I was interested in Hunter and Shooter's blog about events at the Tottenham Remembrance Service on Sunday gone to share my views about the Wood Green service.
Once again, and I am really sorry to say, we did not have the service in St. Michael's Church, which is a real shame, but hey they want to be political correct I guess, but it leaves a sad feeling especially for members of the Royal British Legion. By the way, I was Christened at St. Michael's and have gone there for services on a number of occasions in recent years.
However, moving on and of course it was nice to see a couple of hundred people turn up, the cadets, different associations from the forces and voluntary and community groups and of course, we politicians were there. For the record, I have been attending the Wood Green service since around the age of 12 when my Nan first took me. Nuff moving away, what I was taken aback over, and I know that this is not a fashion parade, was the decision of our MP to wear as short a dress, or was it a skirt, possible, with high-heel shoes and what can only be described as a tea cosy on her head! A number of people, and not all Labour or politicians made comments about this.
It just seemed as if the MP was going to a private function afterwards and didn't want to change. I'm sorry if this seems a personal attack and it really isn't meant to be, but it did not look respectful and I hope that next year she'll think about what she is wearing and where she is wearing it.
Wednesday 14 November 2007
Friday 2 November 2007
Now the attacks begin
Interesting that not long after writing that so far the Lib Dems have not got nasty about the defection to Labour of Councillor Catherine Harris and now we have negative comments about her.
All to be expected, especially from a party that dumped two leaders because of drink and age.
However, I'm waiting to see what Lynne Featherstone has to say. Usually quick to blog, she is somewhat slow here, probably because she seems to busy being nasty about Nick Clegg.
Still, we wait for more....
HOWEVER...... Lynne has finally mentioned something on her blog, an almost in passing blog remark, but left the spiteful remarks to one of the Lib Dem councillors with his letter in the Journal. But that is the trouble with the Lib Dems, no policies, but nasty attacks. It's what they're good at.
All to be expected, especially from a party that dumped two leaders because of drink and age.
However, I'm waiting to see what Lynne Featherstone has to say. Usually quick to blog, she is somewhat slow here, probably because she seems to busy being nasty about Nick Clegg.
Still, we wait for more....
HOWEVER...... Lynne has finally mentioned something on her blog, an almost in passing blog remark, but left the spiteful remarks to one of the Lib Dem councillors with his letter in the Journal. But that is the trouble with the Lib Dems, no policies, but nasty attacks. It's what they're good at.
No to ID Cards - at all
Actually not my comments, but that of Nick Clegg who aspires to be the next leader of the Liberal Democrats at Westminster.
It seems that whilst Nick Clegg does not want ID cards he is also calling on Lib Dem Councils "to ensure that no local public services require an identity card".
Erm, no identity cards, at all? Does that mean that council staff in Lib Dem councils are no longer wearing ID cards? I guess any Lib Dem councillor visiting a school, a children's centre, a home, are not going to wear ID cards, that council workers calling on the elderly to do repairs will not be wearing or producing ID cards? And of course, I presume at the Lib Dem gatherings that their members at the conferences will no longer be wanting to wear ID badges?
And this idea of a people's veto and referendums? How two-faced can you get?
Both Clegg and Chris Hulme have come out against a referendum on Europe. And, much as we may agree on areas of civil liberties, given some of the views of people after 9/11 and the London Transport bombings, the Lib Dems will find themselves having to enact policies that some of them would find hard to accept. And how about a referendum on the reintroduction of the death penalty and leaving Europe, both of which the Lib Dem, because if there were referendums we'd have hanging back and be out of Europe.
This shows why the Lib Dems cannot be trusted to be in power and why they will not win power. You can't have it both ways, well unless you're a Lib Dem I suppose...
It seems that whilst Nick Clegg does not want ID cards he is also calling on Lib Dem Councils "to ensure that no local public services require an identity card".
Erm, no identity cards, at all? Does that mean that council staff in Lib Dem councils are no longer wearing ID cards? I guess any Lib Dem councillor visiting a school, a children's centre, a home, are not going to wear ID cards, that council workers calling on the elderly to do repairs will not be wearing or producing ID cards? And of course, I presume at the Lib Dem gatherings that their members at the conferences will no longer be wanting to wear ID badges?
And this idea of a people's veto and referendums? How two-faced can you get?
Both Clegg and Chris Hulme have come out against a referendum on Europe. And, much as we may agree on areas of civil liberties, given some of the views of people after 9/11 and the London Transport bombings, the Lib Dems will find themselves having to enact policies that some of them would find hard to accept. And how about a referendum on the reintroduction of the death penalty and leaving Europe, both of which the Lib Dem, because if there were referendums we'd have hanging back and be out of Europe.
This shows why the Lib Dems cannot be trusted to be in power and why they will not win power. You can't have it both ways, well unless you're a Lib Dem I suppose...
Saturday 13 October 2007
Bring back.... Into the Labyrinth on DVD!!
As some of you know, I like some of the golden oldies telly.
Thanks to our wonderful friends at NetworkDVD, BBC Worldwide and 2|Entertain, we have been able to see again many classic tv shows digitally remastered (and all that stuff). As a Dr Who fan (didn't you know...?) it's been a great pleasure to see again so many classic episodes.
However, some programmes still await their DVD and one such programme which was shown by ITV in 1981 and 1982 was a children's programme called Into the Labyrinth, made by HTV (the Welsh ITV channel - oh for the days of Thames Television, but that's another story and blog...)
The programme ran for three series and starred Ron Moody for the first two series as Rothgo, the lovely Pamela Salem as the evil witch Belor, Simon Beal as Phil and Chris Harris in the third series as Lazlo. Even the tv tie-in magazine "Look-In" did an Into the Labyrinth story or two. The search fot the Nidus went through time and space and was a jolly 30 minutes for each episode. Sadness has to tell you that I have the final four episodes on video from the first series and the book of the first series. However, it has not come out to DVD yet.
A couple of years ago I was fortunate to meet Ron Moody at a function at Alexandra Palace and he bemoaned how he always seemed to play parts of evil or bad men. I reminded him of his time as the kindly Rothgo, and just like the show, his eye twinkled as he said "Rothgo!? Yes, I was Rothgo!" A magical moment.
So may the campaign begin and deny us the Nidus no more. Bring back Into the Labyrinth.
Thanks to our wonderful friends at NetworkDVD, BBC Worldwide and 2|Entertain, we have been able to see again many classic tv shows digitally remastered (and all that stuff). As a Dr Who fan (didn't you know...?) it's been a great pleasure to see again so many classic episodes.
However, some programmes still await their DVD and one such programme which was shown by ITV in 1981 and 1982 was a children's programme called Into the Labyrinth, made by HTV (the Welsh ITV channel - oh for the days of Thames Television, but that's another story and blog...)
The programme ran for three series and starred Ron Moody for the first two series as Rothgo, the lovely Pamela Salem as the evil witch Belor, Simon Beal as Phil and Chris Harris in the third series as Lazlo. Even the tv tie-in magazine "Look-In" did an Into the Labyrinth story or two. The search fot the Nidus went through time and space and was a jolly 30 minutes for each episode. Sadness has to tell you that I have the final four episodes on video from the first series and the book of the first series. However, it has not come out to DVD yet.
A couple of years ago I was fortunate to meet Ron Moody at a function at Alexandra Palace and he bemoaned how he always seemed to play parts of evil or bad men. I reminded him of his time as the kindly Rothgo, and just like the show, his eye twinkled as he said "Rothgo!? Yes, I was Rothgo!" A magical moment.
So may the campaign begin and deny us the Nidus no more. Bring back Into the Labyrinth.
Friday 24 August 2007
And the weather forecast is....
I shall be doing my surgery tomorrow then catching the train to head up to Manchester for the weekend for their Pride Weekend.
My main hope is that the weather stays good and it doesn't rain. Hopefully the sun will shine (finally) and I shall do my best not to do a repeat of Brighton Pride a few weeks back and go as red as a lobster.
Which has got me thinking...... I seem to recall from some of those involved in climate change issues warning of one of the hottest summers. Excuse me, but where would this be, certainly not North London. Thankfully some of those spreading doom and gloom about climate change and the weather weren't around during the Ice Age, no planes to blame there me thinks, indeed one wonders who would have been to blame for the ice melting... Perhaps this is the reason why I've never held the climate change and environment portfolio, I'd be asking questions all round.
Anyhow, whatever you're doing, here's hoping you have a good Bank Holiday weekend!!
My main hope is that the weather stays good and it doesn't rain. Hopefully the sun will shine (finally) and I shall do my best not to do a repeat of Brighton Pride a few weeks back and go as red as a lobster.
Which has got me thinking...... I seem to recall from some of those involved in climate change issues warning of one of the hottest summers. Excuse me, but where would this be, certainly not North London. Thankfully some of those spreading doom and gloom about climate change and the weather weren't around during the Ice Age, no planes to blame there me thinks, indeed one wonders who would have been to blame for the ice melting... Perhaps this is the reason why I've never held the climate change and environment portfolio, I'd be asking questions all round.
Anyhow, whatever you're doing, here's hoping you have a good Bank Holiday weekend!!
BIG BROTHER AXED!!
Right, well that has caught your attention!
It's been announced that the (so-called) celebrity Big Brother for 2008 has been axed by Channel 4 "in the wake of the race row which engulfed the show's last run".
Obviously, C4 are wanting good points for that. It's just a shame that the current series of Big Brother wasn't axed.... not so much for the race reasons, but because it has been awfully dire this year.
I must admit I am a bit of a BB fan, yet other than the first series which I hardly watched, this year after Day One when all the women went into the House I'm afraid it was not so much Big Brother, but Big Turnoff.
It's been announced that the (so-called) celebrity Big Brother for 2008 has been axed by Channel 4 "in the wake of the race row which engulfed the show's last run".
Obviously, C4 are wanting good points for that. It's just a shame that the current series of Big Brother wasn't axed.... not so much for the race reasons, but because it has been awfully dire this year.
I must admit I am a bit of a BB fan, yet other than the first series which I hardly watched, this year after Day One when all the women went into the House I'm afraid it was not so much Big Brother, but Big Turnoff.
Saturday 11 August 2007
Hello
What can I talk about?
Is it really that long since I last blogged? And so much has taken place!!
Elections and polls..... Lots of talk about whether there will be an early general election, depending on what happens during the remainder of August, my money is still on for Thursday 25th October. Recent by-elections, both Parliamentary and Council have been mixed, however the Ealing Southall by-election which saw Labour win by 5,000 votes is a massive boost, especially when you think about the Lib Dems pulling off by-elections wins, so well done to the Comrades there, however anyone looking at Joan Ryan's face at the Count would have thought we'd lost our deposit!
I have spent some time over in Tower Hamlets for the Council by-election in Shadwell ward followingn the resignation of a Respect Councillor. Unfortunately, Labour failed to regain the seat by 97 votes despite a 6% swing to us. Interesting is that since the Council elections last year, another Respect Councillor has defected to Labour, whilst other Respect Councillors seem more concerned about getting their allowances and how much the Leader of the Opposition gets.
Was down in Brighton last Saturday for the Brighton Pride, just a tad hot for me and I had a head like a tomato by the end of play, nuff said there me thinks......
Meanwhile, back at the Ranch, just finished my surgery. Was pleased to attend a couple of local events in Noel Park recently, firstly our Residents' Association held a really good Summer Social, nice to see so many neighbours turning out and meet one another - the whole aim of the event. Also attended the Sky City Health and Community Day - being the flats above Shopping City. All good fun!
Finally, last Friday night having been down to Vauxhall for a party with friends, had to dash back to go out with Haringey Enforcement Officers and visit the night clubs and bars on Wood Green High Road. Only when I saw the Officers wearing their protection stuff did I suddenly relise how dangerous their job can be.... and there's me in a tee-shirt not wanting to look too formal, ooops.
So much that I want to say, and promise that I will try and blog just a little bit more!
And the sun is shining!!!!
Is it really that long since I last blogged? And so much has taken place!!
Elections and polls..... Lots of talk about whether there will be an early general election, depending on what happens during the remainder of August, my money is still on for Thursday 25th October. Recent by-elections, both Parliamentary and Council have been mixed, however the Ealing Southall by-election which saw Labour win by 5,000 votes is a massive boost, especially when you think about the Lib Dems pulling off by-elections wins, so well done to the Comrades there, however anyone looking at Joan Ryan's face at the Count would have thought we'd lost our deposit!
I have spent some time over in Tower Hamlets for the Council by-election in Shadwell ward followingn the resignation of a Respect Councillor. Unfortunately, Labour failed to regain the seat by 97 votes despite a 6% swing to us. Interesting is that since the Council elections last year, another Respect Councillor has defected to Labour, whilst other Respect Councillors seem more concerned about getting their allowances and how much the Leader of the Opposition gets.
Was down in Brighton last Saturday for the Brighton Pride, just a tad hot for me and I had a head like a tomato by the end of play, nuff said there me thinks......
Meanwhile, back at the Ranch, just finished my surgery. Was pleased to attend a couple of local events in Noel Park recently, firstly our Residents' Association held a really good Summer Social, nice to see so many neighbours turning out and meet one another - the whole aim of the event. Also attended the Sky City Health and Community Day - being the flats above Shopping City. All good fun!
Finally, last Friday night having been down to Vauxhall for a party with friends, had to dash back to go out with Haringey Enforcement Officers and visit the night clubs and bars on Wood Green High Road. Only when I saw the Officers wearing their protection stuff did I suddenly relise how dangerous their job can be.... and there's me in a tee-shirt not wanting to look too formal, ooops.
So much that I want to say, and promise that I will try and blog just a little bit more!
And the sun is shining!!!!
Friday 22 June 2007
It's all go!
Well, Rhodes was fun, Turkey was interesting, be quite happy to go back there.
Since returning, had a couple of days back home, did an extra surgery to make up for postponing one whilst I was away. Attended Hornsey & Wood Green's Labour selection meeting last Sunday where UNISON's head of health, Karen Jennings, was selected on the first ballot to be our candidate to fight the sitting Lib Dem MP. Karen lives in Muswell Hill, so it will be good to have another local candidate fighting for the seat.
After that I headed straight down to Bournemouth for the Amicus Policy Conference. Some may know that we are merging with the Transport & General Workers Union (TGWU) to become Unite. Very interesting debates took place, I was able to speak on equality for young people with the national minimum wage, highlighting what I believe to be one of Labour's proudest achievements since being elected in 1997, however falling short by the fact that younger workers get a lower minimum wage than older workers. I also spoke in the debate on the BNP, reminding colleagues how the BNP had come within 5,000 votes of winning a seat on the London Assembly and the very risk of them winning a seat next year.
Let's be clear, the BNP do not only hate black and gay people, they hate the unions as well. It is all too easy to fall under the BNP spell if people are unhappy with job losses, but a swing to the far right is not the answer.
We also heard from Gordon Brown, PM-in-waiting and some of us who work in the health service were able to have a private meeting with him after his speech. Around 8 of us met Gordon and I had the chance to tackle him about how admin work from the North Middlesex Hospital is being sent to India, leading to job losses.
Attended the Noel Park Residents Association meeting last night, where my colleague, Cllr. Brian Haley, Cabinet Member for the Environment was able to discuss local residents concerns about buses in Gladstone Avenue (a long story) and the CPZ.
Off to Manchester tomorrow for Labour's Leadership Conference on Sunday (more on Monday).
Oh and with all that, still had time to pop into work for a couple of times, only to find out that my blood pressure is currently sky-high. But don't expect a by-election in Noel Park on the Labour side and to answer a couple of questions to me; I have been elected to serve as a Labour Councillor in Noel Park for four years and serve as a Labour Councillor I will. End of.
Have a good one till later xx
Since returning, had a couple of days back home, did an extra surgery to make up for postponing one whilst I was away. Attended Hornsey & Wood Green's Labour selection meeting last Sunday where UNISON's head of health, Karen Jennings, was selected on the first ballot to be our candidate to fight the sitting Lib Dem MP. Karen lives in Muswell Hill, so it will be good to have another local candidate fighting for the seat.
After that I headed straight down to Bournemouth for the Amicus Policy Conference. Some may know that we are merging with the Transport & General Workers Union (TGWU) to become Unite. Very interesting debates took place, I was able to speak on equality for young people with the national minimum wage, highlighting what I believe to be one of Labour's proudest achievements since being elected in 1997, however falling short by the fact that younger workers get a lower minimum wage than older workers. I also spoke in the debate on the BNP, reminding colleagues how the BNP had come within 5,000 votes of winning a seat on the London Assembly and the very risk of them winning a seat next year.
Let's be clear, the BNP do not only hate black and gay people, they hate the unions as well. It is all too easy to fall under the BNP spell if people are unhappy with job losses, but a swing to the far right is not the answer.
We also heard from Gordon Brown, PM-in-waiting and some of us who work in the health service were able to have a private meeting with him after his speech. Around 8 of us met Gordon and I had the chance to tackle him about how admin work from the North Middlesex Hospital is being sent to India, leading to job losses.
Attended the Noel Park Residents Association meeting last night, where my colleague, Cllr. Brian Haley, Cabinet Member for the Environment was able to discuss local residents concerns about buses in Gladstone Avenue (a long story) and the CPZ.
Off to Manchester tomorrow for Labour's Leadership Conference on Sunday (more on Monday).
Oh and with all that, still had time to pop into work for a couple of times, only to find out that my blood pressure is currently sky-high. But don't expect a by-election in Noel Park on the Labour side and to answer a couple of questions to me; I have been elected to serve as a Labour Councillor in Noel Park for four years and serve as a Labour Councillor I will. End of.
Have a good one till later xx
Saturday 9 June 2007
Hello from Rhodes
I am currently having a few days break being away from everything, but I don't know, one just can't stay away!!
Been in very sunny Rhodes since Wednesday and earlier whilst having lunch by the harbour watching the ships and people go by (and not a sailor in sight, let me tell you!), I was taken by how clean things are, despite very few little bins, and one wonders what can we learn back in England?
There are some big bins for the locals to dump their rubbish, similar to that seen by Sheila Peacock and myself over the new year in Verona, so perhaps there is something we can learn from our European neighbours in terms of cleansing, who knows?
Despite being away, still can't avoid key matters, like watching England beat Estonia 3-0 on Wednesday and checking up on the Big Brother information, now some men have arrived, my interest will have picked up!!
Anyway, popped out on the local "train" for a tour around Rhodes Town for 4 Euros earlier which lasted for around an hour and some lovely sights, this was followed by my lunch on the harbour.
And as a Religous person, it has also been nice to visit some of the local Churches, indeed, I have just been to Mass where the service was conducted in both Latin and English. Strange to know the English words suddenly become all romantic in Latin.
I'm off to visit Turkey on Monday, which is just 12 miles away! Sad fact time, I collect key-rings, so Rhodes and Turkey have now been added to my list, I mean just how sad is that?
Anyway, my time on the internet is fast running out, so tet-ta for now. (Oh and yes, I'm missing what looks like a good episode of Dr. Who.........)
Now, where's my drink??? xx
Been in very sunny Rhodes since Wednesday and earlier whilst having lunch by the harbour watching the ships and people go by (and not a sailor in sight, let me tell you!), I was taken by how clean things are, despite very few little bins, and one wonders what can we learn back in England?
There are some big bins for the locals to dump their rubbish, similar to that seen by Sheila Peacock and myself over the new year in Verona, so perhaps there is something we can learn from our European neighbours in terms of cleansing, who knows?
Despite being away, still can't avoid key matters, like watching England beat Estonia 3-0 on Wednesday and checking up on the Big Brother information, now some men have arrived, my interest will have picked up!!
Anyway, popped out on the local "train" for a tour around Rhodes Town for 4 Euros earlier which lasted for around an hour and some lovely sights, this was followed by my lunch on the harbour.
And as a Religous person, it has also been nice to visit some of the local Churches, indeed, I have just been to Mass where the service was conducted in both Latin and English. Strange to know the English words suddenly become all romantic in Latin.
I'm off to visit Turkey on Monday, which is just 12 miles away! Sad fact time, I collect key-rings, so Rhodes and Turkey have now been added to my list, I mean just how sad is that?
Anyway, my time on the internet is fast running out, so tet-ta for now. (Oh and yes, I'm missing what looks like a good episode of Dr. Who.........)
Now, where's my drink??? xx
Thursday 31 May 2007
Big Brother's Little Sister..... Welcome Ellie!
No, this is not a reference to the latest Big Brother news, but I'm delighted to post and announce that Kate, the partner to my eldest nephew, Mark, gave birth at 1.15 this morning to Ellie!!
So, welcome Ellie to the family, to your Mum and Dad and big brother, Luke, and this great-Uncle is over happy for them all. Mum and daughter are doing just grand......
So, welcome Ellie to the family, to your Mum and Dad and big brother, Luke, and this great-Uncle is over happy for them all. Mum and daughter are doing just grand......
Friday 25 May 2007
Health Secretary keeps her job.... others in NHS lose theirs or are moved around
Patricia Hewitt survived an effective vote of no confidence the other evening in the House of Commons after a debate brought forward by Tory MPs over her handling of the NHS.
Now, I'm finding this quite difficult, but perhaps if MPs had voted her out my Labour Government may finally have woken up to see the mess and chaos that the NHS is in. Staff morale gets lower every day. The wonderful PFI schemes are failing, new wards close almost as quickly as they open. Hopsital Trusts are expected to balance the books and by this force staff to be redeployed in the hope of avoiding paying out redundancy payments and lay off Doctors and Nurses, whilst expecting those that remain in the NHS to work longer hours.
Of course, we now have the disgraceful shambles of patients' details being sent off to India, Pakistan and South Africa and a colleague in the office that I work in found out yesterday that she is being "redeployed" as the majority of her work goes to India, on a personal basis, I'm relieved because if it hadn't been her, it would have been me.
Yet whilst all of this is happening, we have managers galore being appointed and their duties appear to be hold meetings to then arrange meetings to talk about targets, whilst having a sub-group to look into this, make a few lowly people redundant or freeze posts, so another manager can be appointed to sit on a task force, hold a consultation event which creates another committee, shut down a few beds, lay off a nurse or three, appoint a new manager and report that the Trust has just about broke even.
But at least Patricia Hewitt is secure in her job. She is failing the health service and has lost the plot and yes, she has lost my confidence. And you know what hurts more than anything, it was Labour that created the NHS, appeared to be saving the NHS in 1997 and now is overseeing it die off, so message to Gordon Brown, fewers managers and start caring about patient care when you become Prime Minister in a few weeks time get rid of Patricia Hewitt and some of the yes-men in the department of health (sic).
Now, I'm finding this quite difficult, but perhaps if MPs had voted her out my Labour Government may finally have woken up to see the mess and chaos that the NHS is in. Staff morale gets lower every day. The wonderful PFI schemes are failing, new wards close almost as quickly as they open. Hopsital Trusts are expected to balance the books and by this force staff to be redeployed in the hope of avoiding paying out redundancy payments and lay off Doctors and Nurses, whilst expecting those that remain in the NHS to work longer hours.
Of course, we now have the disgraceful shambles of patients' details being sent off to India, Pakistan and South Africa and a colleague in the office that I work in found out yesterday that she is being "redeployed" as the majority of her work goes to India, on a personal basis, I'm relieved because if it hadn't been her, it would have been me.
Yet whilst all of this is happening, we have managers galore being appointed and their duties appear to be hold meetings to then arrange meetings to talk about targets, whilst having a sub-group to look into this, make a few lowly people redundant or freeze posts, so another manager can be appointed to sit on a task force, hold a consultation event which creates another committee, shut down a few beds, lay off a nurse or three, appoint a new manager and report that the Trust has just about broke even.
But at least Patricia Hewitt is secure in her job. She is failing the health service and has lost the plot and yes, she has lost my confidence. And you know what hurts more than anything, it was Labour that created the NHS, appeared to be saving the NHS in 1997 and now is overseeing it die off, so message to Gordon Brown, fewers managers and start caring about patient care when you become Prime Minister in a few weeks time get rid of Patricia Hewitt and some of the yes-men in the department of health (sic).
Bank holiday weekend, bound to rain
Well, it's that time again, yup the good old English Bank Holiday Weekend and the weather looks like it will pee down, typical.
Anyhow, after my surgery tomorrow I shall be popping up to Royston to join family as we celebrate my Nan's 94th birthday, so Happy Birthday to a very special lady in my life!!! After that will be going all over the houses to get back to Wood Green because of engineering works on the train lines. I'm sorry, but it has to be said, it is all well and good for everyone trying to be environmentally-friendly, but of course people will use cars rather than trains, it really is far more convenient and I believe safer in terms of personal safety. Nuff said, after getting home I will then spend time seeing my friend from Saudi. More than nuff said.
Have a good one - oh and I'll be watching Dr Who at some stage thanks to teleport replay and beware of the scarecrows!!!
Anyhow, after my surgery tomorrow I shall be popping up to Royston to join family as we celebrate my Nan's 94th birthday, so Happy Birthday to a very special lady in my life!!! After that will be going all over the houses to get back to Wood Green because of engineering works on the train lines. I'm sorry, but it has to be said, it is all well and good for everyone trying to be environmentally-friendly, but of course people will use cars rather than trains, it really is far more convenient and I believe safer in terms of personal safety. Nuff said, after getting home I will then spend time seeing my friend from Saudi. More than nuff said.
Have a good one - oh and I'll be watching Dr Who at some stage thanks to teleport replay and beware of the scarecrows!!!
Tuesday 22 May 2007
When to rest, only if a difficult vote happens
It seems that the Lib Dem MP for Hornsey and Wood Green has shingles and I wish her a speedy recovery.
She has been told to rest, but it seems that the ever hard-working all year round MP will only take some days off, whilst working on others. For example, doing yet ANOTHER radio broadcast, oh ensuring she is seen at an area assembly meeting in Muswell Hill and being at last night's annual council meeting.
However, when it matters for her to be in the House of Commons and vote, she pulls a sickie, yes you've guessed it, Lynne was not in the House for last Friday's vote on the Freedom of Information Act exemptions for MPs.
Now I am not claiming for one moment that Lynne wasn't well, no actually, it makes you wonder. She has been our MP for two years now and sometimes you have to take tough decisions and this is what neither Lynne or Lib Dems can do, for example they are meant to be against foundation schools, yet a Haringey Lib Dem councillor who tries to pretend he is to the left of Labour sits on the fence, and why? They don't want to make the decisions and upset middle-class voters.
It's why for seven years the Lib Dems refused to sit on the Alexandra Palace Board and if truth be told, they are probably secretly delighted at not having won the council last year for the fear of having to make decisions on the Palace and Park and winding up their own supporter(s).
Another example, you'll recall how the Liberal Democrat councillors in Haringey spoke and all voted against an increase in members' allowances last November, of course they have taken the money - all 27 of them, not a single one has declined the increase, which they can do if they want.
Perhaps a few more might fall ill for key votes, at least then they can claim they were not there when the vote was taken....
She has been told to rest, but it seems that the ever hard-working all year round MP will only take some days off, whilst working on others. For example, doing yet ANOTHER radio broadcast, oh ensuring she is seen at an area assembly meeting in Muswell Hill and being at last night's annual council meeting.
However, when it matters for her to be in the House of Commons and vote, she pulls a sickie, yes you've guessed it, Lynne was not in the House for last Friday's vote on the Freedom of Information Act exemptions for MPs.
Now I am not claiming for one moment that Lynne wasn't well, no actually, it makes you wonder. She has been our MP for two years now and sometimes you have to take tough decisions and this is what neither Lynne or Lib Dems can do, for example they are meant to be against foundation schools, yet a Haringey Lib Dem councillor who tries to pretend he is to the left of Labour sits on the fence, and why? They don't want to make the decisions and upset middle-class voters.
It's why for seven years the Lib Dems refused to sit on the Alexandra Palace Board and if truth be told, they are probably secretly delighted at not having won the council last year for the fear of having to make decisions on the Palace and Park and winding up their own supporter(s).
Another example, you'll recall how the Liberal Democrat councillors in Haringey spoke and all voted against an increase in members' allowances last November, of course they have taken the money - all 27 of them, not a single one has declined the increase, which they can do if they want.
Perhaps a few more might fall ill for key votes, at least then they can claim they were not there when the vote was taken....
We have a new Mayor
Congratulations to Tottenham Hale Labour Councillor, Sheik Thompson, who was elected the new Mayor of Haringey by 30 votes to 26 at last night's annual council meeting.
The new deputy mayor is Labour councillor for Bruce Grove ward, Councillor Dilek Dogus and our Borough's first Kurdish person in the Mayoral offices, so well done to Dilek.
All but one of the Councillors were present last night, former Lib Dem chief whip, Ron Aitken, was not present, either having got lost in coming back from Scotland where he stood in the Scottish Parliament elections (he was a "local" candidate you know) or just miffed that the Liberals have picked a new chief whip. So, Ron is now out of power, who will he defect to next? I mean he's been in almost any party that will have him, except Labour, and times may be slightly hard, but we ain't that desperate!!!
But all that aside, good luck to the new Mayoral team as they will do their best to represent the whole of Haringey in the year ahead.
The new deputy mayor is Labour councillor for Bruce Grove ward, Councillor Dilek Dogus and our Borough's first Kurdish person in the Mayoral offices, so well done to Dilek.
All but one of the Councillors were present last night, former Lib Dem chief whip, Ron Aitken, was not present, either having got lost in coming back from Scotland where he stood in the Scottish Parliament elections (he was a "local" candidate you know) or just miffed that the Liberals have picked a new chief whip. So, Ron is now out of power, who will he defect to next? I mean he's been in almost any party that will have him, except Labour, and times may be slightly hard, but we ain't that desperate!!!
But all that aside, good luck to the new Mayoral team as they will do their best to represent the whole of Haringey in the year ahead.
Friday 18 May 2007
More Sontarans come to DVD
Huruh!!
The BBC and 2entertain have announced more classic Dr Who DVDs to be released later in the year.
In a couple of weeks time the first story featuring fourth Doctor, Tom Baker, 'Robot' will be released - Tom has done a commentary with companion, Lis Sladen and Producer, Barry Letts, and writer, Terrance Dicks. On 9th July, 'Timelash' comes out. This is one of the best ever Dr Who adventures with classic acting, well-thought scripts, ok, actually, it's a bit crap and is actually one of the poorer stories, but eh, who cares, it's another DVD. Stars Colin Baker from 1985. Then on 6th August a double-bill starring Peter Davison, 1982's 'Time-Flight' and 1983's 'Arc of Infinity' - the latter of which was filmed on location in Amsterdam. Commentary on this DVD will feature Peter Davison and Colin Baker, who played a Time Lord called Maxil.
Janet Fielding, who played one of the Doctor's companions, Tegan, is giving her first t"to-camera" DVD interview. I've met Janet and she is a really lovely person and is a real good laugh.
And today, it has been announced that the Jon Pertwee story 'The Time Warrior' will be released in early September. This came from Pertwee's fifth and last year in the role and saw thr first appearance of a race of monsters called Sontarans. I remember this story really well when it was first shown in December 1973 (I was only 7 at the time) and really took to the Sontarans, though was not keen on the Doctor's companion, Sarah (played by Elisabeth Sladen). Oh, how times change.....
At the end of September, 26 episodes will be released from Tom Baker's 1978-79 season, 'The Key to Time' which will feature six complete stories.
And finally, just announced is the 1975 story 'Planet of Evil' also starring Tom and Lis Sladen. DVD extras are yet to be confirmed, but one thing is for certain, this Who fan is just so looking forward to reliving some childhood memories of fun and being scared....... a bit......
Now, what did I do with that sonic screwdriver? (Don't ask!)
The BBC and 2entertain have announced more classic Dr Who DVDs to be released later in the year.
In a couple of weeks time the first story featuring fourth Doctor, Tom Baker, 'Robot' will be released - Tom has done a commentary with companion, Lis Sladen and Producer, Barry Letts, and writer, Terrance Dicks. On 9th July, 'Timelash' comes out. This is one of the best ever Dr Who adventures with classic acting, well-thought scripts, ok, actually, it's a bit crap and is actually one of the poorer stories, but eh, who cares, it's another DVD. Stars Colin Baker from 1985. Then on 6th August a double-bill starring Peter Davison, 1982's 'Time-Flight' and 1983's 'Arc of Infinity' - the latter of which was filmed on location in Amsterdam. Commentary on this DVD will feature Peter Davison and Colin Baker, who played a Time Lord called Maxil.
Janet Fielding, who played one of the Doctor's companions, Tegan, is giving her first t"to-camera" DVD interview. I've met Janet and she is a really lovely person and is a real good laugh.
And today, it has been announced that the Jon Pertwee story 'The Time Warrior' will be released in early September. This came from Pertwee's fifth and last year in the role and saw thr first appearance of a race of monsters called Sontarans. I remember this story really well when it was first shown in December 1973 (I was only 7 at the time) and really took to the Sontarans, though was not keen on the Doctor's companion, Sarah (played by Elisabeth Sladen). Oh, how times change.....
At the end of September, 26 episodes will be released from Tom Baker's 1978-79 season, 'The Key to Time' which will feature six complete stories.
And finally, just announced is the 1975 story 'Planet of Evil' also starring Tom and Lis Sladen. DVD extras are yet to be confirmed, but one thing is for certain, this Who fan is just so looking forward to reliving some childhood memories of fun and being scared....... a bit......
Now, what did I do with that sonic screwdriver? (Don't ask!)
New School will be run by the Council!!
Really excellent news has just come through that Haringey's new secondary school, which will be in Noel Park ward and the Haringey Heartlands will be really local, it will be a community school that is part of the local authority.
The decision has just been made by the School Adjudication Panel and comes after support for this from local residents, teachers, parents, governors and councillors and MPs (yes, both Labour and Lib Dem) and a brilliant performance both at the public meeting and public hearing by Haringey's Director of Children's Services, Sharon Shoesmith.
So, well done to all involved, this is a marvelous day, oh and one in the eye for acadamies. The emphasis will be on education for children, not how much money can be raised for shareholders. I am really excited by this opportunity and look forward to having a secondary school again in Noel Park ward.
The decision has just been made by the School Adjudication Panel and comes after support for this from local residents, teachers, parents, governors and councillors and MPs (yes, both Labour and Lib Dem) and a brilliant performance both at the public meeting and public hearing by Haringey's Director of Children's Services, Sharon Shoesmith.
So, well done to all involved, this is a marvelous day, oh and one in the eye for acadamies. The emphasis will be on education for children, not how much money can be raised for shareholders. I am really excited by this opportunity and look forward to having a secondary school again in Noel Park ward.
Wednesday 16 May 2007
Group elections #3
Last night Haringey's Labour Councillors met to elect our team for 2007-08.
Elected were;
Chair - Matt Cooke
Deputy Chair - Ray Dodds
Leader - George Meehan
Deputy Leader - Lorna Reith
Chief Whip - Claire Kober
Secretary - GMMH Rahman Khan
Assistant Whips - Alan Dobbie and Sheila Peacock
The following are being nominated to Monday's Annual Council as Cabinet members, being;
Adult Social Care & Wellbeing - Bob Harris
Children & Young People - Lis Santry
Community Cohesion & Involvement - Lorna Reith
Enforcement & Safer Communities - Nilgun Canver
Environment & Conservation - Brian Haley
Housing - Isidoros Diakides
Leisure, Culture & Lifelong Learning - Dhiren Basu
Regeneration & Enterprise - Kaushika Amin
Resources - Charles Adje
Our Committee chairs to be nominated are;
Alexandra Palace and Park Board - Matt Cooke
Audit Committee - GMMH Rahman Khan
General Purposes Committee - Eddie Griffith
Licensing Committee - Jayanti Patel
Pensions Committee - GMMH Rahman Khan
Planning Committee - Sheila Peacock
Our Scrutiny members will be Gideon Bull (chair), Pat Egan (vice-chair), Emma Jones and Toni Mallett.
I am being nominated to chair the Wood Green Area Assembly.
Sad to upset some, but quite a peaceful AGM, over by 9.30pn and having a curry by 10.
And like others, no I am not putting down the votes, so please do not ask, cos you won't get.... well, perhaps, if you're good!!!
Elected were;
Chair - Matt Cooke
Deputy Chair - Ray Dodds
Leader - George Meehan
Deputy Leader - Lorna Reith
Chief Whip - Claire Kober
Secretary - GMMH Rahman Khan
Assistant Whips - Alan Dobbie and Sheila Peacock
The following are being nominated to Monday's Annual Council as Cabinet members, being;
Adult Social Care & Wellbeing - Bob Harris
Children & Young People - Lis Santry
Community Cohesion & Involvement - Lorna Reith
Enforcement & Safer Communities - Nilgun Canver
Environment & Conservation - Brian Haley
Housing - Isidoros Diakides
Leisure, Culture & Lifelong Learning - Dhiren Basu
Regeneration & Enterprise - Kaushika Amin
Resources - Charles Adje
Our Committee chairs to be nominated are;
Alexandra Palace and Park Board - Matt Cooke
Audit Committee - GMMH Rahman Khan
General Purposes Committee - Eddie Griffith
Licensing Committee - Jayanti Patel
Pensions Committee - GMMH Rahman Khan
Planning Committee - Sheila Peacock
Our Scrutiny members will be Gideon Bull (chair), Pat Egan (vice-chair), Emma Jones and Toni Mallett.
I am being nominated to chair the Wood Green Area Assembly.
Sad to upset some, but quite a peaceful AGM, over by 9.30pn and having a curry by 10.
And like others, no I am not putting down the votes, so please do not ask, cos you won't get.... well, perhaps, if you're good!!!
Tuesday 15 May 2007
LIB DEMS AND SNP DO COALITION DEAL!!
Not in the Scottish Parliament, yet, but on Edinburgh Council.
The Liberal Democrats, who are the largest Party, have 17 seats and have gone in with the Scot Nats (SNP) to form a "partnership administration" with their 12 members. Labour hold 15 seats, Tories 11 and Greens 3.
So, despite what the Lib Dems say about not working with the SNP in the Scottish Parliament, on the very local authority they are. Yet again, say one thing, do another. The Liberals will do anything for the taste of power, it is the only thing they are good at!
The Liberal Democrats, who are the largest Party, have 17 seats and have gone in with the Scot Nats (SNP) to form a "partnership administration" with their 12 members. Labour hold 15 seats, Tories 11 and Greens 3.
So, despite what the Lib Dems say about not working with the SNP in the Scottish Parliament, on the very local authority they are. Yet again, say one thing, do another. The Liberals will do anything for the taste of power, it is the only thing they are good at!
Group elections #2
Well, just a quick one then!!
Haringey Labour Councillors will be voting tonight in our Group Elections for the Council Leadership for the year ahead.
An interesting night is widely expected, with I'm sure, "too close to call", "wasn't expecting that" and a few "vote for me" pleas. Will there be upsets, will there be tears? More importantly, what do I wear???
Haringey Labour Councillors will be voting tonight in our Group Elections for the Council Leadership for the year ahead.
An interesting night is widely expected, with I'm sure, "too close to call", "wasn't expecting that" and a few "vote for me" pleas. Will there be upsets, will there be tears? More importantly, what do I wear???
Wednesday 9 May 2007
Do we need the Lib Dems?
There is a lovely article in the Guardian today by Simon Jenkins "Nice but hopeless, the Lib Dems should call it a day".
I've said elsewhere what I think about the Lib Dems, but you know, say what one must about the Tories (and they're playing the Lib Dem card quite nicely at the moment), overall you know where you are with the Tories. The Liberals, well you name the policy you want and they'll back it to win your vote, they wanted higher taxes, now fear they won't win over Tory votes, they want to cut services, but fear of not getting Labour votes.
Sometimes, you have to make real policy and stand up for something, well at least once anyhow.
So, should the Lib Dems call it a day? You decide.... :-)
I've said elsewhere what I think about the Lib Dems, but you know, say what one must about the Tories (and they're playing the Lib Dem card quite nicely at the moment), overall you know where you are with the Tories. The Liberals, well you name the policy you want and they'll back it to win your vote, they wanted higher taxes, now fear they won't win over Tory votes, they want to cut services, but fear of not getting Labour votes.
Sometimes, you have to make real policy and stand up for something, well at least once anyhow.
So, should the Lib Dems call it a day? You decide.... :-)
It's been a long time!
Hello there, remember me?
It has been almost a month since I placed a new entry on my blog.
Work and Council stuff has been busy, poor excuse and there seems so much to catch up on, starting with tomorrow's news that Tony Blair will make an announcement. Well, I wonder what that will be? Erm, oh yes, he will resign as Labour leader and for the next seven weeks the Party will begin the process of choosing it's next leader. It seems that the Chancellor, Gordon Brown, will be elected. Now whether he will face a challenge from the left of the party is unsure.
For my view, there should be a challange, a chance for debate, though I would not vote for either John McDonnell or Michael Meacher, so Gordon it is. However, there will be a far more interesting race for deputy leader and as mentioned before I'll be voting for Jon Cruddasm (Labour MP for Dagenham) to take over, but should he not get through it is a case of where will my second preference go? That is tricky, but it will probably be between Alan Johnson and Hilary Benn, in fact I won't really know until I get my ballot paper.
Of course last Thursday saw the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and English Council elections. Should I skip my comments, Hell no, these were not good for Labour losing almost 500 council seats, however given that we expected to lose around 750 is slightly better, in fact, yes we lost seats, however we also GAINED seats and GAINED councils, Leicester and Luton spring to mind, we made small net gains in Bristol and Southampton and we gained two seats in council by-elections in Hastings.
Yes a bad night for Labour, but to be honest ten years into government and the Tories should have been winning more. And what of the Lib Dems? A mixed night for them, though seeing Ming arrive in Eastbourne where the Liberals took control where the average age of people appears to be 102, Ming, I'm told upped the average age to 103. I'm sorry, I know it's cruel and un-PC, but hey they attack us, we attack them and given how evil and nasty Lib Dems can be (Charles Kennedy anyone??), I'll take no lectures from them about Ming. Anyhow, the Liberals who are so eager for any type of power will jump into bed with anyone if the price is right, clearly they are the prostitutes of politics. They are pretending to be shy about going in with the SNP, go on, you know you want to.... and in Wales do they go with Labour or go with the Tories and Plaid Cymru?
To quote from Simon Jenkins excellent article in today's Guardian "Coalition, the natural consequence of PR, removes the outcome of an election from the hustings to the private deal of corridors, cabals and careerism"....... "we have Lib Dem members flying around like £10 notes thrown into the wind. They carry no content, no programme, no sense of direction". Cor, wish I'd thought that bit up!!
So, not the best of night's for Labour and many good Labour people have lost their seats more for national than local issues in many cases (unless of course you have your rubbish removed every other week).
I will try and blog slightly more so we don't have these long items...
Stay tuned.
It has been almost a month since I placed a new entry on my blog.
Work and Council stuff has been busy, poor excuse and there seems so much to catch up on, starting with tomorrow's news that Tony Blair will make an announcement. Well, I wonder what that will be? Erm, oh yes, he will resign as Labour leader and for the next seven weeks the Party will begin the process of choosing it's next leader. It seems that the Chancellor, Gordon Brown, will be elected. Now whether he will face a challenge from the left of the party is unsure.
For my view, there should be a challange, a chance for debate, though I would not vote for either John McDonnell or Michael Meacher, so Gordon it is. However, there will be a far more interesting race for deputy leader and as mentioned before I'll be voting for Jon Cruddasm (Labour MP for Dagenham) to take over, but should he not get through it is a case of where will my second preference go? That is tricky, but it will probably be between Alan Johnson and Hilary Benn, in fact I won't really know until I get my ballot paper.
Of course last Thursday saw the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Assembly and English Council elections. Should I skip my comments, Hell no, these were not good for Labour losing almost 500 council seats, however given that we expected to lose around 750 is slightly better, in fact, yes we lost seats, however we also GAINED seats and GAINED councils, Leicester and Luton spring to mind, we made small net gains in Bristol and Southampton and we gained two seats in council by-elections in Hastings.
Yes a bad night for Labour, but to be honest ten years into government and the Tories should have been winning more. And what of the Lib Dems? A mixed night for them, though seeing Ming arrive in Eastbourne where the Liberals took control where the average age of people appears to be 102, Ming, I'm told upped the average age to 103. I'm sorry, I know it's cruel and un-PC, but hey they attack us, we attack them and given how evil and nasty Lib Dems can be (Charles Kennedy anyone??), I'll take no lectures from them about Ming. Anyhow, the Liberals who are so eager for any type of power will jump into bed with anyone if the price is right, clearly they are the prostitutes of politics. They are pretending to be shy about going in with the SNP, go on, you know you want to.... and in Wales do they go with Labour or go with the Tories and Plaid Cymru?
To quote from Simon Jenkins excellent article in today's Guardian "Coalition, the natural consequence of PR, removes the outcome of an election from the hustings to the private deal of corridors, cabals and careerism"....... "we have Lib Dem members flying around like £10 notes thrown into the wind. They carry no content, no programme, no sense of direction". Cor, wish I'd thought that bit up!!
So, not the best of night's for Labour and many good Labour people have lost their seats more for national than local issues in many cases (unless of course you have your rubbish removed every other week).
I will try and blog slightly more so we don't have these long items...
Stay tuned.
Tuesday 10 April 2007
Dum-de-dum, Who -eeee
Well, we're two weeks into the new series of 'Doctor Who'.
It is currently the most-watched television programme of Saturdays, hurrah!
'Smith and Jones' opened up the first episode with Freema Agyeman as new companion, Martha Jones and episode two with 'The Shakespeare Code' was very-Harry Potter in more ways than can be described, but in a good way. The special effects really are excellent and gosh isn't this what Doctor Who missed years back.
Any how, it's back to New New York next Saturday (as long as the FA Cup Semi Final doesn't go in extra time) and we re-meet the Face of Boe in an episode entitled 'Gridlock'. And then it's those pesky little pepper pots from Skaro.........
It is currently the most-watched television programme of Saturdays, hurrah!
'Smith and Jones' opened up the first episode with Freema Agyeman as new companion, Martha Jones and episode two with 'The Shakespeare Code' was very-Harry Potter in more ways than can be described, but in a good way. The special effects really are excellent and gosh isn't this what Doctor Who missed years back.
Any how, it's back to New New York next Saturday (as long as the FA Cup Semi Final doesn't go in extra time) and we re-meet the Face of Boe in an episode entitled 'Gridlock'. And then it's those pesky little pepper pots from Skaro.........
Belated Greetings for Easter
OK, so I've not done the blogging for some time.
I just did not seem to get the time, poor excuse, but where does the time go? Any how, belated Greetings for Easter!!
The last couple of weeks have not been the best of times, deaths of close friends and political colleagues and attending funerals not the best of things. Just as we had the funeral of Mary Neuner, I heard of the deaths of two other former Mayors. Les Collis and Bill Budd, former Mayor of Camden.
I went to Bill's funeral in Bedford last Thursday. Bill was a really lovely and warm guy who welcomed me with a grand smile when I became Mayor of Haringey back in 1995 and everytime we met up at meetings of the London Labour Mayors' Association he would always ensure that no one was standing alone. The service was really nice and I could not believe just how good the weather was. What I didn't know was that Bill had, during the War, been a bodyguard to then PM, Winston Churchill. I hope so say a few words at the next Council meeting, in the meantime my thoughts go out to Bill's family and friends.
Visited my Nan in Letchworth on Saturday gone, she'll be 94 next month and she puts me to shame. Whilst I've been complaining about my aches and pains for the last month or so, there she is meeting me at the station, making sure I'm OK before going to lunch. We talked about our younger days, mine as a child, hers as a mother and wife looking at old photos and just generally having a great time as Grandmother and Grandson.
It has also been a very thoughtful time as well because of Easter and what it means to me as a Christian and making sure that I've been in Church on Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Day for those Services. Sadly, hearing of a death of a local resident who always had a word of advice for me did not help things.
It all seems quite negative and low. I hope that Summer will be bright in more ways than just the weather.
I just did not seem to get the time, poor excuse, but where does the time go? Any how, belated Greetings for Easter!!
The last couple of weeks have not been the best of times, deaths of close friends and political colleagues and attending funerals not the best of things. Just as we had the funeral of Mary Neuner, I heard of the deaths of two other former Mayors. Les Collis and Bill Budd, former Mayor of Camden.
I went to Bill's funeral in Bedford last Thursday. Bill was a really lovely and warm guy who welcomed me with a grand smile when I became Mayor of Haringey back in 1995 and everytime we met up at meetings of the London Labour Mayors' Association he would always ensure that no one was standing alone. The service was really nice and I could not believe just how good the weather was. What I didn't know was that Bill had, during the War, been a bodyguard to then PM, Winston Churchill. I hope so say a few words at the next Council meeting, in the meantime my thoughts go out to Bill's family and friends.
Visited my Nan in Letchworth on Saturday gone, she'll be 94 next month and she puts me to shame. Whilst I've been complaining about my aches and pains for the last month or so, there she is meeting me at the station, making sure I'm OK before going to lunch. We talked about our younger days, mine as a child, hers as a mother and wife looking at old photos and just generally having a great time as Grandmother and Grandson.
It has also been a very thoughtful time as well because of Easter and what it means to me as a Christian and making sure that I've been in Church on Good Friday, Easter Saturday and Easter Day for those Services. Sadly, hearing of a death of a local resident who always had a word of advice for me did not help things.
It all seems quite negative and low. I hope that Summer will be bright in more ways than just the weather.
Friday 23 March 2007
A week to go
Yep, a week to go and the third series of Doctor Who begins.
The trailers look brilliant. Are they Sontarans in the first episode? Will Martha Jones be able to return to Earth? What are the witches doing with William Shakespeare? What secret will the Face of Bo explain to the Doctor? What evil plan do the Daleks have in Manhatten? Who is Mr. Saxon? And does Captain Jack hold a grudge?
And to cap it all, a fourth series has been commissioned and David Tennant WILL be the Doctor throughout. A master stroke for the all involved. He he he he he (for those WHO know).
The trailers look brilliant. Are they Sontarans in the first episode? Will Martha Jones be able to return to Earth? What are the witches doing with William Shakespeare? What secret will the Face of Bo explain to the Doctor? What evil plan do the Daleks have in Manhatten? Who is Mr. Saxon? And does Captain Jack hold a grudge?
And to cap it all, a fourth series has been commissioned and David Tennant WILL be the Doctor throughout. A master stroke for the all involved. He he he he he (for those WHO know).
Blair's Gay Gordon
It seems that the Prime Minister did "a little skip" at seeing the first Civil Partnership ceremony on television.
Tony's speech to the lesbian and gay rights campaigning group Stonewall is just as important as the positive policies introduced for LGBT people since Labour came to power in 1997.
Who would have thought that a Prime Minister would address an LGBT function of this kind years ago when all the parties had hostility towards gay rights in their numbers? But here we are and it is a big step. Of course we cannot rest as there are those who would still deny LGBT people the hard won rights.
In the meantime, I am left with the thought in my mind of Tony sitting in Number 10 with a G&T doing his little skip and thinking, was it a Gay Gordon? I imply nothing!
Tony's speech to the lesbian and gay rights campaigning group Stonewall is just as important as the positive policies introduced for LGBT people since Labour came to power in 1997.
Who would have thought that a Prime Minister would address an LGBT function of this kind years ago when all the parties had hostility towards gay rights in their numbers? But here we are and it is a big step. Of course we cannot rest as there are those who would still deny LGBT people the hard won rights.
In the meantime, I am left with the thought in my mind of Tony sitting in Number 10 with a G&T doing his little skip and thinking, was it a Gay Gordon? I imply nothing!
Admitting mistakes
I want to take this chance to explain something, bear with me and you'll understand.
Like many others, I reluctantly supported the war in Iraq and hoped for a quick end and for the minimal number of deaths and injuries. The final total may never be known.
In the run up to the war I called for a UN-route and believed that the Inspectors needed the time necessary to find the so-called weapons of mass destruction (WMD). I remember watching Colin Powell addressing the UN saying where the weapons were and of course Iraq, under Saddam, did use WMD, especially against his own people.
However, we went in and once in it is right to support British troops and whatever people think of the war, I believe that the vast majority of British people do. We will pay for years to come for the decision to go to war, it has split communities, families and friends and made others feel insecure.
Of course in hindsight it is easy to be proved right or wrong. I remember in one Labour meeting saying at the time that I wanted the anti-war people to be right and people like me to be wrong. The thought of Saddam's Iraq using WMD against other countries and peoples is to horrible to think about and thankfully the decision taken by Blair and Bush is something we'll never have to do.
I was wrong and should have been more vocal and stronger against the war. I want British troops to come home as soon as is possible, but of course worry about what will happen in Iraq when they do come home. I am delighted that Saddam was caught and his reign of terror is at an end.
However, it is by learning from these mistakes that I could not and will not support military action against Iran as some American hawks seem eager to do. We must learn the lessons of Iraq.
This particular blog could appear to be how wonderful I am in seeing the light, it is not that at all, in fact if we could turn the clock back of course it would be easier for all of us, but we are where we are. We live in a democracy and learn by our mistakes, my mistake was listening to the intelligence which proved to be wrong and because of that thousands of Iraqis and alliance troops have been killed or injured rather than letting jaw jaw work.
I am not saying there should never be war again, we don't know what the future holds, but I do hope that in future we allow a bit more talking and a bit less action.
Like many others, I reluctantly supported the war in Iraq and hoped for a quick end and for the minimal number of deaths and injuries. The final total may never be known.
In the run up to the war I called for a UN-route and believed that the Inspectors needed the time necessary to find the so-called weapons of mass destruction (WMD). I remember watching Colin Powell addressing the UN saying where the weapons were and of course Iraq, under Saddam, did use WMD, especially against his own people.
However, we went in and once in it is right to support British troops and whatever people think of the war, I believe that the vast majority of British people do. We will pay for years to come for the decision to go to war, it has split communities, families and friends and made others feel insecure.
Of course in hindsight it is easy to be proved right or wrong. I remember in one Labour meeting saying at the time that I wanted the anti-war people to be right and people like me to be wrong. The thought of Saddam's Iraq using WMD against other countries and peoples is to horrible to think about and thankfully the decision taken by Blair and Bush is something we'll never have to do.
I was wrong and should have been more vocal and stronger against the war. I want British troops to come home as soon as is possible, but of course worry about what will happen in Iraq when they do come home. I am delighted that Saddam was caught and his reign of terror is at an end.
However, it is by learning from these mistakes that I could not and will not support military action against Iran as some American hawks seem eager to do. We must learn the lessons of Iraq.
This particular blog could appear to be how wonderful I am in seeing the light, it is not that at all, in fact if we could turn the clock back of course it would be easier for all of us, but we are where we are. We live in a democracy and learn by our mistakes, my mistake was listening to the intelligence which proved to be wrong and because of that thousands of Iraqis and alliance troops have been killed or injured rather than letting jaw jaw work.
I am not saying there should never be war again, we don't know what the future holds, but I do hope that in future we allow a bit more talking and a bit less action.
Wednesday 21 March 2007
A mixed day
What a day it has been!
This morning my work colleagues and I had a meeting with our Managers to talk about restructuring of our work. We are told that this is not to do with redundancies and this will be avoided if at all possible. Some of the work that we do will be shipped out to India. Well, it's meant to save the NHS money, i.e., lay off British workers and send to other countries where they probably pay a pittance for the work that we do. Of course, I will have the pleasure of knowing that if my job does go it will pay for another manager in the NHS, that seems the usual thing these days. How all of this is meant to help patient confidentiality and get patients seen quicker I do not know. However, on the bright side I found that we'd won £10 on Saturday's lottery and I won an extra kit-kat!!
Of course it's been Budget Day, never the most popular of events and is expected to be Gordon Brown's last as Chancellor. As a single person I have always been taken by the talk of hard working families and yes, sometimes, I do feel that a thank you to hard working single people would not go a miss. We pay our taxes as well. That aside, I cheered at the shock announcement of the 2p cut in income tax saying to my colleagues "where will that come from?" to find the 10p lower band will be axed. That worries me. That is being mild and I fear that our Labour Chancellor may be making a mistake on this and it will be low paid people suddenly finding themselves paying more tax and getting into debt because of it. I hope that Gordon is doing the right thing. I do however welcome an increase in ciggies, though one smoker feared an even higher increase, I too personally would have liked to have seen an increase of 20-30p for a packet of 20. There will be extra help for pensioners with insulation costs and the Budget is certainly aiming at the green agenda.
A mixed budget for a mixed day, still at least the NHS can now have some more managers with the extra investment. They don't send management jobs off to India for some strange reason!
This morning my work colleagues and I had a meeting with our Managers to talk about restructuring of our work. We are told that this is not to do with redundancies and this will be avoided if at all possible. Some of the work that we do will be shipped out to India. Well, it's meant to save the NHS money, i.e., lay off British workers and send to other countries where they probably pay a pittance for the work that we do. Of course, I will have the pleasure of knowing that if my job does go it will pay for another manager in the NHS, that seems the usual thing these days. How all of this is meant to help patient confidentiality and get patients seen quicker I do not know. However, on the bright side I found that we'd won £10 on Saturday's lottery and I won an extra kit-kat!!
Of course it's been Budget Day, never the most popular of events and is expected to be Gordon Brown's last as Chancellor. As a single person I have always been taken by the talk of hard working families and yes, sometimes, I do feel that a thank you to hard working single people would not go a miss. We pay our taxes as well. That aside, I cheered at the shock announcement of the 2p cut in income tax saying to my colleagues "where will that come from?" to find the 10p lower band will be axed. That worries me. That is being mild and I fear that our Labour Chancellor may be making a mistake on this and it will be low paid people suddenly finding themselves paying more tax and getting into debt because of it. I hope that Gordon is doing the right thing. I do however welcome an increase in ciggies, though one smoker feared an even higher increase, I too personally would have liked to have seen an increase of 20-30p for a packet of 20. There will be extra help for pensioners with insulation costs and the Budget is certainly aiming at the green agenda.
A mixed budget for a mixed day, still at least the NHS can now have some more managers with the extra investment. They don't send management jobs off to India for some strange reason!
Not long now
The adverts have begun and the new series starts soon.
Yup the third series of Doctor Who begins on BBC One on Saturday 31st March at 7pm with an episode entitled "Smith and Jones". Penned by Russell T. Davies, the trailers for the new series look excellent.
And of course talking Who on Saturday I attended the Dr Who - Invasion convention in Barking. Unfortunately, seventh Doctor actor, Sylvester McCoy, had to pull out and companion actress, Sophie Aldred, was running late, but we still had former Doctors, Peter Davison, Colin Baker and Paul McGann appearing on stage together and they were joined by stage Doctor Who actor, Trevor Martin.
Over 400 people attended the convention with Daleks gliding around. I have now booked to go to Swansea in September for a further convention, entitled "Regenerations". More will follow on that.
Yup the third series of Doctor Who begins on BBC One on Saturday 31st March at 7pm with an episode entitled "Smith and Jones". Penned by Russell T. Davies, the trailers for the new series look excellent.
And of course talking Who on Saturday I attended the Dr Who - Invasion convention in Barking. Unfortunately, seventh Doctor actor, Sylvester McCoy, had to pull out and companion actress, Sophie Aldred, was running late, but we still had former Doctors, Peter Davison, Colin Baker and Paul McGann appearing on stage together and they were joined by stage Doctor Who actor, Trevor Martin.
Over 400 people attended the convention with Daleks gliding around. I have now booked to go to Swansea in September for a further convention, entitled "Regenerations". More will follow on that.
Tuesday 20 March 2007
Farewell to a "game old bird"
At last night's Full Council meeting we were informed of the death of former Councillor and ex-Mayor, Mary Neuner.
Mary had served on the Council in the old Crouch End ward from 1986-90 and then in Alexandra ward from 1990-2002. She was Mayor during 1990-91 and again in 2001-02. It was during this time that I had the pleasure of being the Mayor's Escort to Mary in my time off the Council.
Mary worked hard with the Koblenz Friendship Association, one of the Towns that Haringey is twinned with, the Junior Citizenships, mainly based at St. Thomas Moore School, and of course the Renate Campbell Trust helping deaf people and people with hearing difficulties.
As I mentioned in my tribue to Mary at Council, Mary had a wicked and rude sense of humour and her jokes about her time at the BBC could turn the air blue. She was a game old bird.
Mary, thank you for enriching our lives.
Mary had served on the Council in the old Crouch End ward from 1986-90 and then in Alexandra ward from 1990-2002. She was Mayor during 1990-91 and again in 2001-02. It was during this time that I had the pleasure of being the Mayor's Escort to Mary in my time off the Council.
Mary worked hard with the Koblenz Friendship Association, one of the Towns that Haringey is twinned with, the Junior Citizenships, mainly based at St. Thomas Moore School, and of course the Renate Campbell Trust helping deaf people and people with hearing difficulties.
As I mentioned in my tribue to Mary at Council, Mary had a wicked and rude sense of humour and her jokes about her time at the BBC could turn the air blue. She was a game old bird.
Mary, thank you for enriching our lives.
Sunday 18 March 2007
Aren't Mum's just great
To all the hard working Mums out there.
You're great and have a Happy Mother's Day!!
You're great and have a Happy Mother's Day!!
Saturday 17 March 2007
When Irish Eyes Are Smiling
First to my Father, secondly to Noel Park Irish residents and third to all Irish folk everywhere, have a great St. Patrick's Day!!
Monday 12 March 2007
Old clips needed
To any one reading this blog-site, this is an appeal!
The BBC Restoration Team are seeking help in finding lost episodes or clips from old episodes of Doctor Who.
Sadly, over 100 episodes of the original 700+ episodes of the classic series are missing, however, over the years some have been returned to the BBC (found in car boot sales, Church Halls, Nigeria television stations just to name three). It wasn't only Dr Who where the films were destroyed. In the days before DVD, videos and all that complicated stuff, whole films of old television programmes, like 'Steptoe and Son', 'Morecambe and Wise', 'Quattermass' and old news programmes were junked to make way for newer material of the time.
Now with DVDs being really popular of old tv shows from the 50s, 60s and 70s it is hoped that people may be able to give or lend their copies over to the BBC or ITV, to be cleaned up and made available again. Even lost clips will count. To see these lost moments again, cleaned up and digitally restored is amazing.
Now, if you have episode four of 1966's 'The Tenth Planet' or the colour edition of part three of 1973's 'Planet of the Daleks' do let the team know at www.restoration-team.co.uk.
This may all sound sad, but remember when as a child you were offered the chance of going into a sweet shop and promised to have everything, only to have a bubble gum or sherbot drops and how disappointed you were, that's what it is like, but as an adult.
Many thanks in advance.
The BBC Restoration Team are seeking help in finding lost episodes or clips from old episodes of Doctor Who.
Sadly, over 100 episodes of the original 700+ episodes of the classic series are missing, however, over the years some have been returned to the BBC (found in car boot sales, Church Halls, Nigeria television stations just to name three). It wasn't only Dr Who where the films were destroyed. In the days before DVD, videos and all that complicated stuff, whole films of old television programmes, like 'Steptoe and Son', 'Morecambe and Wise', 'Quattermass' and old news programmes were junked to make way for newer material of the time.
Now with DVDs being really popular of old tv shows from the 50s, 60s and 70s it is hoped that people may be able to give or lend their copies over to the BBC or ITV, to be cleaned up and made available again. Even lost clips will count. To see these lost moments again, cleaned up and digitally restored is amazing.
Now, if you have episode four of 1966's 'The Tenth Planet' or the colour edition of part three of 1973's 'Planet of the Daleks' do let the team know at www.restoration-team.co.uk.
This may all sound sad, but remember when as a child you were offered the chance of going into a sweet shop and promised to have everything, only to have a bubble gum or sherbot drops and how disappointed you were, that's what it is like, but as an adult.
Many thanks in advance.
Saturday 10 March 2007
Now the work begins for Northern Ireland
The voters have spoken and Ian Paisley's Democratic Unionists have topped the polls in Northern Ireland's Assembly elections.
Winning 36 (up 6) of the 108 seats, with Sinn Fein winning 28 (+4), it is now down to Paisley and Gerry Adams to try and come to terms and form a power-sharing Government. Whereas Sinn Fein and Adams appear to have moved far closer to democracy and are prepared to sit behind the table and work for Northern Ireland I hope that the DUP and Paisley will not keep using excuses to avoid what is needed.
For the record, the Ulster Unionists were down 9 at 18 and Labour's sister party for Northern Ireland, the SDLP were down 2 at 16. The Alliance gained a seat to have 7 seats, the Progressive Unionists held their only seat, the Greens won their first ever seat on the Assembly in North Down and an Independent, standing on a ticket to save a local hospital, was elected in West Tyrone. The UK Unionist leader lost his seat.
Let's hope that the Parties can work together. The Ballot Box has always been better than the Gun and Bullet.
Winning 36 (up 6) of the 108 seats, with Sinn Fein winning 28 (+4), it is now down to Paisley and Gerry Adams to try and come to terms and form a power-sharing Government. Whereas Sinn Fein and Adams appear to have moved far closer to democracy and are prepared to sit behind the table and work for Northern Ireland I hope that the DUP and Paisley will not keep using excuses to avoid what is needed.
For the record, the Ulster Unionists were down 9 at 18 and Labour's sister party for Northern Ireland, the SDLP were down 2 at 16. The Alliance gained a seat to have 7 seats, the Progressive Unionists held their only seat, the Greens won their first ever seat on the Assembly in North Down and an Independent, standing on a ticket to save a local hospital, was elected in West Tyrone. The UK Unionist leader lost his seat.
Let's hope that the Parties can work together. The Ballot Box has always been better than the Gun and Bullet.
No more whipping!
Sounds like I am into SM, well it ain't and I'm not!!
Earlier in the week I confirmed to my fellow Labour councillors on the Council that I will neither seek or accept nomination to continue as Haringey Labour Chief Whip in our group elections in May.
Having made the "neither" comment, one person liked the link to LBJ (ex-US President Lyndon Johnson), which I didn't realise until I re-read it. Typical, I thought it sounded such a good line.
My decision not to continue as Chief Whip is to spend more time with my ward constituents. Also, as a number of meetings of residents groups and other groups take place on Thursday nights and therefore it makes it more difficult to be at Labour Group and Labour Executive meetings, which also meet on Thursday nights. As Chief Whip, one needs to lead by example in attending Group meetings. So, my days of whipping are coming to an end as I pop off to the backbenches.
Earlier in the week I confirmed to my fellow Labour councillors on the Council that I will neither seek or accept nomination to continue as Haringey Labour Chief Whip in our group elections in May.
Having made the "neither" comment, one person liked the link to LBJ (ex-US President Lyndon Johnson), which I didn't realise until I re-read it. Typical, I thought it sounded such a good line.
My decision not to continue as Chief Whip is to spend more time with my ward constituents. Also, as a number of meetings of residents groups and other groups take place on Thursday nights and therefore it makes it more difficult to be at Labour Group and Labour Executive meetings, which also meet on Thursday nights. As Chief Whip, one needs to lead by example in attending Group meetings. So, my days of whipping are coming to an end as I pop off to the backbenches.
Another week gone
Well, that's another week gone by!
Quite a busy one actually and one which has been spent mostly doing ward work. If I have no meetings planned I usually try and visit local residents and do my e-mails, etc, which was the case for Monday. Tuesday was attending the Sandlings Residents' Association meeting and agreeing to organise a Quiz Night for them. Aaargh!!! Having said yes to Saturday 12th May I now find out that is Eurovision Night. I'm going to miss Eurovision for the first time in years (in fact the last time I missed this was during the Wapping dispute in the mid-1980s).
Wednesday was my surgery where a few people attended followed by going to the Noel Park Policing Ward Panel meeting. One of the concerns I raised was about people cycling on footpaths. The Police had actually done a number of fixed penalty notices that very same day. There was a suggestion about taking bikes from regular offenders, which sounds an excellent idea. How many more people should be pushed in the roads or have their bags stolen by cyclists? This may seem an attack on cyclists, it isn't, just those who think that they are above the law!
Thursday attended a General Purposes Committee and got home in enoguh time to see Spurs win in their attempt for European glory (hurrah!!) and last night my surgery at the Wood Green library. A couple of people said they were coming to me as our MP has appointment-only surgeries, whereas my four surgeries a month are walk-in surgeries.
As one person said, if the MP spent less time promoting herself on the radio and more time being available they'd have more respect for her. I do wonder how it is that when Barbara Roche was the Labour MP for Hornsey & Wood Green she could do four walk-in surgeries a month as well as a couple of appointment-only surgeries - and some of this was at a time when she was a Minister. So come on Lynne, how about it?
Finally, had another surgery this morning and now following up the cases from last night and arranging visits to local residents for the week ahead.
Tomorrow, will spend the morning walking around parts of the ward, followed by my local Labour Party Branch meeting (can't believe we booked this during the Spurs-Chelsea FA Cup match) and then later in the day I have a social meeting of HarinGAY, the Borough's local LGBT social group.
I'm free on Monday night so far!!!
Next Saturday will be fun though when I pop over to Barking for the one-day Dr Who Convention. Four former Doctors (Peter Davision, Colin Baker, Sylvester McCoy and Paul McGann) as well as former assistant, Sophie Aldred (Ace), will be there, then I shall pop over to my Mum who also lives in Barking to see her for Mother's Day.
Quite a busy one actually and one which has been spent mostly doing ward work. If I have no meetings planned I usually try and visit local residents and do my e-mails, etc, which was the case for Monday. Tuesday was attending the Sandlings Residents' Association meeting and agreeing to organise a Quiz Night for them. Aaargh!!! Having said yes to Saturday 12th May I now find out that is Eurovision Night. I'm going to miss Eurovision for the first time in years (in fact the last time I missed this was during the Wapping dispute in the mid-1980s).
Wednesday was my surgery where a few people attended followed by going to the Noel Park Policing Ward Panel meeting. One of the concerns I raised was about people cycling on footpaths. The Police had actually done a number of fixed penalty notices that very same day. There was a suggestion about taking bikes from regular offenders, which sounds an excellent idea. How many more people should be pushed in the roads or have their bags stolen by cyclists? This may seem an attack on cyclists, it isn't, just those who think that they are above the law!
Thursday attended a General Purposes Committee and got home in enoguh time to see Spurs win in their attempt for European glory (hurrah!!) and last night my surgery at the Wood Green library. A couple of people said they were coming to me as our MP has appointment-only surgeries, whereas my four surgeries a month are walk-in surgeries.
As one person said, if the MP spent less time promoting herself on the radio and more time being available they'd have more respect for her. I do wonder how it is that when Barbara Roche was the Labour MP for Hornsey & Wood Green she could do four walk-in surgeries a month as well as a couple of appointment-only surgeries - and some of this was at a time when she was a Minister. So come on Lynne, how about it?
Finally, had another surgery this morning and now following up the cases from last night and arranging visits to local residents for the week ahead.
Tomorrow, will spend the morning walking around parts of the ward, followed by my local Labour Party Branch meeting (can't believe we booked this during the Spurs-Chelsea FA Cup match) and then later in the day I have a social meeting of HarinGAY, the Borough's local LGBT social group.
I'm free on Monday night so far!!!
Next Saturday will be fun though when I pop over to Barking for the one-day Dr Who Convention. Four former Doctors (Peter Davision, Colin Baker, Sylvester McCoy and Paul McGann) as well as former assistant, Sophie Aldred (Ace), will be there, then I shall pop over to my Mum who also lives in Barking to see her for Mother's Day.
Friday 9 March 2007
Free no more
Yesterday brought the sad news of the death of actor, John Inman.
Some in the gay movement attacked his role of Mr. Humphries. Me? I laughed with him when watching 'Are You Being Served?' and I still do. It was gentle Camp humour, far better than today's swearing and violence.
John Inman was funny and is a sad loss to the world of acting and comedy. My thoughts go out to his partner, Ron, and their families and friends.
Somehow, you can imagine in the Great Thereafter as he is called into Heavan you can just hear him answering; "I'm free!"
Some in the gay movement attacked his role of Mr. Humphries. Me? I laughed with him when watching 'Are You Being Served?' and I still do. It was gentle Camp humour, far better than today's swearing and violence.
John Inman was funny and is a sad loss to the world of acting and comedy. My thoughts go out to his partner, Ron, and their families and friends.
Somehow, you can imagine in the Great Thereafter as he is called into Heavan you can just hear him answering; "I'm free!"
Wednesday 7 March 2007
Lords a leaping
As I write this blog, MPs are voting on whether to bring more democracy to Parliament.
Is the beginning of the end on the wall for the House of Lords? MPs have just voted to reject a House of Lords made up of a membership with 20% elected, 40% elected, 50% elected, 60% elected and all-member elected being rejected.
If we have to have a second Chamber, I would prefer a smaller all-elected Chamber. However, that probably won't happen but it looks likely that an 80% elected Chamber may go through. I hope so. I won't know the result before I finish this blog, I have my surgery to attend and then a Neighbourhood Policing meeting in Noel Park.
I have always found it amazing how we can call ourselves a democracy when for years over a thousand people, never elected, but decided on the Laws of the Land based on who slept with whom in the 1600s and 1700s.
The current Labour Government has done more to reform the House of Lords than the historic Labour Governments of Atlee in the 1940s and Wilson in the 1960s. The only near thing to reform was Asquith's Liberals in 1909 and 1910. Perhaps a hundred years on from an attempt at reform and it can now be done. And unlike in the early 1900s, it should not cause a Constituional crisis, if their Lordships know what is right for the contry.
That all said, I guess now my chances for a seat in Lords are out of the window. A small price worthing me thinks....
Is the beginning of the end on the wall for the House of Lords? MPs have just voted to reject a House of Lords made up of a membership with 20% elected, 40% elected, 50% elected, 60% elected and all-member elected being rejected.
If we have to have a second Chamber, I would prefer a smaller all-elected Chamber. However, that probably won't happen but it looks likely that an 80% elected Chamber may go through. I hope so. I won't know the result before I finish this blog, I have my surgery to attend and then a Neighbourhood Policing meeting in Noel Park.
I have always found it amazing how we can call ourselves a democracy when for years over a thousand people, never elected, but decided on the Laws of the Land based on who slept with whom in the 1600s and 1700s.
The current Labour Government has done more to reform the House of Lords than the historic Labour Governments of Atlee in the 1940s and Wilson in the 1960s. The only near thing to reform was Asquith's Liberals in 1909 and 1910. Perhaps a hundred years on from an attempt at reform and it can now be done. And unlike in the early 1900s, it should not cause a Constituional crisis, if their Lordships know what is right for the contry.
That all said, I guess now my chances for a seat in Lords are out of the window. A small price worthing me thinks....
Monday 5 March 2007
My first proper cry
Perhaps I should not mention this, but......
Now, I'm a Doctor Who fan and my earliest memory goes back to when Jon Pertwee was playing the Time-Lord battling Daleks and the Master in the 1973 story 'Frontier in Space'. He was accompanied by Jo Grant, played by Katy Manning.
And so two stories later and episode six of 'The Green Death' (the one with the maggots in) and it was to that fateful early Saturday evening, 23rd June 1973, when I had my first proper cry. Yup, not as a child not getting my own way or being sent to bed early or feeling unwell. Jo Grant was leaving the Doctor to marry Professor Jones and go into the Amazon rather than continue her travels in the TARDIS in time and space.
What!? I cried buckets at the thought of never seeing Jo again. No one told me about this beforehand, I wasn't warned about heartache. Here I was a child of 7 years and 9 months and having my first loss in life. Jo was a big sister for me, asking the questions that I couldn't think up and I had affection for her.
And here is the really serious thing. We don't teach children heartache at schools, about loss and losing loved ones and how it affects us. This has bugged me for years, when friends or family die or move away, it hurts, in fact it hurts badly, we all know, don't we?
OK, Jo Grant isn't a real person, but Katy Manning is. Sadly, she never returned to Doctor Who, but listening to her on the DVD commentary that she has done on 'The Green Death' and yes, this 40 years and 6 months old guy still has a sob.
Just wanted to mention it, that's all. Out of my system now.....
Now, I'm a Doctor Who fan and my earliest memory goes back to when Jon Pertwee was playing the Time-Lord battling Daleks and the Master in the 1973 story 'Frontier in Space'. He was accompanied by Jo Grant, played by Katy Manning.
And so two stories later and episode six of 'The Green Death' (the one with the maggots in) and it was to that fateful early Saturday evening, 23rd June 1973, when I had my first proper cry. Yup, not as a child not getting my own way or being sent to bed early or feeling unwell. Jo Grant was leaving the Doctor to marry Professor Jones and go into the Amazon rather than continue her travels in the TARDIS in time and space.
What!? I cried buckets at the thought of never seeing Jo again. No one told me about this beforehand, I wasn't warned about heartache. Here I was a child of 7 years and 9 months and having my first loss in life. Jo was a big sister for me, asking the questions that I couldn't think up and I had affection for her.
And here is the really serious thing. We don't teach children heartache at schools, about loss and losing loved ones and how it affects us. This has bugged me for years, when friends or family die or move away, it hurts, in fact it hurts badly, we all know, don't we?
OK, Jo Grant isn't a real person, but Katy Manning is. Sadly, she never returned to Doctor Who, but listening to her on the DVD commentary that she has done on 'The Green Death' and yes, this 40 years and 6 months old guy still has a sob.
Just wanted to mention it, that's all. Out of my system now.....
Going to Africa for good
Nope not me, but the ever-wonderful Jacqueline Pearce.
Jacquie has reported on her website that she will be moving to Africa to look after her monkies. She has been going out to South Africa on and off for the last year and has now decided to move out there at a monkey sanctuary.
Jacquie fought against cancer and the offer to go out to South Africa she announced last year.
One has to do what is right and I'm sure her decision will hurt many friends, but true friends will understand. I met Jacquie last year and had a fab meal with her and regret not having the chance to get to know her better. I'm sure the move will go well and there will be many straight men who will fall in love with her out there. There's many a gay man who loves her as well......
Jacquie has reported on her website that she will be moving to Africa to look after her monkies. She has been going out to South Africa on and off for the last year and has now decided to move out there at a monkey sanctuary.
Jacquie fought against cancer and the offer to go out to South Africa she announced last year.
One has to do what is right and I'm sure her decision will hurt many friends, but true friends will understand. I met Jacquie last year and had a fab meal with her and regret not having the chance to get to know her better. I'm sure the move will go well and there will be many straight men who will fall in love with her out there. There's many a gay man who loves her as well......
Time to come out
The race to become the new Labour leader (and thereby Prime Minister) and deputy Labour leader will begin in earnest shortly.
It's strange to think, but in my 25 years as a Labour Party member I have not actually voted for the person who has become Leader or Deputy Leader.
Labour MPs will choose who the candidates are. To stand a candidate needs 12.5% of Labour MPs to nominate them. Both Michael Meacher MP and John McDonnell MP want to be candidates, but somehow unless one of them withdraws, I fear (for them, that is) that neither will be on the Ballot Paper.
Like others, I want there to be a proper debate in the Party about the future direction of the Party and Government.
And then there is the deputy leadership contest. There are some strong MPs looking to stand, amongst them are Hilary Benn MP, Alan Johnson MP, Harriet Harman MP as well as Hazel Blears MP and potentially Jack Straw MP. There is also, Jon Cruddas, Labour MP for Dagenham.
So, it's time to come out and say that I'm backing Jon to win. The Labour deputy leadership race is a real chance to look at the soul of the party, to re-engage not only with the party but the labour, trade union and community movements as a whole and I think that Jon Cruddas as Labour deputy leader can do that. I hope he will get the 40+ MPs to back him, because there are many thousands of party members and union political levy paying members who back him and want him to run and yes, even win! I'm one of them.
It's strange to think, but in my 25 years as a Labour Party member I have not actually voted for the person who has become Leader or Deputy Leader.
Labour MPs will choose who the candidates are. To stand a candidate needs 12.5% of Labour MPs to nominate them. Both Michael Meacher MP and John McDonnell MP want to be candidates, but somehow unless one of them withdraws, I fear (for them, that is) that neither will be on the Ballot Paper.
Like others, I want there to be a proper debate in the Party about the future direction of the Party and Government.
And then there is the deputy leadership contest. There are some strong MPs looking to stand, amongst them are Hilary Benn MP, Alan Johnson MP, Harriet Harman MP as well as Hazel Blears MP and potentially Jack Straw MP. There is also, Jon Cruddas, Labour MP for Dagenham.
So, it's time to come out and say that I'm backing Jon to win. The Labour deputy leadership race is a real chance to look at the soul of the party, to re-engage not only with the party but the labour, trade union and community movements as a whole and I think that Jon Cruddas as Labour deputy leader can do that. I hope he will get the 40+ MPs to back him, because there are many thousands of party members and union political levy paying members who back him and want him to run and yes, even win! I'm one of them.
Saturday 3 March 2007
Bakers Who!?
The two former Baker actors to have played Doctor Who have recorded commentaries for forthcoming DVD releases.
Tom Baker (Dr Who number 4 from 1974-81) has recorded his first story 'Robot' along with Lis Sladen (who played Sarah-Jane Smith), Barry Letts (series Producer) and Terrance Dicks (story writer). As mentioned, 'Robot' was Tom's first story after taking over from Jon Pertwee in June 1974.
I remember 'Robot' very well being in the children's ward of the old Prince of Wales Hospital in Tottenham.
Colin Baker (Dr Who number 6 from 1984-86) has recorded 'Time Lash' along with Nicola Bryant (who played companion Peri Brown) and Paul Darrow (who played Tekker). Paul Darrow is more famous for playing Avon in all but one episode of Blake's Seven back in the late 1970s. The least said about 'Time Lash' the better I'm afraid.
'Robot' comes out on DVD on 28th May and 'Time Lash' in June. 'Survival', the last classic Dr Who serial is coming out on DVD on 16th April.
Tom Baker (Dr Who number 4 from 1974-81) has recorded his first story 'Robot' along with Lis Sladen (who played Sarah-Jane Smith), Barry Letts (series Producer) and Terrance Dicks (story writer). As mentioned, 'Robot' was Tom's first story after taking over from Jon Pertwee in June 1974.
I remember 'Robot' very well being in the children's ward of the old Prince of Wales Hospital in Tottenham.
Colin Baker (Dr Who number 6 from 1984-86) has recorded 'Time Lash' along with Nicola Bryant (who played companion Peri Brown) and Paul Darrow (who played Tekker). Paul Darrow is more famous for playing Avon in all but one episode of Blake's Seven back in the late 1970s. The least said about 'Time Lash' the better I'm afraid.
'Robot' comes out on DVD on 28th May and 'Time Lash' in June. 'Survival', the last classic Dr Who serial is coming out on DVD on 16th April.
Friday 23 February 2007
Fight the enemy, not each other
A previous blog of mine indicated my support for Hilary Clinton to be the Democrat candidate in the 2008 Presidential Election.
That remains my view now and has been for many years. So I get sad that now that the Democrtas control the House of Representatives and (just) the Senate for some of the bickering between potential candidates, one of whom may end up the V-P candidate.
You'd think being in the wilderness that Democrats would want to win in 2008. Personal attacks may win someone the candidature, but could hand the GOP a further four years in the White House.
Labour learnt this in the 1990s. Divided Parties and Governments do not win elections, they lose them!
That remains my view now and has been for many years. So I get sad that now that the Democrtas control the House of Representatives and (just) the Senate for some of the bickering between potential candidates, one of whom may end up the V-P candidate.
You'd think being in the wilderness that Democrats would want to win in 2008. Personal attacks may win someone the candidature, but could hand the GOP a further four years in the White House.
Labour learnt this in the 1990s. Divided Parties and Governments do not win elections, they lose them!
Tuesday 20 February 2007
Setting a Budget and Liberals all over the place
Last night Haringey Councillors set the Council Budget for 2007-08.
We agreed by 30 votes to 24 to increase the council tax by 3.5%. It was interesting that despite the Liberal opposition saying at the last meeting what they would like to do with the budget, when the crunch came they just could not put forward an alternative budget to the vote.
The Lib Dems have been the largest opposition in Haringey since 1998, but just can't get it right. I pointed out that the only Liberal to actually move an alternative budget at full council was Alex L' Estrange for the old Coleraine ward in the late 1980s.
At least when the Tories were on the council and even when down to two members they put up an alternative budget, if they can, why can't the Lib Dems? Dear oh dear.
And then, to show how much the Libs seem to be all over the place, they put forward a motion on businesses in Haringey and when it came to voting on the Labour amendment, they abstained. Yep, didn't even try and save their own motion. Some Lib Dem councillors were putting up their hands to vote against and were told not to, and then some didn't even want to vote.
What a shambles of an opposition.
Still, had a nice curry afterwards with some of fellow Labour councillors but got a tad wet going home because of the rain.
We agreed by 30 votes to 24 to increase the council tax by 3.5%. It was interesting that despite the Liberal opposition saying at the last meeting what they would like to do with the budget, when the crunch came they just could not put forward an alternative budget to the vote.
The Lib Dems have been the largest opposition in Haringey since 1998, but just can't get it right. I pointed out that the only Liberal to actually move an alternative budget at full council was Alex L' Estrange for the old Coleraine ward in the late 1980s.
At least when the Tories were on the council and even when down to two members they put up an alternative budget, if they can, why can't the Lib Dems? Dear oh dear.
And then, to show how much the Libs seem to be all over the place, they put forward a motion on businesses in Haringey and when it came to voting on the Labour amendment, they abstained. Yep, didn't even try and save their own motion. Some Lib Dem councillors were putting up their hands to vote against and were told not to, and then some didn't even want to vote.
What a shambles of an opposition.
Still, had a nice curry afterwards with some of fellow Labour councillors but got a tad wet going home because of the rain.
Not had that for ages!!
I was doing some shopping the other day and lo and behold what do I see but strawberry sherberts?
Needless to say I did buy a packet. Reminds me of happy childhood memories with some good old sweets, however they don't seem to taste as good, nor are they as cheap.
What do you remember from your childhood?
Needless to say I did buy a packet. Reminds me of happy childhood memories with some good old sweets, however they don't seem to taste as good, nor are they as cheap.
What do you remember from your childhood?
Saturday 17 February 2007
Let them rest!!
It's a week free from the Six Nations Rugby this week, a chance for players to rest and recover, so what happens to the Englang players, some of their clubs are making them play today.
What happened to national pride? Let the players rest if needbe, we need them if England are to do well.
And talking of sport, good luck to Spurs who play Fulham tomorrow in the FA Cup 5th Round. Not often, I will speak highly of political opponents, but one thing that Lib Dem councillor, Matt Davies, has going for him is that he is a Spurs supporter and season-ticket holder. Matt, I always knew you had something going for you. Wrong party though.
What happened to national pride? Let the players rest if needbe, we need them if England are to do well.
And talking of sport, good luck to Spurs who play Fulham tomorrow in the FA Cup 5th Round. Not often, I will speak highly of political opponents, but one thing that Lib Dem councillor, Matt Davies, has going for him is that he is a Spurs supporter and season-ticket holder. Matt, I always knew you had something going for you. Wrong party though.
A late start
Woke up late this morning, around 10ish.
Quite nice actually cos there are no meetings today, so was up late on the computer and printer last night and didn't get to bed till around three. I wouldn't mind if I'd been out clubbing. I would probably have slept longer but the Council have been round doing the clean sweep in Wood Green, so a good chance to get rid of bits 'n' bobs which have been hanging round gathering dust.
The clean sweeps are really popular for people getting rid of old stuff and also, I have to say for people walking the streets in the hope of finding something useful. I threw out an old bike (yep, I used to ride them, though not of late looking at my not so slim-like figure!!) and a couple of hours later it had been taken. So, to whoever took my bike, no problems with that, but it had gathered a touch of rust and the back tire was as flat as a boring pancake.
Doing some Councillor calling tomorrow with some other party members who will be out helping me (thanks to them). As I mentioned previously in my blogs, these are really useful exercises in terms of being out and about, though the only downside does mean no late Saturday nights with a hangover in the morning - not of course that such things would happen!!
Quite nice actually cos there are no meetings today, so was up late on the computer and printer last night and didn't get to bed till around three. I wouldn't mind if I'd been out clubbing. I would probably have slept longer but the Council have been round doing the clean sweep in Wood Green, so a good chance to get rid of bits 'n' bobs which have been hanging round gathering dust.
The clean sweeps are really popular for people getting rid of old stuff and also, I have to say for people walking the streets in the hope of finding something useful. I threw out an old bike (yep, I used to ride them, though not of late looking at my not so slim-like figure!!) and a couple of hours later it had been taken. So, to whoever took my bike, no problems with that, but it had gathered a touch of rust and the back tire was as flat as a boring pancake.
Doing some Councillor calling tomorrow with some other party members who will be out helping me (thanks to them). As I mentioned previously in my blogs, these are really useful exercises in terms of being out and about, though the only downside does mean no late Saturday nights with a hangover in the morning - not of course that such things would happen!!
Tottenham Carnival Launch and gay stuff
I popped along to the launch of the Tottenham Community Festival last Thursday (Tottenham Carnival) and over 300 people were in attendance at the CONEL (College of North East London) to look at what will be happening at Bruce Castle on 23rd June.
David Lammy, Labour MP for Tottenham, did a good speech about being proud of Tottenham, our Borough's Mayor, Cllr Gina Adamou (Lab, Harringay ward) said a few words of support as did Eric Monk, from Haringey Police. My old mate, Cllr Sheila Peacock (Lab, Northumberland Park ward) was wearing a touch of fancy-dress head gear and is said, I'm told, to be buzzing from the event. Alas had to leave early for my residents' association meeting, but was good to be there and see loads of young people really looking forward to the event.
Talking about the carnival, HarinGAY, the borough's LGBT social group will have a stall at the carnival in what will become a week of gay-politics for me, starting with the carnival, with the TUC LGBT Conference later in the week where I will be part of the Amicus (my trade union) delegation and then London Pride on Saturday 30th June.
David Lammy, Labour MP for Tottenham, did a good speech about being proud of Tottenham, our Borough's Mayor, Cllr Gina Adamou (Lab, Harringay ward) said a few words of support as did Eric Monk, from Haringey Police. My old mate, Cllr Sheila Peacock (Lab, Northumberland Park ward) was wearing a touch of fancy-dress head gear and is said, I'm told, to be buzzing from the event. Alas had to leave early for my residents' association meeting, but was good to be there and see loads of young people really looking forward to the event.
Talking about the carnival, HarinGAY, the borough's LGBT social group will have a stall at the carnival in what will become a week of gay-politics for me, starting with the carnival, with the TUC LGBT Conference later in the week where I will be part of the Amicus (my trade union) delegation and then London Pride on Saturday 30th June.
Wednesday 14 February 2007
Whose the Master?
SPOILER ALERT!!!!!
According to the Independent on Sunday, actor, John Simm is to appear in the new series of Doctor Who.
Dr Who is set to return on BBC One around Saturday 24th March for a new 13-part series with the fab David Tennant. But IoS is indicating that John Simm, who plays the detective guy in 'Life on Mars' (don't ask me what it's about, I fell asleep half through the first episode last night) is to play the Doctor's arch enemy The Master in the final episodes.
Now for all Dr Who fans and saddos like me, there will be a slight problem with continuity as the Doctor is meant to be the only Time Lord in the Universe, the Master (last seen as a snake turning into Eric Roberts in the 1996 film) has run out of his regenerations and is meant to be dead. Unless of course he exists in the parallel world with Rose and the very nice Mickey.
We'll have to wait and see.
By the way, when Dr Who does return, my phones are turned off for those 45-minutes and I cannot be contacted.
Yep, that sad.....
According to the Independent on Sunday, actor, John Simm is to appear in the new series of Doctor Who.
Dr Who is set to return on BBC One around Saturday 24th March for a new 13-part series with the fab David Tennant. But IoS is indicating that John Simm, who plays the detective guy in 'Life on Mars' (don't ask me what it's about, I fell asleep half through the first episode last night) is to play the Doctor's arch enemy The Master in the final episodes.
Now for all Dr Who fans and saddos like me, there will be a slight problem with continuity as the Doctor is meant to be the only Time Lord in the Universe, the Master (last seen as a snake turning into Eric Roberts in the 1996 film) has run out of his regenerations and is meant to be dead. Unless of course he exists in the parallel world with Rose and the very nice Mickey.
We'll have to wait and see.
By the way, when Dr Who does return, my phones are turned off for those 45-minutes and I cannot be contacted.
Yep, that sad.....
Policing matters
This may appear as a dig at the Police, some may think that I've gone all lefty again, but two moans about policing in Haringey.
First off, is it just me, but why do the Police suddenly have to use their sirens all the time? OK, fair enough in busy traffic, I don't know where they're going, but on roads with no traffic, come on Officer, is it really necessary?
Most people will support sirens being used, but surely only as a last resort and if they're going to where a crime is being committed, don't warn the criminal.
Second, there are proposals to close the counter at Wood Green Police Station in the evenings. Whether one person or one hundred people use it, the perception will be that Wood Green Police station is closed and the criminal can do what they like. It's a daft idea and should be booted out of the ground like a cricket player scoring a six. I will be at a meeting about this next week and will report back. Wood Green, being the Borough's town centre needs an active 24-hour Police station. If this proposal goes ahead, what next? Total closure. We need to continue combatting crime and not helping it.
I will be interested in what other people think on these two subjects.
That said, I think our Police do a fantastic job and Britain has one of the best Police forces in the world and long may that continue. Let's be honest, would we want to do their job?
First off, is it just me, but why do the Police suddenly have to use their sirens all the time? OK, fair enough in busy traffic, I don't know where they're going, but on roads with no traffic, come on Officer, is it really necessary?
Most people will support sirens being used, but surely only as a last resort and if they're going to where a crime is being committed, don't warn the criminal.
Second, there are proposals to close the counter at Wood Green Police Station in the evenings. Whether one person or one hundred people use it, the perception will be that Wood Green Police station is closed and the criminal can do what they like. It's a daft idea and should be booted out of the ground like a cricket player scoring a six. I will be at a meeting about this next week and will report back. Wood Green, being the Borough's town centre needs an active 24-hour Police station. If this proposal goes ahead, what next? Total closure. We need to continue combatting crime and not helping it.
I will be interested in what other people think on these two subjects.
That said, I think our Police do a fantastic job and Britain has one of the best Police forces in the world and long may that continue. Let's be honest, would we want to do their job?
Doesn't red mean stop?
On Monday evening gone, it took almost two hours to get home from work.
Any how, waiting for either a 144 or W3 bus at the Great Cambridge Road/White Hart Lane in the pouring rain during a half-hour period (I know I could have walked) I must have seen around 15 cars speeding through the red lights, with around half of the drivers on their mobile phones as well, yep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the phone.
Now forgive me, but I thought that the red light at traffic lights meant stop? Suddenly, some of my fellow citizens want to save themselves a minute or so by going through the red light. How many people need to be seriously injured or killed before people realise it just ain't worth it?
That is why I support speed cameras and CCtv at traffic lights.
Any how, waiting for either a 144 or W3 bus at the Great Cambridge Road/White Hart Lane in the pouring rain during a half-hour period (I know I could have walked) I must have seen around 15 cars speeding through the red lights, with around half of the drivers on their mobile phones as well, yep one hand on the steering wheel and the other on the phone.
Now forgive me, but I thought that the red light at traffic lights meant stop? Suddenly, some of my fellow citizens want to save themselves a minute or so by going through the red light. How many people need to be seriously injured or killed before people realise it just ain't worth it?
That is why I support speed cameras and CCtv at traffic lights.
Saturday 10 February 2007
Talk about voting - I'm backing Hilary!
OK, so we don't have a vote in the US Presidential Elections or the Primaries.
However, as the so-called 51st State of the USA, you'd think we would have a vote - and if we did I would cast my vote for Hilary Clinton to be the Democrat candidate for the next elections.
I am convinced that Hilary will make an excellent President. Whether America is ready for a woman or black President we wait to see!
However, as the so-called 51st State of the USA, you'd think we would have a vote - and if we did I would cast my vote for Hilary Clinton to be the Democrat candidate for the next elections.
I am convinced that Hilary will make an excellent President. Whether America is ready for a woman or black President we wait to see!
Councillor Calling
Next Sunday I'll be doing Councillor calling in Noel Park, the ward that I represent on the Council. Tomorrow before my parks meeting with residents I'll be dropping off the letters to residents to let them know I'll be around.
A number of Councillors do this, it's very popular and saves people having to come to the surgeries. More work for us, however it's means that we are out and about in the community rather than being stuck in the Town Hall for endless meetings.
A number of Councillors do this, it's very popular and saves people having to come to the surgeries. More work for us, however it's means that we are out and about in the community rather than being stuck in the Town Hall for endless meetings.
I voted yes
The Union that I belong to is currently a Ballot of it's members to determine whether we, that is Amicus, should merge with the TGWU (Transport and General Workers Union).
Ballot papers have been sent to well over a million Amicus and TGWU members and during the week I cast my 'YES' vote for a stronger Union between the two. Voting yes for a strong industrial and equality union.
Ballot papers have been sent to well over a million Amicus and TGWU members and during the week I cast my 'YES' vote for a stronger Union between the two. Voting yes for a strong industrial and equality union.
Friday 9 February 2007
The weekend ahead
Well, what a week it's been!!
Snow fell and the innocence of children came to the fore as Snowmen cropped up everywhere. At work outside my window was a father and his daugher building a snowman in a past time that cost no money but was sheer enjoyment for them and me to watch. Part of it still exists today despite snow melting and the rain coming down. Reminds me a bit of 'The Snowman'.
Spurs are into the last 16 of the UEFA Cup without kicking a ball or scoring a goal thanks to the fans from Feyenoord and crowd trouble in a group match. Spurs will play Parma or Braga on 8th and 15th March.
The meetings I've attended with local residents have been really useful and informative in more ways than one. Last night at one Residents' Association meeting over 20 people attended despite the bad weather. Despite what the media say, I do believe that people are interested in local politics and where they live.
There was the East Barnet council by-election yesterday. I found it interesting that the Lib Dems were calling it a two-horse race between them and the Tories - talk about flogging a dead horse, it was indeed a two-horse race, but between Labour and the Tories, but why let the little matter of fact get in the way of fiction. The Tories won with 1666 votes to 1025 for Labour, 552 for the Liberals and 147 for the Greens. Given the weather a good turnout!
I have my Wood Green surgery tomorrow morning before going to Hackney for party business in the afternoon. Going for a meal with a girlfriend tomorrow night. When I say girlfriend, I don't mean that type of girlfriend. Well, you know I'm gay so you'll know what I mean..... Moving swiftly on to Sunday and I shall be joining residents at Noel Park (the park) for a walk around the park to see how we can improve the area. Then Sunday afternoon a social meeting of HarinGAY, the Borough's local LGBT social group meeting.
I hope that you have a good weekend!
Snow fell and the innocence of children came to the fore as Snowmen cropped up everywhere. At work outside my window was a father and his daugher building a snowman in a past time that cost no money but was sheer enjoyment for them and me to watch. Part of it still exists today despite snow melting and the rain coming down. Reminds me a bit of 'The Snowman'.
Spurs are into the last 16 of the UEFA Cup without kicking a ball or scoring a goal thanks to the fans from Feyenoord and crowd trouble in a group match. Spurs will play Parma or Braga on 8th and 15th March.
The meetings I've attended with local residents have been really useful and informative in more ways than one. Last night at one Residents' Association meeting over 20 people attended despite the bad weather. Despite what the media say, I do believe that people are interested in local politics and where they live.
There was the East Barnet council by-election yesterday. I found it interesting that the Lib Dems were calling it a two-horse race between them and the Tories - talk about flogging a dead horse, it was indeed a two-horse race, but between Labour and the Tories, but why let the little matter of fact get in the way of fiction. The Tories won with 1666 votes to 1025 for Labour, 552 for the Liberals and 147 for the Greens. Given the weather a good turnout!
I have my Wood Green surgery tomorrow morning before going to Hackney for party business in the afternoon. Going for a meal with a girlfriend tomorrow night. When I say girlfriend, I don't mean that type of girlfriend. Well, you know I'm gay so you'll know what I mean..... Moving swiftly on to Sunday and I shall be joining residents at Noel Park (the park) for a walk around the park to see how we can improve the area. Then Sunday afternoon a social meeting of HarinGAY, the Borough's local LGBT social group meeting.
I hope that you have a good weekend!
Farewell, Ian
I was sorry to hear of the death of actor, Ian Richardson, earlier today.
For those into politics and good television drama, Ian will be best known as the scheming Chief Whip, Francis Urquhart, in the BBC triology series 'The House of Cards' (followed by 'To Play the King' and 'The Final Cut').
I got the DVDs of these dramas last year and they are excellent television. People may recall that the series first came out during the end of the Thatcher era. Ian Richardson won a BAFTA award in 1991 for 'House of Cards'
I quite like the idea of the Chief Whip becoming Prime Minister!
For those into politics and good television drama, Ian will be best known as the scheming Chief Whip, Francis Urquhart, in the BBC triology series 'The House of Cards' (followed by 'To Play the King' and 'The Final Cut').
I got the DVDs of these dramas last year and they are excellent television. People may recall that the series first came out during the end of the Thatcher era. Ian Richardson won a BAFTA award in 1991 for 'House of Cards'
I quite like the idea of the Chief Whip becoming Prime Minister!
Wednesday 7 February 2007
Enjoyment of being a Councillor!
In a few minutes off to my surgery at the Sandbunker.
Tomorrow will be an interesting day, will be joining local residents and council officers for an estate walkabout at Vincent Square in Noel Park. These walkabouts give Councillors, Residents and Council Officers the opportunity to see what is good, not so good and poor and how we can improve them. These happen all over the Borough and allows us the chance to be there for residents at a time that suits them.
In the evening, I'll be attending a couple of meetings with local residents, being the Friends of Noel Park (the park) and then rushing over to the Parkside Malvern Residents Association - it means missing the Labour Group meeting, however I feel it important to be out in the community with the people that voted for us last May and that is one of the joys of being a community Councillor. OK, you may not get everything done that you would like, but you try your best.
It is about caring for the people where they live, because I live there too.
Have a good evening!
Tomorrow will be an interesting day, will be joining local residents and council officers for an estate walkabout at Vincent Square in Noel Park. These walkabouts give Councillors, Residents and Council Officers the opportunity to see what is good, not so good and poor and how we can improve them. These happen all over the Borough and allows us the chance to be there for residents at a time that suits them.
In the evening, I'll be attending a couple of meetings with local residents, being the Friends of Noel Park (the park) and then rushing over to the Parkside Malvern Residents Association - it means missing the Labour Group meeting, however I feel it important to be out in the community with the people that voted for us last May and that is one of the joys of being a community Councillor. OK, you may not get everything done that you would like, but you try your best.
It is about caring for the people where they live, because I live there too.
Have a good evening!
A school for our community please!
Last night over 100 people attended a meeting at Alexandra Primary School to look at proposals for a new secondary school in Haringey.
The Government has changed the goal-posts to insist on a choice of the type of schools. Now, I am all for choice, however I fear that the School Adjudicator may go with "big bucks" rather than the desire of democratic and locally accountable education - that is the school favored by the local education authority (LEA).
Haringey's bid, which I fully support, is for an 11-16 year old mixed, multi-faith community comprehensive school the Wood Green, Hornsey and Haringey Heartlands communities with an opportunity to become part of a hard federation of successful schools.
The school will specialise in the visual arts and media which will enable it to benefit from its unique location in the cultural quarter of Haringey (The Chocolate Factory and Mountview Theatre). It will also have an additional specialism in supporting students with autistic spectrum disorder. The school would work to Haringey's over subscription admissions criteria.
And that sounds good to me.....
But, in fairness there are three other options from the CfBT Education Trust, the Haberdasher's Aske's Hatchman College Trust and the United Learning Trust, a Christian faith organisation for the Church of England - yup, really representing the highly diverse multi and non-faith communuities of Noel Park and Haringey.
The Government has changed the goal-posts to insist on a choice of the type of schools. Now, I am all for choice, however I fear that the School Adjudicator may go with "big bucks" rather than the desire of democratic and locally accountable education - that is the school favored by the local education authority (LEA).
Haringey's bid, which I fully support, is for an 11-16 year old mixed, multi-faith community comprehensive school the Wood Green, Hornsey and Haringey Heartlands communities with an opportunity to become part of a hard federation of successful schools.
The school will specialise in the visual arts and media which will enable it to benefit from its unique location in the cultural quarter of Haringey (The Chocolate Factory and Mountview Theatre). It will also have an additional specialism in supporting students with autistic spectrum disorder. The school would work to Haringey's over subscription admissions criteria.
And that sounds good to me.....
But, in fairness there are three other options from the CfBT Education Trust, the Haberdasher's Aske's Hatchman College Trust and the United Learning Trust, a Christian faith organisation for the Church of England - yup, really representing the highly diverse multi and non-faith communuities of Noel Park and Haringey.
Tuesday 6 February 2007
Council stuff
Last night saw the Full Council of Haringey Councillors.
We started with tributes to the late Adelaide Tambo, who had died recently. Adelaide had been involved with the ANC and received the Freedom of the Borough back in 1990. Moving tributes were made by the Council leader, George Meehan, and former deputy leader, Harry Lister. This part of the Council meeting and the Minute's Silence was filmed by South African tv and I understand shown in South Africa.
We had our State of the Borough Debate and Budget, which the Liberals opposed and tried to present an alternative Budget, though making savings of £400,000 but wanting to spend more just does not add up, typical. I mean, one of their savings was to do away with the Mayor's Reception at Alexandra Palace - saving £4,000. In the bigger picture, this is peanuts and is geasture politics only!
By the end of the evening people were actually in a good mood.
Had a meal with Dilek and Sheila (fellow Councillors afterwards).
Anyway, off to a meeting shortly about the new proposed secondary school which will be in Noel Park.
I hope my blogs will work ok.
We started with tributes to the late Adelaide Tambo, who had died recently. Adelaide had been involved with the ANC and received the Freedom of the Borough back in 1990. Moving tributes were made by the Council leader, George Meehan, and former deputy leader, Harry Lister. This part of the Council meeting and the Minute's Silence was filmed by South African tv and I understand shown in South Africa.
We had our State of the Borough Debate and Budget, which the Liberals opposed and tried to present an alternative Budget, though making savings of £400,000 but wanting to spend more just does not add up, typical. I mean, one of their savings was to do away with the Mayor's Reception at Alexandra Palace - saving £4,000. In the bigger picture, this is peanuts and is geasture politics only!
By the end of the evening people were actually in a good mood.
Had a meal with Dilek and Sheila (fellow Councillors afterwards).
Anyway, off to a meeting shortly about the new proposed secondary school which will be in Noel Park.
I hope my blogs will work ok.
Monday 5 February 2007
Four Doctors
In mid-March I'll be going to a Doctor Who convention over in Barking (near to where my Mum lives) where over 200 people are expected to see four former Doctor Whos.
Peter Davison (1981-84), Colin Baker (1984-86), Sylvester McCoy (1987-89) and Paul McGann (1996 tv movie) will be in attendance.
I am huge fan of Colin having met him at a couple of conventions last year.
Hopefully there will be gossip of the new series.
For more information, www.tenthplanet.co.uk
Peter Davison (1981-84), Colin Baker (1984-86), Sylvester McCoy (1987-89) and Paul McGann (1996 tv movie) will be in attendance.
I am huge fan of Colin having met him at a couple of conventions last year.
Hopefully there will be gossip of the new series.
For more information, www.tenthplanet.co.uk
Saturday 3 February 2007
It's here at last
It seems the latest craze, so I'm having a go!
Welcome to Alan's Blogs.
This is my blog site to say a bit more about me, etc. Over the coming days I'll be building up the site and adding little bits here and there, perhaps some gossip.
Interesting days lay ahead for Labour and Britain, so I'll be touching on some of that. Being a Spurs fan there'll be some comments and for those who know me, being a Doctor Who fan, there'll be news and gossip and comments.
So, hope you enjoy and if you have any comments, do pass on.
Have a nice day now!
Welcome to Alan's Blogs.
This is my blog site to say a bit more about me, etc. Over the coming days I'll be building up the site and adding little bits here and there, perhaps some gossip.
Interesting days lay ahead for Labour and Britain, so I'll be touching on some of that. Being a Spurs fan there'll be some comments and for those who know me, being a Doctor Who fan, there'll be news and gossip and comments.
So, hope you enjoy and if you have any comments, do pass on.
Have a nice day now!
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