to return home to the UK in the next few weeks. Our armed forces death toll in this war is now 425.David Cameron's promise of a withdrawal from Afghanistan is due to begin next month and an increase in the number of attacks again [..]

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-08-19 03:06:00

This morning's choice is from JRB. He commented on last week's post: "1978 really was a very, very good year (for me)".

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-08-18 03:27:00

Scottish RenewablesDouble Used In CourtThat ECB BuildingEurotopiaWarning:

Kind Or Cruel?

Published on 2012-08-17 03:09:00

Anyone with the slightest drop of compassion, must have felt sympathy with Tony Nicklinson and another 'locked-in syndrome' sufferer named only as Martin, when three High Court judges ruled that it was not the place of the courts to 'usurp the function of Parliament by effectively changing the law.Tony Nicklinson wanted legal assurance that his doctor would not be prosecuted if he gave him a lethal dose of painkillers.

MPs Continue To Mock Taxpayers

Published on 2012-08-16 04:06:00

Last year the Tory MP Nick Boles (pictured above) called for pensioners to lose their winter fuel payments and free bus travel.Also, on a personal level, Mr Boles entered into a civil partnership with Shay Meshulam.An eventful year for Mr Boles by all accounts.Tucked away in the House of Commons rule book is provision for MPs to learn foreign languages in the hope that they'll perform their public duties more efficiently.Mr Boles decided to spend an claim £678.80 learning Hebrew: coincidently h [..]

Unhappy 'No' Campaigners

Published on 2012-08-15 03:45:00

It appears the Yes campaigners, in particular Willie Rennie of the Libdems, aren't too happy with Martin Sime, the chief executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations. Mr Sime dated to read an email from the Scottish Government, in which mention was made of a second referendum question.Recently it was reported that the SCVO, which is campaigning for greater devolution, said a poll it had organised found 56% of voters wanted a second question on more

Cave Art

Published on 2012-08-14 03:28:00

One of the real benefits of the internet is how easy it is to research anything which catches personal interest.It was in the late 80s I heard about the Altamira Paleolithic cave paintings and nearly 20 years before I managed to view them in their slightly remote location in northern Spain. It was a day I will never forget; not only because of the intriguing and mysterious paintings, but I was astonished I managed to stay in the cave for a few hours rather than the few minutes I expected.

Bring Back Public Meetings

Published on 2012-08-13 03:43:00

Why does the unionist side of the Scottish independence debate expect the SNP to answer such questions?Why do they think it's the sole responsibility of the SNP to announce proposals when there are many outwith the restraints of a political party who also believe Scotland could - and should - be an independent country.I can understand why Alex Salmond and his party's reluctance to put forward more of their ideas, because in recent months any proposal announced has been ridiculed by unionists.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-08-12 03:43:00

Today it is Apogee's choice. Enjoy.

May They Rest In Peace

Published on 2012-08-11 03:14:00

British troops patrol though Nad-e AliYesterday, shortly after the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) reported that three US soldiers had been killed in an incident in south-west Afghanistan by 'an individual wearing Afghan uniform', a British soldier from 3rd Battalion The Rifles, died as a result of injuries sustained whilst on patrol in the Nad-e Ali district of Helmand Province.Later in the day the MoD announced the death of another soldier.

An Economic Analysis Politicians As Sure To Ignore

Published on 2012-08-10 03:31:00

Wind turbines in StirlingshireMy opinion of wind power is well known so there is no point in repeating it.However I would like to draw attention to this article by Watts Up With That.Dr Gordon Hughes is a Professor of Economics at the University of Edinburgh where he teaches courses in the Economics of Natural Resources ad Public Economics.His full report on 'Why Is Wind Power So Expensive' is here.

Who Are The Complainers?

Published on 2012-08-09 03:37:00

The image is from the Swedish retailer H & M's website.

Newsnight Scotland

Published on 2012-08-08 03:09:00

Is it any wonder Scottish Labour is losing voters when Ian Davidson is the best they can provide as an MP?

Stop Knocking Private Schools

Published on 2012-08-07 03:43:00

It's reported that nearly 50% of London 2012 medal winners come from a private school background."Unfair," say those who think private education is wrong in a modern Britain. "The percentage shows it's the privileged who achieve," is another oft heard remark about those who have had a private education.Is a private education a privilege?

A Gold Post Box For Dunblane

Published on 2012-08-06 03:18:00

It was over 100 years ago a member of Team GB won a singles gold in tennis at the London 2012 Olympics.Just 45 minutes after winning the singles gold, out-playing Federer most of the match, Andy Murray returned to Centre Court for the mixed doubles final with Laura Robson.

Extraordinary Talent

Published on 2012-08-05 03:46:00

I can't think of a more appropriate day to post a video of another final which took place earlier in the year. Charlotte Jaconelli, 16 and Jonathan Antoine, 17 didn't win the top prize on Britain's Got Talent (a dog did), but it was a life changing experience for them both.Their success is credited to two teachers at their comprehensive school.Today the laddie from Dunblane participates in two finals. What can I say other than to wish him well.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-08-04 03:11:00

Westminster and independence: that Fabian pollHow Britain's energy future is dangerously compromisedScottish and UK governments urged to sanction under-18 voting rightsThe real cost of London 2012 (part two)Bloggers think and MSM journalists don'tNovember 2014 - The End?Stop the theatrical and get down to the facts!Could we please call 'honour killing' murder?

Minimum Pricing - Poll Results

Published on 2012-08-03 03:09:00

As can be seen from the result of the 'Should the whisky industry launch a legal challenge to minimum pricing' the No voters led by a mere 4%.I'm surprised so many voters are content to accept legislation without question, particularly when the report on which the 'evidence' is based is a model - along the lines of the global warming scam.It is to be hoped that an independent Scotland would have another parliamentary chamber in which all proposed legislation can be rigorously examined and questi [..]

A Gold Post Box For Lossiemouth

Published on 2012-08-02 03:36:00

Helen Stanning and her rowing partner Helen Glover were the first British female rowers to win an Olympic title yesterday and walked off with a Gold.Ms Stanning is a captain in the Army and they gave her 18 months leave to practice for the event.

Time To Do The Honorable Thing Eric

Published on 2012-08-01 03:14:00

Eric Joyce, currently the ex-Labour MO for Falkirk, was ordered to wear an electronic tag after being convicted of assaulting politicians in a House of Commons bar.On 4 July he fancied taking part in a Commons versus Lords charity boat race on the Thames and decided to cut off his tag to 'avoid negative publicity'.Removing the tag triggered an electronic buzzer and he was contacted by the security firm Serco, who are responsible for supervising tag wearers.According to the Scotsman, Joyce's lawy [..]

Where Was Robbie Burns?

Published on 2012-07-31 03:33:00

Friday night was Opening Night. Yes, I did watch it, or as much of it as my senses could handle. It was a bewildering spectacle which must have been incomprehensible to viewers from abroad. One in which Scotland was acknowledged in a two minute image of children singing in the surroundings of Edinburgh Castle and Emeli Sande's distinctive rendering of 'Abide With Me'.The event was described as showing 'the things we love about Britain' - the Industrial Revolution, the digital revolution, the NHS [..]

Is Scottish Labour Finally Wakening Up?

Published on 2012-07-30 03:47:00

Tucked away on the economistjobs website is an advertisement entitled 'Head of Scotland Analysis and Stakeholder Engagement, HM Treasury, Edinburgh, Scotland'. It seems London wants to open a branch of the Treasury in Edinburgh and needs an economist.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-07-29 04:21:00

A little music from one of the most prolific composers of all time. Bach didn't really invent any new forms of music but perfected the classical forms and set the benchmark for classical compositions.Air on a G-string is from his 3rd orchestral suite in D major and it is played here by the RFCM symphony orchestra.One of the more plausible reasons why it is called Air on a G-string comes via Wiki:The title comes from violinist

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-07-28 04:14:00

Could they or would they manufacture a collapse to save the Union?A Catholic Reply to "How to Suck At Your Religion"Let no man put asunderCaptain HaddockDemocracy AuditGovernment pays people to set the questions ...Have They Started?MSPs misled over Stern

Easy Targets For the Borders Agency

Published on 2012-07-27 03:21:00

Under current rules foreign and Commonwealth troops can claim British citizenship after four years of military service. There are currently 8,505 foreign and Commonwealth soldiers serving in the British forces and that number does not include the 3,880 Gurkhas who previously won the right to residency. But a new law, which appears to be increasingly used against foreign soldiers who have been disciplined at commanding officer level, is leaving them without basic rights or status.

Outsourcing

Published on 2012-07-26 03:34:00

The main topic of conversation with my friends this past week has been the G4S fiasco, or meltdown as one candidly put it. Along with other massive global organisations such as Serco, most agreed that outsourcing is privatisation by the back door and none was happy with the concept.However Martyn Hart disagrees:'Outsourcing is far from privatisation – done properly, the client remains in control at all times.'Whilst I understand his reasoning - which looks good on paper - the reality is that g [..]

Money Talks

Published on 2012-07-25 03:28:00

A Scotsman walks into the Bank of England in Threadneedle Street, Central London and asks for the manager.He tells the manager that he is going to Australia on business for two weeks and needs to borrow £5,000.The manager tells him that the bank will need some form of security for the loan, so Hamish hands over the keys and documents of a new Ferrari

When Is Nakedness Offensive?

Published on 2012-07-24 03:28:00

The naked rambler Stephen Gough has been arrested once again and is back in custody. He was only released on Tuesday after spending six years in goal for 'committing a breach of the peace by conducting himself in a disorderly manner and walking naked in a public place'.

The Expansion Of A British Dynasty

Published on 2012-07-23 03:21:00

At first I thought this was purely part of the MSM's silly season, but it has been repeated often enough for me to realise there's no smoke without fire.The young man pictured is Euan, the 28 year old eldest son of Tony and Cherie Blair.According to Labour MP Tom Watson, the young Blair has shown commitment to improving his Labour credibility by taking up a public sector post, has even knocked on doors in previous by-elections and is a 'genuine Labour activist'. I do hope he didn't damage his kn [..]

Pedal Power

Published on 2012-07-22 03:28:00

As well as watching the final half hour of the Open later, I hope to see the final pedal rotations of Bradley Wiggins and his super-domestique Chris Froome on the Champs-Elysees in Paris.The last time two riders from the same national finished first and second in the Tour was 1984 when Laurent Fignon finished ahead of Bernard Hinault.At speeds of up to 68mph on occasions, these two men deserve their victories.The convention on the Tour is never to challenge the holder of the coveted Yellow Jerse [..]

Update: A Senseless Waste Of Life

Published on 2012-07-21 03:14:00

Earlier this week I wrote a post about the death of Peter Williams.My information was gleaned from the media and I did not know Mr Williams personally.I'm very grateful to Richard H Harris, a friend of Mr Williams, for taking the time to comment on my initial post and reproduce his comment here in case it's missed.We did try. For three years. If we hadn't he'd have killed himself long ago.We only managed to get him legal representation in Nov 2011. Noble Solicitors. They failed to follow instruc [..]

Minimum Pricing Needs To Be Challenged

Published on 2012-07-20 03:53:00

Yesterday, on the radio, there was discussion about the Scottish Whisky Association's confirmation that they were launching a legal challenge against the Scottish Government's minimum pricing legislation.The SWA branded the move 'misguided and said it would not reduce the number of problem drinkers'.A complaint is being made to the European Commission on the basis it is a restriction of trade and there will also be a petition for judicial review to the Court of Session.

The Long Nose Story

Published on 2012-07-19 03:36:00

After yesterday's rain I thought a little humour would be appropriate today.Sadly there aren't many recordings of Chic Murray's radio or television shows available online but I hope this one makes you smile."I admit to spending a fortune on women, booze and gambling. The rest I spend foolishly."Chic Murray 1919 - 1985

A Senseless Waste of Life

Published on 2012-07-18 03:26:00

Sixty-three year old inventor Peter Williams (pictured) took his own life In February by standing in front of a train because he had been served an eviction notice and couldn't face losing his home.Mr Williams was a brilliant engineer who died at Biggleswade months before his Vortex device was in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world's most energy efficient hand dryer.Sixteen years ago Mr Williams fell behind in his council tax payments after he fell ill and was unable to work.

A National Disaster

Published on 2012-07-17 03:06:00

Soldiers rest under camouflage covers and tarpaulin

The Rice Video

Published on 2012-07-16 03:50:00

Australians are protesting

The English Health Service And Privatisation

Published on 2012-07-15 03:33:00

'The Department of Health has appointed Lazard, an investment bank, to explore a privatisation of Plasma Resources UK (PRUK) in a move that could raise tens of millions of pounds for the taxpayer' states Sky News.For the taxpayer?

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-07-14 04:14:00

Our grandchildren may be United in a Kingdom of AusterityProtect Our National HeroesCircumcision Ruling in Germany - the FalloutIs YES going off the rails?10 reasons why Trump's golf course will failThe Lie Of 'Unaffordability'Martial Law Britain

The Reason Why G4S Was Called Into The Home Office

Published on 2012-07-13 03:30:00

Ben Fellows is an investigative journalist specialising in undercover work.

Another Stealth Tax

Published on 2012-07-12 03:14:00

The Environment Secretary, Caroline Spelman, has disclosed she's in talks with the insurance industry about a scheme which could add 10% to a householder's home insurance policy, according to the Telegraph.She's proposing the increase, which could be in place within months, in an effort to raise enough money to cover damage in the aftermath of severe flooding which can reach billions of pounds in insurance claims.In certain areas of the UK thousands of homeowners affected by this summer's floods [..]

Positive Money - The Root Of The Problem

Published on 2012-07-11 03:45:00

PositiveMoney.

... But Earth Abides

Published on 2012-07-10 03:22:00

Army 2020

Published on 2012-07-09 03:36:00

In the aftermath of yesterday's excitement - well done Andy, you did us proud - I had a meal with friends. The conversation drifted to the Westminster government's plans for the Army to comprise of 25% reservists by 2020.

Sunday Song

Published on 2012-07-08 04:39:00

For a certain Scottish sportsman.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-07-07 03:49:00

Killing with honourNeed A "Get Out Of Gaol Free" Card?SockpuppetsAstor was phenominally active in profiting from despair.Should I?And Then Some Sound Advice...Do They Think They Are Saving On Electricity?Wind Power Fraud

National Service

Published on 2012-07-06 03:25:00

Until this week I'd never heard of Lord Wei. According to

R.I.P Eric Skyes

Published on 2012-07-05 03:12:00

Perhaps the last of a generation of truly funny men died yesterday.R.I.P Eric Sykes. Thank you for hours of laughter.

Meet The Team

Published on 2012-07-04 03:24:00

A guest post by Edward Spalton.Where the money goes.

Unsolvable Religious/Cultural Differences

Published on 2012-07-03 03:37:00

Another three British soldiers have been killed by an Afghan policeman whilst they did their best to pass on their skills to the Afghan forces.Two served with the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards and one with the Royal Corps of Signals. A fourth British soldier was injured in the shooting but was not seriously hurt.Mark Cann, spokesman for the British Forces Foundation charity, said soldiers were worried about how Afghan colleagues, particularly police, were vetted."It makes everyone a little more cau [..]

A Little Mystery Revealed

Published on 2012-07-02 03:21:00

Last week the question of the No campaign funders was shrouded in mystery, but no longer.A little investigative journalism by the Herald's Tom Gordon and Paul Hutcheon has revealed some of the money is coming from the United and Cecil Club which had to forfeit an 'impermissible' donation last year. In other words it accepted £850 from a donor who was not on the UK electoral register and therefore could not make a legal donation.The Tory dining club is run from Hickmans Lane, Lindfield, Haywards [..]

Andre Rieu

Published on 2012-07-01 03:02:00

Edward's choice this week.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-06-30 03:47:00

New York City Subway Stairs (irritating design flaw)Judiciously Choosing JudgesHow to change your mindThe joys of living in EdinburghClimate Denial Hits BrazilLife on the poleThe US And The Falklands ConflictThe Order of the Thistle

When The "Sunday Best" Isn't Good Enough

Published on 2012-06-29 03:40:00

Yesterday I was browsing in a local shoe shop - or to be more accurate the only shoe shop within a 20 mile radius.Suddenly I heard gasps of 'wow' followed by lots of lovely compliments which were all addressed to a young girl who had just come through the door.

Who Are Funding The No Campaign?

Published on 2012-06-28 03:36:00

This is an excellent decision by Alex Salmond and ought to bring non-political supporters on board.The leadership combination of Blair Jenkins and Dennis Canavan will produce a solid base for the Yes Scotland campaign.However, I echo the queries of one of the article's commenters:Thanks for the information about the Yes financing. Scrutiny always needed.On the same point how is the No campaign financed? Who are its backers and where are they based? Are they Conservative businessmen?Who are the p [..]

Energy Saving Proposals For Homes

Published on 2012-06-27 03:10:00

The Scottish Government intends to introduce a Scotland-wide energy improvement for housing in order to 'cut climate change emissions'.This is nothing new although the summary accompanying the video says the SG will provide more than £2 billion to help make the nation's homes more energy efficient, although there's little detail on how this money will be distributed.More than 500,000 homes still require cavity wall insulation and more than 600,000 homes with solid walls. The blurb also states t [..]

Borders, Division And Upheaval

Published on 2012-06-26 05:14:00

Late post this morning.

Hope v Fear

Published on 2012-06-25 03:45:00

Living our lives in hope is what most of us try to do, but continually politicians do their best to crush our aspirations by restricting our potential.

Sunday Morning Music

Published on 2012-06-24 03:11:00

Two of the greats and one of my favourite songs.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-06-23 03:31:00

Too many summitsDon RobertoActing Strange Theatre Company Raided by PoliceThe Death Of The Scottish National PartyFarewell the Old Seven and Sixpennies?100 Years Of OilNow Feminists Can Hate The EU TooPolice State-Olympic Torch!So what are we going to do about it?How Scandinavian is Scotland?

Life Is Always Taxing

Published on 2012-06-22 03:31:00

I don't find Jimmy Carr's version of humour in the least amusing but perhaps that's because I'm of a generation with fond memories of Les Dawson and Morcambe and Wise.Mr Carr's finances permit him to employ those who specialise in tax avoidance.

Uisge

Published on 2012-06-21 03:39:00

It's the Summer Solstice and a cool but dry morning. At times I count my blessings and this morning I was grateful not to be a participant in the overnight sit-in at Stonehenge. I understand it was a damp affair and my thoughts turned to the problems the water industry has with the clear liquid that falls from above.Have you ever heard of an organisation called British Water?

Same Sex Marriage

Published on 2012-06-20 03:37:00

click to enlarge

Homes In Scotland - Some Facts And Figures

Published on 2012-06-19 03:19:00

It's always a delight - as well as a surprise - when a reader emails me about a post I've written and I'm very grateful so many take the time to write and keep me on the straight and narrow.The case in point yesterday was this post and Mr Hordern has kindly given a link to his interpretation of the new Scottish Stamp Duty tax and I thought it may be of interest to you.Some have said this will be another tax on the baby boomers who still live in the family home even though their children have lon [..]

Are Doctors Superior To Other Workers?

Published on 2012-06-18 03:44:00

On Thursday doctors who are members of the BMA intend to strike against reforms to their pay and pensions.

Musical Interlude

Published on 2012-06-17 03:01:00

Today's choice is from RMcGeddon.

Afghanistan

Published on 2012-06-16 03:34:00

The Ministry of Defence has named the soldier killed in Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Are We A Stasi State?

Published on 2012-06-15 03:30:00

How often do we hear the words 'for our safety and security' dripping from the lips of our political representatives?The UK is at war in Afghanistan under the pretext and now the British Home Secretary wants police to have access to our phone calls, texts and emails without the 'pressure' of applying for a court warrant.

Is 'Progressive' Fairer?

Published on 2012-06-14 03:07:00

The Scottish Parliament will have new financial powers, from 2015, over taxes on land and property transactions and on disposal to landfill.

The English Plural

Published on 2012-06-13 03:28:00

The English Plural according to ...We'll begin with a box, and the plural is boxes,But the plural of ox becomes oxen, not oxes.One fowl is a goose, but two are called geese,Yet the plural of moose should never be meese.You may find a lone mouse or a nest full of mice,Yet the plural of house is houses, not hice.If the plural of man is always called men,Why shouldn't the plural of pan be called pen?If I speak of my foot and show you my feet,And I give you a boot, would a pair be called beet?If one [..]

What's Patrick Harvie Up To?

Published on 2012-06-12 03:18:00

When the Scottish Green Party's joint lead, Patrick Harvie, stood alongside Alex Salmond at the launch of the Yes Scotland campaign a fortnight ago I thought there had been a pre-launch understanding that the Greens would take a strong role in the promotion of independence for Scotland.However it would appear not all was as it seemed when Patrick Harvie signed his support on the whiteboard.

Scottish Independence For Americans

Published on 2012-06-11 03:50:00

The FM being interviewed by a Scottish export who seems to have made a name for himself in a part of the world called the US.Lovely setting though. Such a pity the town had problems with its last pageant in 2005.

Musical Interlude

Published on 2012-06-10 03:24:00

The fish aren't jumping but the weeds are high.My favourite version of this hit from Porgy and Bess.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-06-09 03:41:00

Green energy companies off the government teat in Spain, take offFlorida PreparationsThe Royal Rorschach BlotThis government is exploiting cheap labour - John PrescottJubilee conditions reports have been exaggerated - response to above linkThe Lawyers' OlympicsThe forbidden history of unpopular people (video)Delay in reviewing Lockerbie verdict obstructs search for real perpetratorsGermany Calling

A Brain Waker-Upper

Published on 2012-06-08 03:42:00

MRI of the brainRather than comment upon the long weekend's 'partying' (how I loathe the constant use of that word these days), I thought a little fun may be more interesting.This is more difficult than you might think.

Question Time Live Interactive Blog - All Welcome

Published on 2012-06-07 13:19:00

Question Time Live 7th June 2012

It's All About Balance

Published on 2012-06-07 03:46:00

This week there has been quite a stooshie about tonight's Question Time which is due to be broadcast from Inverness.The SNP MSP Kenny Gibson made a formal complaint about the imbalance of the panel, with two supporters of independence and three guests from the No campaign.

The Great Crusade

Published on 2012-06-06 03:48:00

Today marks 68 years since the D-day landings on the beaches of Normandy.It's difficult to imagine that, approaching the 5 beaches by sea, were 156,000 men and around 20,000 vehicles. On D-day allied aircraft flew 14.674 sorties and 127 were lost.Casualties on the British beaches were roughly 1,000 on Gold Beach and the same number on Sword Beach.

The Vicar Of Bray

Published on 2012-06-05 16:19:00

A contribution from Edward Spalton.I have composed a new extra verse for today:And this had been the custom nowFrom that day unto this, Sir.But now the times are sorely changedAnd things have gone amiss, Sir.For Queen Anne's bounty long is spent,Of replenishment no more hope.So a King in Brussels I'll have nowWith grants from "Soul for Europe".AND THIS IS THE LAW I WILL MAINTAIN UNTIL MY DYING DAY,SIRTHAT WHATSOEVER KING MAY REIGN,I'LL BE THE VICAR OF BRAY,SIR.Edward

'Moral Duty' Is A Poor Excuse

Published on 2012-06-04 03:32:00

KabulA British soldier from the 3rd Battalion, The Yorkshire Regiment, has been killed in Afghanistan.He was part of a patrol to disrupt insurgent activity in the south of Nahr-e-Saraj district in Helmand Province, when he was killed by small arms fire.The soldier becomes the 417th member of our armed forces to have died since operations in Afghanistan began and his death comes just hours after another soldier from 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh, was killed on Friday.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-06-03 03:37:00

The Day Of Days.Fixed Parliaments?Or alternatively, Mr Smithson...Why maybe the Unionists are rightFor Scotch loversIrvine Welsh on Scottish Independence (video)Olympic shame but no surprise!Secret Lockerbie document blames CIA-linked groupExploding the myth of racist kids

Afghanistan Casualty

Published on 2012-06-02 03:02:00

The Ministry of Defence announced the death of another member of our armed forces last night.The soldier belonged to the 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh and he died yesterday after coming under small arms fire inthe Nahr-e-Saraj area of Helmand province.His death takes the number of British personnel killed in this unwinnable war to 416.No further information will be provided until his family give permission.

Scotland's Contribution To Sunday's Jubilee Pageant

Published on 2012-06-01 04:55:00

Our First Minster has been busy this week.I was reliably informed he has now completed the rehearsals - in a secret location off the west coast - for Sunday's pageant and the vessel is now making its way to the Thames.

When Is A National Flag Too Big?

Published on 2012-05-31 03:14:00

(A health warning to my reader JRB - this post may be bad for you.)Alyn Smith, an SNP member of the European Parliament, has complained to Seb Coe, the wunderkind chairman of the London 2012 organising committee, about the ban on the Saltire being flown over Scotland's national stadium during the Olympic games.Under Olympic rules, Scottish athletes represent Great Britain, meaning only the Union flag should be officially flown at venues.The rule hit the headlines during the Salt Lake City Winter [..]

Is The Scottish Government Losing The Plot?

Published on 2012-05-30 03:28:00

Last Friday I didn't see the launch of the Yes Scotland campaign but did view it on the Parliament channel on Sunday. It was less than inspiring and left me wondering to whom it was directed.

NUTS And Regions - Guest Post

Published on 2012-05-29 03:44:00

A guest post from Edward SpaltonThis is the framework within which Mr. Salmond is selling an entirely

The War Rages On

Published on 2012-05-28 03:31:00

I always feel terribly sad when posting the picture of a member of the armed forces who has been killed in the line of duty, because I know the photograph was picked by the soldier prior to deployment.Above is Captain Stephen Healey, 29, from the 1st Battalion, The Royal Welsh, who was killed on Saturday when the vehicle in which he was travelling was blown up by a bomb in Afghanistan.

A Little Sunday Fun

Published on 2012-05-27 03:12:00

A Short Term Memory TestYou'll be shown 12 photos in the first part and another 12 photos in the second part.Then, in the third part, you'll be shown 48 photos and asked if you saw them in the first part, the second part, or never saw them at all.When you've finished the third part your results will be given to you.Begin here and surprise yourself!

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-05-26 03:57:00

A fatal lack of accountabilityThe corruption at the heart of our political systemWhat If Scotland Chooses Independence?Enough ropeHow The West Was LostVotes for prisoners?'Chained until we know the truth'A manifesto for the New Scots NavyTaking the temperature

Corrupt Industries

Published on 2012-05-25 03:29:00

After a chat with friends this week I was slightly surprised how often the word 'corruption' entered the conversation and there was an acceptance that the general public could do nothing to stem the flow.Everywhere there is corruption, but in 5 industries it's so blatant and deep-seated: Banking, Energy, Agriculture/Biotech, Media and Healthcare.

"Yes Scotland"

Published on 2012-05-24 03:12:00

In response to yesterday's post, @tartangladbach sent the above graphic via Twitter.My thought was that the mysterious source's workbase was No 10 although I could be wrong.Tomorrow the 'Yes to independence' campaign will be launched.

Who Is The Mysterious UK Government Source?

Published on 2012-05-23 03:49:00

Who is the mysterious UK government source who has criticised Alex Salmond for not attending a meeting of ministers from around the UK?The Beeb has diligently published a UK government press release in an(other) effort to smear the First Minister.The next Joint Ministerial Committee, which meets four times a year to discuss areas of mutual concern, is to meet in London.

Robin Gibb 1949 - 2012

Published on 2012-05-22 04:35:00

A quote from Robin Gibb a few months ago:"Now I know how precious time is and you can't put it in the bank."Rest In Peace.

Now Will We Get Some Answers?

Published on 2012-05-21 03:28:00

Abdelbaset al Megrahi is dead, three years after being released from a Scottish prison on compassionate grounds because doctors said he had only three months to live.All 259 people on the Pan Am 103 airliner died and 11 others on the ground in the Dumfries and Galloway town of Lockerbie in Britain's biggest terrorist atrocity.

It's Not What You Eat But When You Eat It

Published on 2012-05-20 03:38:00

Like many women I'm usually drawn to reading articles about diets. Over the years I've tried a few such as the grapefruit diet (brought me out in a rash), the banana and milk diet (never ate a banana again for years) and the 'little and often' diet which made me hungrier as the day progressed. As I become older weight seems to creep on overnight and doesn't shift during daytime activities as it did even just a few years ago. Although I've reduced portion size because I'm less active than I was w [..]

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-05-19 03:46:00

What to do with your Euros...A Defence of AusterityPots and KettlesThe ways of the ancestorsA respectable riot against tabloid readersPawn plus oneWill Self Can Take A Hike

A Green Mess

Published on 2012-05-18 03:26:00

Well, well, I was not surprised to read

The Scottish Tories Could Be The Independence Referendum Catalysts

Published on 2012-05-17 03:12:00

The campaign to win Scottish independence will be launched on 25 May.In the past few months I've been asked several times if I think the pro-independence side will win.

A Little Humour

Published on 2012-05-16 03:42:00

click to enlargeRather than comment about the subsequent comments of Rebekah and Charlie Brooks after they were charged yesterday, I thought I'd share a little humour sent to me by a friend. He's an Englishman who spent his working life working as a journalist.The rumour that this was uttered by an interviewee at the Leveson Inquiry is completely false.It was a Scotland/Wales rugby International weekend in Edinburgh and as the crowds made their way

Our Relationship With Alcohol Is A Cultural Problem

Published on 2012-05-15 03:39:00

Nicola Sturgeon and staff of GlasgowRoyal Infirmary yesterdayScotland and the rest of the UK has an alcohol problem. It's a cultural problem resulting in avoidable health issues and one which has been ignored for decades.Yesterday, Nicola Sturgeon announced the Scottish government intended to introduce a minimum price of 50p per unit on cheap alcohol from April of next year.

How Not To Ensure The UK's Safety

Published on 2012-05-14 03:16:00

Afghan police officersTwo British servicemen have been murdered by rogue Afghan policemen while they guarded a public meeting on Saturday. Two attackers are thought to be involved.

Relaxez Vous

Published on 2012-05-13 03:48:00

Should hypnotherapy be more widely available on the NHS?Yesterday I spent a few hours in the company of a few fully qualified hypnotherapists and what an interesting evening it was.Apart from the rigorous training they undertake, it was inspiring to note how dedicated each person was to their vocation.Hypnotherapy is a subject I believe in. Many years ago I suddenly acquired an intense dislike - hatred wouldn't be too strong a word - of flying and because my work involved a considerable amount o [..]

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-05-12 03:29:00

Shadow is cast over the right to be forgottenNever SecondsA suggestion, not a threatPoliticians break the law - where is the ICO?A U-Turn on a U-TurnWhat I'm going to say will upset a few peopleScottish independence: the spin and the reality. The difference.The Nazi Origins of the Olympic Flame RelayMEPs cancel Rio+20 participationImplications for the Independence Referendum from the Queen's Speech

Polish Justice

Published on 2012-05-11 03:43:00

Neighbours of 24-year-old Zbigniew Filo were so angered by the boy racer's dreadful driving, they decided to teach him a lesson.One of the villager's mobile cranes was borrowed and the Ford Escort placed in a willow tree, under the cover of darkness.Police spokesman Marta Pierko said:'We received a call from a man saying his car was stuck in a tree, and that his neighbours had put it there.'After inspecting the site we instructed him to remove it from the tree.'One local added: "Perhaps he'll th [..]

A Wee Job For David Miliband?

Published on 2012-05-10 03:04:00

Is the BBC biased? If proof were needed surely this confirms the suspicions of many.Perhaps David Miliband will apply and add to his already substantial financial portfolio.Thanks to Guido

A Disconcerting Alliance

Published on 2012-05-09 03:33:00

As a young woman I believed politicians were elected on their promise of working for the good of their electorates.

India In The Driving Seat

Published on 2012-05-08 03:39:00

Few of us may be aware that the Westminster government has apparently 'secretly agreed' with IBM that sensitive personal data on all 43 million drivers in the UK can be accessed offshore in India.The data move is part of cost cutting measures by IBM, not the government, according to a recent report in the Observer.The move was revealed after IBM, which runs the congestion charge zone for Transport for London, lobbied for a change to allow the data to be moved to a cheaper storage location.The re [..]

Election 2012 - The Winners And Losers

Published on 2012-05-07 03:03:00

It's not my intention to analyse the election results because others have undertaken the task much more efficiently. The Burd eloquently explains her thoughts with particular reference to Glasgow and Edinburgh, while the Peat Worrier has the unenviable task of in-depth analysis of the Glasgow results.The SNP took 502,201 first preference votes giving the party 32.32% of the vote and putting them ahead of Labour which polled 31.39%.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-05-06 04:03:00

We can learn from Iceland's crash - and their recoveryAlex Salmond's ResignationThe London Mayor ThingThe Face Of EU Law EnforcementThe elephants in the waterIf a trick works once it's oftenwhiles worth repeatingIt's frosty out thereDiet Guru 101:

Carpet Update: the MD's Offer

Published on 2012-05-05 03:39:00

I though those of you who were kind enough to offer sensible advice about my hall carpet problems may be interested to know I received a emailed 'decision' from the store's assistant manager. As I expected the store insists I agreed to the position of the (incorrect) join and supports its estimator.However, the final paragraph of the email gave me an insight into the mindset of the Managing Director.However the Managing Director would be prepared to offer you a £200 credit note as a “Gesture [..]

Low Turnout For Coe's Corporate Bash

Published on 2012-05-04 03:30:00

Click to enlargeThe turnout for yesterday's local council elections could be very low according to those 'in the know' in my constituency.It certainly won't be lower than the turnout for the Olympic torch though! Only 2.05% intend to support the event.Thanks to all 292 voters.

It's What Politicians Don't Say That Matters

Published on 2012-05-03 03:24:00

The British media are obsessed with the Olympics and News International they appear to have forgotten the UK is at war with another country.Yesterday, In Kabul (pictured) President Obama signed an agreement

Immigration Controls Hampered By Weather

Published on 2012-05-02 03:48:00

Yesterday David Cameron sent Damian Green, the immigration minister, to Heathrow to investigate the problem of lengthy delays at passport checks.

Carpets And Parental Stupidity

Published on 2012-05-01 03:31:00

library imageSince last Wednesday most of my days (excluding Sunday) have been taken up with trying to resolve a problem with a new lobby carpet. It was ordered from a very reputable Tayside family furnishing store some time ago and fitting was arranged for last Wednesday.My lobby is long and I knew beforehand that a join in the carpet would be required. When the estimator had measured up I explained where I wanted the join, (it was exactly where it was in the old carpet): I paid the deposit req [..]

A Dilemma

Published on 2012-04-30 03:24:00

My polling card has been propped up on the mantlepiece for a few weeks, gently reminding me of my responsibility on Thursday - the day Scotland goes to the polls to elect local councillors.Not only has the system for voting changed in recent years, the boundaries have also changed.

Is Scotland A 'Terror Risk'?

Published on 2012-04-29 03:32:00

More and more I despair at the content of the Scotland on Sunday. For some years after it arrived on the 'Sundays scene' I loyally purchased it, but it's a few years ago now since I even bothered to pick it up in a shop and read the headlines.Because it appears on my reader I tend to read the online version headlines and I think this article is perhaps the biggest lot of drivel I've ever read in a paper which once was regarded as a newspaper of quality.Let's have a look at some of the remarks at [..]

RIP Guardsman Roland

Published on 2012-04-28 15:08:00

Twenty-two year old Michael Roland joined the army in 2009.He was killed yesterday while on patrol in the Nahr-e-Sarj district of Helmand province, Afghanistan.The father of twins was a Guardsman with the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards.There have been 410 British military deaths since Westminster politicians voted to go to war with Afghanistan. 410 unnecessary deaths.RIP Guardsman Roland.

Under Masters' Orders

Published on 2012-04-28 04:14:00

The fact that the European Investment Bank (EiB) is preparing for the break up of the euro by allowing Greek businesses to repay loans in its former currency, the drachma, was barely publicised by the media this week.

The Tale Of A Politician And Two Magnates

Published on 2012-04-27 03:33:00

Scotland's First Minister is certainly under fire this week over his relationships with two of the western world's business tycoons.The faux fury of opposition leaders was rather pathetic - a generous description - at FMQs yesterday when they questioned Alex Salmond about his tea drinking and dining habits in the company of Rupert Murdoch and Donald Trump. (To call Donald Trump 'The Donald' is a misuse of what is normally regarded as an affectionate style of nickname by the media).Rupert Murdoch [..]

The Sound of Rain

Published on 2012-04-26 03:33:00

I've had no time to write a post for this morning, but I would like to share this video with you.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-04-25 03:14:00

I will be without an internet connection for part of the day today so I have decided to publish a midweek Take Your Pick.

Is This The Beginning Of A Children's Book Ban?

Published on 2012-04-24 03:30:00

Last night was World Book Night which is a celebration of reading and books. Thousands of 'givers' are distributing books throughout their communities and workplaces to encourage others to enjoy the pleasures of reading.This year World Book Night was celebrated in the UK, Ireland, Germany and the USA.Reading is one of the great pleasures in my life and the new technologies, such as Kindles and iPads, enhance the joy of having a selection of books at my fingertips.My reading was encouraged from a [..]

An Unfair Union - Guest Post

Published on 2012-04-23 03:18:00

A guest post from Brian."Halifax Bank of Scotland (HBOS) is a subsidiary of the

Will Faslane Be Scotland's Bargaining Tool?

Published on 2012-04-22 03:06:00

Fifty years ago I doubt if any Scottish independence supporters would have dreamt that their country would be the talk of Washington and Moscow steamies, but it is and the interest of the Russians is said to be causing 'jitters' in senior American circles.One of Putin's US political counsellors made an appearance at the National Capital Tartan Day Committee's (NCTDC) Tartan Day 2012 Symposium in Washington at the end of last month.

Freedom To Choose - Guest Post

Published on 2012-04-22 01:36:00

I was asked by Junican if I would consider publishing the following post. My reason for consenting is not because I am a smoker but because, since the smoking ban, I have seen other organisations slowly feed their prejudices into the public arena with little dissent from politicians. Although I hope to be a non-smoker before my next birthday (for various reasons), I defend the right of anyone to choose whether to smoke, drink or eat chips. These actions are, as far as I'm aware, still legal in t [..]

Coming To A Road Near You

Published on 2012-04-21 03:23:00

Since it was announced the Olympics Games were to be held in London I've done my very best to ignore its continual promotion. It's not that I'm disinterested in sport, I'm a fan of Andy Murray - well someone has to support him - and have a lifelong interest in rugby, but I find the manner in which the 'elite' are being feted very distasteful.However it's not only the 'elite' who are being pampered. According to the organisers, the Olympic flame will come within 10 miles of 95% of people in the U [..]

The Shame Of PFI

Published on 2012-04-20 03:14:00

The Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (pictured) is a major teaching hospital which provides a full range of acute medical services for patients from across Lothian and specialist services for people from across the south east of Scotland. It also provides services from many from as far a field as Perthshire. Quite a few people of my acquaintance owe their lives to the skill of the cardiac unit in RIE and speak highly of the medical and nursing teams.It is one of Scotland's largest hospitals, cost £ [..]

Should Our Military Have Their Own Hospitals?

Published on 2012-04-19 03:21:00

Another British soldier, who was wounded in an explosion in southern Afghanistan last week, has died in hospital in Birmingham.He belonged to 33 Engineer Regiment and was seriously injured by an IED on the 11 April.His death comes less than two weeks after Corporal Jack Stanley from the Queen's Royal Hussars (The Queen's Own and Royal Irish) died at Queen Elizabeth hospital of injuries he sustained in another attack.

Do You Know The Name Of Your Local Councillor?

Published on 2012-04-18 03:04:00

Everyone in the UK must know by now that the election for the Mayor of London will take place on 5 May. Many people even know the names of the main candidates though they have little or no interest in London politics.The London-centred media has ensured that each day exposure is given to the Boris/Ken circus and excitable political journalists pick over every word uttered by the candidates.On 5 May there are local council elections in Scotland.

Caption Please

Published on 2012-04-17 03:33:00

The Optimist Magazine

Published on 2012-04-16 03:42:00

click to enlargeThe past couple of weeks I've been involved in a DIY project involving litres of Dulux satinwood, gallons of emulsion, rollers, brushes, several sheets of sandpaper and varying degrees of patience. All this activity evolved from the January sales when I was offered

'Cultural Sensitivity'

Published on 2012-04-15 03:36:00

London Metropolitan University, commonly referred to as London Met, is one of these 'new' universities which sprang up after the demise of technical colleges and has been offering further education for 10 years.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-04-14 04:32:00

Pictures saying a thousand wordsWhy "Smart Meters' increase electricity billsBloggers - We were all wrongFakeCharity attempts the New Maths.

The Fragmenting Of England's NHS

Published on 2012-04-13 03:43:00

"Wakey wakey Mr Beasly. Two o'clock in the morningand we think you're well enough to go home now."UK plc's chief salesman is touring overseas accompanied by his back up team of weapons salesmen. Every media clip shows him looking more and more uncomfortable in formal situations and his speeches are lack lustred and robotically delivered.Shouldn't he be back in England sorting out their NHS rather than selling arms abroad?English NHS Trusts have reportedly sent home 239,233 patients between 11pm [..]

The Irish Do It Much Better

Published on 2012-04-12 03:57:00

In the past week or two few could fail to hear or read that it's 100 years since the Titanic met its tragic fate.Whether you find the MS Balmoral's re-enactment of the Titanic's tragic maiden voyage goulish or the adventure of a lifetime is a personal matter, but there's no doubt the centenary of one of the worst peacetime maritime disasters has captured the imagination of many willing to spend thousands of pounds for a piece of history.The Irish have promoted the occasion perfectly, just as the [..]

The Kinky Knicker Project

Published on 2012-04-11 03:05:00

Last month I watched the Channel 4 series Mary's Bottom Line in which retail expert Mary Portas attempted - and succeeded - in boosting the UK's clothing industry by starting her own production line.It was compelling television. She re-opened the sewing room floor at a factory owned by British nightwear manufacturers Headen and Quarmby.

All In The Name Of Reducing Carbon Footprints

Published on 2012-04-10 03:47:00

Yesterday I had a telephone call from a 'green' company asking me if I was aged between 55 and 75. Without waiting for a response, the chirpy chap at the end of the telephone line immediately fell into his sales speech about solar energy and the benefits.

Soldier Named

Published on 2012-04-09 18:12:00

Corporal Jack Stanley (pictured) died on Saturday in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham.Cpl Stanley, of the Queen's Royal Hussars (The Queen's Own and Royal Irish), was wounded on 3 February, when he was on patrol in the Pupalzay Kalay area east of Lashkar Gah, Afghanistan.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-04-09 03:19:00

Je ne regrette rienHonesty and IneptitudeLiving with Mum"Don't forget to bring your checkbook"Steep SlopesFalklandsWhat will the terrorists and freedom fighters do now?Quiet reinstatement of resettlement payments for MPsWhat does the BBC stand for?

Happy Easter

Published on 2012-04-08 03:55:00

Happy Easter!

Private vs Public Water

Published on 2012-04-07 03:55:00

'For what we're about to receive may the Lord make us truly thankful'.

Wagner And Simnel Cake

Published on 2012-04-06 03:38:00

Richard Wagner's Good Friday Music from ParsifalThe video is brief clip of a 1951 live concert by the Berlin Philharmonic and conducted by Wilhelm Furtwangler.I was five when it was recorded and it was the year I started school. There was no school holiday then and Good Friday was just like any other school day.The shops weren't overflowing with pricey Easter eggs either, because sugar was still rationed and chocolate was a birthday or Christmas treat. My brother and myself dyed hard boiled eggs [..]

Has AGW Been Found Out?

Published on 2012-04-05 03:28:00

Q-Cells, once the world's biggest maker of solar panels, is filing for bankruptcy.

Legislation I Would Approve

Published on 2012-04-04 03:39:00

Nine hillwalkers, including six teenagers, were rescued yesterday from one of Scotland's highest mountains.Grampian police, a mountain rescue and a Royal Navy helicopter mounted a search and rescue operation which resulted in the nine being airlifted to safety from the Ben MacDui area of the mountains. The group are all said to be unharmed and healthy after being caught in the snow overnight.For the past week snow has been forecast for higher ground in Scotland. Anyone with a modicum of common s [..]

Does Scotland Need Another Voice?

Published on 2012-04-03 03:39:00

Image courtesy of hereLast week the Scottish parliament quietly progressed with another of their manifesto promises. In its 2011 election manifesto the SNP made a commitment to take forward proposals for a Rural Parliament.

All In The Name Of Counter-Terrorism

Published on 2012-04-02 03:37:00

For some time now I've been suspicious of any politician who suggests new legislation is protecting the people of the UK from terrorism. It's such a provocative word and politicians use it to instill more fear into the people in order to keep them subdued.The only terrorists evident from my tiny space is this country are the coalition. Upping the cost of fuel which in turn increases the cost of food, pleading faux sympathy with the high cost of utility bills and exposing our troops in an unwinna [..]

No April Fools Here (With the exception of Peter Cruddas)

Published on 2012-04-01 03:45:00

Image courtesy of @JakimacHazel has a superb idea for 'fueling the independence debate'. It may not please the Greens but it would certainly highlight the positive side of independence and the debate needs an injection of positivity. A freebie fridge magnet would be an ideal PR tool and not expensive.The Sunday Times has been at it again, displaying the Tories ambivalence for independence. No surprise really as they've little to lose when Scotland departs from the Union other than the Treasury i [..]

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-03-31 03:26:00

The latest'Darwin Award' Is Barely AdequateA Fond FarewellRank local election wonkery: Glasgow City CouncilA hundred years?The Old Swan ManifestoIn 2014 it will be impossible to leave the EU2012 visitors *will* be infected with MDR TB in LondonBuilding work continuesHow The West Was WonNice work, if you can get itCouncils Are The Enemies Of The People

A Political Resurrection

Published on 2012-03-30 03:36:00

George Galloway has won the Bradford West by-election by more than a 10,000 majority from Labour, on a swing of 36.59%.Three tweets, which possibly sum up public opinion, caught my attention, but will they catch the eye of Ed Miliband?Quite probably Ed has convinced himself that it's only the Scottish branch of his party which is in disarray, but this morning he'll have to admit the throughout the whole organisation or face another leadership challenge. His brother's phone will be engaged no dou [..]

Cameron Is The Wrong Kind Of Unionist.

Published on 2012-03-29 04:12:00

Divide And Conquer.A post from my friend and Unionist

An Engineering Experiment Too Far

Published on 2012-03-28 03:25:00

Australians will be marking ANZAC day on Wednesday 25 April and plans are being prepared for the centenary celebrations in 2015.While the Australian Labor party continues its meltdown, politics has continued and within hours of the Queensland result a Perth newspaper reported that the Federal Coalition 'has been warned that celebrating the centenary of Anzac Day could provoke division in multicultural Australia - and that there are 'risks' in honouring our fallen soldiers'.Almost $370,000 of tax [..]

Insider Killings

Published on 2012-03-27 03:13:00

Members of the Afghan National ArmyTwo British military personnel, were shot dead by Afghan security forces yesterday. Later a NATO soldier - his nationality has not yet been disclosed - was shot dead at a checkpoint by a 'rogue' policeman. A total of 407 British troops have now lost their lives in this war.The two British men were a soldier from the Adjutant General's Corp and a Royal Marine.

The Demon Drink

Published on 2012-03-26 03:01:00

The weather has been exceptional this month and for the first time for many years I'm ahead with gardening chores. Yesterday the grass was scarified, fed and watered and when I'd finished I relaxed with a sherry.Also yesterday I received an email from a friend entitled 'We're binge drinkers'.

Sun, Sea and Tories

Published on 2012-03-25 03:37:00

Thanks to Scottish tories' London masters

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-03-24 15:30:00

Know Thy MasterThe Secret London 2012 Look BookEco-route down underDoes Britain lose £21 billion to alcohol abuse each year?Scotland's lost and forgotten generationsOh Fer Cryin' Out Loud!

Why Did John Redwood Anger Alex Salmond?

Published on 2012-03-24 04:12:00

John Redwood has upset Alex Salmond.

The Collapse Of US Moral Authority

Published on 2012-03-23 15:23:00

Video courtesy of Moridura

The Scotland Bill

Published on 2012-03-23 04:20:00

The Scotland Bill is nearing the end of its parliamentary processes at both Westminster and Holyrood parliaments and the UK and Scottish Governments have been in negotiation over final amendments said Cabinet Secretary for Government Strategy Bruce Crawford this week. I was sure - as were some of you - that the Scottish Government would kick the Bill into the long grass, but it appears enough concessions have been made for it to be acceptable.Having agreed a package of changes to the Bill and un [..]

The Horror Of War Continues

Published on 2012-03-22 04:23:00

The horror of war continues and yesterday another British soldier met his death in the savage surroundings of Afghanistan.The serviceman, from the 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters), died after being struck by an IED.

Homecoming

Published on 2012-03-21 04:35:00

From top left: Sergeant Nigel Coupe, Corporal Jake Hartley and Private Anthony Frampton. From bottom left: Private Christopher Kershaw, Private Daniel Wade and Private Daniel WilfordYesterday, David Cameron, Tony Blair and Gordon had front row seats in Westminster Hall to listen to the Queen's Diamond Jubilee address.Not one would have given the slightest thought to what was to occur later at RAF Brize Norton - one of the many horrifying results of their warmongering decisions.The grief of famil [..]

Guess Work?

Published on 2012-03-14 04:35:00

Planning for retirement can be a nightmare and many opt for the first option offered because they believe financial 'experts' should know the most suitable products available.Like many women in my age group, I gave little thought to the day when I reached the official age for retirement from full-time work and concerned myself with supporting my family. What little spare cash I had available was consumed by childcare costs, so I was older when I finally realised a private pension, no matter how [..]

I'm Weary With The SSM Debate

Published on 2012-03-13 14:53:00

I'm weary with the same-sex marriage debate. It seems to have taken the similar importance to the Independence debate.Also I'm weary reading about men having babies and being told I must accept the changes in society. I wasn't weary 6 months ago but the subject of same sex marriage continues to feature prominently in the media. It can't be because it features highly on the radar or most of us who are far more concerned with the economy and making ends meet. Who are pulling the strings here in or [..]

How Old Is Too Old To Drive?

Published on 2012-03-13 04:31:00

Research by Australia's Monash University's Accident Research Centre has found that older drivers go slower on the roads but apply their brakes more slowly than middle-aged and younger drivers.How slow are they? Drivers over 70 take, on average, almost half a second longer to brake to avoid a pedestrian than middle-aged drivers.Since 1974 UK motorists have been allowed to continue driving until they reach 70, after which they simply fill out a form every three years to declare they are fit to d [..]

Credit Action

Published on 2012-03-12 04:41:00

Sometimes I need to be reminded how many people manage to cope with debts they cannot pay. Since the economic collapse I thought people would realise the dangers of borrowing but the opposite appears to be happening. Companies like this have sprung up and interest rates can reach ludicrous levels, yet people continue to borrow.Here are some striking numbers of UK DEBT Statistics from Credit Action : 9,072 new debt problems dealt with by Citizen Advice Bureaus each working day (as at March 20 [..]

Sunday Smile

Published on 2012-03-11 13:29:00

click to enlarge

A Very Silly Man

Published on 2012-03-11 04:22:00

Surely he must resign now?I don't believe he was 'got at'. His downfall was create by his own hand.

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-03-10 14:12:00

Does Alex Salmond need a translator?March 23: Keep on and on turning up...Multi Millionaire Generals and PoliticiansBan it! Ban it! Ban it!Scottish smoking ban miracle touches the unbornEaster in Germany - chocolate galore!In praise of HousewivesIndustrial policy rises again

Re-Joyce

Published on 2012-03-10 03:14:00

Found guilty of four counts of common assault at Westminster Magistrates Court yesterday, Eric Joyce said he was now 'deeply apologetic'."Clearly it's a matter of considerable personal shame," said the Falkirk MP outside the court after the chief magistrate fined him £3,000 and ordered him to pay £1.400 to his victims after he entered guilty pleas. He was also given a 12 month community order - banning him from entering pubs and licenced premises for three months - and imposed with a curfew f [..]

Canine Care

Published on 2012-03-09 03:21:00

This is Coco. She is an adorable four month old chocolate labrador puppy and looks the picture of innocence in her own surroundings (where this photo was taken last week).Coco arrived here for a short holiday yesterday. Having been a dog owner for many years I thought I'd prepared quite thoroughly for her arrival, but within minutes I was proved wrong. Everything is edible in Coco's world.Dog sitting is a 24 hour task and each waking minute is compulsory playtime. I'd quite forgotten how time c [..]

When Plans Go Wrong

Published on 2012-03-08 13:28:00

Our Public Duty

Published on 2012-03-08 03:34:00

On Tuesday I received this self-explanatory email:Dear Subrosa, I am not sure whether you might wish to remind your readers that the closing date for responses to the (not very well publicised) Scotland Office consultation paper on the Scottish referendum is this Friday 9thMarch. Details of the consultation are the Scotland Office website.I think it is important that ordinary people who are not members of a political party also contribute, as well as the politicians and other interest [..]

It's Too Easy To Forget

Published on 2012-03-07 13:21:00

The Ministry of Defence's website states: 'Britain's own security is at risk if we again allow Afghanistan to become a safe haven for terrorists. It is therefore vital to the UK that Afghanistan become a stable and secure state that is able to suppress violent extremism within its borders'.Afghanistan always will be a country with a medieval culture. It is corrupt and the eleven years of this war have done nothing to stem the corruption. In fact it could be said that due to the gigantic sums of [..]

An Insidious Piece Of Legislation

Published on 2012-03-07 03:22:00

Consider a life without music, literature and the wee ones' Christmas plays. The arts contribute much to the quality of most of our lives.I didn't think I would meet a victim of the Scottish government's Criminal Justice and Licencing (Scotland) Act 2010 - which comes into force on 1 April - so soon after reading Joyce McMillan's obvious anger at this latest piece of legislation.For some years I've been associated with a creative writing group, many of whom are published writers. Every year the [..]

Arnold George Dorsey To Represent the UK

Published on 2012-03-06 03:36:00

It seems the younger generations are rather perturbed at the choice of Engelbert Humperdinck to represent the UK in this year's Eurovision Song Contest. I was a 'Humperdincker'. His relaxed ballad style, quality of tone and immaculate dress sense wooed me and it seemed his success in the UK was assured when Release Me stayed top of the charts for months. That was not to be because his style suddenly dropped out of fashion and he moved to the US, from where he built a large following in many part [..]

Notices

Published on 2012-03-05 14:14:00

Politics And Death

Published on 2012-03-05 03:20:00

Labour and the Libdems managed to have their spring conferences on the same weekend. A feat of organisation some would say and others, the cynics amongst us, may think it was down to a lack of communication. I'd go with the latter because no political party wants to share publicity with another.Nick Clegg and Michael Moore spoke to the faithful in Inverness but had little of interest to say. I have to be honest - the little I did see of the Libdem leadership was only more feeble requests for the [..]

Irish Taxi Drivers Aren't Any Wiser

Published on 2012-03-04 03:26:00

Irish journalist Vincent Browne confronts the ECB's Klaus Masuch demanding to know where the money is going.If you're Irish and in any doubt how to vote in the forthcoming referendum, watch this exchange. It could change your opinion from this.Now I know why these people need 'management' - such as he has on his right hand side?

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-03-03 04:08:00

UNITE and Scottish DisobedienceA Great ArtistLamontable leadershipIgnoring the past, fixed on the futureThe tactics of the globalist warmists are legionDoes Green thinking need a red light?How long do we go on wasting moneyBanker Bashing, KindaNew bus for LondonBig Brother WarningNight of the Mummy at RBS Museum Lates

Megrahi - What Have The Scottish Government To Fear?

Published on 2012-03-02 03:15:00

Along with others, I can't understand the Scottish Government's insistence that the Megrahi conviction was sound. Nor can I understand why the Scottish Government's need for primary legislation to finally allow the publication of the Scottish Criminal Cases Review Commission's report on the Megrahi case when, according to Robert Forrester, the secretary for Justice for Megrahi, says that all that is required is 'to utilise the simple, relatively cheap, quick and effective expedient of an amendin [..]

Where Have All The Tatties Gone?

Published on 2012-03-01 03:18:00

Recently I received the following email from a reader:As an incoming Sassenach one of the striking features of Glasgow some 50 years ago (and until relatively recently) was the wide availability of local varieties of potato: maincrop Golden Wonder & Kerr's Pink and early Epicure. Largely (I suppose) because of the dominance of supermarkets, they are now hard to find, yet all three have desirable features, especially GW which can hardly be beaten for baking in the jacket. No doubt their cultivati [..]

Money For Nothing - Part 2. Guest Post

Published on 2012-02-29 13:33:00

So, how is money created?I’ll show my age here, but I remember a time when if I handed a Scottish bank note to an English shop assistant, it was often queried as to its legality. My riposte would be, not only was it legal but, unlike the English notes, the Scottish bank had to have the funds in its account to honour it. Such are the myths we form our assumptions on, that then go on and become entrenched as fact by the simple truth of them having little relevance to our everyday lives. Believe [..]

Money For Nothing - Part 1. Guest Post

Published on 2012-02-29 03:02:00

A guest post from John Souter.Banking, Money Creation and, The Privatization of Democracy.“Banking was conceived in iniquity and was born in sin. The bankers own the earth. Take it away from them, but leave them the power to create money, and with the flick of the pen they will create enough deposits to buy it back again. (Josiah Stamp, former Director of the Bank of England)”Confucius is reputed to have said “Every journey begins with a single step.” As a statement of logic it’s hard [..]

Scottish Independence - A Warning

Published on 2012-02-28 14:02:00

Mary Ellon Synon has closed her Daily Mail blog. It was the main reason I visited the Mail site - to read her candid comments about the inner workings of that massive bureaucracy called the European Union.Her last post begins:This is my column from Monday’s Irish Daily Mail. Scots who are leaning towards independence from the United Kingdom might want to read it, to learn from Ireland’s experience how little influence a small member state has in the EU.It's always worth listening to those wh [..]

A Life-Saving Device Which Is Too Often Ignored

Published on 2012-02-28 03:21:00

How often do we read or hear of homes not having smoke alarms? Only yesterday the Courier reported yet another blaze in a Tayside home; this time in Perth. The occupant was lucky. Although he had no smoke alarm he was rescued by his neighbour.It's distressing to know that smoke alarms are issued to all homes in Scotland along with a free Home Fire Safety Visit - yet people don't claim them. Some fire and rescue services in England offer a similar service.Often we hear that smoke detectors were [..]

A Welcome Contribution To Scotland

Published on 2012-02-27 13:44:00

Autism and Asperger's syndrome cause a multitude of problems, not only for the sufferer, but for their nearest and dearest.Many years ago now I met, through the course of my work, a 12-year-old boy who had severe difficulty communicating with his peers. His parents were frantic for help and because little was understood about autism at that time, they spent energy blaming themselves. I've no idea if they found suitable help but I'm sure they would be delighted to know of recent developments in t [..]

Pensions In An Independent Scotland

Published on 2012-02-27 03:05:00

Last week my blogger friend, Anna Raccoon, dared to post about British Pensioners and the Scottish Referendum.More daringly she described the land north of Aberdeen as 'frozen waste'. How dare she! The picture is of a village on the Moray coast and, I'm reliably informed, the ground there has not experienced anything other than a very light frost this winter. Produce was harvested easily - a task which has required great effort in the past four winters.The Moray coast is one of my favourite piec [..]

The Revolving Door Of Australia's Labour Leaders

Published on 2012-02-26 15:02:00

There's an election going on in Australia - the Labor leadership election.The Labor party are sliding badly in the polls and some say it's the fault of Julia Gillard the current PM. It seems she's not popular with the electorate although she claims she has the support of most of her MPs.Kevin Rudd resigned from his position of Foreign Secretary last week then decided to stand against Ms Gillard.If you would like to watch the ballot results you can do so on this updating site.No matter how much t [..]

Entertainment Lodge Style

Published on 2012-02-26 08:16:00

What really happens at the Freemasons' LodgeIt's the manny on the left who intrigues me. Is he hypnotised?I note the YouTube uploader doesn't state the Lodge location. No idea why.

Calling All Yompers

Published on 2012-02-25 14:01:00

For a weekend this summer you can take part in a challenging event across the Cateran Trail which meanders through Highland Perthshire and Angus. Usually walkers take 4 or 5 days to walk the Trail. This isn't a walk it's a yomp.You can walk 22, 36.5 or even the 52 mile yomp in just 24 hours and help raise money for ABF The Soldeirs' Charity, PSYBT and the Alliance Trust Staff Foundation - all very worthy charities which quietly make life better for many.I met some of the organisers and participa [..]

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-02-25 03:34:00

Alex Salmond and David FrostMcCrone Report and OilScotland Said Yes!One reason why "devo max' won't be on the #indyref ballot...How Scotland Yard monitors prying bloggers and journalistsAlan Turing's 1950s tiger stripe theory provedThe LetterDry ice washing machineNews International's hold over CameronMilitary Spouses WorkPC PoetryScottish Independence - Many Questions

Trillion Dollar Fraud

Published on 2012-02-24 14:23:00

Last week I read this and decided I would be well out of my depth giving any opinion other than 'you couldn't make it up'.Yesterday Edward sent me this link and I've decided the matter requires as much promotion as possible because - not least - it involves the Bank of Scotland and Lord James of Blackheath has a long financial career in the City of London behind him.I see little reporting of it in the MSM and total silence from the establishment. Somehow I don't think Lord James will be intimida [..]

Political Duplicity

Published on 2012-02-24 03:14:00

It's alleged the Falkirk MP Eric Joyce, started a rammy (brawl) in the Strangers Bar in the Palace of Westminster on Wednesday night. He is said to have attacked the Tory MP Stuart Andrew, several other Tory MPs and a Labour colleague after complaining the bar was 'full of Tories'.The police were called and Eric Joyce was held overnight at a London police station on suspicion of assault. It is reported he left the police station last night after being charged with three counts of common assault [..]

Hootsmon Headlines

Published on 2012-02-23 14:04:00

click to enlargeFrom the ever topical Conan.

Man's Best Friend

Published on 2012-02-23 03:19:00

Even if you're not a 'doggie' person, the intelligence of some breeds must be applauded.We all know about Guide Dogs for the Blind and the recent innovative project of Hearing Dogs for the Deaf, but now these clever animals are being trained to help care for people suffering from dementia live independently for longer.The breeds currently involved are the reliable retrievers and labradors.The government has given £52,000 to the project but Dementia Dogs requires to raise a further £130,00 to l [..]

A Little Fun With The Climate Catastrophists

Published on 2012-02-22 13:40:00

A post from Edward Spalton.As the climate has failed to warm in the last fifteen years, it is interesting to recall how the language of the debate has been manipulated. Initially we were told of imminent, catastrophic, “man-made global warming”. Those who wanted to be gender-neutral and more high-falutin' called it “anthropogenic”.Then they altered the term to “climate change” whilst retaining the original meaning. Of course, the climate has always changed. Nobody has ever denied th [..]

Bosoms

Published on 2012-02-22 03:23:00

I've had several female readers ask why I haven't written about latest breast implant problems so I hope this post answers their questions.It's common knowledge that certain private health clinics and some surgeons in the English NHS have used the French-made Poly Implant Prothese implants. (I understand they have not been used by the NHS in Scotland).Today Nicola Sturgeon met with a delegation of women to call for a public inquiry into the scandal. The Labour MSP Jackie Baillie accompanied the [..]

Justice - What Justice?

Published on 2012-02-21 03:08:00

Let's imagine one of your neighbours or acquaintances was a world renowned expert in the oil industry and was one of the few businessmen in the world who has the experience and knowledge to move oil rigs.I would assume he was a clever man who had a hectic but interesting life. He would very possibly be respected by those connected with the oil industry and anyone of his acquaintance.Liam Gibson is a man who fits the above description and I must state that until last night I'd never heard of him [..]

Value For Money

Published on 2012-02-20 14:15:00

Remember this post about the Bracknell MP who also works as a GP? He was more than critical of his political colleagues when he said they lacked leadership and the ability to take risks.It's thanks to Brian that we now discover Mr Lee's risk-taking is a financial gold mine. He works, as a freelance GP, for an average of 3.75 hours per week and receives payment of around just below £100 per hour.An MP earns £65,738 a year and not accounting for their excessive holidays and using an approximate [..]

How Poor Is Greece?

Published on 2012-02-20 03:23:00

A guest post from John Souter. How ‘Poor’ is Greece Now & How Poor Will it Be? Who would have believed the 21st century version of blitz-krieg would be waged by the use of speculation backed by computed digits and Monopoly money? This is the financial shaman’s version of the neutron bomb – the one that supposedly annihilated all life forms but left the real estate and assets untouched and ripe for the victors spoils. Not a bad result for a threat backed by nothing more than a myth and a [..]

Is The Current Scotland Bill Dead?

Published on 2012-02-19 03:39:00

How often do we read what disasters 'could' befall an independent Scotland? Last weekend the SoS published an article with the headline 'Jim Murphy warns that independence could cost thousands of defence jobs'. There it is again, the unionist 'could' - suggestive scaremongering and rather ironic considering the job loses currently affecting HM Forces. The unionists' only option is to campaign in 'could' mode because they have no other choice.Last week David Cameron, on his visit to the central [..]

Free Wifi

Published on 2012-02-18 13:46:00

Why would anyone lug a 27" iMac to a coffee shop? With the best will in the world it couldn't be described as portable.Mine is only 21" and it's heavy enough without the keyboard and other accessories. There could be all sorts of reasons why this chap decided to use the free wifi facilities in a coffee shop in the south of England.My suggestion is that his home wifi had crashed and he doesn't have a GP3 dongle. What's yours?

Take Your Pick

Published on 2012-02-18 03:16:00

A Policy The SNP Should Follow...Oh Sugar!Wind power plug pulled in IllinoisWhat do 'Fred the Shred' and David Murray Tell Us About Scotland?DisassociationDecoding the ECB Bond SwapPoor Nigel is looking a little battered as he continues to hit his head against a brick wallPedestrianise the Olympic Zil Lanes

Mummy Bear

Published on 2012-02-17 13:51:00

click to enlarge

Did Cameron Succeed In Changing Minds?

Published on 2012-02-17 03:16:00

Peter Brookes (The Times)click to enlargeHe came, he saw and he did his best to appeal to the emotions of the Scots. Did he succeed?He pointed out that when Glasgow airport came under attack the UK was able to pursue those responsible using the reach and influence of a major power. Surely, if Scotland were independent, the other countries in the UK would offer assistance if there was a terrorist attack in Scotland? I'd also expect Scotland to help the remainder of the UK should a similar incide [..]

Money For Nothing

Published on 2012-02-16 13:57:00

A guest post from Joe Public.Such prescient lyrics, composed in 1985"Money for nothin' and chicks for free Now that ain't workin' that's the way you do itLemme tell ya them guys ain't dumb"Who'd like to be paid, not for doing something, but for not doing something?Charles Hendry, Minister of State for Energy, has stated recently that “in 2011 constraint payments totalling £12.1 million were made to wind farms through the balancing mechanism”. The Renewable Energy Foundation claims on its da [..]

The Greek Experiment

Published on 2012-02-16 03:03:00

Why would any country be serious about joining the European Union?

Rangers - A Sign Of Things To Come

Published on 2012-02-15 14:18:00

click to enlarge

Another Loss In Afghanistan

Published on 2012-02-15 08:02:00

Senior Aircraftman Ryan Tomlin, of 2 Squadron, Royal Air Force Regiment, was killed on Monday, 13 February.He was taking part in a partnered patrol to reassure and interact with the local population in the Western Dashte area on the edge of Nad-e Ali district in Central Helmand Province when he was fatally wounded by small arms fire from an insurgent attack. He was airlifted to the field hospital at Camp Bastion, where he later died.SAC Tomlin was on his second tour to Afghanistan.British milita [..]

Are We About To Repeat History?

Published on 2012-02-15 03:30:00

Princes Street, EdinburghCapital City of the new Scotland?Guest post from Apogee.I was spending a wee bit of time reading Hazel Lewry's blog specifically about the Treaty of Union. Very interesting and I get the impression that she is well clued up. In my opinion it confirms what I have always felt, if we wanted to, we could just walk away from the whole thing. Seems Ireland never paid any money way back into the coffers and considering what Scotland paid the treasury in oil revenue, why shoul [..]

Common Purpose

Published on 2012-02-14 07:41:00

click to enlargeThe Common Purpose network in the Netherlands is closing, but as James Higham asks 'Have they achieved their infiltration or have they been outed?'I suggest the former.

A Modern Greeting

Published on 2012-02-14 03:17:00

Happy Valentine's Day!

Labour's Latest Leader Of Their MSPs?

Published on 2011-07-06 03:06:00

Since Labour's humiliating defeat in May in Scotland and Iain Gray's announcement that he will be standing down 'later in the year' the grapevine has been hard at work with the MSM attempting to forecast who will be the new leader of Labour's MSPs.Fo

The Drug Culture

Published on 2011-07-05 14:16:00

I'm by no means a libertarian in the philosophical sense, having too much evidence available for Original Sin! On the other hand, I think the state takes far too much on itself and should leave people alone to sort out their problems rather

The Star Of Caledonia

Published on 2011-07-05 03:08:00

Three artists were given the opportunity to design a landmark which would be positioned on the A74 at Gretna, on the border between England and Scotland.The artists were Chris Wilkinson of Wilkinson Eyre Architects, the American Ned Khan and Cec

Time To Disprove England Bankrolls Scotland

Published on 2011-07-04 03:17:00

On Radio 5 yesterday morning Stephen Nolan dedicated his 90 minute programme to the subject: 'We're All In This Together - The Future of the Union'. Guests included Toby Young, the Telegraph blogger and George Kerevan, a columnist for the Scotsman, p

The Journeyman - Chapter 17

Published on 2011-07-03 13:36:00

Chapter 17Five minutes early, Sir John was reminded of his dislike of any zoo and London’s in particular. It wasn’t the animals; if they looked bored it was with good reason, going by the banality of the people gawking at them. ‘Mr Gordon, what

Korea's Got Talent

Published on 2011-07-03 03:33:00

Choi Sung-Bong. According to Wikipedia, he did give the panel the history of his musical training but it was edited 'to make his story more appealing for television'.In a country where there is no financial security net for those falling into difficu

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-07-02 14:12:00

The Obedient Wives ClubChurnalism almost wins outThe Miliband DriftScaremongering Much, Mary?John Redwood on the few signs of cuts when he drives aroundA Cunning Financial PlanScenarios of C02 effects on global warmingState Government Takes Over Mana

A Letter To Alex Salmond

Published on 2011-07-02 03:03:00

Dear Mr SalmondLast Saturday I praised your announcement that children of fallen military personnel will receive extra financial support to help with their education.As we have more Scots joining the British armed forces per head than from any other

Germany's Greens Have Fingers To Match

Published on 2011-07-01 03:21:00

In Germany the Green Party became the senior partner in Baden-Wurttemberg in March for the first time and made major gains in the Rhineland-Palatinate vote. They've been celebrating their historic victory and seem to be continuing in the eastern stat

End Of Term

Published on 2011-06-30 13:36:00

Owing to a fault with Blogger today I have been unable to access my dashboard to write any post for this evening until now. The last FMQs for this parliamentary term took place at noon today. An interesting end to a term in which the unio

Useless Punishment - Comment

Published on 2011-06-30 03:15:00

In response to my post last evening Hazel wrote with the following comment. I agree with her. They can't police that. It's the cheap option, the easy get out for salving politician's consciences. Unless he's going to be tagged for 25 years

Unrealistic Sentencing

Published on 2011-06-29 15:45:00

Call me naive but until I was about 40 years old I always thought the judiciary of England (when I lived there) and Scotland would protect the law-abiding from those who are hell-bent on criminal activity. In recent years some judgements in bot

If You Live In The UK You'll Like This. Not A Lot But You Will Like It

Published on 2011-06-29 03:19:00

A guest post by Petem130Education, Education, EducationNo academic versions of Phil and Kirstie here although, thinking about it that might be a great idea? I can see it now. Tonight’s show will feature Phil and Kirstie looking for the best possibl

The Oath Of Allegiance

Published on 2011-06-28 14:41:00

Why has no politician mentioned this in the Westminster parliament?

Today's Non-Story

Published on 2011-06-28 03:07:00

Yetminster, near Sherborne, Dorset is a village I know well. It's a picturesque wee place and the image of Olde England's rural lifestyle. Yetminster also has a thriving allotment community (pictured) and the parish council rents the 20 a

A Response To 'Education and a blank sheet of paper'

Published on 2011-06-27 13:43:00

This is a cross-post I wrote for the Idiot Husband who asked me if I would respond to this post at his place. He's no idiot though and has wide experience in the world of education.Thank you for the opportunity to respond to your post on '

Disrespectful Or Not?

Published on 2011-06-27 03:07:00

The homecoming of our fallen will be moved from RAF Lyneham to RAF Brize Norton in September.During the years of repatriation taking place in Lyneham, the corteges had to pass through the main street of Royal Wootton Bassett en route to the destinati

The Journeyman - Chapter 16

Published on 2011-06-26 13:33:00

Chapter 16 The troubles hadn’t reached Pat or Brian, yet. They were only too pleased to see Joanna and get her cryptic message explained. We’d given ourselves the day off, having decided we were getting practice rusty in all but the areas

Was This Bob Crow's Grandfather?

Published on 2011-06-26 05:40:00

A guest post from Edward SpaltonActing as executor in tidying up a house, I came across a copy of the Daily Sketch of May 4 1945. Among the news of collapsing German armies and imminent victory was this item.TUBES MAY JOIN STRIKE TODAYThere

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-06-25 14:10:00

Starve The BeastGalliano, Galliano, Galliano, let me go-oh-oh-ohThe Big Society ConThe Burning HouseAbandon Law, all ye who enter hereThe future of Scotland

A Sign Of The Times

Published on 2011-06-25 03:34:00

Today is Armed Forces Day which is an American idea Gordon Brown decided to import back in 2009.The website states: 'It's an opportunity to do two things. Firstly to raise public awareness of the contribution made to our country by those who se

Food And Drink Subsidies

Published on 2011-06-24 14:36:00

Fifteen Scottish rural food and drink companies are to share £3.7 million in government money.One of the organisations which secured just under £1.6 million is a Taste of Arran, a cop-operative if firms based on the Firth of Clyde island. It

Global Warming Strikes Dundee

Published on 2011-06-24 03:31:00

Yesterday afternoon Dundee was the recipient of a thunder and lightning hail storm which resulted in the streets flowing with ice cold water.Yet the warmists insist the onset of a mini Ice Age "... will be disguised by global warming." I'll wait

Two Wise Decisions

Published on 2011-06-23 13:41:00

Yesterday, Geert Wilders, the charismatic Dutch politician, was found not guilty of all charges of incitement to hatred, discrimination and group insult. Acquitting Mr Wilders Judge Marcel van Oosten said: "The bench finds that your statements

Selling Up? You'll Need A Home Report

Published on 2011-06-23 03:12:00

At this time of year there's usually a drop in the house sales market because people are more interested in their annual holiday than thinking of moving house. However, I've noticed quite a few homes have appeared on the market in the last coup

More Indoctrination

Published on 2011-06-22 15:35:00

This morning I had an irate friend call me. I'll paraphrase the conversation as best as I can."You know about things going on in politics and stupid people. Who are these people who say we can only drink a mouthful of wine?"I replied I di

Positivism

Published on 2011-06-22 03:11:00

A guest post by petem130With Referism we also need Positivism…Being positive should be an imperative for us all. The power of positive thinking.Think yourself well!Believe in yourself!!Believe in your own strengths, capabilities and potential!!!Ea

Greece May Fail But Athens Will Still Stand

Published on 2011-06-21 13:52:00

Greece prides itself on the strength of its democracy, but despite the number of demonstrations which have taken place outside its parliament, their politicians like to stress that modern Greeks' enthusiasm for protest shows an 'admirable continuity

Trump Falls Short

Published on 2011-06-21 03:27:00

Ever since Donald Trump bought the Menie Estate and dunes in Aberdeenshire, back in 2005, somewhat half-heartedly initially I supported his golf project which he promised would be 'the world's greatest golf resort'.Over the years I began to take more

An Australian View Of The EU And The Carbon Tax

Published on 2011-06-20 14:11:17

One of my readers (you know who you are) spent many years in Australia and keeps a close eye on national issues there. He sent this link in which one of Australia's respected journalists wrote a a persuasive article for the National Affairs thi

An Australian View Of The EU And The Carbon Tax

Published on 2011-06-20 14:11:00

One of my readers (you know who you are) spent many years in Australia and keeps a close eye on national issues there. He sent this link in which one of Australia's respected journalists wrote a a persuasive article for the National Affairs thi

The Education Debate

Published on 2011-06-20 04:00:04

A guest post by Edward Spalton After reading this article in the Spectator I was motivated to write this supplementary note. In the late Eighties/early Nineties I was co-opted to a board of school governors as a representative of local business. It

The Education Debate

Published on 2011-06-20 03:25:00

A guest post by Edward SpaltonAfter reading this article in the Spectator I was motivated to write this supplementary note.In the late Eighties/early Nineties I was co-opted to a board of school governors as a representative of local business. It was

The Journeyman- Chapter 15

Published on 2011-06-19 19:13:02

Chapter 15 (Previous chapter links are listed at the end of this one) The week had been kind to Neil. The ritual jamboree for shareholders had gone well. As expected the share price had reacted to the slightly lower profits than those dre

The Journeyman- Chapter 15

Published on 2011-06-19 13:23:00

Chapter 15 (Previous chapter links are listed at the end of this one)The week had been kind to Neil. The ritual jamboree for shareholders had gone well. As expected the share price had reacted to the slightly lower profits than those dream

The IMF's Second Biggest Problem After The Greek Bailout

Published on 2011-06-19 03:15:00

Another British soldier, from the 3rd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Staffords), has lost his life in Afghanistan. He was shot on yesterday while on patrol on the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province.He was killed on the same day as the

The IMF's Second Biggest Problem After The Greek Bailout

Published on 2011-06-19 03:15:00

Another British soldier, from the 3rd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Staffords), has lost his life in Afghanistan. He was shot on yesterday while on patrol on the Nahr-e Saraj District of Helmand Province. He was killed on the same day as th

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-06-18 14:59:33

Until the Day of Judgement How Scottish Labour can build its own identity China To Govern Australia and New Zealand The Great Train Robbery was peanuts... Start executing, please Stench From socialist hero ... to zero How time flies Clegg: ri

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-06-18 13:51:00

Until the Day of JudgementHow Scottish Labour can build its own identityChina To Govern Australia and New ZealandThe Great Train Robbery was peanuts...Start executing, pleaseStenchFrom socialist hero ... to zeroHow time fliesClegg: right but wrongTha

Bling Democracy

Published on 2011-06-18 07:59:25

Scotland Independence And The Westminster Paradigm (Excerpt from The People Business)“The role of Nature accepted, we then have to ask; whether in the affairs of humanity, any concept, system, practice or ideology which fails to improve the

Bling Democracy

Published on 2011-06-18 05:19:00

Scotland Independence And The Westminster Paradigm(Excerpt from The People Business)“The role of Nature accepted, we then have to ask; whether in the affairs of humanity, any concept, system, practice or ideology which fails to improve the wel

Afghanistan

Published on 2011-06-18 01:47:01

Another two British soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan the MoD has announced. One serviceman, from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), serving with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, was killed by a bomb on an operation in a mis

Afghanistan

Published on 2011-06-18 01:47:00

Another two British soldiers have been killed in Afghanistan the MoD has announced.One serviceman, from the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (REME), serving with the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, was killed by a bomb on an operation in a missi

Scotland v Norway

Published on 2011-06-18 00:58:15

Oslo Here in Scotland politicians often mention Norway, also an oil producing nation, as a successful small country and by all accounts it is. Its economy also relies on forestry (which occupies 26% of the country) and fishing yet agriculture hardly

Scotland v Norway

Published on 2011-06-17 14:11:00

OsloHere in Scotland politicians often mention Norway, also an oil producing nation, as a successful small country and by all accounts it is.Its economy also relies on forestry (which occupies 26% of the country) and fishing yet agriculture hardly fe

Patrick Harvie - A Worthy Complaint?

Published on 2011-06-17 04:09:15

Many civilised parliaments have, during the working day, a short time devoted to prayer or some form of meditation. The Scottish Parliament has a short period at the beginning of each day which is referred to as the Time for Reflection session and g

"Ism" Me?

Published on 2011-06-17 03:06:00

It's my pleasure to publish a guest post from Petem130, a regular reader and commenter.“Ism” me?There’s been a fair bit of discussion and consideration given to “referism”. Many, who think and consider democracy, or what seems to stand for

"Ism" Me?

Published on 2011-06-17 03:06:00

It's my pleasure to publish a guest post from Petem130, a regular reader and commenter. “Ism” me? There’s been a fair bit of discussion and consideration given to “referism”. Many, who think and consider democracy, or what seems to stand fo

Patrick Harvie - A Worthy Complaint?

Published on 2011-06-16 14:14:00

Many civilised parliaments have, during the working day, a short time devoted to prayer or some form of meditation.The Scottish Parliament has a short period at the beginning of each day which is referred to as the Time for Reflection session and gue

Wind Robbery

Published on 2011-06-16 03:23:00

Our utility bills are to rise, of that there is no doubt and there is also no doubt that hidden within our bills is a charge towards green energy. I think energy companies purposefully make their billing system complex to confuse the avera

What Is A 'Right' War?

Published on 2011-06-15 13:51:00

Afghanistan is Not the Right War - GRTV

The Dark Side Of The Internet

Published on 2011-06-15 03:17:00

This is the man who thought if he used the hospitality of Edinburgh University's computer system to deceive it was fine. Tom MacMaster, a 40 year old married man, is an American studying in Edinburgh, where he decided he would start a blog claiming t

Social Responsibility

Published on 2011-06-14 13:54:00

I've lived a fairly simple life. For over forty years I worked earn money to pay my way and then to bring up my family. My father taught us that we must never get into debt and always live within our means. Good sound advice. There have b

It's All About Balance

Published on 2011-06-14 03:06:00

Balance and muscle control I'm told. Those of us of a certain age couldn't have helped being in awe of the young Romanian athlete Nadia Comaneci's performance in the 1976 Olympics. A perfect 10 all round. She took my breath away, not only

Dr Wellings Is 'Very Worried'

Published on 2011-06-13 13:43:00

The fun begins with the image of not just a poor Scotland but one which would be bankrupt and need a bailout.Dr Richard Wellings of the IEA - a London-based think tank - has compiled the maths for an independent Scotland and:"It's very worrying,

Killing Us To Save The World

Published on 2011-06-13 03:15:00

A guest post by Apogee.I wonder if the politicians are starting to realise the mess they are in with global warming.In the 50's and 60's there were attempts to modify weather with spraying various things, dry ice, yes CO2 was one -I think bromid

The Journeyman - Chapter 14

Published on 2011-06-12 13:20:00

Bill Gallagher; aka Brian Cameron and James Charles Strachan; aka Pat Urquhart, watched the tree clad slopes of the Okanogan’s close around them after the 4X4 Chrysler powered it’s way through the town of Brewster and on past the scattering

Unionism and Independence

Published on 2011-06-12 03:21:00

Last week again the MSM were making the agenda in Scottish politics by continuing to concentrate on the independence referendum and the result of a small poll, which stated support had increased by 6%, sent them into overdrive.Meantime the Scottish g

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-06-11 14:09:00

Dear Mr SalmondStrange, strange bedfellowsMr Moore: whose must, your must or my must?Lies Damned LiesWhat future for Scotland's media?The Lies behind the West's War on LibyaOur Vera hits the headlines againHolyrood's scant sectarianism fortnight...

The Bilderbergs, Twinings And The Mafia

Published on 2011-06-11 03:32:00

As the Bilderbergs' meeting draws to a close in St Moritz, Switzerland today, it's without doubt - given the size of the British contingent - that over the four day event, tea will have been served as one of the main beverages. I wonder if, in the as

The People Business- Guest Post

Published on 2011-06-10 13:44:00

A guest post from John SouterThe People BusinessThis exercise is about us. All of us, the Homo sapiens that dominate this planet we call earth and the world we manufacture in order to pass our time on it.As a species we are dominant. We have conquere

Acoustic Porn

Published on 2011-06-10 03:22:00

You haven't thrown out your old portable radio have you?Having worked in Switzerland I formed the opinion that the Swiss are friendly, comfortable with their identity and slightly rather conservative. It was very evident in rural areas where ch

The Burdens Of The New Scottish Government

Published on 2011-06-09 14:27:00

There has been much talk about Alex Salmond's demands from Westminster for extra powers for Scotland and his handling of the Supreme Court ruling on the Fraser case.Unfortunately there are devotees of the SNP leader who, in their blind loya

The Wizardry of Os-borne and Cameron's Bricks

Published on 2011-06-09 03:03:00

A guest post by John Souter.A DWP spokesperson said: ‘Our Housing Benefit reforms are not designed to force people out of their homes. They are about restoring fairness to a system which has spiralled [sic] out of control and ensuring that benefit

Forecast: A Cold, Cold Winter

Published on 2011-06-08 03:17:00

The Scottish Power announcement of a 19% rise in gas and a 10% rise in electricity must have stunned householders across the country yesterday. It did me because I know my own supplier will follow suit. The knock-on effect of this rise will be

The Sexualisation Of Children

Published on 2011-06-07 15:05:00

This morning I listened on and off to Call Kaye on Radio Scotland. The subject was the sexualisation of children. Only one mother mentioned she wanted to control the pace of her children's learning about sex. Others banged on about variou

When Self-Medication Fails

Published on 2011-06-07 03:12:00

I take full responsibility for my own health, but when my trusty version of self medication - a few Tio Pepes and couple of quality oatcakes smothered in a tasty smelly cheese - has no effect then I have to resort to the medical profession. Tod

The Rumour Mill

Published on 2011-06-06 13:47:00

Leuchers airbaseThe shameful handling of the maritime surveillance aircraft Nimrod has wasted around £4billion of taxpayers' money and is the cause of the closure of the main maritime surveillance base at RAF Kinloss, although some insist the cancel

And So It Goes On ...

Published on 2011-06-06 02:49:00

While William Hague posed with Libyan rebels in Benghazi stating he "was prepared to continue in Libya even if it had to continue for the rest of the year", another British soldier was killed in the Nahr-e-Saraj area of Helmand province.The Royal Mar

The Journeyman - Chapter 13

Published on 2011-06-05 13:14:00

CHAPTER 13 Neil Hopkins closed his eyes and thought of England. Most of his staff was long gone, apart from the two financial analysts who’d be most of the night extracting the figures he wanted on Uniclor. Gently rocking he eyed the lights still s

Two Wrongs Don't Make A Right

Published on 2011-06-05 03:37:00

One more family received a very unwelcome knock at their door in the past 48 hours. I expect two members of the Highlanders, 4th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (4 Scots) were standing on their doorstep to convey the heartbreaking news

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-06-04 14:38:00

Labour/Fabian/Socialism ... You FailedGreece, A Byronic TragedyThe Cruellest FictionA useful lesson on how to write an email to a commercial business or a governmental departmentThree cheers for Catholic CareIdly Watching A Cypriot MarriageKnowing Th

The Care Home Business

Published on 2011-06-04 03:08:00

I don't think anyone who watched this week's Panorama wouldn't have felt sickened - if not horrified - at the abuse dished out to our most vulnerable.Yet we're brainwashed into believing social services know best - the same people who continue to rem

A Cheap Answer To A Decent Lawn

Published on 2011-06-03 06:19:00

The above was my main lawn in mid-April the day I scarified it. It had been under snow and ice for nearly three months. Then I applied potato fertiliser - recommended by an old farming friend - and watered it in. I kept it well watered during t

A Citizens' Initiative

Published on 2011-06-02 14:56:00

Last week a letter in a Scottish newspaper caught my eye. My admiration of the writer knows no bounds as he has continued to contribute to the Scottish media for many a year.His letter reiterates what some think is Scotland but not enough. The

It's Time Dave Sorted This Out

Published on 2011-06-02 03:21:00

Lord Taylor, a Birmingham born former barrister, was jailed for fraud this week. He lied under oath about his expenses and a jury decided he was guilty. Another Tory peer was found to be fiddling the taxpayer to the tune of £14,000 this

Formal Education - It Should Offer More

Published on 2011-06-01 13:50:00

It's entertaining to see the MSM continue to put independence top of the political agenda here in Scotland and having Sky's Scotland correspondent, James Matthews, compile a rather shallow A - Z on the subject could be interpreted as a compliment. I

The Difference Between UK, GB And England

Published on 2011-06-01 03:23:00

Wonderful material for David Cameron and the Unionists? Pity about the presenter's approach. I won't comment on his accent because that would be quite unfair but I do wish he wasn't reading from a 'speed' script.I had my paracetamol prior to pu

An 'In/Out' EU Referendum

Published on 2011-05-31 13:28:00

Edward is one of my regular readers and contributors. He offered this preview, which I am pleased to share with you, of an article that will be published next month in the Euro Realist. If you would like to receive a copy of the publication ple

Retirement Plan

Published on 2011-05-31 03:09:00

Even though this is a spoof it would be more amusing if it wasn't so accurate. Have the Americans copied our system of vice versa?

Onwards And Upwards

Published on 2011-05-30 14:36:00

Call me Dave is panicking. It's his duty to meet the Queen this week to discuss affairs of state and he's been sending out enormous feelers to the Unionist community for tips on how to respond to constitutional questions regarding the independe

Sold To The Lowest Bidder

Published on 2011-05-30 03:15:00

It's common knowledge the Ministry of Defence have to save money and now they've dealt with sacking members of the military, changing military personnel terms and conditions and cancelling orders for equipment badly needed, what was left?How about Br

The Journeyman - Chapter 12

Published on 2011-05-29 13:04:00

CHAPTER 12 Tomorrow, Martin Vernon Grey, Marty to his friends, would remove the approval forms from the replacement passports then re-attach the old for re-filing. Two extra passports courtesy of H.M. Liverpool Office and the original applications wi

Another Two Fatalities And A Tenacious Mother

Published on 2011-05-29 03:20:00

Plymouth will be a sad town this weekend having lost a further two of their military. The men were from 42 Commando the Royal Marines and were killed in an IED explosion in southern Afghanistan. Since that war began 368 of our milita

Overseas Aid

Published on 2011-05-28 03:19:00

courtesy of Economics HelpUsually I try to see the best in people but it's very difficult to see anything of substance in the Prime Minister. More and more he looks like a glorified salesman rather than a strong leader with a conviction to make

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-05-27 14:02:00

Edinburgh's Millennium DomeSpecialist Subject? The Bleeding ObviousThe Fraser CaseThe Ballad of Elliot MorleyNowhere left to hide?Iranian One Night StandsRajan Tata, Chorus Steel and the idiotThe Problem Began When the Invention of the Spear Re

Scotland - The Future And The Past

Published on 2011-05-27 03:22:00

Yesterday Alex Salmond laid out his five year vision for Scotland with a pledge to tackle sectarianism and alcoholic drink. He intends to bring back proposals to set a minimum price per unit of alcohol - a policy, although well intended, included som

A 1984 For Our Time

Published on 2011-05-26 04:02:00

My local librarian suggested I may enjoy Henry Porter's The Dying Light and she was right. First published in 2009, it's set a near-future Britain where the tentacles of the surveillance state have been extending their reach throughout society.I don'

Vorsprung durch Technik - The Latest Laptop

Published on 2011-05-25 13:36:00

The future. It had to come didn't it? As long as these innovations have normal size keyboards they may succeed.

A Badly Judged Photocall

Published on 2011-05-25 03:19:00

What's the girl thinking?More and more I despair at the actions of our Prime Minister. Surely he must have realised that the choreographed table tennis stunt was distasteful and not what is expected of British Prime Ministers. Whilst I re

This Coalition Government Is The Best Yet At PR

Published on 2011-05-24 14:19:00

Out of sight out of mind is the Prime Minister's policy for Afghanistan where yesterday a soldier from 1st Battalion the Rifles was killed in an IED explosion.I doubt if the soldier was comforted in his last days by Liam Fox's announcement that the M

Philosophy, Practice and Purpose

Published on 2011-05-24 03:17:00

Philosophy, Practice and PurposeThe difficulty of relating or trying to relate any one of the above with any combination of the others is down mainly to the nuances and varieties of circumstance we as individuals, communities, nations or continents f

A Matter Of National Importance

Published on 2011-05-23 13:44:00

It's about time a subject of national importance was discussed rather than the playing away of some grossly overpaid man who can't be faithful to his wife and is stupid enough to think money can buy anything. I've never heard of the person yet he thi

Operation Telic - The Finale

Published on 2011-05-23 03:11:00

Yesterday in Iraq bombings killed at least 13 people and wounded more than 65 in Baghdad.Also yesterday the last British forces left Iraq after eight years. Marines from the Royal Navy stayed on after the end of combat operations to help train

The Journeyman - Chapter 11

Published on 2011-05-22 13:46:00

If Joanna Fernyhough noticed the change in our appearance she was too polite to mention it. Ushering us through to the conservatory we were introduced to another couple as associates of John. Trying to absorb everything at once, and conscious of Pat

Secret Love

Published on 2011-05-22 03:32:00

Kathy Kirby was part of my teenage years, along with Lulu, Dusty and Cilla. We danced to their recordings, copied their hairstyles and attempted to apply the heavy black cake eyeliner and mascara which was part of their public personae.Like som

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-05-21 14:11:00

Mirror's Labour Spin FailUnionist thoughts on the Queen's visit to the RepublicSo how am I?Reaping The Old Reward...Of ants and menSexual Allegations and Government Fit-UpsOnce a Hoon, Always a HoonTwo non-blogs which may be of interest:Consumer Acti

The BBC v Scotland

Published on 2011-05-21 04:30:00

The BBC hasn't served Scotland well for many years but when the corporation decided to build a new £72m office in Glasgow, which opened in 2007, it was thought there may be some change of heart from the London based organisation.The First Minister w

Political Internships in Scotland

Published on 2011-05-20 14:27:00

In my day what is called an intern now was called a trainee, but we insist upon importing Amerianisms so intern is today's buzz word.Edinburgh university have been found out charging interns £5,000 for the pleasure of ensuring a 15 week placement wi

Today's Non-Story

Published on 2011-05-20 03:27:00

I haven't bought a lottery ticket for years but I know plenty people who faithfully spend their £1 or more every week and good luck to them.If I remember correctly the UK National Lottery's policy is to give to good causes and even in this quiet out

He'll Not Take The High Road Or the Low Road But His Own Road

Published on 2011-05-19 03:20:00

After a stunning SNP victory two weeks ago, yesterday Alex Salmond was re-elected as First Minister, by 68 votes to zero, with 57 abstentions.Since the 6th of May he must have found some amusement in the response of the shocked unionists. The M

A Teacher In Russia

Published on 2011-05-18 14:34:00

A post from Edward Spalton.Stephen Beet, a friend of mine, teaches in Russia. He was teaching here in the private sector but found that political correctness and state influence was creeping in and making things much the same as in the

One Man's Meat...

Published on 2011-05-18 03:24:00

The title should read 'One Man's Poison Is Another Man's Meat' if the newspapers are to be believed.While the erstwhile head (although he hasn't officially resigned as yet) of the IMF languishes in a NewYork prison, Mr Sarkozy snr the father of the c

The New Liberal Democrat Leader

Published on 2011-05-17 14:34:00

Willie Rennie is now the leader of the Liberal Democrats in the Scottish Parliament. Caron must be delighted. Mr Rennie did not win his constituency vote but acquire his appointment through the list system here in Scotland and he was the

Just An Idle Thought

Published on 2011-05-17 03:26:00

A guest post from Apogee.Just an idle thought, looking at the financial disparity between the richest and poorest in the EUSSR, I am wondering if the current bailouts are really an attack on smaller countries to deliberately break them, to destroy th

Sex And Power

Published on 2011-05-16 03:14:00

Power and sex is a heady mix but the arrest of Dominque Strauss-Kahn, the head of the IMF is, without doubt, the stuff of conspiracy theorists. He has been accused of the sexual assault of a New York hotel chambermaid.Strauss-Kahn is thought to

The Journeyman- Chapter 10

Published on 2011-05-15 13:24:00

CHAPTER 10 Five am and the forecasters were right about getting the weather wrong. Rain and blustering wind making the airport carpark even less inviting than usual. Transferring cases and rubbish to the hired Granada we lef

My Choice

Published on 2011-05-15 03:27:00

The first movement of Beethoven's 5th Symphony holds a special place in my heart. It was the first piece I ever played - as a member of the Dundee Schools' Orchestra - to the paying public and I was overawed by the rapt sea of faces sitting to my lef

Will Jack's Voice Be Heard?

Published on 2011-05-14 16:11:00

Lord McConnell of Glencorrodale isn't happy about Labour MPs having a say in the election of the new Scottish parliamentary leader of his party.He says ' it was wrong that in the past MPs had equal votes with MSPs on the issue' and MPs should volunta

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-05-14 03:25:00

Who cares about immigration? (Or education?)Good stuff from George OsborneA nation of sheepAfore ye goThere is only one man who can deliver Scottish independenceIceland, Paperland and PovertyScottish devolutionCzech Out The Last Liberal State In The

Congratulations

Published on 2011-05-13 14:57:00

On Wednesday Tricia Marwick was appointed the first female Presiding Officer in the Scottish Parliament. Tricia is the SNP SNP MSP for Mid Fife and Glenrothes and she defeated Hugh Henry (Labour) and Christine Grahame (SNP).I remember meeting Tricia

Ireland's Future

Published on 2011-05-11 22:41:00

The stark realism of this article is massively impressive and horrific. If Parliament allows Britain to throw a penny more (which we don't have and will have less as Mr Cameron lets the deficit mount) into supporting the euro, it has abdica

We Really Know How To Waste Public Money

Published on 2011-05-11 22:15:00

Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbet, Stirlingshire, boasts some of the most modern facilities in Europe.It was opened last August at a cost of £300 million and was built to replace the nearby Falkirk and Stirling Royal Infirmaries which are being

Pill-Popping Isn't The Answer

Published on 2011-05-11 03:03:00

Portrait of a Pregnant WomanRaphael c1506Obese women are likely to have larger babies and rates of caesarians are much higher as are births with forceps and other very serious complications. Some years ago I worked with a young woman who was ob

The Kirking And A New Presiding Officer

Published on 2011-05-10 14:09:00

The Kirking of the Scottish Parliament took place earlier this evening with newly elected MSPs gathering for the first time. The multi-faith religious service, with the sermon delivered by the Most Reverend Mario Conti, Archbishop of Glasgow, m

David Cairns RIP

Published on 2011-05-10 06:26:00

David Cairns, the Labour MP for Inverclyde, has died from acute pancreatitis in a London hospital. He was 44 and had been hospitalised since March.He had a rather different background to most MPs having trained and practised in the priesthood u

Scottish Unionist Parties Fragment

Published on 2011-05-10 03:30:00

'She's the Tory it's ok to like' I was told today and I couldn't disagree. Annabel Goldie, after insisting on Friday she would continue as leader of the Scottish Conservatives, became the third casualty of last Thursday's election today when sh

Some Thoughts On The AV Referendum

Published on 2011-05-09 13:59:00

A post by Edward Spalton:Well, Mr. Salmond certainly did very well. From the limited reporting of Scottish affairs down here, I always thought he had a very competent team of ministers. Whilst I don't share his views, the destruction of&nbs

A Lesson In Communication

Published on 2011-05-09 03:34:00

As a way of encouraging young people to his church, 45-year-old Rev Zoltan Lendavi showcases his skateboarding skills for them outside his church in Redics, a small village on Hungary's border with Slovenia.Some Church of Scotland ministers could tak

The Journeyman - Chapter 9

Published on 2011-05-08 13:30:00

CHAPTER 9.When I hung the phone back up in the Leeds steak house on Thursday night I knew I’d inherited an Irishman. Whether it was Murphy’s or Sod’s law I didn’t particularly care, all I knew was that by not denying all knowledge of him I’

What Now For The Scottish Liberal Democrats?

Published on 2011-05-08 03:32:00

Tavish Scott, the leader of the Scottish LibDems has resigned, with immediate effect, after conceding the election results were "disastrous" and that the party needs a "new direction with a new leader".The LibDems lost 25 deposits in Thursday's elect

He Won The Battles But Lost The War

Published on 2011-05-07 13:49:00

He was spoken of as charismatic and a gentleman by those who knew him in Santander, which is across the Bay of Biscay from Pedrena, the town of his birth. Along with others from this golf-crazed area of Scotland, I have participated in the 'Seve Pilg

Scotland's New Political Scene - Around The Blogs

Published on 2011-05-07 06:55:00

What a bonny political map isn't it? You may like a look at some bloggers (and others) thoughts on the changes in the Scottish political scene.There will be other bloggers who have posted on the subject and I apologise if I've omitted them. &nb

Some Bandwagon!

Published on 2011-05-06 13:34:00

Though A Staunch Unionist.........Oldrightie has a significant respect for any political movement that flies in the face of the left and Labour. If the price for tribal breakup is the wipe out of Labour and socialism North of the Border, count me in.

Political History Is Made

Published on 2011-05-06 02:59:00

What can I say other than breathtaking, marvellous, wonderful, superb, braw. Congratulations to the SNP. A very well deserved victory.I'd like to offer my thanks to those lovely folk who joined me through the night in the live chat.  

Scottish Election Results - Live Chat

Published on 2011-05-05 14:45:00

Scottish Election Results '11Welcome to the Scottish election results live chat. I

QT plus English, Welsh and N Irish Local Election Results

Published on 2011-05-05 14:05:00

QT and Local ElectionsTo save you having to go between blogs ASE has provided the live c

Our Scotland

Published on 2011-05-05 13:11:00

I'm a little late with this but better late than never. My thanks to @citizensmart on Twitter.

Africa's Got Talent -The Water Man

Published on 2011-05-05 03:04:00

A light-hearted start to the day. If the pollsters are right it could be a long one - with a happy ending.

I Could Be Persuaded (Nearly)

Published on 2011-05-04 13:42:00

Courtesy of GuidoClick to enlargeI was hauled over the coals by one of my readers who said: '... you follow that unreconstructed unionist Guido in his contempt for AV.' These days I seldom read Guido but someone, knowi

Scottish Election Results - Live Blog

Published on 2011-05-04 03:05:00

Once the polls have closed the speculation will being in earnest for a few hours until the results begin to flood in. If you would rather chat with fellow speculators instead of shouting at your television, do come and join in here at 10.30pm tomorro

Couldn't Resist It

Published on 2011-05-03 08:49:00

The Last Lap

Published on 2011-05-03 03:31:00

Only two more days of campaigning and then Scotland goes to the polls to elect the next Scottish government. Part of the process is ensuring parties manage to usher their supporters to the local polling stations and to ensure, as much as is pos

The Smoking Buddist

Published on 2011-05-02 14:17:00

My sympathy goes to the 23 year old Buddist monk Sonan Tshering, who is facing three years in prison after becoming the first casualty of a stringent anti-smoking law in the tiny Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan - a country which claims to be Shangri-La a

Lies, Incompetence, Hypocrisy?

Published on 2011-05-02 03:08:00

A guest post from John Souter to whom I offer my sincere thanks for his contributions.Lies Incompetence Hypocrisy?Real poverty is in the process of being dramatically increased by the measures now being implemented through welfare reforms.Reforms tha

The Journeyman - Chapter 8

Published on 2011-05-01 13:21:00

CHAPTER 8. Ruth Dellows awarded her last thirty hours the dubious distinction of being the most terrifying of her life. When he’d crashed in on her, she’d thought it was bound to be rape. Maybe rape and something else but it would feature and mig

BBC's Leaders Debate

Published on 2011-05-01 07:44:00

I have a ticket for the BBC's Leader Debate taking place in Perth concert hall today. Bums have to be on seats by 4.30pm or latercomers will be left out in the desert heat (it's 22 in my garden at present).The programme will be broadcast on BBC

Labour Labours On In Scotland

Published on 2011-05-01 03:11:00

The following is an email I received from one of my readers. He's not the first to complain about the nonsensical policies Labour promise in their manifesto and I suspect this form of electoral material is partly to blame for turning people to

Scots Wha Hae

Published on 2011-04-30 14:02:00

Lyrics:Scots Wha Hae****************************Scots wha hae wi Wallace bled,Gray the coward simply fled,Saw his face sae filled with dread,Why'd he want tae flee?Couldnae face the fearsome horde,Holding up their sandwich board,Lost his heid was cle

For Peat's Sake

Published on 2011-04-30 03:16:00

Sunshine brightens the spirit of most but there are always a few hanging around in the wings, intent on casting clouds.This week we've had 'academics' proclaiming pets should be called companions and their owners renamed human carers. Horse own

The Power Of Words

Published on 2011-04-29 03:12:00

Filmed in Glasgow by www.redsnappa.com.Director: Seth GardnerCast: Bill Thompson, Beth Miller

Boycott Edinburgh Zoo

Published on 2011-04-28 15:09:00

Last week a friend telephoned me to tell me what had happened to her 15 year old neighbour's daughter. Laura Gibson (on the left of the photograph) is suffering from cancer. She was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in March and is being treate

Sectarianism

Published on 2011-04-28 03:17:00

Because I live in the east of Scotland, I have had little personal experience of the sectarianism that grips the west of my country. However it is a very serious issue which divides the west's population with the public displays of hatred at fo

'Cash For Clowns'

Published on 2011-04-27 14:17:00

John Swinney, The Scottish government's Finance Secretary and the MSP with the largest majority in the 2007 Scottish elections, has decided Glasgow council's Aleo (arm's-length external organisations) payments will be stopped by legislation. Gl

First Stop The Bribery

Published on 2011-04-27 03:02:00

Approximately 500 political prisoners - many high profile Taliban fighters - escaped from Kandahar high security prison during Sunday night and early Monday morning. To date only 65 have been recaptured and two have been killed in a gun fight.We are

Holed Below The Waterline

Published on 2011-04-26 03:12:00

It was trailed as 'a major change in strategy' when the beleaguered leader of Labour in Scotland relaunched his party's election campaign by preaching to the converted - his own supporters. Iain Gray's problem is his party has no strategy

A New Charity

Published on 2011-04-25 14:18:00

Coldside Library, Dundee (pictured), with its long single storey curved frontage and elaborate ends - which still today remind me of bookends - is where I discovered my love for books. To a young child it was an imposing building designed in 19

Commemoration

Published on 2011-04-25 03:04:00

ANZAC Day, 25 April, is probably Australia's most important national occasion. It marks the anniversary of the first major military operation fought by Australian and New Zealand forces during the First World War.Today Australians will reflect

The Journeyman - Chapter 7

Published on 2011-04-24 13:27:00

CHAPTER 7.Brian.The days had passed easily enough for me on the boat. I'd got the message of Thursday's meet before I’d began to worry too much. What I hadn't done was firmed up anything that could be qualified as a sketch let alone a plan of

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-04-24 08:55:00

This week's contribution is from davbrubu who says: Fairport Convention's Liege and Lief album trumps most, particularly tracks Matty Groves, Tam Lin and Reynardine.Thanks daybrubu. These brought back many happy memories.Update::

Happy Easter

Published on 2011-04-24 03:02:00

Yes I know I posted this last year but it's worth another airing because it makes me laugh. Just to remind you where Easter eggs come from and not to roll them in areas where animals such as dogs and cows roam - unless you like the additional f

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-04-23 14:48:00

Control of the InternetBetter Child ProtectionBanquo at the FeastEnjoying your smoke-free pubs?Try talking to save lives in LibyaShould we have seen Labour's magpie manifesto coming?

This Should Be In All UK Hospitals

Published on 2011-04-23 03:21:00

This video should be played on large screens at all hospital entrances.Staff of the University Hospital of South Manchester filmed it in their spare time.I would have liked to have seen a little more emphasis on soap and water being the only effectiv

Spineless Cameron

Published on 2011-04-22 13:48:00

I was reluctant to post this video because Mr Fiorilli and his pampered colleagues reduce me to grinding my teeth out of anger.David Cameron says he will veto the 4.9% increase but has not said he would only support a freeze.Last year the money-grabb

The Global Warming Circus Australian Style

Published on 2011-04-22 03:12:00

In the past few weeks of most enjoyable weather for this time of year, I've expected to hear at least one global warming expert pop up in the media and say, "We told you the world is warming," but no - It's very quiet on the global warming front isn'

Computer Security

Published on 2011-04-21 15:01:00

After today's revelations about Apple's quiet intrusion upon our privacy I'm fortunate to have a reader who informs me about current computer and mobile security issues and he has suggested I may like to post his latest findings.Some are related to P

Lessons Never Learned

Published on 2011-04-21 03:20:00

The photograph is Captain Lisa Jade Head, 29, of Huddersfield, who was an officer in the 11 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Regiment, Royal Logistics Corps.She is dead. She was seriously injured by an explosion while clearing IEDs in Helmand provin

Sun of Hootsmon Headlines

Published on 2011-04-20 13:07:00

The chap in the fancy bunnet is the leader of the Libdems in the Scottish Parliament (for readers who don't follow Scottish politics). The photo was taken some years ago as now Mr Scott has very light auburn hair obviously bleached by the const

Labour's Fantasy Figures

Published on 2011-04-20 03:08:00

Last week Andy Kerr was interviewed on Newsnight Scotland about Labour's main policy of imprisoning anyone who is found to be carrying a knife. Needless to say other political parties disagree with the policy.Nigel Hawks of Straight Statistics h

Fancy Words

Published on 2011-04-19 13:43:00

"No boots on ground," says the Prime Minister, yet he is now sending to assist the Libyan rebels 10 senior military officers to provide logistics and intelligence training. Fancy words with little truth yet not one politician has asked for the Westmi

Libya: The Longer The Fighting The Better?

Published on 2011-04-19 03:19:00

Mahdi Darius Nazemroaya is an expert in Middle Eastern and Central Asian affairs. He believes the European economy is being remodeled as the EU drives itself further into the orbit of the US and backs away from Russia, which, he says, is an actual de

For Those Striving For An English Parliament

Published on 2011-04-18 14:47:00

When I googled 'English Parliament' for this post the first image was the above. It says it all really that the majority of the world think Westminster is the English parliament.Of course I don't expect googlers from abroad to necessarily know

Politicians Complain Job Is Not 'Family Friendly'

Published on 2011-04-18 03:17:00

Westminster should be renamed the Comedy House because what the nonsense spoken within it these days would be highly amusing if the matter wasn't so serious.We are at war with two countries and our military are stretched beyond belief. The cost

The Journeyman Chapter 6

Published on 2011-04-17 13:41:00

CHAPTER 6Jim Docherty I’d given a lot of thought as to how I would mend the bridges between Pat and me. None had forseen the death of Droggan forcing the decision on me. Waiting for Pat to arrive I tried to temper my own excitement with what his re

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-04-17 05:39:00

This week's contribution is from Edward who sent it with the following postscript:'The opening line translates as "How glorious is our Lord in Sion". It really raises the spirits!It seems to me a tune which could as easily have come from the Wel

A Lone Marathon Runner

Published on 2011-04-17 02:53:00

In a few hours hundreds of trainer clad people will set off round the streets of London in the annual marathon. Each will have their reason to complete the 26.2miles and I wish them all the best.However, I would like to wish an extraordinarily

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-04-16 14:18:00

AV But Are The Wheels Coming Off?Paddy Power lengthen LAB Most Seats to 1/2The destruction of the marine ecosystemStrange Priorities...Holyrood elections: what would a radical policy look like?Equally uselessCameron is lying to you about immigr

England, Dear England

Published on 2011-04-16 03:33:00

Covent Garden and its market is possibly about as English as it gets to foreigners like me.However, two weeks before the Royal Wedding - that's 29 April just in case you've been hibernating - a number of traders in the Apple Market area of Covent Gar

How Do We Choose Our Political Representatives?

Published on 2011-04-15 14:07:00

The result of the poll 'How do we elect our political representatives' is as follows:By personality 1%By party 34%By policies 26%Combination of the above 34%Eeny-meeny-miney-mo syste

SNP Launch Manifesto

Published on 2011-04-15 03:55:00

Yesterday, in an old haunt of mine the Royal Scottish Academy of Music and Drama, Alex Salmond launched the SNP manifesto. It was a slick, confident performance from the First Minister with proposals which should energise every Scot.The documen

Operation Odyssey Dawn

Published on 2011-04-14 14:32:00

Serving Thanksgiving dinner to staff at RamsteinAs the US attempts to display its democratic credential and conveys the false impression that it has joined the Arab masses by attacking the one country in the entire region where a democratic upri

Parallel Lines

Published on 2011-04-14 03:12:00

The following transcript is of a speech, delivered by Dele Ogun, at the recent Campaign for an Independent Britain Rally and sent to me by Edward Spalton. It's lengthy but merits being published in full.I will let Edward introduce Dele:"I first

When Will William Hague Understand Not Every Country Wants War

Published on 2011-04-13 13:01:00

William Hague is making a spectacular hash of his ministerial remit as Foreign Secretary, although he's not quite in the league of Nick Clegg or David Cameron - yet.Last week it was reported Moussa Koussa had been interviewed, with his agreement, by

Quiet Time

Published on 2011-04-13 03:11:00

Ten Essex infant and junior schools are trialling meditation techniques. The hour-long classes - which teach children 'how to find their own space' - are funded by a £20,000 government grant. Why it's necessary to have extra funding beat

New Intake, New Principles - As If

Published on 2011-04-12 13:55:00

The snapshot is from a BBC video showing the 200+ new MPs elected to Westminster at the 2010 general election.We all assumed - at least I did with an excessive dod of optimism - that the 30% of new MPs, having given due consideration to the exposure

Trust me, I'm a ....!

Published on 2011-04-12 03:21:00

Trust me, I’m a ….!(extract from The People Business)Trust, a small word with a big meaning. One that lies happily above truth in most dictionary’s in the happenchance of soul mates co-joined by their integrity. Trust has no measure, it’

Silence Is Not A Wise Decision Mr Moore

Published on 2011-04-11 13:58:00

He's such a quiet man few know he exists.Michael Moore MP represents the electorate of part of the Scottish borders, namely Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk. He is a member of the Liberal Democrats.Due to the indecision of the electorate last

Disheartening Debate and a Dastard

Published on 2011-04-11 03:01:00

Did you watch the Politics Show yesterday lunchtime? Were you poised, like me, for some serious debate? If your answer is no then consider yourself fortunate. It was dismal; so much so that I'm not even going to suggest you watch it on iPl

The Journeyman - Chapter 5

Published on 2011-04-10 13:16:00

Chapter 5PAT URQUHART. October 81. I don't know what I expected Jim to do when I left the hotel. And, after the meeting with Butler, then the vacuum of the house, he didn't register for a while. Not till bureaucracy and convention butted in and threa

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-04-10 03:04:00

The Real CFPIceland: Delusion vs RealityLabour - Make Poverty PermanentFatties and smokers save the NHS moneySecret DiaryInspector Gadget in the Daily MailThe Euro: A mechanism for passing the buckChildren? We don't need no stinkin' childrenA man wit

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-04-09 03:20:00

My co-author Joe Public's been browsing Youtube again. Not sure about the hat though.This week's second video is Richard's choice of 'the best folk-rock ever'. Not quite sure if it is my top choice, although I was told I was singing it fo

Iain Gray's Flight

Published on 2011-04-08 13:43:00

Iain Gray arriving for his photoshootIt's impossible to ignore the fiasco which took place in Glasgow Central Station (video) yesterday morning when Iain Gray was hijacked by anti-cuts protesters.He was aiming to highlight Labour's support for r

NHS Privatisation

Published on 2011-04-08 03:07:00

The video relates to the English NHS but it's important here in Scotland we keep ourselves informed of what is happening in other parts of the UK.A similar plan could apply to Scottish Water and the Forestry Commission if certain political parties ge

Could This Be Scotland's Next Extreme Sport?

Published on 2011-04-07 13:31:00

Next month the Scottish highlands will see the introduction of a sport which is either for the brave or foolish, I can't decide. What does matter is the safety of participants and that would seem to have been assessed thoroughly. Every sport carries

Publicity Money Can't Buy

Published on 2011-04-07 03:17:00

Normally I pay little attention to celebrity endorsements of political parties, but having followed and admired the work of Brian Cox for many years - as well as keeping an eye on how well he's wearing because he's only a day younger than m

Laughing All The Way To the Bank

Published on 2011-04-06 13:14:00

What do 220 former MPs have in common other than life-long membership to the subsidised restaurants and bars in the Palace of Westminster?Answer: They applied for Resettlement Grants.Thanks to Lobbydog the names and numbers are now public. &nbs

We're Being Duped

Published on 2011-04-06 03:35:00

One thought that pops into my mind on a daily basis is 'Are we being duped?'The coalition have been in government for nearly a year and there's little to show for it. Lots of talk about cuts, university fees which will help the poorest, increas

Women And Politics

Published on 2011-04-05 13:57:00

This election, as in others, I'll leave the number crunchers such as Jeff, Malc and the Burd, to do their comprehensive analyses of central belt constituencies, but I would like briefly to discuss the recently headline in the Guardian: 'Steep decline

No Sympathy From Cameron But Obama Knows What Side His Bread's Buttered On

Published on 2011-04-05 03:03:00

Following the review in October, the MoD said it would reduce the number of military personnel by 17,000 over four years: 7,000 from the army and 5,000 each from the Navy and RAF.Yesterday the MoD announced the numbers to be cut from Army and Navy pe

A Preposterous Perk

Published on 2011-04-04 13:15:00

Although I've been out of the employment market for a few years I shouldn't think procedures have changed too radically. Job descriptions continue to be the main source of information for those seeking work and these days many are available online as

The Beneficent Bikers

Published on 2011-04-04 07:06:00

My only experience of motorcycles goes way back to the 60s when, because an evening class exam ran over time, I missed the last bus from Edinburgh to Peebles. A pal suggested her boyfriend would be happy to give me a lift on his bike and, becau

I don't ruddy well believe it!

Published on 2011-04-04 03:17:00

Such Short memories Scots have.You dumped this cretin and his mates on us poor sods down South, notwithstanding this awfulness and now I learn you are embracing Gray as though he's your Scottish Messiah. Dwarf Marr couldn't hide

The Journeyman- Chapter 4

Published on 2011-04-03 13:07:00

Jim Docherty’s Story Jim poured himself another cup of tea dulling the taste of the medicine that eased his pain and turned lethargy to stupor. Stupor but rarely sleep. He knew why he was tempted to help Cameron but wondered why Pat had bothered? N

A Three-Year-Old And An Itchy Nose

Published on 2011-04-03 03:35:00

This video is my choice of music but if you prefer something a little more 'adult' MicroDave's choice is below.Let me introduce you to three-year-old Jonathan conducting to the 4th movement of Beethoven's 5th symphony. Beethoven gives me an itc

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-04-02 13:57:00

The Biggest Lie in British PoliticsTeaching NothingBritain's net contribution to the EU budget has risen by 74% in one yearWho could have predicted it?The students missed their chance to bring down the crumbling housePolitical suicide?Crusaders

How Do We Vote For Our Political Representatives?

Published on 2011-04-02 03:05:00

While looking for a graphic for this post I discovered the above. It is used by Bromsgrove District Council on its website and caused me to wonder how that electorate feel about being depicted as sheep. There couldn't have been many compla

Good News For Blogger Users

Published on 2011-04-01 13:06:00

click to enlargeWeb technology is not my forte as many of you already know, but thanks to a friend who works with all aspects of computing, I can share the news that Google are developing five new styles/views for Blogger.To try the styles on yo

Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide.

Published on 2011-04-01 03:26:00

How would you like to be tracked today? Not just from home-to-office but everywhere. Then, after work to the pub to have a bevvy-or-two, before arriving home with the excuse "sorry darling I had a late business appointment".The tracking was not just

Your Life In Their Hands - Guest Post

Published on 2011-03-31 13:15:00

I asked Clarinda, a reader who has a comprehensive knowledge of the NHS, if she would be kind enough to respond to this article in the Herald. My sincere thanks Clarinda.Is there a threshold of warnings to pass before government or management takes s

More Coalition Arrogance

Published on 2011-03-31 03:16:00

George Osborne's Budget announcement of a £10billion windfall tax on North Sea oil companies is causing problems, not least to Danny Alexander, who represents a constituency in which many oil related workers reside.Some of Mr Alexander's colleagues

National Security - What Security?

Published on 2011-03-30 13:58:00

The Royal Mail lost the contract to deliver parcels and packages a few years ago now. Privatisation would benefit all of us we were told. Sending parcels would be much cheaper. Since then a few global companies have taken over much of the

A Much Loved Old Bird

Published on 2011-03-30 03:25:00

courtesy of the CourierYou didn't have to be a bird watcher or even a nature lover to be caught up in the excitement in this part of Scotland on Monday. At the Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve, run by the Scottish Wildlife Trust, the main att

A Tearoom Conversation

Published on 2011-03-29 14:14:00

There's panic in the unionist camps with the publication of the latest poll. Who would have thought the SNP and Labour are neck and neck? I would.Here in the east of Scotland there's hardly a word said in favour of labour and their candid

EHRC Needs To Be Abolished

Published on 2011-03-29 03:16:00

Trevor Phillips- chair of EHRCNot only is the Equality and Human Rights Commission fascinated by ethnicity they're obsessed with sexuality and ensuring every child's sexuality is recorded. Those working with young people in schools, healthcare and yo

The Nail In The Coffin For The Scottish Tories

Published on 2011-03-28 13:59:00

Thanks to Sue who uncovered Cameron's pledge during the general election.This just proves he's another lying politican and he has the audacity to insistthe subject of the winter fuel payment is, "very important to him".I will be sending this vid

Campaign Chronicle

Published on 2011-03-28 03:15:00

It hasn't been a good few days for the Scottish Tories or the Libdems.The Tories aren't particularly popular in Glasgow; in fact they're decidedly unpopular. Last week their top regional list candidate for Glasgow was sacked for not declaring a

The Journeyman Chapter 3

Published on 2011-03-27 13:20:00

Monday 10am, I was waiting. Sleep had lowered my defences allowing the worry- worms to riddle through my euphoria. There had been plenty of them as I'd tried to imagine who I'd meet, what he'd say, how I could answer h

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-03-27 04:11:00

A contribution from Joe Public this week. Can't help but think this was produced, in his/her spare time, by an engineer with the hidden desire of being a famous percussionist.

Have You Remembered?

Published on 2011-03-27 00:45:00

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-03-26 14:53:00

Really GreenSharia Law for Libya protest closes Oxford StreetBad ConscienceAn Open Letter to "Call Me Dave"MEPs draw up bail-out rules 'to avoid referendums in certain member states'The Last PostThe tyranny of the crowdDon't forget to put your clock

The Latest Money-Grabbing Stunt

Published on 2011-03-26 04:36:00

Twenty years ago we were advised diesel cars were the future - low carbon emissions and more miles to the gallon. The greens were prominent in their praise of diesel vehicles and insisted they were the future of motoring.Diesel was a few pence

Smile

Published on 2011-03-25 15:06:00

Nobody could fail to smile at this 8-month-old wee lad laughing when his Dad tears up another job rejection letter. A baby's laughter is the purest sound.Thanks to Dick Puddlecote

How Wrong I Was About David Cameron

Published on 2011-03-25 04:05:00

For a couple of months now George Osborne and his band of merry men and women have been happy to leak information about a new flat rate state pension. According to the government, the new pensions system should make pension planning easier to underst

Cameron May Rue His Hasty Decision

Published on 2011-03-24 14:45:00

On Monday night ComRes released the results of a poll for ITV News suggesting that 53% of voters think military action in Libya is an unnecessary risk. I wonder if that number will increase since William Hague's statement in the House of Commons at l

Let Battle Commence

Published on 2011-03-24 04:24:00

After Tuesday's fond farewells at the end of the third session of the Scottish Parliament, the Holyrood election campaign began with a whimper rather than a bang, although admittedly it was overshadowed by the UK government's budget yesterday.We have

There's A Change In Scotland

Published on 2011-03-23 15:14:00

There's a change in Scotland; not a vast change but significant enough to show that the Scots may be awaking to the domineering attitude of the UK coalition government. The Westminster government's Alternative Vote referendum takes place on the same

RIP Dame Elizabeth

Published on 2011-03-23 08:56:00

Elizabeth Taylor has died at the age of 79. She was idolised by many women of my age group; not only for her beauty but her acting ability. Her relationship with Richard Burton was followed closely and was the talk of the steamie on many occasi

Budget Day

Published on 2011-03-23 03:56:00

Today is Budget Day in the Westminster Parliament and many of George Osborne's decisions will affect us all. What chance is there of a Budget Day surprise?Much is already known about the contents of his announcement but a few guesses have caugh

Dare I Mention Germany?

Published on 2011-03-22 15:11:00

The last time I mentioned Germany I was brutally abused by another Scottish blog - which has a number of authors - and accused of being racist. I have no intention of linking or naming the blog because I do now think the reason for the post was

Wind Turbine Installations - What Few See

Published on 2011-03-22 06:18:00

A friend of mine lives in Kenmore, a bonny wee village which nestles at the east end of Loch Tay. Her nearest town is Aberfeldy, a short drive away. For those of you who have never visited the area it is an area of startling scenic beauty and a

Labour Attempts to Plug Into the Future

Published on 2011-03-21 15:16:00

I trust you've remembered the Westminster government's New Year present to us all - a £5,000 electric car grant - all part of the process of meeting carbon targets. Surely you haven't forgotten such benevolence from the Coalition.Motorists wil

Labour's Definition of Equality

Published on 2011-03-21 04:12:00

The Falkirk MP Eric Joyce considers he's saved one of Scotland's hotel chains from doom and disaster.According to Eric Joyce, (I'm not providing a link to his blog), he discovered the BNP had made arrangements to launch their Scottish campaign at the

The Journeyman Chapter 2

Published on 2011-03-20 14:00:00

Chapter 2That same night I boarded the yacht Synkro moored off Abersoch as part of its crew for the weekends race to Dun Laoghaire. After a few snifters of the Jamiesons with Bob and Jack, the brain was soon out of ge

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-03-20 08:23:00

Today's choice is from microdave who left the following comment: There are lots of similar clips of that piece on YouTube and other sites. As to the rights and wrongs it obviously comes down to individual taste. I found Richards clip r

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-03-19 14:53:00

Get A GripClegg's CoupWaking NightmaresHyper-injunctions/The Secret MiseryJapan, Scotland and the social aspiration gapFrocks and pompoms for primary school boysCould the top pollster from 2007 be right again?Why teachers have ruffled the burdz feath

Tweet of the Day

Published on 2011-03-19 07:43:00

Tweet of the Dayclancycnn Jim Clancy by der_bluthundThe full moon this weekend is going to be the "biggest" and "brightest" we'll see until 2029. Get out your cameras!20 minutes ago Favorite Retweet ReplyI intend to hav

Operation Ellamy and That Unspeakable Three Letter Word

Published on 2011-03-19 04:11:00

Yesterday a serviceman died in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. Belonging to the 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment, he was blown up by an IED in Helmand province on Wednesday and after treatment at Camp Bastion's military hospital, he wa

Today's Non-Story

Published on 2011-03-18 09:38:00

Today's parents seem to have their priorities a little twisted and this comment from a mother, about her six-month old's form of transport, made me feel quite sad. The pushchair in question is a Bugaboo Bee (pictured above in blue) and cost bot

FMQs 17 March 2011

Published on 2011-03-18 03:14:00

It was the last FMQs of this parliamentary session yesterday and Tris is spot on with his summary. Love the picture of Alex Salmond too.Thanks Tris for sharing this event with me every week FMQs airs. As you know, during the winter months,

An Exuberant Chronicle of Government and Corruption

Published on 2011-03-17 14:18:00

click to enlargeThere are times when a blogger is overcome by some people's generosity and this is one of them for me. Euan Taylor has offered me the publication rights - under the author's copyright - of The Journeyman

Dog's Best Friend

Published on 2011-03-17 11:23:00

A flicker of reality in the hellish situation engulfing Japan.The two canines were rescued by vets from Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support. The tan and while spaniel was taken to a shelter in Mito while its injured mate is being treated

There's Nothing Unusual

Published on 2011-03-17 06:32:00

Midnight next Tuesday sees the dissolution of the Scottish Parliament's third session. It's doesn't seem so long ago - a more 14 years - since there was great excitement about the referendum; then there was much puffing and puffing concerning t

For My Irish Readers

Published on 2011-03-17 03:46:00

May today bring everything you desired yesterday.

Michael Edwards

Published on 2011-03-16 15:02:00

The video is an interview with founder members of the Electric Light Orchestra way back in 1974. Mike Edwards is the rather shy man who is third to speak.He was one of the two cellists in the original ELO and the one who always presented himsel

Where Is Westminster's Dennis Kucinich?

Published on 2011-03-16 04:14:00

On Thursday, Rep. Dennis Kucinich (D) of Ohio introduced a privileged resolution, with 16 original co-sponsors, that will require the House of Representatives to debate whether to continue the war in Afghanistan.The Pentagon doesn't want Congress to

The SNP Has Nothing To Fear and Nothing to Lose

Published on 2011-03-15 14:38:00

Last month the Peat Worrier published a controversial post suggesting the SNP aren't too keen on debate and those members who have doubts, are being asked not to rock the boat, especially in the run up to the election. Of course the SNP is not

The 101 Declaration

Published on 2011-03-15 09:29:00

Hazel Lewry, a contributor to Newsnet Scotland, has asked if I would bring her latest article to your attention.A brief quote:This petition, this 101 Petition is not about politics, it’s not about any party or platform, it’s quite simply about us

What A Balls Up

Published on 2011-03-15 04:14:00

Let me set the scene for you. Last Saturday, In a shopping centre in Perth the management decided their contribution towards Comic Relief would include filling an Alfa Romeo MiTo with thousands of red pool balls for a 'Guess How Many Balls are

A Letter To Census Customer Services

Published on 2011-03-14 14:47:00

Census Customer Services.O.N.S.Segensworth Road.TitchfieldFarehamHantsPO15 5RR.12/03/11Dear Sir or MadamRe; 2011 Census.This morning I have received your Census Questionnaire and having read it, and on matters of principle I am inclined towards not e

New Speed Limits

Published on 2011-03-14 04:17:00

Some of you may only have seen the above on various German autobahns although France have a limit of 81mph and in Ireland, Spain and Portugal it's 75pmh. Back in the 70s and 80s in Germany you had - and still have - to watch your speed because l

Why Are Scots So Submissive?

Published on 2011-03-13 15:22:00

The Scottish Parliamentary elections are every four years - as stated in the Scotland Act - but to suit Westminster the 2015 election has been postponed until 2016. London can't have these irritating Scots electing their own political represent

Reader's Choice - Double Delight

Published on 2011-03-13 04:59:00

My thanks to wisnaeme for this week's soul food. Leonard Bernstein conducts the Bayerischen Rundfunk (Bavarian public broadcasting service) choir and symphony orchestra. The concert took place in April 1990 in the Iglesia de Waldsassen de Alema

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-03-12 15:20:00

The NHS costs due to SmokingThe price of the 'f' wordThe Next Time The Police Whinge About ...This is what bullshit looks likeIs this Racism? I think it is!A positive objectVeggie Child AbuseDimming the light on human ingenuityBelgiumSo Disappo

Measuring The Head May Become A Thing Of The Past For Some

Published on 2011-03-12 03:40:00

Old Scottish Bowlers from the 1880sSeen here measuring the head ie after all bowls havebeen delivered measuring to determine which bowl isnearest the jack.Over the years I've attended various events at local bowling clubs but I've never quite m

Overpriced Councillors

Published on 2011-03-11 15:21:00

The photograph is of Highland Council councillors. The Scottish government has recommended that they, along with other Scottish councillors, 'deserve a pay rise to reflect their workloads'. An elected councillor's basic salary is currentl

The Costs of Public Service

Published on 2011-03-11 03:07:00

Yesterday I watched the emotional scenes at Wootton Bassett where L/Cpl Liam Tasker's body was slowly driven down the main street while family and friends paid their last respects to him. I understand his faithful dog, having died a few hours a

FMQs 10 March 2011

Published on 2011-03-10 12:45:00

The First Minister mentioned two important homecomings today; firstly the body of Lance Corporal Liam Tasker from Fife who was killed in Afghanistan and secondly the team of six, from Grampian Fire and Rescue Services, who assisted in the search and

"If I am First Minister..."

Published on 2011-03-10 03:11:00

"If I am First Minister, a Labour government will not introduce any upfront fees or graduate contribution for access to higher education in the lifetime of the next Parliament. There will be no price tag on education". So says the Gray ma

Latest EU Policy To Cost EU Countries €270 billion A Year

Published on 2011-03-09 14:04:00

She's a bonnie woman but who is she you may be thinking. She is Danish Connie Hedegaard and she has been given one of the most thankless tasks in Brussels politics - trying to pilot proposals through a crippling dependency on oil and gas import

Westminster Vote Down Overnight Counts for Scotland

Published on 2011-03-09 03:19:00

On Monday Westminster MPs voted, by 298 to 206, against overnight Scottish election counts. Labour had put forward an amendment to the Scotland Bill to protect traditional overnight counts, which always start as soon as possible after polling s

Cheap Flights

Published on 2011-03-08 13:14:00

For International Women's Day - an acknowledgement of women's contribution to music and laughter.

Susan Deacon and Dolly Parton

Published on 2011-03-08 03:27:00

Last week Susan Deacon, ex-Labour health minister MSP and now a professor, was highly visible in the Scottish MSM with her wide ranging proposals for providing a better start to life for pre-school children in Scotland. She states Scotland's ch

A Consequence of Westminster's Higher Education Policy

Published on 2011-03-07 14:57:00

Maastricht is a typical Dutch town being well versed in English, German and French as well as Dutch. I've only visited once and that was a day trip to hear a concert in the old Music Hall and not the splendid glass apparition which houses today

Detrimental Diplomacy

Published on 2011-03-07 03:14:00

This is a telephone conversation between the British ambassador, Richard Northern MBE, in Tripoli and the senior Benghazi rebel politician Mustafa Abdel-Jalil about the presence of around 8 SAS troops who were captured near Benghazi and were freed la

A Scottish First

Published on 2011-03-06 13:59:00

In 1689, during the Jacobite Rebellion, the Battle of Killiecrankie, Perthshire, was fought on the northern edge of the village. The Highland charge of the Jacobites took the government forces, under General Hugh MacKay, by surprise and they we

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-03-06 03:04:00

A real treat from Joe Public this week entitled Canon Rock.Pachabel's Canon, played by the Academy of Ancient Music, has been part of my own music collection for some years now. I did have an LP at one time but it vanished during a house move.T

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-03-05 14:37:00

UK National Debt Grows Arms And LegsRide of Respect 2011Johnny Ball. Why he thinks AGW is a false premiseSorry Alexander; he won't serve youIs Sex pleasure or work?Al Gore's RevengeWhat have the SNP ever done for us?How Long Before Christians a

Ineptitude Personified

Published on 2011-03-05 03:27:00

It's not often I attack the personalities of politicians but Baroness Ashton is an exception along with the Honest Haircut: two people who, in the positions they hold, are completely out of their depth.However this post is about Lady Ashton, Vice-Pre

Are We Becoming Less Literate?

Published on 2011-03-04 05:16:00

Do you understand the meaning of 'drowsiness' or 'avoid'? I'm sure you do but it appears research commissioned by the British National Formulary, which is used by doctors, nurses and pharmacists for information on drugs, suggests people are uns

FMQs 3 March 2011

Published on 2011-03-04 02:41:00

Tris has a detailed summary of this week's FMQs. Unfortunately BBC Democracy Live is not allowing a download but the half hour can be seen on HolyroodTV.

Please Wait...

Published on 2011-03-03 13:33:00

Dictator UninstallSome of you may know OldRightie is on a well deserved (questionable?) break this week and he has managed to negotiate - on extortionate terms I was confidentially informed - a stand-in. His temporary replacement, who is on a b

The North To The Rescue - Again

Published on 2011-03-03 03:10:00

Prof Steve HorwitzThe continuing unrest in the Middle East has produced much talk about oil and oil prices with the announcement of vast profits by domestic suppliers. Nobody would think the UK produces oil because North Sea oil is never been mention

The Origin of Oil

Published on 2011-03-02 13:48:00

Leroy Fletcher Prouty. As a banker who has a degree in banking and just not an accountant from big business he ought to know what he's talking about.

Something Doesn't Add Up

Published on 2011-03-02 03:38:00

Eunice and Owen Johns are members of the Christian Pentecostal Church. Between August 1992 and January 1995 they were approved as short-term, respite, foster carers by Derby City Council. They last fostered a child in September 1993 when

Poor(er) Taxpayers

Published on 2011-03-01 13:50:00

The Royal Society of Edinburgh has just published a Report "Facing up to Climate Change: breaking the barriers to a low-carbon Scotland".It presupposes that (man-made) Climate Change is a fact, despite there being thousands of scientists world wide w

Military Matters

Published on 2011-03-01 13:10:00

More tragedy in Afghanistan for our armed forces. A soldier from the Royal Army Veterinary Corps was killed today when he was hit by enemy gunfire. Since the war in Afghanistan commenced in 2001 354 of our troops have been killed.Today it

An Open Letter To No 10

Published on 2011-03-01 03:18:00

Open Letter to 10 Downing Street27/09/2006Banks Heist 20 billion Over Six Years.Much has been made by the media on the scam merchants who, by fraudulently obtaining personal bank account details, strip the accounts. A criminal ploy that preys on the

'You've got to win a little, Lose a little...'

Published on 2011-02-28 13:56:00

You've got to win a little,Lose a little,Oh have the blues a little.That's the story of,That's the glory of the Union.Benny Goodman could have written these words to suit the duplicity of the UK government towards the Scotland Bill. As many kno

Customer Relations? You Bet

Published on 2011-02-28 03:04:00

I should have written this post last week when I received the following email in response to this post. The fact Mr Blair of Dyson took the trouble to contact me shows why they deserve to be one of the UK's top businesses. Business reactin

Government By Blackberry

Published on 2011-02-27 03:18:00

In the past seven days the Westminster government has been severely criticised over their handling of the evacuation of British nationals from Libya.The MSM and the 24-hour drip feed of news provided by Sky and the BBC have delighted in bringing angr

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-02-26 12:19:00

Steel yourselfCan't Pay, Won't PayIain Gray's Stand-Up Comedy RoutineAnd this is how a 'Government' 'works'?Britain's HumiliationBe Wise, Egyptians and LibyansThe vaccine against cleanIs Gerry Adams about to pay the price for his long association wit

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-02-26 03:07:00

This week it's the choice of the People's Republic of South Lanarkshire, who tells me George Papavgeris is a Greek Matt McGinn. I enjoyed it and hope you do too.

Unionists Prefer To See The SNP Back In Government

Published on 2011-02-25 03:26:00

One in five Labour supporters wants to see Alex Salmond voted back into office as First Minister. The Ipsos Mori survey results also show that nearly a third of Tories and LibDems would prefer to keep the SNP in office.The results fired specula

Cense or Censibility

Published on 2011-02-24 13:36:00

Woodsy42 (who is a new blogger) has been kind enough to write this guest post from an English perspective. I intend to follow shortly with a post about the Scottish one, but I think many of his points are relevant to those north of the border.Ce

FMQs 24 February 2010

Published on 2011-02-24 06:54:00

This week's FMQs included questions on the following subjects:Knife crime (Labour)Elderly bed-blocking (Conservatives)Changes in policing policy (Libdems)Back bench questions included:Ensuring Scottish nationals are safely evacuated from LibyaTwo que

Caption Required

Published on 2011-02-24 03:09:00

"Are you sure they'll see my new earrings?"image courtesy of Counting Cats

Britain's 'Privileged' Society

Published on 2011-02-23 14:01:00

I'm surprised little said in the blogosphere last week about the £billions pensioners lost during the 12 years of Labour government when they fiddled the figures in order to rob us of over £80billion and I wonder if that's because few so bloggers a

Is This Information Fraud?

Published on 2011-02-23 03:18:00

Is this a practice run for the Census? Not according to Wiltshire Council who says the results will 'help in planning how much affordable housing is needed in the county'. The questions on sexual orientation are "required by legislation".The do

Today's Non-Story

Published on 2011-02-22 13:52:00

During an interview with the Radio Times, the former MP, Jacqui Smith, remarked:"I know that it was my expenses people looked at first because I was a woman and should have been at home looking after my husband and children," said the mother of two.S

Tory Troubles

Published on 2011-02-22 03:12:00

It the Scottish Tories thought their troubles were over once they recovered from the shock announcement that Jimmy Buchan was stepping down as their candidate for the Scottish Parliament election, they were sadly mistaken. Their election campai

Hands Off It's Ours!

Published on 2011-02-21 13:41:00

What is the difference in the two photographs, apart from the fact they've been taken years apart? The one above was taken back in the 60s by a visitor to Loch Ness. The one below was taken very recently by a visitor to Lake Windermere an

Iain Gray Interview

Published on 2011-02-21 02:53:00

For those of you who are unable to view BBC Scotland or missed the Politics Show yesterday lunchtime, Moridura has kindly uploaded the video section in which Isobel Fraser interviews Iain Gray. I presume this was Mr Gray's attempt at gaini

The Mental Health and Mood of the Nation

Published on 2011-02-20 14:35:00

click to enlarge - Mental HealthThe Uncovered magazine recently produced a survey on the mental health and mood of the nation. Contributors were asked, on a scale of 1 to 5 - with 1 being low - how healthy they thought they were. Scots di

A Small Victory for Common Sense

Published on 2011-02-20 03:33:00

The US House of Representatives have voted, by 244 to 179 largely along partisan lines, to strip the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change of its funding for the remainder of 2011.Some climate scientists aren't happy.Asked about the vote, Nationa

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-02-19 13:45:00

How do you fancy an 8% rise in National Insurance?Andrew Cooper moves in to No10 to eradicate the 'vile' Tory instinctNot education, propagandaPexUK international obligations and clause 23 of the Scotland BillDo the Americans believe in democracy?The

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-02-19 03:51:00

This weekend's choice is from my loyal co-author Joe Public. The music is Comptine d'un autre ete: l'apres midi' composed by Yann Tiersen. The animation depicts an old man sharing his life story with his young grandchild through evocative music

Scottish Politics

Published on 2011-02-18 14:59:00

Before I come to the main point of this post, I would like to state my support for this morning's post by John Souter. His call for televised leaders' debates for the Holyrood elections is valid. Who's feart? The unionist parties ce

Scots Wha Hae under Suppression Bred

Published on 2011-02-18 03:03:00

Scots Wha Hae under Suppression BredThe cause without its rebelsThey say you should never write when you’re angry.And, even after I’ve chased a startled dog from my study by the sound of a vacuum being thumped around and dust and cigar ash being

Scots Wha Hae under Suppression Bred

Published on 2011-02-18 03:03:00

Scots Wha Hae under Suppression BredThe cause without its rebels They say you should never write when you’re angry. And, even after I’ve chased a startled dog from my study by the sound of a vacuum being thumped around and dust and cigar ash bei

Hygiene and Hand Dryers

Published on 2011-02-17 14:12:00

James Dyson's AirbladeI've never been a fan of hot air hand dryers. One reason is because I never feel they quite dry my hands and another is they overheat any rings I may be wearing at the time. On a hot day the last thing you want is ho

Hygiene and Hand Dryers

Published on 2011-02-17 14:12:00

James Dyson's Airblade I've never been a fan of hot air hand dryers. One reason is because I never feel they quite dry my hands and another is they overheat any rings I may be wearing at the time. On a hot day the last thing you want is h

"I Do? Golly What Do I Do? Gosh...

Published on 2011-02-17 07:58:05

Eddie Mair interviewing Francis Maude about the Big Society. No further explanation necessary. thanks to Tris

"I Do? Golly What Do I Do? Gosh...

Published on 2011-02-17 07:58:00

Eddie Mair interviewing Francis Maude about the Big Society. No further explanation necessary.thanks to Tris

The West of Scotland's Political World

Published on 2011-02-17 03:15:00

Stephen McCabeI've never lived in the west of Scotland so I have no personal experience of council services there. My knowledge is gleaned from reading. Many local authorities all over the UK are having problems dealing with the 2.6% cuts

The West of Scotland's Political World

Published on 2011-02-17 03:15:00

Stephen McCabe I've never lived in the west of Scotland so I have no personal experience of council services there. My knowledge is gleaned from reading. Many local authorities all over the UK are having problems dealing with the 2.6% cuts

The Latest Scottish Poll

Published on 2011-02-16 14:54:38

I'm a PC (Poll Cynic) but today it wasn't possibly not to be slightly encouraged by the Ipsos MORI poll published. Many others have given their articulate opinions such as the Peat Worrier, Joan McApline and Alex Porter and I con

The Latest Scottish Poll

Published on 2011-02-16 14:20:00

I'm a PC (Poll Cynic) but today it wasn't possibly not to be slightly encouraged by the Ipsos MORI poll published. Many others have given their articulate opinions such as the Peat Worrier, Joan McApline and Alex Porter and I con

Iain Gray - A Man With An 'Honest Haircut'

Published on 2011-02-16 03:26:01

Iain Gray, in a desperate bid to be the holder of title of First Minister, gave an interview to the Observer this weekend. I describe his bid as desperate not just because of his pedestrian performances at FMQs but because the interview is ridd

Iain Gray - A Man With An 'Honest Haircut'

Published on 2011-02-16 03:26:00

Iain Gray, in a desperate bid to be the holder of title of First Minister, gave an interview to the Observer this weekend. I describe his bid as desperate not just because of his pedestrian performances at FMQs but because the interview is ridd

Our Elderly Generate Losses Not Profits

Published on 2011-02-15 16:17:02

A damning report issued this week by the Health Service Ombudsman, criticised the care of the elderly in English hospitals. It is no surprise to a retired nursing friend who lives in England. She has been concerned for some time about reaching

Our Elderly Generate Losses Not Profits

Published on 2011-02-15 13:56:00

A damning report issued this week by the Health Service Ombudsman, criticised the care of the elderly in English hospitals. It is no surprise to a retired nursing friend who lives in England. She has been concerned for some time about reaching

Military Blunders and More Deaths in Afghanistan

Published on 2011-02-15 08:16:59

The death toll of our military increased to 357 yesterday when the MoD announced two soldiers were killed in a fire (thought to be a boiler explosion) and another was killed by an IED while on duty. The first two soldiers, from the Royal Logist

Military Blunders and More Deaths in Afghanistan

Published on 2011-02-15 08:14:00

The death toll of our military increased to 357 yesterday when the MoD announced two soldiers were killed in a fire (thought to be a boiler explosion) and another was killed by an IED while on duty. The first two soldiers, from the Royal Logist

The Psychopaths of Capitalism by John Souter

Published on 2011-02-15 03:06:01

The Psychopaths of Capitalism The present aim of capitalism is quite simply to socialise the costs while being allowed to maximise and privatise the profits. In a nutshell, its capitalism without moral or social responsibility. In another article I c

The Psychopaths of Capitalism by John Souter

Published on 2011-02-15 03:06:00

The Psychopaths of CapitalismThe present aim of capitalism is quite simply to socialise the costs while being allowed to maximise and privatise the profits.In a nutshell, its capitalism without moral or social responsibility.In another article I call

Normal Service Will Be Resumed Tomorrow

Published on 2011-02-14 12:58:51

Obviously the picture isn't me but it's very much how I've been feeling for the past 18 hours. Suddenly late last night my internet connection halted and I've spent the last 12 hours phoning my ISP (3 hours in all) but with little help other th

Normal Service Will Be Resumed Tomorrow

Published on 2011-02-14 12:58:00

Obviously the picture isn't me but it's very much how I've been feeling for the past 18 hours. Suddenly late last night my internet connection halted and I've spent the last 12 hours phoning my ISP (3 hours in all) but with little help other th

Organic Blogroll Revamp

Published on 2011-02-14 03:09:00

You wouldn't believe how often I've tried to 'modernise' this blog. I've now succumbed to my ignorance of technology and will stick with the present format. But the past couple of weeks I've have been aware some of my readers' blogs are not me

Organic Blogroll Revamp

Published on 2011-02-14 03:09:00

You wouldn't believe how often I've tried to 'modernise' this blog. I've now succumbed to my ignorance of technology and will stick with the present format.But the past couple of weeks I've have been aware some of my readers' blogs are not ment

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-02-13 03:37:00

Richard is one of my regular readers. He suggested the above performance outplays the Couperin I posted last week. It is a splendid performance and on a button box too. If anyone would like to share a video of their favourite music, ple

Reader's Choice

Published on 2011-02-13 03:37:00

Richard is one of my regular readers. He suggested the above performance outplays the Couperin I posted last week. It is a splendid performance and on a button box too. If anyone would like to share a video of their favourite music, pleas

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-02-12 13:17:00

Nadine Dorries: Go Compare What is odious? A Corporate Coup D'Etat Yeminis Protest - But They Stop At Noon The State of Civil Liberties in Modern Britain Who Owns the Bank of England? Shattered lives and broken promises Global Panic as G

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-02-12 13:17:00

Nadine Dorries: Go CompareWhat is odious?A Corporate Coup D'EtatYeminis Protest - But They Stop At NoonThe State of Civil Liberties in Modern BritainWho Owns the Bank of England?Shattered lives and broken promisesGlobal Panic as Green Sector Co

An Ineffectual Woman

Published on 2011-02-12 03:11:00

After reading Delphius' post last night I realised I thought much the same, although when she was talking on Sky, my mind was more on cooking. David Cameron did speak on television later but, as Del asks, where was our Foreign Secretary?It this

It's All In The Genes

Published on 2011-02-11 13:51:00

As a child I was a sleepwalker. The most serious incident was when I was discovered trying to get out the back gate and, because my father had placed the dustbin there for collection, the noise of me trying to open the obstructed gate woke him.

Posers and Criminals

Published on 2011-02-11 03:34:00

Yesterday was a good day for some politicians and not for others, as is perhaps usually the case. While Westminster MPs boasted 'we stood up to Europe' by rejecting the European Court's ruling that prisoners must get the vote, one Labour MP was

FMQs 10 February 2011

Published on 2011-02-10 17:48:00

FMQs this week can be found over at Tris's place. I've posted the video for my overseas readers who have difficulty accessing the BBC.

Leave Universities Alone Mr Clegg

Published on 2011-02-10 13:47:00

When it was reported that Nick Clegg is demanding that England's top universities stop favouring children from private schools and must take more pupils from state schools - admitting them on lower A-level grades - I was exasperated. (Mr Clegg is a p

Afghanistan

Published on 2011-02-10 08:48:00

Two British soldiers were killed in Afghanistan yesterday. They were from the 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment and the 4th Battalion The Parachute Regiment.The latest deaths mean that four soldiers have died in the space of 5 days. A

Could This Man Change the Face of Scottish Education?

Published on 2011-02-10 03:03:00

Scotland's richest man, Jim McColl (pictured), is to open his own school in a disused factory in Cathcart. The factory is part of his Clyde Union business. He left school at 16 and now owns an empire which stretches to 90 companies in 30

Sex in the City

Published on 2011-02-09 13:59:00

The photo is my old school, Morgan Academy, Dundee. It's one of two schools in the city of Dundee - the other being Menzieshill High School - that has been part of a pilot scheme for the past year.Nothing unusual about that until you learn that

Another Expensive Alliance

Published on 2011-02-09 03:28:00

Artist's impressionOn 16 December, when most of Britain was caught in a big freeze, the NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen joined the Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme and the Belgian Defense Minister Pieter de Crem in Brussels on the sit

Labour's Disgrace

Published on 2011-02-08 14:01:00

All his life my father voted labour. He came from a comfortable working class background where I would think both his parents voted labour. His father was Dundonian and his mother Glaswegian so I wouldn't have expected any other political party

Mystery in Academia

Published on 2011-02-08 03:20:00

The mystery deepens within Dundee's academia land the past few days.The photograph is of the 'modern' Abertay University in Dundee (not to be confused with the much larger and ancient University of Dundee which is internationally renowned for teachin

Piggy-back Pianist

Published on 2011-02-07 14:19:00

A little music to lighten the spirit.From Youtube comments which I've verified:I wonder if people have any idea at all how difficult this piece is to play on the piano, especially with such pristine articulation as Sokolov demonstrates? The piece

Food Glorious Food

Published on 2011-02-07 03:26:00

Official research for the Scottish government has found that 36% of Scots have no idea what food is in season and when.In order to educate the ignorant hoi polloi shops, chefs, restaurant owners and householders are all being urged to embrace seasona

what Is An Ally?

Published on 2011-02-06 14:11:00

On Friday the soldier killed in Afghanistan belonged to the 1st Battalion the Royal Irish Regiment. Another was killed by an IED yesterday. He was a member of the 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment and his death increases the number kil

Be Safe. Ensure You Have Evidence of your IQ Before Sex

Published on 2011-02-06 03:35:00

I trust I'm not treading on the toes of my fellow blogger, who has professional experience in these matters, but I was angry when I read an article in the Telegraph this morning. 'Court bans man with low IQ from having sex' states the headline.The Co

The Clucking Tosspots - Guest Post

Published on 2011-02-05 13:39:00

I wrote the following nearly a year ago and it is perhaps even more relevant today.I don't know if it's the same the world over, but they seem endemic in UK society and particularly rife in positions of authority.These people have statistics coming o

It's That Time of Year Again

Published on 2011-02-05 10:33:00

I'm a day late but better late than never. The 6 Nations kicked off yesterday with England just winning against Wales. Well done England.Today Ireland are playing Italy in Rome and Scotland will shortly be playing France in Paris.To show

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-02-05 06:12:00

Sound of Scotland (With a treat for Dundonians - video)'School Dinner' Money Wanted'Bending To The Rules And The WindTrump Climbdown Cautiously WelcomedA week's levellingArms Trade Blue PeterShould Welfare be Expressed as a Pers

An 'Operational Accident'

Published on 2011-02-05 03:04:00

A British soldier died in an 'operational accident' in Nad-e Ali district of Helmand yesterday.The MoD said the accident was being investigated, but it is understood the soldier died in hospital after he was shot by mistake when he and his comrades w

Uprising

Published on 2011-02-04 12:08:00

from Max himself

Edinburgh's White Elephant

Published on 2011-02-04 06:32:00

The Edinburgh tram project is once more in the news. Audit Scotland reports the company constructing the controversial tram line is at risk of lacking the skills and experience to finish the project. I do wish they would tell us something

A Must Read - Kenneth Roy

Published on 2011-02-04 02:56:00

On Wednesday Kenneth Roy led on The Megrahi Scandal in the Scottish Review. He questioned Alex Salmond's decision to

European Odyssey

Published on 2011-02-03 13:23:00

Edward Spalton is one of my regular readers who works hard promoting the necessity for Britain to withdraw from the EU. Very soon Edward is to give a talk, as part of a CIVITAS programme, to the undergraduates of Goldsmiths' College, London and he ki

FMQs 3 February 2010

Published on 2011-02-03 09:11:00

Why does Iain Gray, the leader of Labour MSPs, continue to question the First Minister on justice matters when he knows the SNP government has improved the policing of our streets by an extra 1,000 pairs of feet and recorded crime is at a 30-year low

Elderly Care Reform Or Balancing the Books?

Published on 2011-02-03 03:11:00

The Scottish government is proposing moving approximately 38,000 council workers to the NHS under a radical plan to look after the elderly.Under the government's plans Shona Robison, Health Minister, said older people could get better treatment with

A Request I Couldn't Refuse

Published on 2011-02-02 13:03:00

I was asked by Michelle Gallacher, the communications officer for Scotland's MacMillan Cancer Support, to promote their latest campaign. Yesterday they launched the campaign which is calling for an overhaul of cancer services to cope with massi

Is this the time?

Published on 2011-02-02 03:03:00

For Independence?Subrosa has blogged on the leaks regarding Megrahi's release. Few people seem that concerned that Gordon Brown is now a proven liar and puts the Scottish and British to shame. It would seem to me that the fewer politicians

The 200 Year-Old Rock

Published on 2011-02-01 13:01:00

It took four years for craftsmen, many of them local, to complete the construction of the Bell Rock lighthouse which stands nearly 12 miles from Arbroath's harbour. It was completed in 1811.The Year of Light festival begins tonight with an extr

Gordon Brown's Porkies

Published on 2011-02-01 02:57:00

The al-Megrahi release raises its head again in today's Telegraph. It alleges a Foreign Office minister, Bill Rammall, sent Libyan officials detailed legal advice on how to use Mr al-Megrahi's cancer diagnosis to ensure he was released from a S

Today's Non-Story

Published on 2011-01-31 14:02:00

My brain's 'faulty' according to scientists who report they have pinpointed a source of nicotine craving in the brain.The 'fault' leads to an uncontrollable desire to smoke says lead researcher Dr Christie Fowler, from the Scripps Research Institute

The Beginning of the End for the Green Energy Movement

Published on 2011-01-31 03:37:00

Public carbon trading is now dead in the USA says Watts Up With That? The Chicago Carbon Exchange has closed with a closing price of a nickel per ton of CO2.To add to the misery of the green movement, huge new discoveries in gas, oil and rare m

Musical Memories

Published on 2011-01-30 13:45:00

Today Peter Ross, writing in the Scotland on Sunday, asks 'why do some songs move us in mysterious ways?'The reason for his article was to promote a series of events beginning in Edinburgh and Glasgow next month, by Let's Get Lyrical, celebrating son

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-01-30 03:23:00

Health TourismThe Met Office winter forecast lie is finally nailedLife, but not as we know itTavish the EvasiveMatters volcanicDouble JeopardyWay outta the zone80 voices in support of Scots languageThe lessons of Prohibition

Third Time Lucky?

Published on 2011-01-29 11:12:00

Tomorrow morning at 8.15 BBC1 will broadcast live the final of the Australian Open as Andy Murray takes on Novak Djokovic.Kevin Mitchell in the Guardian gives perhaps one of the most accurate descriptions of Andy Murray I've read:There is nobody

Pensioners See Too Much

Published on 2011-01-29 03:24:00

There is an increasing number of older drivers on the roads. My generation will be the first to have owned a car for their entire adult lives and we are even less likely to give up driving than our parents' generation, because we view our cars

Hygiene. What's That?

Published on 2011-01-28 05:33:00

The public inquiry into Scotland's worst outbreak of clostridium difficile has been of interest to me. A total of 55 patients developed C.diff and 18 died after admission to the Vale of Leven Hospital in West Dunbartonshire. C.diff was bl

FMQs 28 January 2011

Published on 2011-01-28 02:43:00

Tris posts on yesterday's half hour over at Munguin's Republic. He frets about Iain Gray only having half the facts. Surely he should be pleased to see Mr Gray improve.

Care and the Tesco Tax

Published on 2011-01-27 13:23:00

In the past few weeks I've had quite a bit to do with care homes or, to be more precise, one such establishment. Not so long ago it would have been called a Nursing Home - a haven for those who required professional nursing care - but now all s

Tory MP Calls for Barnet Formula to be Scrapped

Published on 2011-01-27 03:36:00

David Mowat is Conservative MP for Warrington South and a member of the Scottish Affairs Select Committee.He is calling for the Scotland Bill to be amended to scrap the Barnet Formula which, he says, is manifestly unfair to the English taxpayer.I don

Conspiracy? Don't Make Me Laugh

Published on 2011-01-26 13:27:00

It wasn't my intention to comment upon the sacking of Andy Gray, now ex-Sky Sports reporter, but the headline in today's Scotsman 'Conspiracy theory as Sky sacks Andy Gray' amused me.Although I'm not a football enthusiast at times I'm subjected to th

Update: Alcohol Interactive

Published on 2011-01-26 07:35:00

I have received the following email from Lynne Russell, the Press and PR Officer at Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh. It concerns this post regarding teaching 10 to 11 year-olds about alcohol using the medium of role-play.As you will see sh

Another Loss

Published on 2011-01-26 02:57:00

Hardly mentioned in the media today is the death of a British soldier from the 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, who was killed in an explosion in the clearance of an area to the south of Nhr-e Saraj, Helmand province yesterday morning.Now 350 fa

A council criticised for lateral thinking that would reduce CO2 emissions.

Published on 2011-01-25 13:30:00

Redditch Council is being criticised because it wants to reduce energy consumption, and, its CO2 'greenhouse gas' emissions. I'm unsure of 'The Green Party's' stance on the proposal.Some argue that it would be insensitive to 'recycle' some of the en

A History of Scottish Languages

Published on 2011-01-25 06:24:00

Happy Birthday Robbie Burns

Published on 2011-01-25 02:51:00

Two hundred and fifty-one years ago today Scotland's Bard, Robbie Burns was born. The following poem should be read by every young person in Scotland because it is as applicable today as it was the day it was written.Epistle to a Young FriendI

Smart Meters - Not For Me Thanks

Published on 2011-01-24 13:05:00

In this morning's post RMcGeddon mentioned smart meters and provided a couple of Youtube links which set me on a mission to discover more about this piece of equipment which will be installed in every home in the land by 2020.It's difficult to find a

Fuel Increases Are Only The Beginning

Published on 2011-01-24 03:08:00

The vendace (pictured) is now Britain's rarest fish and was only ever known as a native species at four sites: three in England and one in Scotland. The declining populations are thought to be due to introduced species that have used the native

The Met Office's Prediction for winter 2010.

Published on 2011-01-23 13:00:00

In October 2010, National Grid published its Winter Outlook 2010/11It bases its purchasing and transmission commitments upon many variables, perhaps the most important being the weather.The country's energy supply, and, reliable security-of-supply th

Obesity Interactive Next?

Published on 2011-01-23 03:37:00

Have you heard of Alcohol Interactive? I doubt if you'll find any information on Google so I have to trust the information given in today's Scotland on Sunday.Alcohol Interactive is role play for ten to eleven years olds concerning, of course,

The Police's Little Helpers

Published on 2011-01-22 14:23:00

Peter Davies (pictured) is the elected Mayor of Doncaster and is one of only eleven in England. He was head of religious studies and politics at Danum School for 30 years before taking early retirement. He is a founder member of the Campa

No B,B,C Talk Here - Books are the Subject

Published on 2011-01-22 03:47:00

As promised in the title there will be no talk of Blair, Balls or Coulson in this post. A far more interesting subject is books. Books have always held a fascination for me from the pre-school days when my granny used to allow me to read

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-01-21 13:39:00

They would kill us allMore Pie in the Sky to Stop Dissent?Fake Charities (resurrected by the Devil)Hitchens on the Tunisia Revolt; Lies About LeilaToday's Minimum Pricing Idea is an Aperitif Before The BingeThe Scotland Bill: t

Tony Blair and Changes in Scots Law

Published on 2011-01-21 03:36:00

Tony Blair is due to appear before the Chilcott Inquiry today. Before he travels he consults with his lawyers for reassurance he will not be arrested on arrival. What a legacy. I've never heard of a British ex-PM having the need for legal

NHS and Lobbying

Published on 2011-01-20 14:05:00

This shows why the three main UK parties think similarly on NHS policy. Change is well advanced in England. Do we want Scotland to go down this road?

FMQs 20 January 2011

Published on 2011-01-20 08:02:00

The Scottish government were caught red-handed doctoring evidence on Scotland's future claimed Iain Gray, the leader of Labour in the Scottish Parliament claimed in his first question. The FM responded by explaining the grammatical applications

A Highlands Mystery

Published on 2011-01-20 03:06:00

Last year John Finnie, an SNP councillor and former policeman, asked the Lord Advocate Elish Angiolini, to reopen the case of Willie McRae.Mr McRae was a solicitor and SNP activist. He was found badly injured in his crashed car on the A87 near

'Scottish Politics Could Do With a Good Laugh'

Published on 2011-01-19 13:47:00

So says Alan Cochrane in today's Telegraph. He's rooting for 'Gorgeous' George Galloway in May's Holyrood elections. Fair enough I thought, both men are Dundonians and Dundonian males are a strange breed.However, that's not his reason at

Taxpayers' Theatre

Published on 2011-01-19 03:16:00

Yesterday morning I woke early - around 5.30am I think - and noticed a tweet from Mike Smithson about filibustering. Curious to see the current situation I linked to Democracy Live to find a Labour baroness repeatedly telling her disinterested

The Return of the White Plague

Published on 2011-01-18 14:01:00

Tuberculosis is a common and often deadly infectious disease. In the past 100 years Britain has taken great steps to erradicate this crippling disease. By the early 1980s TB was considered to be conquered in the UK and NHS tuberculosis se

Poll Results

Published on 2011-01-18 08:32:00

Thanks to the 122 of you who voted in the Changes to Scotland's Policing poll. A single force wins as you see, while very closely behind (on 46) are the combined votes for a three or four force throughout the country. Surprisingly 30 of y

Marriage v Cohabitation

Published on 2011-01-18 03:04:00

The events of the past couple of months have emphasised my own mortality. Possibly quite normal for someone in their 60s younger people will think, but few of us feel 'old'. Of course there are things we suddenly realise we have difficult

When Charity Should Begin At Home

Published on 2011-01-17 13:26:00

Last Wednesday heavy rains unleashed mudslides before dawn in many remote parts of Brazil and hundreds were killed while they slept.Flooding and mudslides are common in Brazil when the summer rains come, but last week's were among the worst in recent

Scotland, The Cheap Option?

Published on 2011-01-17 03:18:00

How education has changed in the past 30 years. In my youth there were no school proms with bonny lassies wearing evening dresses and laddies in their first evening suit and arriving at expensive hotels in stretch limos. Even children as

A Fishy Business

Published on 2011-01-16 13:22:00

Last night I watched the Channel 4 Dispatches programme 'Fish Unwrapped'. I doubt if I'll ever buy pre-packed scampi again and if I do purchase prawns, they won't come from non-EU countries. For some time I've found labelling on fish products confusi

Forced Adoption

Published on 2011-01-16 03:03:00

Booker has another article about the theft of small children by social services this morning.The fact that politicians insist everything in the garden is rosy speaks volumes. Why are they so 'frit' (as Cameron said to Angus Robertson this

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-01-15 13:04:00

Sex on MarsAnother academic refuses to appear before Wendy Alexander's House Committee of un-British ActivitiesA Note from TonyThe First Rule of Fit ClubMonsanto: India's famineThunderstorms proven to create antimatterThe 'Tesco Tax'Pastor Mart

Public Consultations. Are They Meaningless?

Published on 2011-01-15 03:11:00

Andrew Mitchell, the development secretary, has authorised the setting up of the Independent Commission for Aid Impact (ICAI) which he hopes will address concerns that some overseas aid is being mis-spent. It will base its inquiries on public demand,

Is Green Turning Yellow?

Published on 2011-01-14 13:28:00

The floods in Australia have become a disaster similar to the floods which occurred in the same places back in 1974.Toowoomba is built on a plateau. At least 8 people were killed in the Toowoomba flash floods on Monday. A young journalist expre

Gail Sheridan to Throw Her Hat into the Ring

Published on 2011-01-14 03:09:00

Gail Sheridan, the wife of Tommy Sheridan, is to stand for election as an MSP when Scotland goes to the polls in May.She is planning to run as a candidate for the party founded by her husband.In some ways I'm not surprised Mrs Sheridan has decided to

FMQs 13 January 2011

Published on 2011-01-14 02:26:00

Munguin's Republic has this week's comments on yesterday's FMQs. I've published the video for my overseas readers.

Democracy - Part 2

Published on 2011-01-13 13:17:00

Do we have a sense of democracy?Part 2part 1 can be read herePolitics: The practise of fraud by any means or manner out with that of illegality by politicians; usually designed to disadvantage the people they represent.My reason, within the context o

Democracy - A Guest Post

Published on 2011-01-13 02:59:00

Once again John Souter has offered me one of his essays. Could I say no? Of course not. His insight into life and political life touches a nerve. We've decided to publish it in two parts as it's rather lengthy. Hopefully that

One Year On

Published on 2011-01-12 19:31:00

Two years ago today this blog arrived in the blogosphere and it's thanks to all of you who read it that it's still here.As I've said before there were a few reasons why I started blogging. One was to remind people of the service our armed force

Arctic ocean warms up. A sense of déjà vu.

Published on 2011-01-12 03:00:00

Although the first part below has been reported elsewhere on the Blogosphere, it may be new to some readers, so I recommend that at least the first link be followed."The Arctic ocean is warming up, icebergs are growing scarcer and in some places the

Schools May Be Breaking EU Law

Published on 2011-01-11 13:51:00

This post is also relevant to my non-Scots readers as this system is used throughout the UK by 3.500 schools.Recently in this area there has been much discussion about Angus Council's use of biometric fingerprints for school pupils. The system

Does Scotland Need Private Absenteeism Management?

Published on 2011-01-11 03:03:00

An average of 6,500 Scotland's NHS staff were off sick every day last year. In September 2009 the NHS employed 168,976.The Scottish government pointed out that absence in the NHS has dropped considerably in recent years. 'The proportion of abse

Hasn't He Done Well

Published on 2011-01-10 14:32:00

It's not every day I read the Daily Record, but I was directed towards an article today. It concerns Laurence MacKenzie, the recently resigned boss of Northern Ireland Water.Mr MacKenzie was born and bred in Caithness in the north of Scotland -

Transparency at Work

Published on 2011-01-10 03:12:00

click to enlargeThe above site link was sent to me by a friend so I had a look round.'Most BBC staff decide for themselves how long they work...'That answers a few questions. Lucky BBC staff.You really need to click on the one below to read it.

Transparency - a Murky Business

Published on 2011-01-09 13:32:00

Since the Freedom of Information Act came into force I've used it a few times. Have you ever tried the system? Believe me your tenacity gets a thorough workout.Two requests were handled speedily (and to my satisfaction) and the other four

Rubbish

Published on 2011-01-09 03:12:00

According to the media and fellow bloggers, refuse collection has become exactly that for some weeks - councils refuse to collect it. The main excuse is the snow, but in some places like Birmingham, the refuse collectors are also working to rul

The Cold Truth

Published on 2011-01-08 14:30:00

Prior to publishing these videos, I attempted to see how often the BBC has given any airtime to Mr Corbyn. My Google request for BBC+Piers Corbyn returned the following:click to enlargeIsn't it time the likes of Corbyn and Bastardi were include

The Dunbar Martyrs - A Fitting Ending

Published on 2011-01-08 03:07:00

One of the first posts I ever wrote was about the Dunbar Martyrs. To avoid repeating the story you can read it here. Since my post, nearly two years ago, there has been progress.Rather than give my version of the progress, the following are two email

More Hypocrites

Published on 2011-01-07 14:11:00

A couple of years ago did you had a leaflet through your door telling you how to reduce your carbon footprint? I have. Whether it was published and distributed by the Scottish Government I can't remember because it was binned within a minute. &

'I'm Lucky"

Published on 2011-01-07 02:51:00

I don't know about you, but I find something slightly uncomfortable about women serving in the front line. It's possibly to do with my generation who never experienced women in combat roles. Traditionally they were the nurses - the mother

Bribery

Published on 2011-01-06 14:24:00

For years I've been the owner of a pachira aquatica, commonly known as a money tree. In fact I've owned several because they grow reasonably fast so I've chopped them up, given cuttings to all and sundry, then started again. The original

Have Your Say. The Clock Can't Be Turned Back

Published on 2011-01-06 03:11:00

Sir Ian Kennedy (photo), the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority's chairman, certainly took some criticism from MPs last year once he introduced the new expenses reform.David Cameron has already given IPSA until April to shape up or else.

Are You a Flasher? Be Warned

Published on 2011-01-05 13:54:00

It wasn't my intention to post about this, but having watched a video I'm incensed.I've done it - too many times to count. Most drivers do it on a regular basis. I'm not speaking about washing our cars but flashing our headlights to warn

Gerry Rafferty 1947-2011

Published on 2011-01-05 08:06:00

Unable to shake off his troubles with drink, Gerry Rafferty died at home yesterday.He well deserves his place in pop history and I've listened to his music for as long as I can remember.'Stuck In The Middle With You' is perhaps his best known song, b

Eggs Ban-edict

Published on 2011-01-05 03:24:00

It's some years ago, 1988 to be exact, since Edwina Currie provoked outrage by saying most of Britain's egg production was infected with the salmonella bacteria. She angered farmers, politicians and egg producers and eventually resigned over th

Take Your Pick

Published on 2011-01-04 11:46:00

Governments and Charities Stealing Money and Rights from Disabled FolkScottish Independence?Germany Passes Energy Tyranny ActPremature ArticulationGazan Youth Breaks OutAn ApologyIncredibly Accurate Climate Forecast for 2011Iain Gray - not a statesma

Keep Your Promise Mr Alexander

Published on 2011-01-04 03:03:00

In this area most people know someone who belongs to the local voluntary Mountain Rescue service, mainly because the Grampians loom in the background. There's no lack of support for these people either, because they risk their lives very regula

Lost for Words - Pete Postlethwaite and Thora Hird

Published on 2011-01-03 15:31:00

Thora Hird and Pete Postlethwaite in 'Lost for Words'. RIP.

It's Now 2011 Mr Cameron. Where's Your Plan?

Published on 2011-01-03 08:03:00

Private Joseva Vatubua, 24, a soldier from the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, has become the first British military fatality of 2011 after being caught in an explosion in Helmand province.He was kille

Who Would You Believe?

Published on 2011-01-03 02:40:00

The photograph shows Professor Julla Slingo OBE, who is the Met Office's chief scientist, posing in front of "deep black" the MO's Supercomputer (courtesy of WattsUp).Professor Slingo firmly believes in global warming. Well she would wouldn't s

The Blogging Burrow

Published on 2011-01-02 14:17:00

JuliaM has tagged me in one of those 'memes' which asks for a description of where I type away. If it was any other day of the year I wouldn't dream of publishing a photo of my desk and would be writing a list of what sits here, but Hogmanay is the t

Policing

Published on 2011-01-02 03:33:00

The headlines today concern the policing of Scotland. It's reported that a Ministerial Statement will be issued by the Scottish Government on 12 January to the effect that the government will be indicating in their manifesto the intent to move

Happy New Year

Published on 2011-01-01 04:50:00

May 2011 be kind to you.

Last Call

Published on 2010-12-31 04:00:00

For many years Rikki Fulton entertained us at Hogmanay.

'It's Our Water'

Published on 2010-12-31 03:43:00

Here in Scotland domestic water isn't privatised. The publicly owned corporation is also responsible for sewerage services and the Scottish Government determine the national policy. This excellent publicly owned service is known as Scotti