Well thats all folks.
Another three weeks draws to a close, off back to work about 2am, so its an early bedtime tonight.
Well once again thank you for visiting, keeping me company whilst I have tried to find some interesting things for you.
Hopefully, normal service will be resume in three weeks time.
Adieu - Au revoir!
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
Credit Crisis - An Attempt At Explaining It
David Leonhardt over on the IHT site today has a go at explaining the present financial crisis in lay person terms.
Perhaps Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet should have a read of this, although I don't think they would take any notice of it!
Perhaps Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet should have a read of this, although I don't think they would take any notice of it!
WYBI - Wednesday
Post Office Closures - NuLabor Hypocrisy
Simon Jenkins in today's Guardian CiF section looks at the government and it's drive to axe our local post offices.
Coming from a rural background, I know how important the local post office is to a community, it performs more than a commercial need to the area it serves.
People who take on this role should be supported by the state, not sabotaged at every move by a government obsessed with centralizing everything, like for example forcing/paying benefits/pensions directly into a bank account.
But what gets me annoyed, also shows how truly immoral our NuLabor politicians are, is that none of them are prepared to give up the perks and trappings of being a minister to really support their community.
I hope the local constituents of the likes of Hazel Blears, Andy Burnham, Duff Hoon, Jacqui Smith, Jack Straw et al remember at the next election who their local MP was batting for - not them!
Coming from a rural background, I know how important the local post office is to a community, it performs more than a commercial need to the area it serves.
People who take on this role should be supported by the state, not sabotaged at every move by a government obsessed with centralizing everything, like for example forcing/paying benefits/pensions directly into a bank account.
But what gets me annoyed, also shows how truly immoral our NuLabor politicians are, is that none of them are prepared to give up the perks and trappings of being a minister to really support their community.
I hope the local constituents of the likes of Hazel Blears, Andy Burnham, Duff Hoon, Jacqui Smith, Jack Straw et al remember at the next election who their local MP was batting for - not them!
dictum meum pactum
dictum meum pactum - my word [is] my bond
Followers of my blog will know I have been trying to get another job, Monday was my third and final interview for one prospect I have been pursuing.
At this interview was the director of the division I would have been working for, who was aware that I would be going back to work today, and that when I'm away at work I am usually out of contact.
Now it was mentioned at the interview of a possible start date the week after I come home next. Which would only have given me a week end at home before disappearing for a month this time.
Also this would have been a bit tight for giving my notice in, but it was a job I was after, so you have to go with the flow.
Before I left the interview, the director personally said, I would have an answer one way or another by "close of play Tuesday".
Now just by sheer luck I am not going back to work until tomorrow, or at least I won't be leaving home till midnight tonight, so I have got all today in "contact".
Ignoring that, if I commit myself to something I try my hardest to fulfil that commitment, especially if it concerns some one else.
Obviously this director does not work to the same standards I do, which makes me wonder how good their word is in other matters?
Well after tossing & turning over it last night, I have made my mind up I don't want to work for a company where their word is obviously not their bond, so very politely later on today I'm going to tell them to stuff their job!
Update
Well I waited until our post had been - nothing from them - so the wicked deed is done.
Better polish the old CV up again!
Followers of my blog will know I have been trying to get another job, Monday was my third and final interview for one prospect I have been pursuing.
At this interview was the director of the division I would have been working for, who was aware that I would be going back to work today, and that when I'm away at work I am usually out of contact.
Now it was mentioned at the interview of a possible start date the week after I come home next. Which would only have given me a week end at home before disappearing for a month this time.
Also this would have been a bit tight for giving my notice in, but it was a job I was after, so you have to go with the flow.
Before I left the interview, the director personally said, I would have an answer one way or another by "close of play Tuesday".
Now just by sheer luck I am not going back to work until tomorrow, or at least I won't be leaving home till midnight tonight, so I have got all today in "contact".
Ignoring that, if I commit myself to something I try my hardest to fulfil that commitment, especially if it concerns some one else.
Obviously this director does not work to the same standards I do, which makes me wonder how good their word is in other matters?
Well after tossing & turning over it last night, I have made my mind up I don't want to work for a company where their word is obviously not their bond, so very politely later on today I'm going to tell them to stuff their job!
Update
Well I waited until our post had been - nothing from them - so the wicked deed is done.
Better polish the old CV up again!
Train To Gain
Oh what a wonderful place the WWW is, you never now where it is going to lead you, or what lovely gems you are going to find when you arrive there!
Going off on one of those links you find embedded in another story, I found myself on someone else's "business blog", I say "business blog" as it is written more as an in-house feature of commercial website, rather than some one's personal musings posted courtesy of a blogging provider.
What caught my eye here, and tickled my sense of humour was the following, and I quote -
As I have said there seems to be a world where it's all music lights, dancing - a general lah-lah, involving government, stock market, hob-nobby directors and awards etc. Then the music and dancing well and truly stops and we have to play in the real world.
Some one else obviously thinks it is time for the government to join us in the real world!
Going off on one of those links you find embedded in another story, I found myself on someone else's "business blog", I say "business blog" as it is written more as an in-house feature of commercial website, rather than some one's personal musings posted courtesy of a blogging provider.
What caught my eye here, and tickled my sense of humour was the following, and I quote -
As I have said there seems to be a world where it's all music lights, dancing - a general lah-lah, involving government, stock market, hob-nobby directors and awards etc. Then the music and dancing well and truly stops and we have to play in the real world.
Some one else obviously thinks it is time for the government to join us in the real world!
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
MPs - Not Exempt
I fully support Nick Gargan, Assistant Chief Constable at Thames Valley Police, when he says that MPs should not be exempt from bugging in the course of surveillance by the police. Or for that matter by any of the intelligence gathering services.
Recent events have proved that MPs are not the "Honourable Gentlemen" that they would have us believe. So I do not see why they should be exempt from bugging like the rest of us.
As they keep telling us over ID cards - if you have nothing to hide you should not be worried.
I do notice in a weasel worded written answer to the House, the Fifeshire Feartie, said the "Wilson doctrine" stopped MPs from being bugged on the orders of a politician only.
So if one of ZaNuLabor's special advisors (office boy) wants you bugged - tough luck!
Right now we have established that MPs are not exempt from the "Wilson doctrine", perhaps we can get them not exempt from living in the real world.
Recent events have proved that MPs are not the "Honourable Gentlemen" that they would have us believe. So I do not see why they should be exempt from bugging like the rest of us.
As they keep telling us over ID cards - if you have nothing to hide you should not be worried.
I do notice in a weasel worded written answer to the House, the Fifeshire Feartie, said the "Wilson doctrine" stopped MPs from being bugged on the orders of a politician only.
So if one of ZaNuLabor's special advisors (office boy) wants you bugged - tough luck!
Right now we have established that MPs are not exempt from the "Wilson doctrine", perhaps we can get them not exempt from living in the real world.
NuLabor's Forces Shame
Whilst I was on my way up north on Sunday, I caught up with the File On 4 programme concerning the compensation paid to our service personnel for their injuries sustained in keeping NuLabor's questionable wars in Afghanistan & Iraq going.
I was shouting expletives at my car's radio, whilst Veterans Minister Derek Twigg was spinning his way thru the questioning.
Now we have the shameful spectacle of lawyers for Defence Secretary Des Browne trying to gag the coroners of inquests concerning service personnel.
Has this NULabor government no shame?
I was shouting expletives at my car's radio, whilst Veterans Minister Derek Twigg was spinning his way thru the questioning.
Now we have the shameful spectacle of lawyers for Defence Secretary Des Browne trying to gag the coroners of inquests concerning service personnel.
Has this NULabor government no shame?
Beneath The Arctic Ice
The IHT today has an interesting piece concerning what the US Navy was doing beneath the Arctic ice in the 1970s, mapping the Russian continental shelf with a nuclear submarine, the USS Queenfish.
WYBI - Monday
According to the Beeb's business pages, fruit smoothies, muffins and USB memory sticks are to be added to the basket of items used to calculated RPI.
Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet Darling are also calling for fairy dust, dragon eggs, and magic beans to be included as well.
For more Alice-in-Wonderland statistics look here.
Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet Darling are also calling for fairy dust, dragon eggs, and magic beans to be included as well.
For more Alice-in-Wonderland statistics look here.
Local Improvement Finance Trusts
Mark Leftly over in the business section of today's Independent alerts me to another of Mr. Bean's smoke & mirror funding schemes, the Local Improvement Finance Trusts (LIFTs).
I was vaguely aware of something like this going on when one of my girlfriends, who is a practice nurse, was telling me about the lovely new surgery her practice was getting.
Having read Mr. Leftly's article I realize it is another one of Mr. Bean's off the balance sheet borrowing sharp practices, like PFI, that will come back to haunt us in years to come.
I was vaguely aware of something like this going on when one of my girlfriends, who is a practice nurse, was telling me about the lovely new surgery her practice was getting.
Having read Mr. Leftly's article I realize it is another one of Mr. Bean's off the balance sheet borrowing sharp practices, like PFI, that will come back to haunt us in years to come.
Play By The Rules
Mary Dejevsky has a personal take on the credit crisis over in the Independent this morning.
Sad, sorry reading for those of us honest tax payers, now having to bail out the excesses of the financial markets, and it will get worse!
Perhaps Mr. Bean, or Glove-Puppet darling, should consider a windfall tax on all those bonuses the city whiz kids will enjoy as they wave good bye to all the millions they have wasted in toxic junk.
But I'm sure NuLabor will do nothing to upset their new friends - the new rich.
Sad, sorry reading for those of us honest tax payers, now having to bail out the excesses of the financial markets, and it will get worse!
Perhaps Mr. Bean, or Glove-Puppet darling, should consider a windfall tax on all those bonuses the city whiz kids will enjoy as they wave good bye to all the millions they have wasted in toxic junk.
But I'm sure NuLabor will do nothing to upset their new friends - the new rich.
Blogging Lite Today
Well its the last day at home again, and as usual I have left everything to the last moment that I intended to get done this leave.
So you will have to excuse me as I rush around today trying to get every thing ticked off my list.
No doubt we will have another bank going to the wall today, the Fifeshire Feartie will announce an inquiry into the Iraq war fiasco (but not till he has had a review of this decision), and Tony Wots His Name will land another high paying useless job.
So you will have to excuse me as I rush around today trying to get every thing ticked off my list.
No doubt we will have another bank going to the wall today, the Fifeshire Feartie will announce an inquiry into the Iraq war fiasco (but not till he has had a review of this decision), and Tony Wots His Name will land another high paying useless job.
Monday, 17 March 2008
Back From My Travels
Nice run up to and back from north of the border, traffic was okay, and the weather not too bad.
Now I've got to hope to hear if I will have to give my notice in when I go back on Wednesday, or if i've got to start looking again.
Oh and I find myself baby sitting when I got home tonight!
Now I've got to hope to hear if I will have to give my notice in when I go back on Wednesday, or if i've got to start looking again.
Oh and I find myself baby sitting when I got home tonight!
WYBI - Monday
Well obviously gypsies don't have a sense of humour, according to Ananova, a group of travelling folk have reported Basil Brush as being racist.
A spokesperson for the BBC said - "Boom! Boom!"
A spokesperson for the BBC said - "Boom! Boom!"
Sunday, 16 March 2008
al-Qaeda Talks Dismissed
Jonathan Powell, an ex Downing Street chief of staff under Tony Wots His Name, call for talks with al-Qaeda have fallen on stony ground.
An unnamed government spokesperson, another spineless Bruinite, has dismissed Mr. Powell's call for a dialogue as "inconceivable".
Just like it was "inconceivable" Tony Wots His Name did a deal with the IRA to botch together his Northern Ireland agreement.
An unnamed government spokesperson, another spineless Bruinite, has dismissed Mr. Powell's call for a dialogue as "inconceivable".
Just like it was "inconceivable" Tony Wots His Name did a deal with the IRA to botch together his Northern Ireland agreement.
WYBI - Sunday
It is reported that the Swiss assisted suicide group Dignitas have now moved their operations next door to the biggest brothel in Switzerland.
I suppose you come pop in for one before you pop off!
I suppose you come pop in for one before you pop off!
Bank Holiday Monday?
I'm sure many in the financial sector would like to see Monday, in fact every Monday, declared a Bank Holiday!
When you look at the potential financial doom & gloom staring at them as they read their Sunday papers, many must feel like just not going into work tomorrow.
When you look at the potential financial doom & gloom staring at them as they read their Sunday papers, many must feel like just not going into work tomorrow.
Financial Tsunami
John Waples, business editor at the Sunday Times, ponders on the coming financial woes that may hit the UK economy soon.
Interestingly, he names names, and the Royal Bank Of Scotland (RBS) figures prominently in those names.
I just hope there isn't a run on RBS tomorrow, after Mr. Waples's article, as I don't want to be delayed trying to get thru queues outside their branches in my venture north of the border.
Interestingly, he names names, and the Royal Bank Of Scotland (RBS) figures prominently in those names.
I just hope there isn't a run on RBS tomorrow, after Mr. Waples's article, as I don't want to be delayed trying to get thru queues outside their branches in my venture north of the border.
Inside Tony Wots His Name
Well its certain bash Tony Wots His Name Sunday, we now have Dr. David Owen (Lord Owen) in the TimesOnLine this morning giving us a look at Tony's health, both mental & physical, when he was our glorious leader.
I would love to know his diagnosis of the Fifeshire Feartie - lack of a backbone coupled with severe dementia?
I would love to know his diagnosis of the Fifeshire Feartie - lack of a backbone coupled with severe dementia?
Job Seeker Blair
Following on with the jobs theme, we have Andrew Rawnsley, in the Observer, looking at the number of jobs Tony Wots His Name is accumulating.
One might be a bit cynical about this, firstly they all seem to be very well paying jobs, secondly he never apparently finishes one before bagging the next, and finally they are all very high profile - just incase we forget who he was!
Quite frankly the only job I would like to see him doing is sewing mail bags in Dartmoor prison, after the job interview at the Hague.
One might be a bit cynical about this, firstly they all seem to be very well paying jobs, secondly he never apparently finishes one before bagging the next, and finally they are all very high profile - just incase we forget who he was!
Quite frankly the only job I would like to see him doing is sewing mail bags in Dartmoor prison, after the job interview at the Hague.
City Redundancies
I'm bidding on a suit on eBay at the mo, but having read this piece over on the Guardian, about the number of redundancies in the City.
I think there might be a lot more suits coming onto eBay in the future!
I think there might be a lot more suits coming onto eBay in the future!
Saturday, 15 March 2008
Honest Ed - A New Career?
Simon Heffer tells us the truth, honest gov, about So What Balls, over in the Telegraph this morning.
I would suggest he start thinking about his next career move, as I sincerely hope his political one will be ending very soon, perhaps a used car salesman?
If Mrs. Balls, HIPs Cooper, is home this weekend she can send Blinky over to me, and I will show him a couple pitches that might like to employ him.
I would suggest he start thinking about his next career move, as I sincerely hope his political one will be ending very soon, perhaps a used car salesman?
If Mrs. Balls, HIPs Cooper, is home this weekend she can send Blinky over to me, and I will show him a couple pitches that might like to employ him.
WYBI - Saturday
The old uniform cap is getting doffed this morning to Martin Waller in his city diary in the TimesOnLine for alerting me to the latest must have product on Amazon.com - Uranium Ore!
Please do read the reviews!
Please do read the reviews!
Stamp Collecting - The New Hedge Fund ?
Dominic Walsh reports over on the TimesOnLine this morning how well things are going at Stanley Gibbons, the original stamp collectors.
So instead of piling all your spare cash into gold, you might like to pop over to Stanley Gibbons, and invest in a few rare stamps.
Go on relive your childhood!
So instead of piling all your spare cash into gold, you might like to pop over to Stanley Gibbons, and invest in a few rare stamps.
Go on relive your childhood!
New Chinese Olympic Sport - Tibetan Bashing
Not exactly good PR for the nation to be hosting the next Olympic Games, but least we forget China has horribly suppressed the Tibetans over the years since it's invasion.
Whilst the governments of the West have looked the other way to keep the flow of cheap goods running.
So spare a moment to remember the countless number of Tibetans who have been slaughtered by China as you watch the opening of the Games in August.
Whilst the governments of the West have looked the other way to keep the flow of cheap goods running.
So spare a moment to remember the countless number of Tibetans who have been slaughtered by China as you watch the opening of the Games in August.
Bear Trap?
Well yesterday proved to be an interesting day, with sore wrists and aching shoulder, but less of my moaning - on with the important stuff!
So Bear Stearns is basically bankrupt, only kept alive for the moment by a complicated drip feed from the Fed via JP Morgan Chase.
I love the quote from another banker about the situation at BS -
"... didn't have enough money to turn the lights on this morning"
Which I think might be used to cover the rest of the American financial market very soon.
I think it will be a nail biting week-end for many investment bankers as they wait for Monday to see who is the next bank to go legs up.
So Bear Stearns is basically bankrupt, only kept alive for the moment by a complicated drip feed from the Fed via JP Morgan Chase.
I love the quote from another banker about the situation at BS -
"... didn't have enough money to turn the lights on this morning"
Which I think might be used to cover the rest of the American financial market very soon.
I think it will be a nail biting week-end for many investment bankers as they wait for Monday to see who is the next bank to go legs up.
Friday, 14 March 2008
VED - Another NuLabor Cock Up?
The spectre of the ill thought out CGT tax proposals looks like coming back to haunt Mr. Bean and his glove puppet chancellor as the full implications of the new VED rates begins to emerge.
Supposedly flaunted as punishing owners of gas guzzling cars, it now appears that 90% of motorists will be hit by increased VED, regardless of the type of vehicle they drive.
Large companies will be able to reduce their exposure to the new rates by selling off their fleets, by moving to more tax efficient cars, and write their loses off against tax.
Or even forcing the burden onto employees by taking away the actual provision of a vehicle, just giving them a motoring allowance.
Whilst the ordinary public are going to struggle facing these new increases to their already rocketing motoring expenses, and with the prospect of road pricing looming on the horizon!
My own preference is to abolish VED entirely, adding it to the taxes on fuel, thereby capturing all motorists, and not just the ones honest enough to pay VED now.
Also it would be fairer on low milage drivers against those who use our roads more.
Supposedly flaunted as punishing owners of gas guzzling cars, it now appears that 90% of motorists will be hit by increased VED, regardless of the type of vehicle they drive.
Large companies will be able to reduce their exposure to the new rates by selling off their fleets, by moving to more tax efficient cars, and write their loses off against tax.
Or even forcing the burden onto employees by taking away the actual provision of a vehicle, just giving them a motoring allowance.
Whilst the ordinary public are going to struggle facing these new increases to their already rocketing motoring expenses, and with the prospect of road pricing looming on the horizon!
My own preference is to abolish VED entirely, adding it to the taxes on fuel, thereby capturing all motorists, and not just the ones honest enough to pay VED now.
Also it would be fairer on low milage drivers against those who use our roads more.
WYBI - Friday
We now have a bear with a criminal record, or at least there is one roaming around the woods in Macedonia with one!
Police officers are reported to be reluctant to arrest the fugitive, prison warders even more reluctant on custody!
Police officers are reported to be reluctant to arrest the fugitive, prison warders even more reluctant on custody!
Iraq War Debate
Martin Samuel's piece over in the TimesOnLine today concerning the debate on the Iraq war debate is a bit too dismissive and flippant for such a serious matter affecting this country. now five years into this seemingly never ending nightmare.
Until such time as the government allows a fully impartial inquiry into the whole Iraq fiasco, this cancer will continue to breed in the heart of our country.
Also as one commentator says, we might have answered the what part, but the who & why parts of it remains unaddressed.
Until such time as the government allows a fully impartial inquiry into the whole Iraq fiasco, this cancer will continue to breed in the heart of our country.
Also as one commentator says, we might have answered the what part, but the who & why parts of it remains unaddressed.
Nick Robinson v Anne Robinson
Up early today (4:30am!) off for an interesting day out here with some colleagues, so posting might be a bit light for the remainder of the day.
I don't know about you but I always squirm in my seat watching Anne Robinson on The Weakest Link, her put downs are so infuriating, coupled with that smart-arsed smugness.
I now find myself embarrassed when I read Nick Robinson pieces on the Beeb's website, or catch him on the box.
The man seems to have lost all political impartiality, becoming an apologist for NuLabor. I realize that, as a political journalist, one has to "suck up" to one's sources occassionally, but now he seems to have sold his soul to the NuLabor devils to be the leader of the pack.
Come back Brian Walden!
I don't know about you but I always squirm in my seat watching Anne Robinson on The Weakest Link, her put downs are so infuriating, coupled with that smart-arsed smugness.
I now find myself embarrassed when I read Nick Robinson pieces on the Beeb's website, or catch him on the box.
The man seems to have lost all political impartiality, becoming an apologist for NuLabor. I realize that, as a political journalist, one has to "suck up" to one's sources occassionally, but now he seems to have sold his soul to the NuLabor devils to be the leader of the pack.
Come back Brian Walden!
Thursday, 13 March 2008
All That Glitters Is Not Gold
Bought any Ethiopian gold lately?
Or even bought any off a dodgy one eyed Scotsman recently?
Well according to a report over on the Beeb, it might not be what you think it is!
According to the BBC, Ethiopia has just found out that some of it's gold reserves were just gold plated steel bars.
Now I wonder if that is really gold in Fort Knox?
Or has Bush allowed Corporate America to spirit that away along with everything else!
Or even bought any off a dodgy one eyed Scotsman recently?
Well according to a report over on the Beeb, it might not be what you think it is!
According to the BBC, Ethiopia has just found out that some of it's gold reserves were just gold plated steel bars.
Now I wonder if that is really gold in Fort Knox?
Or has Bush allowed Corporate America to spirit that away along with everything else!
So What / So Weak - The Speaker Has Spoken
Well I suppose it was inevitable that the BBC would have to post this, protecting their source might be the expression, more likely following orders from No.10.
Surprise! Surprise!
The Speaker, that impartial fellow Air Miles Martin, has informed the House that Blinky said "So weak".
If you ask me that is what you could say about all the spin we have had from NuLabor about Blinky's Ratner moment.
Now you'll have to excuse me, there is a railway bridge I want to nip out and paint "So What?" on. A nice welcome home present for Blinky & HIPs Cooper if they dare come back here for the week-end!
Surprise! Surprise!
The Speaker, that impartial fellow Air Miles Martin, has informed the House that Blinky said "So weak".
If you ask me that is what you could say about all the spin we have had from NuLabor about Blinky's Ratner moment.
Now you'll have to excuse me, there is a railway bridge I want to nip out and paint "So What?" on. A nice welcome home present for Blinky & HIPs Cooper if they dare come back here for the week-end!
CCC - Gone!
Well I've been concentrating too much on So What Balls this morning I missed the news that Carlyle Capital Corp. have gone legs up.
Luckily Mr. Peston over on the Beeb has the full gory details for us all to read.
One of the commentators on Mr. Peston's site has a good idea, that the Fed would be better buying up properties, than throwing money in Wall Street's direction.
In fact the more I think about it, the more I consider it to be a sound idea, one that Glove-Puppet might do well to consider when things go bad over here.
Update
Back from chopping some wood up for my youngest daughter to find the TimesOnLine now has the CCC fiasco.
Luckily Mr. Peston over on the Beeb has the full gory details for us all to read.
One of the commentators on Mr. Peston's site has a good idea, that the Fed would be better buying up properties, than throwing money in Wall Street's direction.
In fact the more I think about it, the more I consider it to be a sound idea, one that Glove-Puppet might do well to consider when things go bad over here.
Update
Back from chopping some wood up for my youngest daughter to find the TimesOnLine now has the CCC fiasco.
VED - How Much?
The uniform cap is getting doffed in Mr. Fawkes's direction for bringing this link to my attention concerning raises in VED, that did and did not get mentioned, in yesterday's non-budget.
My only comment, having looked my current car up on it, the underhanded little Glove-Puppet*.
* = Well there might be children present!
My only comment, having looked my current car up on it, the underhanded little Glove-Puppet*.
* = Well there might be children present!
So What? NuLabor's Slogan
As I posted last night Blinky Balls has shown his true colours with his "So what?" remark during David Cameron's response to G-P's non-budget.
It seems to be attracting more attention than the non-budget!
If I was a young entrepreneur I would be rushing to churn out Tee shirts with Blinky's picture and his new catch phrase printed on them.
Blinky's little remark maybe the turning point that ends NuLabor's reign.
It seems to be attracting more attention than the non-budget!
If I was a young entrepreneur I would be rushing to churn out Tee shirts with Blinky's picture and his new catch phrase printed on them.
Blinky's little remark maybe the turning point that ends NuLabor's reign.
No1 Ladies' Detective Agency
I have enjoyed reading Alexander McCall Smith books about the No1 Ladies' Detective Agency, often to while away the time holed up in some bunker somewhere, finding them a pleasant and enjoyable read.
So I am looking forward to the BBC's TV-film of the first book in the series as reported over on the Telegraph today.
Unfortunately I shall be away when they screen it Easter Monday, but I'm sure my eldest daughter will record it for me - now how much is that going to cost me?
So I am looking forward to the BBC's TV-film of the first book in the series as reported over on the Telegraph today.
Unfortunately I shall be away when they screen it Easter Monday, but I'm sure my eldest daughter will record it for me - now how much is that going to cost me?
WYBI - Thursday
Today's WBYI tells the tale of a woman who was sat on a toilet for two years before anyone decided this was a tad too long - even for the female of the species!
Planet Bruin
Jeff Randall over in the Telegraph this morning is in fine form looking at yesterday's non-budget, and deciding Glove-Puppet has gone to join his master Mr. Bean up in the sky on Planet Bruin.
I used the term non-budget above, because as Mr. Randall points out, Glove-Puppet did not want to upset NuLabor's core voters by actually trying to balance the country's books.
Instead G-P put off until another day, when he and his master are hoping, someone else will have to take the steps necessary to sort out the mess Mr. Bean has got us into.
I used the term non-budget above, because as Mr. Randall points out, Glove-Puppet did not want to upset NuLabor's core voters by actually trying to balance the country's books.
Instead G-P put off until another day, when he and his master are hoping, someone else will have to take the steps necessary to sort out the mess Mr. Bean has got us into.
No al-Qaida Link
It would appear that five years after invading Iraq, going thru all the documentation that fell into their hands, the Pentagon cannot find any link between Saddam Hussein and al-Qaida.
Remember this was one of the central planks in Tony Wots Name argument for us joining the US's invasion of Iraq.
Along with the non-discovery of weapons of mass destruction, another myth of the reasons for the illegal war on Iraq has been demolished.
So may we please have a minute's silence in remembrance of all those who's lives have been sacrificed in this immoral venture.
I hope everyone of those lost souls comes to haunt anyone who voted to support this failed war.
Remember this was one of the central planks in Tony Wots Name argument for us joining the US's invasion of Iraq.
Along with the non-discovery of weapons of mass destruction, another myth of the reasons for the illegal war on Iraq has been demolished.
So may we please have a minute's silence in remembrance of all those who's lives have been sacrificed in this immoral venture.
I hope everyone of those lost souls comes to haunt anyone who voted to support this failed war.
Sinking Hedge Funds
Suzy Jagger over on the TimesOnLine reporting from the frontline in New York, tells us that seven hedge funds are ready to go bust, despite this week's emergency funding boost from the Fed.
Worryingly for us here in the UK is that Amsterdam seems to be caught up in these financial problems as well as Wall Street.
How much exposure does the UK have to this potential EU disaster, and will we be called upon to bail out the Euro zone when it all goes wrong?
Worryingly for us here in the UK is that Amsterdam seems to be caught up in these financial problems as well as Wall Street.
How much exposure does the UK have to this potential EU disaster, and will we be called upon to bail out the Euro zone when it all goes wrong?
A&F's A&E?
As a wearer of Abercrombie & Fitch's shirts for more formal occasions, this article over on the Guardian today caught my eye.
It would seem A&F have provoked a storm over in Columbus, Ohio, with their donation of $10million to a children's hospital. Where the hospital authorities are re-naming the hospital's accident & emergency centre to reflect the donor's name.
Personally, I have no problem with this sort of thing, where it is out in the open, and only involves the naming of facilities/wards.
Now if they had turned around and said they would only treat wearers of A&F's products, or the staff had to be dressed in A&F's clothes - yes I would be concerned.
Makes you think of what could be achieved over here if the NHS decided to adopt this.
The Northern Rock intensive care suite, B&Q's A&E, the British Sugar diabetic clinic?
If you can think of anymore, pop them on a postcard to the usual address ...
It would seem A&F have provoked a storm over in Columbus, Ohio, with their donation of $10million to a children's hospital. Where the hospital authorities are re-naming the hospital's accident & emergency centre to reflect the donor's name.
Personally, I have no problem with this sort of thing, where it is out in the open, and only involves the naming of facilities/wards.
Now if they had turned around and said they would only treat wearers of A&F's products, or the staff had to be dressed in A&F's clothes - yes I would be concerned.
Makes you think of what could be achieved over here if the NHS decided to adopt this.
The Northern Rock intensive care suite, B&Q's A&E, the British Sugar diabetic clinic?
If you can think of anymore, pop them on a postcard to the usual address ...
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
So What - Sums It All Up
Well I said I was going to try to avoid doing any posts on the Budget, but Blinky Balls "So What?" reply to David Cameron's observation that we are now the most heavily taxed we have ever been, merits bringing it up.
Now Blinky is weakly trying to allege he said, "So weak."
It just shows the utter contempt these two house owning NuLabor pigs with their snouts in the trough hold the electorate in.
Well I hope he did say "So what?", that it gets played everyday until the little piglets are led off to the slaughter house by the electorate, and that day cannot come soon enough for me.
Now Blinky is weakly trying to allege he said, "So weak."
It just shows the utter contempt these two house owning NuLabor pigs with their snouts in the trough hold the electorate in.
Well I hope he did say "So what?", that it gets played everyday until the little piglets are led off to the slaughter house by the electorate, and that day cannot come soon enough for me.
Corporate America
Continuing with Counterpunch, we have Ron Jacobs looking at how Corporate America likes to have it's cake and eat it, picking the regulations that suit it's cause and those it will evade by going offshore, all with the blessing of the government it has bought.
The more you read his article, the more you realize that our government here is enthralled by Big Business as well, allowing it to ride rough-shod over us.
Take for example Mr. Bean's great PFI swindle to allow him to keep the spending he is wasting in the NHS, education and other areas, off of the public balance sheet.
Companies have been very well reward with these lucrative PFI contracts.
Then what do they do?
Take them offshore to avoid paying tax on their profits, and Mr. Bean just rolls over to let them tickle his belly again!
The more you read his article, the more you realize that our government here is enthralled by Big Business as well, allowing it to ride rough-shod over us.
Take for example Mr. Bean's great PFI swindle to allow him to keep the spending he is wasting in the NHS, education and other areas, off of the public balance sheet.
Companies have been very well reward with these lucrative PFI contracts.
Then what do they do?
Take them offshore to avoid paying tax on their profits, and Mr. Bean just rolls over to let them tickle his belly again!
Washington Involved - Again?
James J Brittain over on Counterpunch today muses if the USA was involved in the recent FARC-EP leadership killings?
Quite frankly knowing the history of the CIA's and Washington's involvement in the area south of USA's border, I would state yes, and I was reminded of this by the programme on BBC Four last night about Chile, Some One Has To Live ...
Quite frankly knowing the history of the CIA's and Washington's involvement in the area south of USA's border, I would state yes, and I was reminded of this by the programme on BBC Four last night about Chile, Some One Has To Live ...
Security Level Updates
Just for Mac OS X users with FireFox as their browser comes this important security level indicator developed by Mike Ely.
Keep up to date with the latest US Dept. of Homeland Security threat levels, head for the hills whilst your Windoze colleagues are still seated at their desks!
Keep up to date with the latest US Dept. of Homeland Security threat levels, head for the hills whilst your Windoze colleagues are still seated at their desks!
It Had To Happen!
Being a Mac fan I love the stuff they turn out, envy people who can afford to get their hands on the latest offering from Apple, but all with a healthy dash of common sense and practicality.
So whilst I drool over the MacBook Air laptop, I know it's not for me, although my eldest daughter now wants one!
Anyway it was with a touch of sadness and a shake of the head I read Steven Levy's confession he might have thrown his MacBook Air out with the rubbish!
So whilst I drool over the MacBook Air laptop, I know it's not for me, although my eldest daughter now wants one!
Anyway it was with a touch of sadness and a shake of the head I read Steven Levy's confession he might have thrown his MacBook Air out with the rubbish!
Laffer Curve
Race To The Bottom
Continuing the racing theme, we have Damian Reece, also in today's Telegraph, looking at the outcome of the race to the bottom of the present financial troubles between the Fed and the markets.
Quite frankly, I believe these attempts to paper over the cracks in the financial system will only make matters worse. Especially when one of the major banks, either over there on Wall Street, or nearer to home in the City collapses.
Quite frankly, I believe these attempts to paper over the cracks in the financial system will only make matters worse. Especially when one of the major banks, either over there on Wall Street, or nearer to home in the City collapses.
Top Tip - 12:30 Dispatch Box
Jeff Randall laments the fact that Glove-Puppet's first budget clashes with Cheltenham over on the Telegraph this morning.
So instead of giving us the low down on the runners at the races today, we are given the form for the only runner in the 12:30 from Parliament.
Mind you G-P's trainer doesn't get much praise either!
So instead of giving us the low down on the runners at the races today, we are given the form for the only runner in the 12:30 from Parliament.
Mind you G-P's trainer doesn't get much praise either!
Passengers - Who Needs 'Em?
This article over in today's Telegraph illustrates one of the reasons why I have never been attracted into cruise liners - they're full of passengers!
I've colleagues who are on liners, and I'm afraid I couldn't put up with some of the kack they have too from passengers.
I've colleagues who are on liners, and I'm afraid I couldn't put up with some of the kack they have too from passengers.
Cornish Cuppa Anyone?
Having been born the right side of the River Tamar I always like to report the many varied good things coming out of Kernow.
So it would now appear we have our own tea plantation in the Duchy, according to today's TimesOnLine.
So it would now appear we have our own tea plantation in the Duchy, according to today's TimesOnLine.
Attorney General - Making The News
Yesterday I posted about the actual position of the Attorney General (AG), now this morning the AG is actually figuring in the news in person.
It would appear that once again politics are affecting a case being investigated by the Serious Fraud Office, this time in the Balkans, Serbia to be exact.
Seeing as Mr. Bean foolishly decided to support Kosovo's independence this might have some bearing.
It would appear that once again politics are affecting a case being investigated by the Serious Fraud Office, this time in the Balkans, Serbia to be exact.
Seeing as Mr. Bean foolishly decided to support Kosovo's independence this might have some bearing.
WYBI - Wed.
This morning's WYBI is brought to us by the BBC, telling the tale of a man in a wheelchair who became hooked up o the front of an American truck, and taken for a ride with-out the driver being aware!
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
Solving The Sub-Prime Problem
Paul Craig Roberts over on Counterpunch today comes up with a possible solution to the sub-prime mortgage problem.
Let companies ignore the "mark to market" obligation, instead allow them to keep them at/or near to book value on their balance sheet, until such time as the market recovers, or they allow them to write them down over a period of time.
Quite frankly I feel this is another of those suggestions coming from those who have a vested interest in not to having to face up to their responsibilities, or taking the consequences for their actions.
Whilst I realize that we are all going to suffer from the coming financial crises, I would rather we all bare the pain together, than know a privileged few are not at the expense of the rest of us.
Let companies ignore the "mark to market" obligation, instead allow them to keep them at/or near to book value on their balance sheet, until such time as the market recovers, or they allow them to write them down over a period of time.
Quite frankly I feel this is another of those suggestions coming from those who have a vested interest in not to having to face up to their responsibilities, or taking the consequences for their actions.
Whilst I realize that we are all going to suffer from the coming financial crises, I would rather we all bare the pain together, than know a privileged few are not at the expense of the rest of us.
Ch'est mekand kes les Ch'timis
Being a great fan of Audrey Tautou ( Amelie,Un Long Dimanche) I enjoy some of the films coming from France.
So I am looking forward to maybe Bienvenue chez les Ch'tis making it's way over here.
Of course the master of French comedy was - Jacques Tati!
So I am looking forward to maybe Bienvenue chez les Ch'tis making it's way over here.
Of course the master of French comedy was - Jacques Tati!
Northern Rock Solid?
Whilst Simon Carr's piece over in today's Independent is a bit of political sketch writing, it does have the ability to shake your head in wonder at the judgement of Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet Darling.
Surely someone in government,the BoE, the FSA, or even failing that Northern Crock it's self knows what the assets we now own are really worth?
Mr. Cable's observation that we might have bought a pig-in-a-poke with Granite, NR's offshore tax avoidance vehicle may have cherry picked all the sound assets, leaving Northern Crock with a crock of the brown stuff sounds almost criminal.
The sooner we have some proper answer to this mess, the sooner Inspector Knacker can be called in.
Update
The old uniform cap is being doffed in Not a sheep's direction for providing this link to Hansard and the relevent section on Northern Crock, read and weep!
Surely someone in government,the BoE, the FSA, or even failing that Northern Crock it's self knows what the assets we now own are really worth?
Mr. Cable's observation that we might have bought a pig-in-a-poke with Granite, NR's offshore tax avoidance vehicle may have cherry picked all the sound assets, leaving Northern Crock with a crock of the brown stuff sounds almost criminal.
The sooner we have some proper answer to this mess, the sooner Inspector Knacker can be called in.
Update
The old uniform cap is being doffed in Not a sheep's direction for providing this link to Hansard and the relevent section on Northern Crock, read and weep!
A Leg To Stand On
We often moan about the standard of care and services offered by our NHS, but spare a thought for amputees across the Pond.
Browsing the WSJ, I found this article concerning the problems amputees face with medical insurance over there in the good old US of A.
Thats the ones lucky enough to be covered by medical insurance, either company or family, or those who qualify under Medicare.
I did see the statistic for Americans with-out any form of health insurance and for a civilized country it was frightening.
The National Coalition on Health Care (NCHC) puts it at 16% of the population, or 47million persons!
Three cheers for our NHS I feel are in order.
Browsing the WSJ, I found this article concerning the problems amputees face with medical insurance over there in the good old US of A.
Thats the ones lucky enough to be covered by medical insurance, either company or family, or those who qualify under Medicare.
I did see the statistic for Americans with-out any form of health insurance and for a civilized country it was frightening.
The National Coalition on Health Care (NCHC) puts it at 16% of the population, or 47million persons!
Three cheers for our NHS I feel are in order.
Ready, Steady - Go!
Patrick Head, co-owner of the Williams F1 racing team, has a "different" idea to make Formula One races more interesting/media exciting, by reversing the order of the starting grid.
Personally, I would like to see them go back to the old standing start with the drivers out of their cars, and having to sprint across to them when the lights go green.
That would certainly make it more spectacular!
Personally, I would like to see them go back to the old standing start with the drivers out of their cars, and having to sprint across to them when the lights go green.
That would certainly make it more spectacular!
Irish Banking Woes
Ambrose Evans-Pritchard reports over on the Telegraph's business pages that things might not be so rosy over in the Irish economy.
That once envied "tiger economy" just across the irish Sea might give us a fore taste of how things will go over here when the ill wind of financial doom finally sweeps across the Atlantic to hit our shores.
At the moment we are just feeling it coming.
Meanwhile, across the North Sea over in Amsterdam, CCC's woes continue to pile up, as lenders demand their money back.
That once envied "tiger economy" just across the irish Sea might give us a fore taste of how things will go over here when the ill wind of financial doom finally sweeps across the Atlantic to hit our shores.
At the moment we are just feeling it coming.
Meanwhile, across the North Sea over in Amsterdam, CCC's woes continue to pile up, as lenders demand their money back.
Surgery Hours
George Monbiot over on the Guardian's Cif this morning has an interesting take on the government's announced victory in getting surgeries to open longer.
I have never had any problems with our local surgery hours, they have always operated two late evening sessions during the week for those in work etc ...
But Mr. Monbiot's piece exposes another side of NuLabor, servant of Big Business.
I have never had any problems with our local surgery hours, they have always operated two late evening sessions during the week for those in work etc ...
But Mr. Monbiot's piece exposes another side of NuLabor, servant of Big Business.
Would You Believe It?
Today's WYBI item comes from the Guardian, reporting that Cambridgeshire police allowed 9 suspected illegal immigrants to make their own way 80 miles to the nearest immigration office.
Surprise, surprise - they never arrived there, and thats after the police even bought them their rail tickets and put them on the train!
Surprise, surprise - they never arrived there, and thats after the police even bought them their rail tickets and put them on the train!
Attorney General
Everything this NuLabor government comes into contact with seems to become tarnished, standards drop, and impartiality goes out the window.
So it was with the role of attorney general (AG) under Tony Wots Name's premiership, reforms suggested by Mr. Bean led us to believe that the role of the AG might be transformed for the better.
However, the Guardian reports this morning that things look like "business as normal" under Bottler Bruin's leadership.
The Fifeshire Feartie should have made the AG a non political appointment, say by senior judges, still with the powers of veto, but subject to review by the upper house.
So it was with the role of attorney general (AG) under Tony Wots Name's premiership, reforms suggested by Mr. Bean led us to believe that the role of the AG might be transformed for the better.
However, the Guardian reports this morning that things look like "business as normal" under Bottler Bruin's leadership.
The Fifeshire Feartie should have made the AG a non political appointment, say by senior judges, still with the powers of veto, but subject to review by the upper house.
Monday, 10 March 2008
If You Suspect It - Report It!
The old uniform cap is getting doffed tonight in Mr. Piper's direction for bringing this brilliant parody of the latest Met poster campaign over on Pickled Politics, to my attention.
There are some cracking parodies, but don't forget - If you suspect it, report it - the Anti-Terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321
There are some cracking parodies, but don't forget - If you suspect it, report it - the Anti-Terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321
Carlyle - Going, Going
The crisis at Carlyle Capital Corporation (CCC) continues as reported by the TimesOnLine today.
What is worrying that the funds backers are reducing the amount they are prepared to lend against the fund's portfolio of US government agency AAA-rated residential mortgage-backed securities.
Obviously they are being to doubt the truth of the AAA ratings of these securities, is the house of cards about to tumble?
What is worrying that the funds backers are reducing the amount they are prepared to lend against the fund's portfolio of US government agency AAA-rated residential mortgage-backed securities.
Obviously they are being to doubt the truth of the AAA ratings of these securities, is the house of cards about to tumble?
Basket case America?
Mike Whitney over on Counterpunch looks at the chicken entrails of the American economy, and its not a very rosy future!
What with the Fed pursuing it's policy of lowering rates in an attempt to bail out "Corporate America" from the mess it has got it's self in.
What with the Fed pursuing it's policy of lowering rates in an attempt to bail out "Corporate America" from the mess it has got it's self in.
Joined-Up Ballistics
I am amazed to learn from the BBC that Jacqui Smith is announcing a national database for firearms, mostly those used in the execution (pun intended) of a crime, but it will also include those legally held which are stolen.
The new National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS) will be based in Birmingham, with three regional hubs.
I'm surprised after the Dunblane massacre that this was not already set up, what have the Home Office and Police been doing all this time?
The new National Ballistics Intelligence Service (NABIS) will be based in Birmingham, with three regional hubs.
I'm surprised after the Dunblane massacre that this was not already set up, what have the Home Office and Police been doing all this time?
Travel Update
Not off north of the border till Sunday now, when I shall be enjoying the delights of staying in my favourite B&B in the Kingdom of Fife.
Might even take the old 12bore up with me to see if I can bag a Fifeshire Feartie!
Might even take the old 12bore up with me to see if I can bag a Fifeshire Feartie!
North Sea Flint Axes
The Independent carries an interesting article on the discovery of a number of flint axe heads in a consignment of sea dredged aggregates from off of Great Yarmouth delivered to a customer in Vlissingen(Flushing), Holland.
I know the area well as I have been on dredgers, also the customer over in Holland, but was never lucky enough to find any artifacts such as these.
Just the odd dredged up ordnance, usually on crew change day!
I know the area well as I have been on dredgers, also the customer over in Holland, but was never lucky enough to find any artifacts such as these.
Just the odd dredged up ordnance, usually on crew change day!
Tough Times On Wall Street
Over on the IHT site, Landon Thomas Jnr, talks about the tough times some of the buy-out lords are experiencing in the present financial uncertainty.
However, more concerning are the remarks by Frank Partnoy, a former Morgan Stanley investment broker -
"Now is bad, but the memory of financial markets can be measured in days."
Which to me shows that the financial markets, at least over in America, do not seem to have learnt from their past mistakes that have led to this present mess.
However, more concerning are the remarks by Frank Partnoy, a former Morgan Stanley investment broker -
"Now is bad, but the memory of financial markets can be measured in days."
Which to me shows that the financial markets, at least over in America, do not seem to have learnt from their past mistakes that have led to this present mess.
Rendition Flights Questions Take Off Again
The Guardian is reporting fresh concern about this NuLabor government's involvement/knowledge of the special rendition flights saga.
Having admitted two flights did use Diego Garcia, MPs and human rights groups are demanding to know if there was further rendition flights using British territory.
Personally, I would say north of the border lies a few answers to these queries.
Having admitted two flights did use Diego Garcia, MPs and human rights groups are demanding to know if there was further rendition flights using British territory.
Personally, I would say north of the border lies a few answers to these queries.
Cold Case
Whilst stumbling around the channels on our TV in an effort to find something decent to watch on the terrestrial channels, my daughter came across Cold Case.
Which I have to say was so gripping it made both of us stop what we were doing on t'internet to see the end of that episode.
Having just taken up The Wire, I now find myself with another TV series on my DVD wishlist, although it doesn't look like Cold Case has made it to DVD yet, but I'm sure it wont be too long before this gripping series does.
Which I have to say was so gripping it made both of us stop what we were doing on t'internet to see the end of that episode.
Having just taken up The Wire, I now find myself with another TV series on my DVD wishlist, although it doesn't look like Cold Case has made it to DVD yet, but I'm sure it wont be too long before this gripping series does.
Sunday, 9 March 2008
The Race To Save The Cougar Ace
Keeping to the maritime theme, Wired has an interesting piece on the salvage job to save the car carrier, Cougar Ace.
I vaguely remember hearing about her going over, but not anything about saving her.
I vaguely remember hearing about her going over, but not anything about saving her.
Ro-Ro Nuclear Cargo
Being involved in maritime security I am very puzzled by the report in today's IoS that the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) is planning on sending a shipment of plutonium dioxide dust by ordinary commercial ferry, when there is specialist transport available for this sort of cargoes?
Ignore the scare mongering of the IoS's story - "old roll-on roll-off ferry with few security and safety features ", you can be assured it will be a first class ro-ro ferry.
I wonder if this is a bit of bad propaganda to put parties like Greenpeace off the real operation?
Or more worrying, has this been forced upon the NDA by budget restraints from the Treasury?
Ignore the scare mongering of the IoS's story - "old roll-on roll-off ferry with few security and safety features ", you can be assured it will be a first class ro-ro ferry.
I wonder if this is a bit of bad propaganda to put parties like Greenpeace off the real operation?
Or more worrying, has this been forced upon the NDA by budget restraints from the Treasury?
Poisoned Cup?
If I read this report about Glove-Puppet's first budget over in the Observer today, then G-P's idea is to wait until the downturn is over before making a serious attempt to balance the government's books.
Or is it a fiendish plot by the Fifeshire Feartie to leave a new Conservative government to clean up the NuLabor mess, knowing that Mr. Bean will not win the next election?
Or is it a fiendish plot by the Fifeshire Feartie to leave a new Conservative government to clean up the NuLabor mess, knowing that Mr. Bean will not win the next election?
Saturday, 8 March 2008
Friday, 7 March 2008
Lockerbie - Back To Square 1
Severin Carrell, Scottish correspondent for the Guardian, reports that attempts to get secret documents released have been frustrated by Lord Hamilton ruling the Foreign Secretary is allowed to suppress them.
Lets hope they have better luck later in the year, or maybe they might just turn up on t'internet.
I shall be passing Lockerbie again next week - nipping north of the border on a mission.
Meanwhile I shall be moving my sangar again this weekend so blogging will be light tomorrow.
Lets hope they have better luck later in the year, or maybe they might just turn up on t'internet.
I shall be passing Lockerbie again next week - nipping north of the border on a mission.
Meanwhile I shall be moving my sangar again this weekend so blogging will be light tomorrow.
Uranium Sell Off
Terry Macalister, over in today's Guardian, reports that Nuclear Decommissioning Authority are selling off all our spare nuclear assets.
Obviously Glove-Puppet Darling needs to raise some money to build some more nuclear power stations (I like the joined-up government thinking on this).
Now what will be Mr. Bean's response to any bids postmarked Tehran?
Obviously Glove-Puppet Darling needs to raise some money to build some more nuclear power stations (I like the joined-up government thinking on this).
Now what will be Mr. Bean's response to any bids postmarked Tehran?
Glove-Puppet's Green Budget
Antonia Senior argues over on the TimesOnLine that Mr. Darling might be tempted to dress any tax increases up as "Green taxes" to hide from us the true extent of the problems he inherited from Mr. Bean.
She may very well be right, but I have a feeling she got the name wrong in her last sentence, it should begin with a "B" and ends with an "n".
She may very well be right, but I have a feeling she got the name wrong in her last sentence, it should begin with a "B" and ends with an "n".
Zen Buddhism For Bankers?
Perhaps some of the investment bankers out there might like to practice Zen Buddhism.
It might just save their lives when the market comes tumbling down about their heads.
PS
If you spot any suited bankers with plastic helmets on their heads going into work, you will know they are enlightened readers of barnacle bill!
It might just save their lives when the market comes tumbling down about their heads.
PS
If you spot any suited bankers with plastic helmets on their heads going into work, you will know they are enlightened readers of barnacle bill!
House Of Cards
Carlyle - Update
Patrick Hosking over in the TimesOnLine provides more information on the unfolding problems at the Carlyle Capital Corporation.
Probably not a healthy time to be an investment banker, what with sleepless nights, Mr. Hosking's article doesn't help the appetite either!
Update update
CCC shares suspended on the Amsterdam Euronext - here
Probably not a healthy time to be an investment banker, what with sleepless nights, Mr. Hosking's article doesn't help the appetite either!
Update update
CCC shares suspended on the Amsterdam Euronext - here
Scottish Question Time
Tim Luckhust over in Cif is knocking Iain Macwhirter about his piece recently on Scottish problems, mainly to do with the Barnett Formula.
Well to be honest I would rather we had the government sorting out the West Lothian Question before the Barnett Formula.
I know which one has done more damage to democracy and the state of the union, and continues to weaken things north & south of the border.
Or is vindictive Bruin looking to cause problems for the SNP by ordering Glove-Puppet to review the Barnett Formula?
Well to be honest I would rather we had the government sorting out the West Lothian Question before the Barnett Formula.
I know which one has done more damage to democracy and the state of the union, and continues to weaken things north & south of the border.
Or is vindictive Bruin looking to cause problems for the SNP by ordering Glove-Puppet to review the Barnett Formula?
Sneaky NuLabor ID Card Plan - Update
Yes I know I posted on this yesterday, but until NuLabor are honest enough with us to bring this scheme in thru the front door and not try to sneak it past us via the tradesman's entrance, I will shout about it from the rooftops everyday.
The latest NuLabor "softly, softly, catchee monkey" plan is to use having an ID card as a fast track to employment and other activities for selected parts of our society.
Well I hope these special members of our society are intelligent enough to tell Jacqui Smith et al where they can stick their idea!
How about Ms Smith, MPs being the first to carry ID cards, you can only be/or become an MP if you have a card?
Come on Jacqui demonstrate your faith in the system!
PS
Completely spoiling the tone of my post - I reckon Ms Smith is a good cup size?
Meanwhile Dizzy lowers the tone even further regarding Ministers!
The latest NuLabor "softly, softly, catchee monkey" plan is to use having an ID card as a fast track to employment and other activities for selected parts of our society.
Well I hope these special members of our society are intelligent enough to tell Jacqui Smith et al where they can stick their idea!
How about Ms Smith, MPs being the first to carry ID cards, you can only be/or become an MP if you have a card?
Come on Jacqui demonstrate your faith in the system!
PS
Completely spoiling the tone of my post - I reckon Ms Smith is a good cup size?
Meanwhile Dizzy lowers the tone even further regarding Ministers!
Another Political Education Cock Up
I was going to add NuLabor to my headline, but I feel that nowadays none of the political parties can refrain from interfering in education.
The present government's plans for a new "Diploma" to run alongside GCSEs look like being another disaster for our children's education.
My two daughters were educated entirely under NuLabor, they certainly didn't have the educational experience, or opportunities I had. Now I've got a grandson, I wonder what chances he will have when he begins school?
My sister works as a supply teacher down south, whilst she is one I would describe as dedicated to her job and pupils; I hear too much of other teachers who just don't care, heads who are scared of pupils parents and will not back their own staff up, interfering school governors trying to score personal points.
A good education is too precious a gift for our children for their's & our's future well being to be meddled in for political gain.
The present government's plans for a new "Diploma" to run alongside GCSEs look like being another disaster for our children's education.
My two daughters were educated entirely under NuLabor, they certainly didn't have the educational experience, or opportunities I had. Now I've got a grandson, I wonder what chances he will have when he begins school?
My sister works as a supply teacher down south, whilst she is one I would describe as dedicated to her job and pupils; I hear too much of other teachers who just don't care, heads who are scared of pupils parents and will not back their own staff up, interfering school governors trying to score personal points.
A good education is too precious a gift for our children for their's & our's future well being to be meddled in for political gain.
Thursday, 6 March 2008
Investment Bankers - Sleep Well Tonight
I would imagine any one who has anything to do with the Carlyle Group might have a few restless nights in the future.
Having missed four out of seven recent margin calls, expecting to miss another one soon, things do not exactly look rosy for the Guernsey based group.
I love John Stomber, Carlye's head honcho's statement in relation to the margins on his AAA securities -
".. not representative of the underlying recoverable value of these securities."
Would you buy a used car from him?
Having missed four out of seven recent margin calls, expecting to miss another one soon, things do not exactly look rosy for the Guernsey based group.
I love John Stomber, Carlye's head honcho's statement in relation to the margins on his AAA securities -
".. not representative of the underlying recoverable value of these securities."
Would you buy a used car from him?
Darling Take Note
I wonder if we will see Glove-Puppet Darling employ some of the creative bookkeeping that Société Genérale has used to account for the loses trader Jérôme Kerviel fraudulently ran up when he was working for them, when it comes to his first budget?
Perhaps Northern Crock's liabilities will appear in 1996's accounts - explain that one Ken Clarke!
Perhaps Northern Crock's liabilities will appear in 1996's accounts - explain that one Ken Clarke!
Wots It Worf
As Simon Denham over in the business section of today's Telegraph points out the rocketing bond spreads are going to cause a lot of grief when companies try to re-finance positions they have taken, or unload their holdings.
Just so you know what Mr. Denham is taking about, information on the Hull-White model is here, for Black-Scholes look here; and if you are really in need of a cure for insomnia the Monte Carlo financial methods are lurking here!
Happy reading!
Just so you know what Mr. Denham is taking about, information on the Hull-White model is here, for Black-Scholes look here; and if you are really in need of a cure for insomnia the Monte Carlo financial methods are lurking here!
Happy reading!
Ghosts Of The Abyss
The Telegraph today has a chilling account of a diving expedition to recover a diver's body that went horrible wrong.
Having been master of a couple diving vessels in the offshore oil industry I fully understand the dangers involved.
I also saw the aftermath of one accident where the clump weight had come off the diving bell, allowing it to fly up to the surface, with no chance for the divers inside to shut the bell door.
You might want to have a wander around this Norwegian diver's site, to find out more about this relatively unknown industry.
Having been master of a couple diving vessels in the offshore oil industry I fully understand the dangers involved.
I also saw the aftermath of one accident where the clump weight had come off the diving bell, allowing it to fly up to the surface, with no chance for the divers inside to shut the bell door.
You might want to have a wander around this Norwegian diver's site, to find out more about this relatively unknown industry.
Lockerbie - An Update
The old uniform cap is getting doffed tonight in the direction of the Mathaba News Agency for this update on the continued scandal of Lockerbie.
Interesting to read more about some of the main characters involved.
I don't suppose we will ever know the full truth, but I take my hat off to those individuals who continue to beaver away exposing the lies we have been fed.
Interesting to read more about some of the main characters involved.
I don't suppose we will ever know the full truth, but I take my hat off to those individuals who continue to beaver away exposing the lies we have been fed.
Colombian Black Widow
Jason Howe over in today's Independent describes his relationship with a young Colombian girl, who turned into a female assassin, a very poignant story.
An insight into how ordinary people's lives are affect by the turmoil in that beautiful country.
An insight into how ordinary people's lives are affect by the turmoil in that beautiful country.
Blogging Interruptus
Yes thats right blogging will be a bit hit & miss today, as I've got a couple ceilings to slap some emulsion on.
But you might like to compile your entries for the Spectator's Brownie list, whilst you wait, don't use up too much paper on them!
But you might like to compile your entries for the Spectator's Brownie list, whilst you wait, don't use up too much paper on them!
Monoliner Sinking?
Whilst I wasn't looking across the Atlantic for a failing financial institution (see previous post) to boost my reputation as a financial seer - I'll grasp any straws!
So the TimesOnLine reports that Ambac is not even sure if a colossal rights issue will allow it to keep it's AAA credit rating.
Back to the crystal ball gazing - I'm looking a lot nearer to home than America!
So the TimesOnLine reports that Ambac is not even sure if a colossal rights issue will allow it to keep it's AAA credit rating.
Back to the crystal ball gazing - I'm looking a lot nearer to home than America!
Interesting - Very Interesting
Almost as a throw away line Ashley Seager over on the Guardian in an article about the buy-to-let market cooling, tells us that the Sterling three month Libor rate has risen to 5.77%, taking it to more than 50 base points above the BoE base rate.
It was also reported elsewhere that Dutch banks had been the biggest users of emergency funding made available by the ECB.
So are we about to see another bank/financial institution go bust?
It was also reported elsewhere that Dutch banks had been the biggest users of emergency funding made available by the ECB.
So are we about to see another bank/financial institution go bust?
My Right Foot?
The Guardian today has a report of three human right feet sans their owners being washed up on beaches on the Canadian west coast in British Columbia.
I'm intrigued by the comments of Curtis Ebbesmeyer that there are left & right handed beaches!
I'm intrigued by the comments of Curtis Ebbesmeyer that there are left & right handed beaches!
Sneaky Student ID Card Scheme
So now we know why Tony Wots Name was so keen to get everyone into university, in the belief that to continue binge drinking, they would all apply for their ID cards.
Sneaky!
I don't really oppose ID cards, it is just having to pay for them that narks me, but this announcement by Jacqui Smith is another NuLabor thing that grates.
When are they ever going to stick to what they originally announce when telling us about some new policy?
If the Fifeshire Feartie had any backbone he would be man enough to stand up to his critics, and pursue things to a definite conclusion.
Sneaky!
I don't really oppose ID cards, it is just having to pay for them that narks me, but this announcement by Jacqui Smith is another NuLabor thing that grates.
When are they ever going to stick to what they originally announce when telling us about some new policy?
If the Fifeshire Feartie had any backbone he would be man enough to stand up to his critics, and pursue things to a definite conclusion.
Wednesday, 5 March 2008
EU Constitution Referendum Cop Out
So now we know never trust what a politician says in their manifestos, regardless of which party they come from.
ZaNulabor - tell the public what they want to hear, but do what you really want to.
Conservatives - DC knew there would never be enough votes to force a referendum, so he could posture himself such as not to open any splits in his party.
Liberals - well what can I say, an episode from the Magic Roundabout?
Lets hope that Dizzy is right, maybe the upper House will give us a second chance, but it looks like things could get politically nasty.
ZaNulabor - tell the public what they want to hear, but do what you really want to.
Conservatives - DC knew there would never be enough votes to force a referendum, so he could posture himself such as not to open any splits in his party.
Liberals - well what can I say, an episode from the Magic Roundabout?
Lets hope that Dizzy is right, maybe the upper House will give us a second chance, but it looks like things could get politically nasty.
Seven Good Things In Life
Well I'm honoured that Paul Linford has tagged me to give you a list of what I consider to be my seven good things in life.
So here goes -
Thanks Paul it was harder, and more thought provoking than I first imagined, but well worth the effort!
Now as a blogging newbie I'm not sure if I should pass this tag on?
So here goes -
- That special smile my grandson gives me when he recognizes me - probably wind(only five months old).
- My two daughters - I was present for both their arrivals & got to hold each one first.
- That part of West Yorkshire around Huddersfield/Halifax/Hebben Bridge - those valleys, I love the views.
- Watching Abdul personally cook your meal & then eating it - us not him!
- My mum's marmalade on croissants on a Sunday morning at home, with freshly brewed coffee, whilst the rest of the house is still asleep.
- The sights, smells & sounds at Pickering traction engine rally.
- Finally, blogging on any of my Macs!
Thanks Paul it was harder, and more thought provoking than I first imagined, but well worth the effort!
Now as a blogging newbie I'm not sure if I should pass this tag on?
European Poll Fiasco?
The old uniform cap is getting doffed early this morning in Dizzy's direction for alerting me to the news that Mr. Bean is contemplating holding a General Election next year to coincide with the European elections.
I'm sure the Fifeshire Feartie is not thinking about this for party advantage. Nor will we see a disaster of a ballot paper as used in the recent Scottish elections, which so spectacularly backfired on NuLabor.
Anyway following Dithering Bruin's track record we will get the answer to this question in 2010!
I'm sure the Fifeshire Feartie is not thinking about this for party advantage. Nor will we see a disaster of a ballot paper as used in the recent Scottish elections, which so spectacularly backfired on NuLabor.
Anyway following Dithering Bruin's track record we will get the answer to this question in 2010!
Cool OS X Apps
Just for something different, if you're a Mac OS X user(which I'm sure you are!) have a look here for some "cool" applications etc ...
Brought to my attention by that other excellent site Lifehacker.
Brought to my attention by that other excellent site Lifehacker.
Commodities Crash?
Ambrose Evans-Pitchard has an interesting article over in the Telegraph about the fears caused by rocketing commodity prices, with some very incisive comments also.
I'm beginning to wonder if some of the "toxic" madness from the credit markets is now spreading into the commodity markets. With traders looking at this area for this year's bonus, or to try and prop up their loses in the credit market.
When this all goes legs up in the air, I fear that cheap money will also be found to be at the root cause of any disasters.
To quote one of Mr. Evans-Pitchard's commentators -
"The bankers have finally seen the result of their misuse of the money they didn't even own half the time."
I'm beginning to wonder if some of the "toxic" madness from the credit markets is now spreading into the commodity markets. With traders looking at this area for this year's bonus, or to try and prop up their loses in the credit market.
When this all goes legs up in the air, I fear that cheap money will also be found to be at the root cause of any disasters.
To quote one of Mr. Evans-Pitchard's commentators -
"The bankers have finally seen the result of their misuse of the money they didn't even own half the time."
Its Started - II
Now Legal & General are reported as considering to take legal action against the government if the compensation for their 4.8 per cent stake in NR is not high enough.
Looking at the 400p that SRM Global want and the 5p per share that analysts expect the government to offer, it looks like a long drawn out battle is inevitable.
Looking at the 400p that SRM Global want and the 5p per share that analysts expect the government to offer, it looks like a long drawn out battle is inevitable.
Fiddling The Figures
Well I suppose it was too much to expect an honest budget from Glove-Puppet Darling bearing in mind the previous Chancellor's, Mr. Bean, liking for stealth taxation.
So to hear that Mr. Darling is not going to include Northern Crock on the balance sheet of government liabilities does not bode well for the rest of his forth coming budget.
So to hear that Mr. Darling is not going to include Northern Crock on the balance sheet of government liabilities does not bode well for the rest of his forth coming budget.
Ohio/Texas Wins
I feel sorry for Bill Clinton this morning I imagine Hillary is going to be unbearable after last night's surprises.
The Republican Party must be must be laughing their heads off, and from our point of view things are going to get interesting/nasty.
The Republican Party must be must be laughing their heads off, and from our point of view things are going to get interesting/nasty.
Tuesday, 4 March 2008
Parnoid Moi - II
On my "Great Escape" I happened to see the difference in Police funding between a couple constabularies for unmarked police cars!
Avon & Somerset - SEAT Altea saloons
Devon & Cornwall - BMW 7series estate with smoked windows
I was beginning to get a bit parnoid as firstly the two SEATs were just behind me in the middle lane west of junction 22(Burnham) when they both went "blue" and hurtled past me.
Then just got to Exeter when the Beamer came flying out of the A379 flashing away merrily right in front of me, only to nab a poor sod in an N reg brown Mondeo, probably forgot to pay his library fines!
Avon & Somerset - SEAT Altea saloons
Devon & Cornwall - BMW 7series estate with smoked windows
I was beginning to get a bit parnoid as firstly the two SEATs were just behind me in the middle lane west of junction 22(Burnham) when they both went "blue" and hurtled past me.
Then just got to Exeter when the Beamer came flying out of the A379 flashing away merrily right in front of me, only to nab a poor sod in an N reg brown Mondeo, probably forgot to pay his library fines!
They Seek Him There
In view of yesterday's post that might have fallen foul of the Terrorism Act 2006 I have decided to head for the hills before the SWAT team are knocking my front door down at some unearthly hour of the morning.
So blogging will be light for the rest of the day - I don't want to leave an electronic signature/trail about.
But to give you a clue as to where I shall be making my last stand - look here!
So blogging will be light for the rest of the day - I don't want to leave an electronic signature/trail about.
But to give you a clue as to where I shall be making my last stand - look here!
HSBC's American Woes
Warren Buffett is certainly "sage of the moment" with Patrick Hosking mentioning him in his article over at the TimesOnLine regarding HSBC's American troubles.
Another foreign bank tripped up by it's American foray.
Finally, to finish off the Warren Buffet day, have a read of the Telegraph's piece on him and it's links.
Another foreign bank tripped up by it's American foray.
Finally, to finish off the Warren Buffet day, have a read of the Telegraph's piece on him and it's links.
Radian - Margin Call Woes
Following on from my comments on Warren Buffett & monoline insurers, again in the TimesOnLine is reports of problems at Radian, one of America's mortgage insurance companies.
Radian was forced to postpone its annual results because it could not determine the extent of it's bond insurance liabilities after creditors of the defaulting Thornburg Mortgage demanded more than $270 million (£136 million) of extra collateral.
PS
I have just realized I'm in the monoline insurance business with the guarantees Glove-Puppet Darling has made on my behalf regarding Northern Crock!
Radian was forced to postpone its annual results because it could not determine the extent of it's bond insurance liabilities after creditors of the defaulting Thornburg Mortgage demanded more than $270 million (£136 million) of extra collateral.
PS
I have just realized I'm in the monoline insurance business with the guarantees Glove-Puppet Darling has made on my behalf regarding Northern Crock!
Monoliners & The Sage of Omaha
Over in the TimesOnLine today is a report that Warren Buffett, the Sage of Omaha, believes that the USA is already in recession.
Despite being 78 this year, Mr. Buffett remains a very astute financial expert, so his announcement that he is withdrawing his offer of bailing out some of the monoline insurance sector is very significant.
No doubt he sees further problems in this important part of the financial markets over and above his $800million offer.
Despite being 78 this year, Mr. Buffett remains a very astute financial expert, so his announcement that he is withdrawing his offer of bailing out some of the monoline insurance sector is very significant.
No doubt he sees further problems in this important part of the financial markets over and above his $800million offer.
Kelly's Highway Robbery
It is reported by the Guardian that Ruth Kelly will unveil today her proposals for trying to relieve the congestion on our motorways.
Instead of offering to use more of the £32billion fleeced from us motorists to improve things, we are being offered the opportunity to pay to drive in motorway lanes we already financed.
I don't think even Ned Kelly could have come up with a better form of highway robbery!
Instead of offering to use more of the £32billion fleeced from us motorists to improve things, we are being offered the opportunity to pay to drive in motorway lanes we already financed.
I don't think even Ned Kelly could have come up with a better form of highway robbery!
PFI - Latest Scandal
The Guardian this morning reveals that many of the PFI deals that Mr. Bean entered into have moved offshore to reduce their tax burden.
Now there is a surprise!
I suppose Mr. Bean never thought of including baring this practice in the closely monitored negotiations?
Now there is a surprise!
I suppose Mr. Bean never thought of including baring this practice in the closely monitored negotiations?
Monday, 3 March 2008
Its Started
From a report in today's Guardian (I still don't like their revamped site) it looks like the first of the legal squabbles over the nationalization of Northern Crock is about to land in Glove-Puppet Darling's in-tray.
With SRM Global, the largest shareholder in NR, filing a suit against - well just about everyone!
Now whether this is a serious legal challenge, or just an attempt to arm wrestle more money out of the government, we will have to wait and see.
But we all know the real winners - yes the lawyers!
With SRM Global, the largest shareholder in NR, filing a suit against - well just about everyone!
Now whether this is a serious legal challenge, or just an attempt to arm wrestle more money out of the government, we will have to wait and see.
But we all know the real winners - yes the lawyers!
Paranoid - Moi?
I was going to post a comment on Dizzy's piece about a NuLabor fund raising dinner party, along the humorous lines of any contributions for getting Renta-Suicide-Bomber to attend.
However, I have desisted as I realize I could be in breach of the Terrorism Act 2006 (c. 11), Part 1, para.1, sub-section 2 -
(2) A person commits an offence if—
(a) he publishes a statement to which this section applies or causes another to publish such a statement; and
(b) at the time he publishes it or causes it to be published, he—
(i) intends members of the public to be directly or indirectly encouraged or otherwise induced by the statement to commit, prepare or instigate acts of terrorism or Convention offences;
Especially as I'm sure Dizzy's blog is monitored by the "authorities", who are not exactly renowned for their sense of humour.
So am I becoming paranoid under this government?
Answers by airmail to where ever the next special rendition flight takes me.
However, I have desisted as I realize I could be in breach of the Terrorism Act 2006 (c. 11), Part 1, para.1, sub-section 2 -
(2) A person commits an offence if—
(a) he publishes a statement to which this section applies or causes another to publish such a statement; and
(b) at the time he publishes it or causes it to be published, he—
(i) intends members of the public to be directly or indirectly encouraged or otherwise induced by the statement to commit, prepare or instigate acts of terrorism or Convention offences;
Especially as I'm sure Dizzy's blog is monitored by the "authorities", who are not exactly renowned for their sense of humour.
So am I becoming paranoid under this government?
Answers by airmail to where ever the next special rendition flight takes me.
Harry's Afghan PR Stunt
Whilst I do still think it was good to see Prince Harry out with our troops in Afghanistan, something that Liberal MP Louise Bagshawe said in the warm up to in the BBC1's The Big Question rings a bell, as reported by Mr. Dale here.
Looking at it cynically, I'm sure either Bucks Pal or Prince Harry himself knew the story would leak out in today's electronic/WWW media connected sphere sometime.
But for now I'm prepared to give him the benefit of my doubts.
Looking at it cynically, I'm sure either Bucks Pal or Prince Harry himself knew the story would leak out in today's electronic/WWW media connected sphere sometime.
But for now I'm prepared to give him the benefit of my doubts.
Financial Forecast - Winter Is Coming
Over in the Telegraph's business section Ambrose Evans-Pritchard does the weather forecast for the American economy and it's not a very good one!
Which I fear is going to come across the Pond to affect us all over here in Europe.
Which I fear is going to come across the Pond to affect us all over here in Europe.
Its All Our Fault
Yes thats right, NuLabor under Mr. Bean's great leadership, have decided that really we are all to blame for the failings of government.
Or at least that is how Janet Daley over on today's Telegraph sees it, and I agree with her interpretation of the situation.
So just remember when your parents are stuck in an NHS queue for treatment, its their fault for growing old, not the government for failing to identify we have an aging population.
When you're late home because of delays on the motorway, it's you fault for buying that car, paying all those taxes. Not the government for fleecing over £32billion from us motorists, yet only putting £8billion back into the system.
Suddenly find yourself a part owner of a failed bank, not the government's fault for dithering over a solution, it's our fault for being taxpayers.
I could go on with this list of our failings but I wont, as I know everything is my fault - and yours'!
Or at least that is how Janet Daley over on today's Telegraph sees it, and I agree with her interpretation of the situation.
So just remember when your parents are stuck in an NHS queue for treatment, its their fault for growing old, not the government for failing to identify we have an aging population.
When you're late home because of delays on the motorway, it's you fault for buying that car, paying all those taxes. Not the government for fleecing over £32billion from us motorists, yet only putting £8billion back into the system.
Suddenly find yourself a part owner of a failed bank, not the government's fault for dithering over a solution, it's our fault for being taxpayers.
I could go on with this list of our failings but I wont, as I know everything is my fault - and yours'!
Glove-Puppet Darling's Stealth Budget
Tim Hames over on the TimesOnLine this morning, whilst going on about Glove-Puppet Darling's proposed increases on wine duties, has alerted me to a sneaky action by our Chancellor.
That he is holding his budget the earliest it has ever been held, in fact three weeks before the end of this financial year, so that we can be clobbered in this fiscal year as well as the coming one.
Of course if anyone twigs onto this underhanded move, Mr. Bean can always deny being involved!
That he is holding his budget the earliest it has ever been held, in fact three weeks before the end of this financial year, so that we can be clobbered in this fiscal year as well as the coming one.
Of course if anyone twigs onto this underhanded move, Mr. Bean can always deny being involved!
Bottom Dollar
I'm sure Sasha Abramsky wont mind me using his title from his piece over on Cif this morning, but it just fits so well with his well argued article about the problems facing the American poor.
As he points out, steps taken by the Fed would have been condemned by the World Bank in any other country than America.
Whilst I don't have a degree in economics, I can see that Bush has now made the American economy into the basket case of the West, with only worse things to come for it and whoever succeeds him.
Of course "Corporate America", who have been pulling Bush's strings since he was elected, will have taken most of it's assets overseas. But they will find themselves a waning power in the face of the Eastern Tigers.
As he points out, steps taken by the Fed would have been condemned by the World Bank in any other country than America.
Whilst I don't have a degree in economics, I can see that Bush has now made the American economy into the basket case of the West, with only worse things to come for it and whoever succeeds him.
Of course "Corporate America", who have been pulling Bush's strings since he was elected, will have taken most of it's assets overseas. But they will find themselves a waning power in the face of the Eastern Tigers.
West & East Cheshire - The New USSR?
Frank Fisher over on the Guardian's Cif section this morning has kicked up a bit of a rumpus over the new local government bill splitting Cheshire up into two parts.
Mind you I do agree with him, and many of his commentators, that we are usually stitched up by the three main political parties in this country nowadays.
Mind you I do agree with him, and many of his commentators, that we are usually stitched up by the three main political parties in this country nowadays.
A Salty Tale
Alexandra Topping over on the Guardian this morning tells the tale of a novice sailor's attempt to break the world record for the number of days at sea cut short by - seasickness!
A Step In The Right Direction
One of the interesting things about the devolved assemblies in Scotland & Wales is the imaginative ideas they come up with to encourage support from the local populations.
Admittedly these are a bit skewed because of the continued support from Westminster, but it does keep the pressure up on our own English representatives.
So it is good to see the latest Welsh assembly idea regarding the elimination of hospital car parking charges.
Let us hope this starts the ball rolling here in England, as when you do look at how high some of the charges are, it is an extra burden on poorer members of society.
Mind you it is going to be a hard job weaning some of the NHS trusts off the income they get from parking, (staff included - one of my girlfriends now has to pay £30 a month car parking at one of our local hospitals - free before they did a PFI deal) perhaps they could scrap a tier of management!
Admittedly these are a bit skewed because of the continued support from Westminster, but it does keep the pressure up on our own English representatives.
So it is good to see the latest Welsh assembly idea regarding the elimination of hospital car parking charges.
Let us hope this starts the ball rolling here in England, as when you do look at how high some of the charges are, it is an extra burden on poorer members of society.
Mind you it is going to be a hard job weaning some of the NHS trusts off the income they get from parking, (staff included - one of my girlfriends now has to pay £30 a month car parking at one of our local hospitals - free before they did a PFI deal) perhaps they could scrap a tier of management!
Sunday, 2 March 2008
The Wire
Again the old uniform cap is getting doffed in Bob Piper's direction for finally convincing me to go out and buy The Wire on DVD.
Mr. Piper and I may not see eye to eye politically, but I respect his judgement on this matter.
Having just started watching series one, I can say Mr. Piper was spot on recommending The Wire. Now I am going to have to invest in all the later series.
Which from this report it looks like being an expensive investment, with another four series to go!
Mr. Piper and I may not see eye to eye politically, but I respect his judgement on this matter.
Having just started watching series one, I can say Mr. Piper was spot on recommending The Wire. Now I am going to have to invest in all the later series.
Which from this report it looks like being an expensive investment, with another four series to go!
American Justice - Bush Style!
The old uniform cap is getting doffed in the direction of AfterDowningStreet.org for bringing this example of injustice Bush style over the Pond in the good old US of A.
It is just unbelievable just how low the Bush administration has sunk in it's attempts to silence critics.
And this was an administration that the Poodle want us to be allied too!
It is just unbelievable just how low the Bush administration has sunk in it's attempts to silence critics.
And this was an administration that the Poodle want us to be allied too!
Northern Crock - More Revelations
Just for a change I had a look north of the border at the Scottish newspapers, finding a very interesting piece by Iain Macwhirter in the Sunday Herald regarding the bank we all own now - Northern Crock.
I certainly learnt a few things from it that the government south of the border haven't pointed out to us shareholders.
Still I'm sure Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet Darling know what they are doing!
I certainly learnt a few things from it that the government south of the border haven't pointed out to us shareholders.
Still I'm sure Mr. Bean & Glove-Puppet Darling know what they are doing!
Blogging Lite Today
Yes blogging will be a bit hit and miss today, I'm afraid my youngest daughter talked me into baby sitting for her last night, which she interprets as a twenty-four hour slot!
So bear with me today, it is not easy balancing a baby on one knee, who seems to be intend on landing his head on my keyboard, and trying to find interesting things for you my visitors.
So bear with me today, it is not easy balancing a baby on one knee, who seems to be intend on landing his head on my keyboard, and trying to find interesting things for you my visitors.
Yes She Does - In Bucketfuls!
Is my reply to the question posed by Geoffrey Wheatcroft over on the IOS at the end of his piece on Hillary Clinton.
I have never liked the Clintons from the beginning, I have always blamed Bill for encouraging our Tony Wots His Name, as for Hillary - the poison dwarf springs to mind!
Now she just represents all the vested interests in the Democratic Party, none of them interested in the ordinary voter's welfare.
So I sincerely hope she does come a cropper this week.
I have never liked the Clintons from the beginning, I have always blamed Bill for encouraging our Tony Wots His Name, as for Hillary - the poison dwarf springs to mind!
Now she just represents all the vested interests in the Democratic Party, none of them interested in the ordinary voter's welfare.
So I sincerely hope she does come a cropper this week.
The Poodle Gets A Reward
The Sunday Times reports that Tony Wots His Name is to receive an honour from a Texas university this week.
So the poodle is being rewarded by his American masters for his support.
Mind you I do think it is a bit of cheek for the poodle to ask to be paid for a question & answers session afterwards.
Also to have his expenses repaid, or is he that short of money nowadays?
So the poodle is being rewarded by his American masters for his support.
Mind you I do think it is a bit of cheek for the poodle to ask to be paid for a question & answers session afterwards.
Also to have his expenses repaid, or is he that short of money nowadays?
Saturday, 1 March 2008
Would You Believe It?
BBC Scotland reports the case of a registered blind pensioner being prosecuted for driving a tractor & trailer on the busy A9 in Perthshire!
The judge has deferred sentencing until Robert Simpson appears before him personally - that might be a long time if Mr. Simpson decides to drive there!
The judge has deferred sentencing until Robert Simpson appears before him personally - that might be a long time if Mr. Simpson decides to drive there!
UK Government Shamed By ECHR
The old uniform cap is getting doffed in Mr. Hirst's (aka jailhouselawyer) direction this morning for reporting on a recent ruling by the European Court of Human Rights against our government trying to deport a terrorist suspect back to his homeland, where the threat of torture hung over him.
Backdoor rendition if you ask me.
Another disgraceful episode in the continuing saga of the worst government we have had for a long time.
Backdoor rendition if you ask me.
Another disgraceful episode in the continuing saga of the worst government we have had for a long time.
DNA Database
First of all, I must say I am all for a national DNA database, but like ID cards if there is any personal cost to myself - then I will oppose it.
If politicians want to impose things like iD cards etc ... upon us, then they must fund it from the money they already take off us in taxation, direct or indirect.
Anyway, Vicki Woods over on the Telegraph this morning, takes a sideways look at the DNA database in amonst other matters numerical.
If politicians want to impose things like iD cards etc ... upon us, then they must fund it from the money they already take off us in taxation, direct or indirect.
Anyway, Vicki Woods over on the Telegraph this morning, takes a sideways look at the DNA database in amonst other matters numerical.
Well I Never ...
Yes, well I never thought I would see an American military officer say that they had chosen something because it was the best of the competition, not because of the political attachments instead.
But it would appear that in choosing the Airbus led consortium over Boeing for the new American air tanker this is what they are doing.
Mind you I wonder what the European pay-back will be?
But it would appear that in choosing the Airbus led consortium over Boeing for the new American air tanker this is what they are doing.
Mind you I wonder what the European pay-back will be?
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