Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
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Welcome to FTN. New posters are welcome to join the conversation. You can follow us on Twitter @FlythenestHaven You are responsible for the content you post. This is a public forum. Treat it as if you are speaking in a crowded room. Site admin and Moderators are volunteers who will respond as quickly as they are able to when made aware of any complaints. Please do not post copyrighted material without the original authors permission.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Is it so very wrong of me to *snerk* when I see that the Beeb has put the headline "Clarkson Describes Cancer Scare" under "Entertainment"?
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
We are all allowed the occasional unworthy thought. When I saw the headline that Jack Monroe had left Twitter (after being subjected to some appalling attacks from bigoted idiots) I have to admit to wondering whether, in fact, Twitter had left her. Anybody seen my coat ......Hobiejoe wrote:Is it so very wrong of me to *snerk* when I see that the Beeb has put the headline "Clarkson Describes Cancer Scare" under "Entertainment"?
COWER BRIEF MORTALS. HO. HO. HO.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
A thought just struck me, sorry if I'm being an idiot and this is well-known to everyone else.
How can Scotland become independent when it is a kingdom, part of the United Kingdom of England and Scotland. The English queen is just as much the Scottish queen now as she would be after an independence referendum. She would be in the odd position of being the head of state of two separate nations...Unless the Scots are also going to become a republic, but I can't find any reference to that in the mess thrown up by my search engine...Or perhaps some Stuart descendent has got the family sceptre out of the pawn shop and is polishing it up.
How can Scotland become independent when it is a kingdom, part of the United Kingdom of England and Scotland. The English queen is just as much the Scottish queen now as she would be after an independence referendum. She would be in the odd position of being the head of state of two separate nations...Unless the Scots are also going to become a republic, but I can't find any reference to that in the mess thrown up by my search engine...Or perhaps some Stuart descendent has got the family sceptre out of the pawn shop and is polishing it up.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
I see Plaid use 'progressive', a word that's been thoroughly discredited after its last outings, used ad infinitum by the Lib Dems. Their view of progressive seems to include divisive policies that would be called racist if suggested by a right wing English party.tinyclanger2 wrote:How will that go down in Wales?ohsocynical wrote:Welsh Labour Press @WelshLabPress 12 mins12 minutes ago
Missed Leanne Wood's admission that Plaid MPs would vote down a min Labour govt & let Tories in? You can watch again on BBCParliament @1640
Plaid need to remember that even here in Wales, where they pull every jingoist trick available, they are only polling 12%.
Over ambitious Ms Wood is the tail wanting to wag the dog.
Hope the dog turns round and bites her Sturgeon-wannabe bum.
(Blame election stress for the metaphor mash up.)
Last edited by yahyah on Sun 19 Apr, 2015 4:26 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Not a problem - she's also queen of a number of Commonwealth countries. How her expenses would be divided between the two countries might lead to an interesting argument though!mikems wrote:A thought just struck me, sorry if I'm being an idiot and this is well-known to everyone else.
How can Scotland become independent when it is a kingdom, part of the United Kingdom of England and Scotland. The English queen is just as much the Scottish queen now as she would be after an independence referendum. She would be in the odd position of being the head of state of two separate nations...Unless the Scots are also going to become a republic, but I can't find any reference to that in the mess thrown up by my search engine...Or perhaps some Stuart descendent has got the family sceptre out of the pawn shop and is polishing it up.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Independent wrote:The incident was captured by the Chester Chronicle, and footage showed members of the hen party describing the politician [Ed Miliband] as “adorable” and “lovely”, with some suggesting he had won their votes.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 87968.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Last edited by tinyclanger2 on Sun 19 Apr, 2015 4:35 pm, edited 1 time in total.
LET'S FACE IT I'M JUST 'KIN' SEETHIN'
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Just the two Kingdoms, what a lightweight.mikems wrote:A thought just struck me, sorry if I'm being an idiot and this is well-known to everyone else.
How can Scotland become independent when it is a kingdom, part of the United Kingdom of England and Scotland. The English queen is just as much the Scottish queen now as she would be after an independence referendum. She would be in the odd position of being the head of state of two separate nations...Unless the Scots are also going to become a republic, but I can't find any reference to that in the mess thrown up by my search engine...Or perhaps some Stuart descendent has got the family sceptre out of the pawn shop and is polishing it up.
At various times in our history English Kings have also claimed the title of King of France (although never actually taking the throne officially), King of Ireland (from Henry VIII onward) and King of Scotland (from James i/VI onwards); under the Act of Union Scotland and England became the "United Kingdom" but Ireland remained separate until 1801.
So multiple titles are not a new thing for the monarchy; two of the most extreme example were Henry II (who was Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Duke of Normandy, Duke of Aquitaine, Count of Nantes, King of England and Lord of Ireland) and William III (who was sovereign Prince of Orange, Stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, Utrecht, Gelderland, and Overijssel in the Dutch Republic and King of England, Ireland, and Scotland).
COWER BRIEF MORTALS. HO. HO. HO.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
tinyclanger2 wrote:Independent wrote:The incident was captured by the Chester Chronicle, and footage showed members of the hen party describing the politician [Ed Miliband] as “adorable” and “lovely”, with some suggesting he had won their votes.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 87968.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Adorable, lovely ? Hell, yes.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
I thought Henry V was king of France legitimately. It was his useless son, Henry VI, who lost it again.At various times in our history English Kings have also claimed the title of King of France (although never actually taking the throne officially),
West Lothian Eric - thanks, I hadn't thought of that. So she can keep Balmoral. That's what was worrying me, of course.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Yes. But did you see that Greek god in the orange turban, yesterday? I bet they had to hold them back . . .yahyah wrote:tinyclanger2 wrote:Independent wrote:The incident was captured by the Chester Chronicle, and footage showed members of the hen party describing the politician [Ed Miliband] as “adorable” and “lovely”, with some suggesting he had won their votes.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 87968.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Adorable, lovely ? Hell, yes.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
More weasel words from the weasel-meister.
''Nick Clegg has said that his party would theoretically be willing to form a coalition with the second largest party after the general election, as long as the largest party is given the “time and space” to attempt to form a stable government first.''
Watch him slip & slide to form another Tory coalition.
''Nick Clegg has said that his party would theoretically be willing to form a coalition with the second largest party after the general election, as long as the largest party is given the “time and space” to attempt to form a stable government first.''
Watch him slip & slide to form another Tory coalition.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Henry V was recognised as Charles VI heir after Agincourt, but died just a couple of months before Charles. So Henry VI became, in theory, King of France but was never anointed as such and Charles VII became king instead, with the help of Joan of Arc; a little unfair to blame that loss entirely on Henry VI though, as he was only 8 at the time! Mind you, yes, he was pretty useless.mikems wrote:I thought Henry V was king of France legitimately. It was his useless son, Henry VI, who lost it again.At various times in our history English Kings have also claimed the title of King of France (although never actually taking the throne officially),
West Lothian Eric - thanks, I hadn't thought of that. So she can keep Balmoral. That's what was worrying me, of course.
COWER BRIEF MORTALS. HO. HO. HO.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
From Alexandra Topping, Election Blog at at the G.
There, there. Somebody has got to back his corner, the poor thing, but I don't see things quite the same, I'm afraid. Or rather I should say that it is Dave that is afraid. That is not angry resolve you see, rather the belligerence of one who cannot get his way.The Economist says that David Cameron’s fighting attitude in today’s Andrew Marr show shows he is not, as some Tories believe, “too posh to push”.
I would close my eyes if I couldn't dream.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
“Just for the sake of argument, if a larger party, with more votes and more seats, can’t or chooses not to create a stable government, then we need a government in this country''
What does he mean by stable government, one that includes Cameron ?
What does he mean by stable government, one that includes Cameron ?
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Perhaps a new job as a strippergram?PorFavor wrote:Yes. But did you see that Greek god in the orange turban, yesterday? I bet they had to hold them back . . .yahyah wrote:tinyclanger2 wrote:
Adorable, lovely ? Hell, yes.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Welsh Labour are giving her siding with the Tories remark lots of wellie on Twitter.yahyah wrote:I see Plaid use 'progressive', a word that's been thoroughly discredited after its last outings, used ad infinitum by the Lib Dems. Their view of progressive seems to include divisive policies that would be called racist if suggested by a right wing English party.tinyclanger2 wrote:How will that go down in Wales?ohsocynical wrote:Welsh Labour Press @WelshLabPress 12 mins12 minutes ago
Missed Leanne Wood's admission that Plaid MPs would vote down a min Labour govt & let Tories in? You can watch again on BBCParliament @1640
Plaid need to remember that even here in Wales, where they pull every jingoist trick available, they are only polling 12%.
Over ambitious Ms Wood is the tail wanting to wag the dog.
Hope the dog turns round and bites her Sturgeon-wannabe bum.
(Blame election stress for the metaphor mash up.)
We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office. – Aesop
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Wash your mouth out....tinyclanger2 wrote:Perhaps a new job as a strippergram?PorFavor wrote:Yes. But did you see that Greek god in the orange turban, yesterday? I bet they had to hold them back . . .yahyah wrote:
Adorable, lovely ? Hell, yes.
We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office. – Aesop
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 88021.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Scots prepare to scream and scream and scream until they're sick.
Scots prepare to scream and scream and scream until they're sick.
LET'S FACE IT I'M JUST 'KIN' SEETHIN'
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
I'm struggling to think of anything he'd be "rather good at". After all, I'm not aware that even Billingsgate has offered him a job, despite his best efforts.tinyclanger2 wrote:Perhaps a new job as a strippergram?PorFavor wrote:Yes. But did you see that Greek god in the orange turban, yesterday? I bet they had to hold them back . . .yahyah wrote:
Adorable, lovely ? Hell, yes.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Ah yes. Something for Empty Dave to ponder on. His cv.
1) I can point at fish.
1) I can point at fish.
LET'S FACE IT I'M JUST 'KIN' SEETHIN'
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Afternoon all. I've been lurking since coming back from the pub (anniversary meal with the other half) and note that the ST has the story about the bills which Ed has been talking over with Jeremy Heywood.
Interesting to note Heywood's biog.
It's been said that Ed (if elected!) will have had more experience than any incoming PM than...who? Thatcher maybe but even she was only in Education not right at the heart of the decision making process.
I rate that as a big win - knowing how the system works before you get in. I notice he's reinstituting the PM Delivery Unit too. I'm sure McBride will approve...
Interesting to note Heywood's biog.
and what was Ed's first ministerial post?Upon Gordon Brown becoming Prime Minister in 2007, Heywood returned to government as Head of Domestic Policy and Strategy at the Cabinet Office.
Previously they would have known each other at the Treasury back in the Brown days.When Brown became Prime Minister in 2007, he appointed Miliband as Minister for the Cabinet Office and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster.
It's been said that Ed (if elected!) will have had more experience than any incoming PM than...who? Thatcher maybe but even she was only in Education not right at the heart of the decision making process.
I rate that as a big win - knowing how the system works before you get in. I notice he's reinstituting the PM Delivery Unit too. I'm sure McBride will approve...
If I'm not here, then I'll be in the library. Or the other library.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Apologies if we've already had this.
Bill Keegan
Elections pick losers, not winners. Cameron deserves to lose
http://www.theguardian.com/business/201 ... -austerity" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Bill Keegan
Elections pick losers, not winners. Cameron deserves to lose
http://www.theguardian.com/business/201 ... -austerity" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Sums it up brilliantly.The reason why I think the present lot should be thrown out is not only that their economic strategy has been misconceived and socially damaging, but because they are planning more of the same.
One world, like it or not - John Martyn
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
tinyclanger2 wrote:http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 188021.htm
Scots prepare to scream and scream and scream until they're sick.
That sort of crap from them makes me actually hope the Lib Dems cooperate with Labour rather than those faux-socialists SNP twassocks.
But let's hope the Ed bandwagon keeps rolling, and Labour's hard work pays off, and we get majority.
Give the SNP something to whinge about.
100 lines again.
I must not dislike the SNP
I must not dislike the SNP
I must not dislike the SNP
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Dear technologically competent one/s, is there by any chance a "heart" emoticon.
LET'S FACE IT I'M JUST 'KIN' SEETHIN'
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Please return to sender. Not known at this address.tinyclanger2 wrote:Dear technologically competent one/s, is there by any chance a "heart" emoticon.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
What a wuss.http://uk.reuters.com/article/2015/04/1 ... 19?rpc=401
Cameron says Labour-SNP power deal would be frightening
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Who is it who's giving birth to this new royal? Am getting confused.graun wrote:The Economist says that David Cameron’s fighting attitude in today’s Andrew Marr show shows he is not, as some Tories believe, “too posh to push”.
LET'S FACE IT I'M JUST 'KIN' SEETHIN'
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
While many (not all) SNP supporters may be Scots, the terms 'SNP' and 'Scots' are not synonyms - despite the Salmond/Sturgeon view of the world.tinyclanger2 wrote:http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 88021.html
Scots prepare to scream and scream and scream until they're sick.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Good afterning All!
Been away from internet much of this weekend enjoying the glories of springtime in the Forest of Dean. Didn't bump into Chris though! With the bluebells opening, blossom abundant and exquisitely green fresh beech leaves that invite you to brush through them, wow.
Fantastic posts on here over the weekend. I feel I know everything I need to about the twists and turns of the election. Good reason to feel cautiously optimistic. Though not in my lifetime has there been such an unpredictable outcome. Gripping stuff! I'm still very busy on our knife edge campaign in Colne Valley so struggling to find time for TE's excellent idea of an Empty Dave #NightmareScenario twitter storm Anyone else have time to do it?
Indeed I've just got a "could Paul help with this?" email from one the other activists. So, off I go
Been away from internet much of this weekend enjoying the glories of springtime in the Forest of Dean. Didn't bump into Chris though! With the bluebells opening, blossom abundant and exquisitely green fresh beech leaves that invite you to brush through them, wow.
Fantastic posts on here over the weekend. I feel I know everything I need to about the twists and turns of the election. Good reason to feel cautiously optimistic. Though not in my lifetime has there been such an unpredictable outcome. Gripping stuff! I'm still very busy on our knife edge campaign in Colne Valley so struggling to find time for TE's excellent idea of an Empty Dave #NightmareScenario twitter storm Anyone else have time to do it?
Indeed I've just got a "could Paul help with this?" email from one the other activists. So, off I go
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
1000 apologies.Eric_WLothian wrote:While many (not all) SNP supporters may be Scots, the terms 'SNP' and 'Scots' are not synonyms - despite the Salmond/Sturgeon view of the world.tinyclanger2 wrote:http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/po ... 88021.html
Scots prepare to scream and scream and scream until they're sick.
LET'S FACE IT I'M JUST 'KIN' SEETHIN'
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Pass the brain bleach - quickly !!tinyclanger2 wrote:Perhaps a new job as a strippergram?PorFavor wrote:Yes. But did you see that Greek god in the orange turban, yesterday? I bet they had to hold them back . . .yahyah wrote:
Adorable, lovely ? Hell, yes.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Just been checking Cameron & Milibands twitter feeds for mention of the migrant ship deaths:
Compare & contrast with Cameron:@Ed_Miliband · 3h 3 hours ago
Those dying in the Mediterranean are some of the poorest men, women and children in the world. We must act to stop these awful scenes.
@Ed_Miliband · 3h 3 hours ago
We are seeing tragic scenes for the second time in days. European leaders must work together to stop more of these drownings taking place.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
@ pk1
#
Thanks for that reminder, as if one were needed, of the difference between the two men.
#
Thanks for that reminder, as if one were needed, of the difference between the two men.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Add Hannah Jewell to the list of puerile journalists.....
http://www.buzzfeed.com/hannahjewell/po ... ao7E9l1Rop" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.buzzfeed.com/hannahjewell/po ... ao7E9l1Rop" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Puerile I'll give you but, on that evidence, she is not a journalist.pk1 wrote:Add Hannah Jewell to the list of puerile journalists.....
http://www.buzzfeed.com/hannahjewell/po ... ao7E9l1Rop" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
COWER BRIEF MORTALS. HO. HO. HO.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
BBC Wales News @BBCWalesNews 1 day
Ed Miliband rejects coalition with Plaid and defends Welsh Labour government's record #GE2015
http://bbc.in/1b8feg5" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Ed Miliband rejects coalition with Plaid and defends Welsh Labour government's record #GE2015
http://bbc.in/1b8feg5" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office. – Aesop
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Right then. I've got a lot of reading to do to catch up (like 7 pages worth) but just to let Ephie and others know, I've finally received an email reply from Rachel Reeves. Those who've followed my (admittedly, frequently rambling) posts will know that I buttonholed the prospective SoS for the DWP at a recent social in our constituency, and below is her reply to Ephie's questions, which I'll post without comment. Make of them what you will:
"Dear Ernst,
I'm very sorry for the delay coming back to you. I've been on the road campaigning in key seats since I last saw you.
I've answered your questions in turn.
Best wishes
Rachel
Labour says the WCA will be reformed - will this include people with permanent or degenerative illness as confirmed by their own doctors being given life-long awards to prevent constant reassessments?
Kate Green, Labour's shadow minister for disabled people, has said we want to look at how we can reduce unnecessary face to face assessments faced by sick and disabled people.
For example we would look at scope for sharing information where possible, so that information that has already been gathered for one purpose can be used for other assessments (eg if you've had an assessment for PIP, can we use the same info for the WCA) reducing the need for repeated face to face assessments.
We will also consider whether we could make more use of paper based assessments, and improve the process for gathering info from GPs and other clinicians so that we have all the evidence available to make a decision and can get things right first time.
On WCA reform - one proposal is to include a report outlining what work ill people can do. Who will be preparing this report and how will it affect decision-making for benefit purposes?
As part of our overhaul of the Work Capability Assessment, we will ensure that the WCA provides individuals with a statement about how their condition affects their ability to work, and the barriers they face, alongside information about eh support that is available in their local area to help them. Disabled people will be given this information which they can share with employment advisers, employers and colleges to ensure they are helped to make the most of the support and the opportunities available to them.
The statement will initially be prepared by the assessors, but responsibility for its accuracy will remain with the DWP. We have also been clear that we will give disabled people a central role in monitoring the WCA process, with an independent scrutiny group of disabled people working together with the Independent Reviewer to assess whether assessments are being conducted in a fair and transparent way and what improvements to the process are needed. We will also ensure that there are clear penalties on any contractors for poor performance, measured both on the number of times decisions are overturned by DWP decision makers, and the number of times they are overturned on appeal.
As the PIP conversion process is taking too long, will Labour consider a return to DLA?
The roll out of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which replaces Disability Living Allowance (DLA) as the main benefit helping disabled people meet the extra costs of disability, has been badly mismanaged by the Tory government.
The Public Accounts Committee found that the government’s misjudgements had resulted in “significant delays to benefit decisions and a growing backlog of claims” and an “unacceptable level of service provided” that has “created uncertainty, stress and financial costs for claimants”. Nonetheless, spending on DLA/PIP is now over £2bn more than planned in the course of this parliament, and the OBR say that the latest forecasts are still subject to considerable uncertainty.
The next Labour government will inherit a very difficult situation. We are determined to get a grip on the delays and backlogs, and ensure that disabled people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Ed said the ILF would be kept by Labour; Kate Green says this is not Labour policy. Which is true?
Labour strongly believes that independent living is crucial to ensuring that disabled people have the same rights, choices and chances as any other citizen. Indeed, we tabled an amendment during the Committee Stage of the Care Bill which would have enshrined in law the right of disabled people to live independently. It was disappointing that the government chose to vote against and defeat this amendment.
As you know, a legal challenge was mounted against the government’s plans to close the Independent Living Fund, and judgment was handed down before Christmas. This however confirmed that ministers acted lawfully, and the last government proceeded with plans to close the Fund in June, with the funding transferred to local authorities. It will be for the individual authorities to make decisions about how their resources are applied. Ed Miliband in his remarks about the plans was absolutely clear that Labour is determined to work with local authorities to protect disabled people's ability to live independently. As Ed said, "We’ve got to find ways of protecting that money for some of the most vulnerable disabled people" if the budget transfers to local authorities. A Labour government will therefore work with disabled people, including existing ILF users, and with local authorities, to design and put in place guidance to local authorities to help protect the thousands of disabled people affected by the decision.
I hope those answers are helpful. It was very nice to meet you and attend the event in Bury.
Best wishes,
Rachel"
"Dear Ernst,
I'm very sorry for the delay coming back to you. I've been on the road campaigning in key seats since I last saw you.
I've answered your questions in turn.
Best wishes
Rachel
Labour says the WCA will be reformed - will this include people with permanent or degenerative illness as confirmed by their own doctors being given life-long awards to prevent constant reassessments?
Kate Green, Labour's shadow minister for disabled people, has said we want to look at how we can reduce unnecessary face to face assessments faced by sick and disabled people.
For example we would look at scope for sharing information where possible, so that information that has already been gathered for one purpose can be used for other assessments (eg if you've had an assessment for PIP, can we use the same info for the WCA) reducing the need for repeated face to face assessments.
We will also consider whether we could make more use of paper based assessments, and improve the process for gathering info from GPs and other clinicians so that we have all the evidence available to make a decision and can get things right first time.
On WCA reform - one proposal is to include a report outlining what work ill people can do. Who will be preparing this report and how will it affect decision-making for benefit purposes?
As part of our overhaul of the Work Capability Assessment, we will ensure that the WCA provides individuals with a statement about how their condition affects their ability to work, and the barriers they face, alongside information about eh support that is available in their local area to help them. Disabled people will be given this information which they can share with employment advisers, employers and colleges to ensure they are helped to make the most of the support and the opportunities available to them.
The statement will initially be prepared by the assessors, but responsibility for its accuracy will remain with the DWP. We have also been clear that we will give disabled people a central role in monitoring the WCA process, with an independent scrutiny group of disabled people working together with the Independent Reviewer to assess whether assessments are being conducted in a fair and transparent way and what improvements to the process are needed. We will also ensure that there are clear penalties on any contractors for poor performance, measured both on the number of times decisions are overturned by DWP decision makers, and the number of times they are overturned on appeal.
As the PIP conversion process is taking too long, will Labour consider a return to DLA?
The roll out of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), which replaces Disability Living Allowance (DLA) as the main benefit helping disabled people meet the extra costs of disability, has been badly mismanaged by the Tory government.
The Public Accounts Committee found that the government’s misjudgements had resulted in “significant delays to benefit decisions and a growing backlog of claims” and an “unacceptable level of service provided” that has “created uncertainty, stress and financial costs for claimants”. Nonetheless, spending on DLA/PIP is now over £2bn more than planned in the course of this parliament, and the OBR say that the latest forecasts are still subject to considerable uncertainty.
The next Labour government will inherit a very difficult situation. We are determined to get a grip on the delays and backlogs, and ensure that disabled people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.
Ed said the ILF would be kept by Labour; Kate Green says this is not Labour policy. Which is true?
Labour strongly believes that independent living is crucial to ensuring that disabled people have the same rights, choices and chances as any other citizen. Indeed, we tabled an amendment during the Committee Stage of the Care Bill which would have enshrined in law the right of disabled people to live independently. It was disappointing that the government chose to vote against and defeat this amendment.
As you know, a legal challenge was mounted against the government’s plans to close the Independent Living Fund, and judgment was handed down before Christmas. This however confirmed that ministers acted lawfully, and the last government proceeded with plans to close the Fund in June, with the funding transferred to local authorities. It will be for the individual authorities to make decisions about how their resources are applied. Ed Miliband in his remarks about the plans was absolutely clear that Labour is determined to work with local authorities to protect disabled people's ability to live independently. As Ed said, "We’ve got to find ways of protecting that money for some of the most vulnerable disabled people" if the budget transfers to local authorities. A Labour government will therefore work with disabled people, including existing ILF users, and with local authorities, to design and put in place guidance to local authorities to help protect the thousands of disabled people affected by the decision.
I hope those answers are helpful. It was very nice to meet you and attend the event in Bury.
Best wishes,
Rachel"
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Somehow I very much doubt it - I don't know of anyone that could imagine the serious future PM sending snapchats like that to a 'journalist'RobertSnozers wrote:I presume those aren't real??pk1 wrote:Add Hannah Jewell to the list of puerile journalists.....
http://www.buzzfeed.com/hannahjewell/po ... ao7E9l1Rop" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Jonathan Ashworth @JonAshworth Apr 18
In Pendle @LucyMPowell bumps into David Cameron on the #labourdoorstep #labourexpress
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Just back from a very enjoyable canvassing session - possibly the best one yet. Loads of us turned out so we did it in half the time allocated and there was a lovely jolly atmosphere and plenty of good responses on the door steps.
I've been given my orders for election day itself - we have a plan it seems. In fact it seems we have a very well organised plan ... how refreshing that is after 5 years of this shambolic punishment of a government.
Earlier today - while working in the greenhouse - I heard Vince Cable say that the country was crying out for a stable and moderate government such as they had already delivered in coalition. I'm glad I wasn't eating at the time - I'd have choked on my automatic retch response. 'Moderate, I bellowed at the plants and two sleepy cats - he thinks this government has been bloody moderate!' That man needs to wear much tighter underpants - he needs to be brought back into the world where words mean what they are meant to mean - moderate my arse.
I've been given my orders for election day itself - we have a plan it seems. In fact it seems we have a very well organised plan ... how refreshing that is after 5 years of this shambolic punishment of a government.
Earlier today - while working in the greenhouse - I heard Vince Cable say that the country was crying out for a stable and moderate government such as they had already delivered in coalition. I'm glad I wasn't eating at the time - I'd have choked on my automatic retch response. 'Moderate, I bellowed at the plants and two sleepy cats - he thinks this government has been bloody moderate!' That man needs to wear much tighter underpants - he needs to be brought back into the world where words mean what they are meant to mean - moderate my arse.
Working on the wild side.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Oh - and meant to tell you that our candidate said he got his best doorstep response of the whole campaign today. Bloke answers the door - takes the leaflet and says immediately - 'Yes I'm voting Labour, I always vote Labour and now fuck off so I can watch the footie.'
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Alistair Darling: Back from the Brink.
The argument for maintaining public spending is therefore quite straightforward: it takes the strain as business activity reduces and people spend less.
In many countries particularly in Europe, public spending automatically increases during an economic downturn. This is because when someone loses their job they are usually entitled to unemployment benefit. Benefit spending goes up and that has the effect of maintaining spending power in the economy, because people on benefits invariably spend rather than save. In economic terms, this is known as an 'automatic stabilizer.' The effect is less pronounced in the US, where the payment of unemployment benefit is more limited. Here in the UK, despite everything that was said after the election in 2010, both the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats supported the operation of this automatic stabilizer. Certainly to start cutting public spending midway through 2008 would have jeopardized millions of jobs.
And
Here in the UK, though for completely different reasons, the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats both supported he current level of government spending. There was a consensus that public services lacked the necessary level of investment, and certainly in the case of the Liberal Democrats they sought not to be outdone by calling for more spending rather than less. On many occasions so too did the Tories. The Cons changed their minds at the end of 2008 sensing no doubt where the political advantage would lie at the of an election two years later. They counted, successfully as it turned out, on a two year lag which might allow people to forget how close to the brink we were.
Curiously they changed their tune at precisely the wrong time. At the end of 2008 there were very few people on the world who thought that was a good time to cut back public spending. In October 2008 Osborne went into reverse.
And
At that stage the LibDems were supportive. Even as late as April 2010, a month before going into coalition with the Cons, their leader, Nick Clegg, said 'Do I think that these big cuts are merited or justified at a time when the economy is struggling to get to its feet? clearly not.' A month later he was singing a different song.
The argument for maintaining public spending is therefore quite straightforward: it takes the strain as business activity reduces and people spend less.
In many countries particularly in Europe, public spending automatically increases during an economic downturn. This is because when someone loses their job they are usually entitled to unemployment benefit. Benefit spending goes up and that has the effect of maintaining spending power in the economy, because people on benefits invariably spend rather than save. In economic terms, this is known as an 'automatic stabilizer.' The effect is less pronounced in the US, where the payment of unemployment benefit is more limited. Here in the UK, despite everything that was said after the election in 2010, both the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats supported the operation of this automatic stabilizer. Certainly to start cutting public spending midway through 2008 would have jeopardized millions of jobs.
And
Here in the UK, though for completely different reasons, the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats both supported he current level of government spending. There was a consensus that public services lacked the necessary level of investment, and certainly in the case of the Liberal Democrats they sought not to be outdone by calling for more spending rather than less. On many occasions so too did the Tories. The Cons changed their minds at the end of 2008 sensing no doubt where the political advantage would lie at the of an election two years later. They counted, successfully as it turned out, on a two year lag which might allow people to forget how close to the brink we were.
Curiously they changed their tune at precisely the wrong time. At the end of 2008 there were very few people on the world who thought that was a good time to cut back public spending. In October 2008 Osborne went into reverse.
And
At that stage the LibDems were supportive. Even as late as April 2010, a month before going into coalition with the Cons, their leader, Nick Clegg, said 'Do I think that these big cuts are merited or justified at a time when the economy is struggling to get to its feet? clearly not.' A month later he was singing a different song.
We hang the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to public office. – Aesop
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Fraser Nelson @FraserNelson 1h1 hour ago
Cameron led calls to remove Gaddafi, but with another 700 feared drowned why is he silent on Libya's refugee crisis? http://specc.ie/1GMxFoc" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Krishnan Guru-Murthy @krishgm · 3h 3 hours ago
Conservative Party and Ukip so far unable to find anyone to appear on #C4News at 6pm re whether to rescue drowning Africans
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Goodnight, everyone.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
tinyclanger2 wrote:Dear technologically competent one/s, is there by any chance a "heart" emoticon.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
Not just Henry II:TheGrimSqueaker wrote:
Just the two Kingdoms, what a lightweight.
At various times in our history English Kings have also claimed the title of King of France (although never actually taking the throne officially), King of Ireland (from Henry VIII onward) and King of Scotland (from James i/VI onwards); under the Act of Union Scotland and England became the "United Kingdom" but Ireland remained separate until 1801.
So multiple titles are not a new thing for the monarchy; two of the most extreme example were Henry II (who was Count of Anjou, Count of Maine, Duke of Normandy, Duke of Aquitaine, Count of Nantes, King of England and Lord of Ireland) and William III (who was sovereign Prince of Orange, Stadtholder of Holland, Zeeland, Utrecht, Gelderland, and Overijssel in the Dutch Republic and King of England, Ireland, and Scotland).
I have that on the highest authority :In the Channel Islands The Queen is known as The Duke of Normandy. At official functions, islanders raise the loyal toast to 'The Duke of Normandy, our Queen'.
...While the islands today retain autonomy in government, they owe allegiance to The Queen in her role as Duke of Normandy.
http://www.royal.gov.uk/MonarchUK/Queen ... lands.aspx
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
So here it is in black and white ... was this a wise move by her?
Edited to get the correct spelling of here. Jeepers what's the matter with me to make a mistake like that?WalesOnline @WalesOnline 21m21 minutes ago
.@Plaid_Cymru 'could vote down future Labour Queen Speech', says leader Leanne Wood http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales ... ld-9075564" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; …
Last edited by rebeccariots2 on Sun 19 Apr, 2015 7:26 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
PorFavor wrote:Goodnight, everyone.
Re: Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th April 2015
tinyclanger2 wrote:Dear technologically competent one/s, is there by any chance a "heart" emoticon.
Code: Select all
:heart: