renewed labour

Thank you and good night...

2007-06-07T01:43:00.000-07:00

I started this blog on the advice of a university tutor, indeed i was about to do a module for my masters called 'New Media and Politics' (which wasn't run in the end anyway) and i must admit i was pissing in the wind at first. I still feel my lack of journalistic ability made this blog more of projection of my ideas and beliefs as opposed to anything analytical or heartstoppingly readable.

This blog has run its course for a number of reasons...

1, I have a new job that is inherently involved in Welsh Assembly politics, and thus i feel it would be wrong to carry on this blog. What really made my mind up was Blamerbell rather churlish remark regarding my soon to be new employer and my position on a matter, although this was the straw that broke the camels back. Fair do's its his call to do that (we are developing into good friends outside of politics i hope), but essentially it makes it very difficult to 'debate' matters when i will be bashed with who i work for. I have a soon-to-be young family on the way, i cannot jeopardise my job it is as simple as that. I haven't been 'silenced' in fact my employers have been supportive of me doing the blog, but i feel it would be wrong to use sensitive information for this blog...Already people seem keen to test my opinions against other Labour AM's and even the Labour AM i will be working for, essentially that makes the whole point of this blog- to express MY OWN views a nullified one.

2, Continuing this point, i was fed up of 'anons' taking a pop and mutating any debate to fit their own parties desires. I can assure you all that most people working for AM's are on blogs right now pretending to be 'punters' talking bullshit. This has made the debate far less worthwhile, and i think will eventually blight the great potential of blogging. I am all for blogs that don't reveal identities, but anon comments basically achieve nothing apart from highlighting how blogging can make political debate far less inclusive. How can you argue a point when someone knows who you are, where you work and you do not know them from adam? It is an uneven fight for the people who are willing to express their views without hiding.

I make no secret of my desire to become an AM, i am not ashamed of that fact. I couldn't less for people thinking i should be, what i have written on this blog i stand by but i do wonder how much further i can keep commenting on things in the future without it being the stick to bash me and the people i work with. I have a professional relationship as of monday with many of the people i have already commented on, i want that one to be fruitful. I don't want people not being frank with me because they worry it will appear on a blog...

So there we have it. I have enjoyed it, i am sure i will return but this blog has run its course. Goodnight and Goodluck...

I better not use the N word...

2007-06-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

Thats NATIONALIST in case you were wondering...

Last night's week in week out 'debate' should be taken to court under the trade descriptions act. Come on, hands up who thinks Bungle, Zippy and George got together before hand to work out attack lines?...In case you want a summary-

'Look people of Wales, Rhodri hasnt turned up, we agree on everything 6 weeks after basing an election on our differences, look we have magically found this 'consensus' politics that we promise isnt based on power and the fact we fucked it up when it mattered. In fact all three of us belong to this new Rainbow party that agrees on everything all without losing our fundamental values...Oh yeah and Rhodri didnt turn up!

On the point of this whole 'we should have been consulted' by Plaid and Lib Dems, i am not privvy to the discussions that occured with regards a Labour coalition or agreement, but Plaid and the Lib Dems chose the rainbow. The lib dems chose opposition, this means they are NOT in government. You must have a clear line between government and opposition...

Surely if Labour sought the agreement of the Lib Dems and Plaid before they put forward a legislative programme, then it would be a coalition in all but name? Plaid cant accuse Labour of not listening when Plaid do not get their way. Labour won more votes than Plaid to put their manifesto in action, you cant expect Labour to just put Plaid's manifesto into government by proxy...

The nat two or whatever you want to call them...

2007-06-05T06:22:00.001-07:00

Much has been written about Bethan Jenkins and Leanne Wood's decision to not attend the state opening of the institution that gives the opportunity for them to take such decisions.

I regularly communicate with Bethan, we disagree on many things, but she has 'balls' (metaphorically of course). I also gained a modicum of respect for both of them regarding backing out of Rainbow Coalition as if they hadnt i would have had a field day with regards Leanne's previous tirades regarding the tories...

What i want to focus on isnt the two that didnt go to the state opening, but the Plaid AM's that did. I am curious, surely anyone committed to an 'independent' wales would in essence reject the monarchy? Merely because any 'independent' wales would be new 'state' which would surely not have the monarchy at the head of it. I know Labour AM's and MP's who are republicans, but they see such things as this as a duty for their constituents. I am curious at whether those Plaid AM's honestly still believe in an independent wales? or just a nice new building, £60,000 a year and a nice rainbow coalition that means that will never have to pick another single vote yet still be in government? Now of course these are questions, questions with implications no doubt, but i am confused. If Bethan and Leanne are republican enough to make such a move, why arent other Plaid AM's?

Answers on a Nationalist postcard please!

The tale of two politics shows...

2007-06-04T01:05:00.000-07:00

So i had a chance to watch the politics show in the comfort of my own home yesterday which is a great sight better than catching titbits while cleaning up ice cream from tables after someones darling/little shit decides to chuck it everywhere...

Peter of the Hain variety, had a big wobble yesterday, not a good performance at all. John Sopel nailed him to the mast a bit, particularly on the 50% tax band. I do think if the debate about the rich/poor gap is to be had, it must involve measures for the rich and the poor. That isnt me advocating tax rises per se, but that it shouldnt mean it is not an argument not to be heard. Although i am not doubting his beliefs, i think he is in danger of being neither truly radical enough to be a conduit between the party and its leader or close enough to get a fair hearing at the top table. One swallow doth not make a summer, but he did get nailed a bit...

Jane Davidson (albeit with an easier interview than Hain)was her usual charming self and spoke with clarity. You genuinely do believe that she will listen and take on board other views outside of the party.

Buy British...

2007-06-04T00:40:00.000-07:00

As i have mentioned before, i used to be in a rock and/or roll band, something i enjoyed immensely, toured Britain a number of times, released stuff on labels, played with all number of amazing bands and met four great guys in the band. Here are some of the videos of friends of mine and bands we played with...

Reuben- stuck in my throat...a underrated British band who just write very catchy rock songs, if they were american and talked about high school they would be huge!

Secondsmile- our great and secret show...A band who became very good friends of ours, hugely talented. We supported them in their hometown of Bridport and the energy and vibe was fantastic...

Skindred- pressure (acoustic version)...Newport best ever band. Huge in America, not so huge over here. Heroes and friends (its an odd combo i can assure you) of mine...

These are the riches of the poor...

2007-06-04T00:22:00.000-07:00

So i am having a good looky at the good ole' Western Mail and i see my mucker James Hannam AKA Culrpit 1 with a nice piece in there. Congrats to him as its well deserved, i got his first single on Boobytrap back in the day, and got to know him around the scene, nice bloke, deserves success. I have seen Culprit 1 live, was an excellent show and even tried to snare him to remix one of my old band songs (he kinda um and ahhed which is a shame).

Please Buy his album here it is out today...

Gotta have a J-O-B if you wanna be with me...

2007-06-01T09:14:00.000-07:00

Hi Rat Fans,

Your favourite/most hated/self important/mouthy Welsh Labour Blogger now has a new job as of today...(in case you were wondering, i was talking about me!). This job is probably going to be an end to this blog, although i am also hopeful it will be ok to continue...fingers crossed.

Southern Man...

2007-05-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

So Rhodri Morgan has announced his cabinet...details here.

My good old butty Blamerbell seems so very keen to look into this cabinet by talking in terms of plots/camps/battles and backstabbing.

I think he misses the point of this cabinet. It will only last two years maximum even without any opposition voting against it, so it was always likely Rhodri would keep it safe. This was never going to be a cabinet to highlight the future direction of Welsh Labour in the Assembly. In truth, that is for the next leader to put forward. I am sure there will be a heated debate as to what direction the party goes in, but i want to make it clear that outside influences will also have a huge role to play.

I think this whole idea of 'consensus' politics being so in vogue in Wales is getting a bit much and is only true up to a point. The debate is going too far when people accuse anyone of being loyal to their parties beliefs as 'tribalistic' or 'backward'. 'Consensus' politics is only entered the lexicon because its in the three opposition parties interest to pursue it now. This consensus politics must not be a smokescreen for minor parties to call the shots like the Lib Dems have done...

I think peoples appetite for a strong clearly led assembly has grown since the rainbow debacle...the lib dems votes are up for grabs, as are the 'red' southern Plaid votes.

Also i think the next General Election result will have a big impact on Welsh Labour's future- will a tory government in westminster increase the desire for Labour AM's to be more devolutionist? also will it impact on the tories new found desire for devolution? Cameron's attitude to devolution will have a big impact.

Another outside element will be the nailed on certain referendum that will take place for more devolved powers- will any supposed 'unionist' camp be weakened by the 'yes' vote winning? time will tell.

So i know the welsh media/bloggers have been starved of stories for a few days, but i hardly think it was a massive surprise to see this cabinet named.

Harriet Harman has entered the building...

2007-05-31T04:32:00.000-07:00

So while Blamerbell writes this rubbish about Ryan Giggs, i though i had better make a comment on the debate leadership debate on Newsnight.

I have read a few peoples reactions, which included this guys running commentary and This excellent analysis on the subject.

My own view is that Harriet Harman was excellent all round, spoke with clarity and direction and in truth surprised me (although now i feel it is through my own ignorance as opposed to any slight on her). Hillary Benn will make a very good minister, but i dont really think he suits the role, ditto Alan Johnson. Peter Hain held his own and made some good points and is still my number one, Jon Cruddas appeared fresh and a new voice. Hazel Blears is just a terrible candidate, too loyal, too ignorant or arrogant to accept things have gone wrong...

One thing that i did think was how much more refreshing this would have been if three of four of these candidates were going for the leadership. A healthy debate with different talents and views would have been excellent to see.

I was encouraged by Harman/Hain/Cruddas' ideas on equality, and particularly when Harman noted that without tackling the inequality gap we cannot begin to improve social mobility. I think Alan Johnsons rhetoric on Social mobility is sound enough, but it whiffed of pandering too much to middle england without actual ideas to make such an belief workable.

Hazel Blears should be minister for stating the bloody obvious...'I think that all people want to get on...NO SHIT SHERLOCK!'

I think Benn's arguments on trust are valid, but once again Harman and Cruddas trumped him by agreeing with an apology in Iraq. This must be part of the rebuilding of trust with all involved in Iraq...

All in all, i am encouraged by what was said by all the candidates apart from Blears.

Harman played a blinder, and in my view it has to be between her, hain and cruddas.

For me it is Hain...but by a whisker. Cruddas and Harman are hot on his heels...

Free d'erb with Paul Flynn

2007-05-29T06:38:00.000-07:00

I knew his addition to the blogosphere was going to be a good one and this by Paul Flynn MP made me chuckle. Top marks Paul...

1939 Returning...

2007-05-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

Been a busy weekend indeed, waiting tables in a restaurant that took 4 grand in four hours! Sometimes i wonder where all these rude people come from. Is it too much ask to have some semblance of manners from people?

It appears that McDonalds want to alter the way we speak by trying to change the definition of the term 'McJob'- this is its definition.

'an unstimulating, low-wage job with few benefits, esp. in a service industry.'

It was coined by Douglas Copeland in his excellent book 'Generation X'.

Growing up in Pontypool in a single parent family with three kids was not easy, from an early stage in my life i was rightly told that i would have to make money with a part time job as my mother could only do so much working in Marks and Spencer. Although i have always had a job since i was 13, i have had many different ones including-

(Paperboy, Milkman, Working in Topshop, B & Q, Barman, Grass Cutter, Plastic factory, Wagon Wheel Factory, Trolley Factory, Playscheme Leader, Christmas Decoration Factory...a few i cant remember)

One job i left out was when i worked in Pontypool McDonalds for 18months, McDonalds was and still is a big employer of young people in the area. I feel i would like to take Mcdonalds to task through my own personal experience...

McJob is true in all aspects...Low paid, unstimulating and few prospects. Yes some of our managers went on to become '2nd assistants' which makes just above the national average wage in Britain but this tells a tiny part of the story. What McDonalds dont tell you is that the one person who became a second assistant has a degree and that for a fair number of years you have to work as a 'floor manager' with no guarantees of any promotion. During my time there it was 25p more an hour to be a floor manager, and that 25p included all manner of others tasks, abuse of customers etc...Many floor managers never will move up the ladder because degree students are parachuted in having never worked in a restaurant in their lives. The morale of the staff was held up by the fact we all went to school together and stuck together by the fact 'we are all in this shit together'. Mcdonalds will offer lots of 'stories' of how people have been burger flippers and now they are probably bulldozing mcdonalds into the developing world as head of some department, but it never offers a story of a normal joe earning a crust full time with a family. NONE OF THEM EXISTED in the shop i worked in, we had skint students praying for the day we get out of there and would NEVER consider a career in the company and we had a two tier management- one tier fed up of working their arses off for 25p an hour with no sign of that 'promotion' and the higher tier knowing that the only way the second tier moving up is if they leave.

Fair do's to McDonalds some a-grade spin- 'We believe we are offering a compelling employment story to our employees' 'We are only doing this because our employees are offended by the term'...

McDonalds cannot argue that the appearance of 'McJob' in the dictionary is based on 'use'- IE people now add it into the ever increasing lexicon of post modern language. Do not let them make you believe otherwise, this job is what it says in the dictionary.

I have a job interview thursday (thankfully not at McDonalds!)...Wish me luck.

Run, come save me...

2007-05-24T03:34:00.000-07:00

Ok, your guess is as good as mine regarding what is going on down the Senedd...haha

In truth, the lib dems have always confused me (i have never ever met a passionate Lib Dems- perhaps we could have an appeal to find one who isnt an 'ANON') but their decision to be in opposition rather than any government is frankly baffling. They were offered PR in Local Government, exactly what more do they want or frankly care about?

I can honestly say i was wholly prepared for a Rainbow Coalition, and even had about 4 years of blogging hellfire to unleash on it (I am joking, kind of!). But now it appears it is dead in the water. So what next?

It has been a rollercoaster, and i have offered my views at every 'twist and turn' because it gave me the opportunity to consider all manner of permeatations. No one can hardly set in stone their views on this new and ever changing situation...I am no different.

A fair while back i backed an agreement with Plaid Cymru on ideological terms, i still maintain this view. Having had a brief glance at the 'draft' offer from Labour to Plaid (disagreements on the actual document aside) seems something i agree with and will give Wales a progressive way forward. I have made no secret of recognising the common ground between Labour and Plaid, although i still have reservations over Plaid's conduct and politics. HOWEVER, this agreement was my preferred choice before the election and i still maintain that.

We are entering a new politics in Wales, dare i say it 'consensual' in nature. There is always a danger of parties finding it hard to forge their identities in this new politics, and my worry is that a Plaid/Labour agreement leaves the Tories all to their own devices to form what i think will be the biggest opponent to Labour's biggest party status.

I am also not adverse to the idea of a Labour minority government, which gives all parties a chance to forge their own identity, while maintaining the 'consensual' nature that will be paramount. I am not sure of the real implications of such a move, and i think it would be better than a formal agreement.

So in brief- if its an agreement or coaltion- Labour/Plaid, if a minority government is doable- go with that.

I think i am going to sit on my hands a bit and see what goes on though, because who knows what will be going on!

Take me to your leader...

2007-05-23T04:52:00.000-07:00

I normally dont respond to 'Anons' on comments sections on my blog, because it could be anyone from any party just trying to pick a fight pretending they are Labour party members, but i want to make one thing clear-

I am NOT calling for Rhodri Morgan to go...

The man has been a towering presence down the senedd, and is still our ablest politician. If by some chance we do lead a coalition this time he will have my full backing and also had he not announced he is retiring in two years time i he would have my full backing in opposition also. If a rainbow is created i think it will be time to begin starting afresh with regards Welsh Labour, and that would inevitably mean a new Leader. No matter what happens Rhodri Morgan is leaving of his own accord in two years time, i am not some snake in the grass for admitting that we know need to re energise Welsh Labour's direction with a leader...

I am not going to speculate who i would support- but i will bring forward some potential names once the dust settles down the senedd...

Offers dyke

2007-05-23T04:19:00.000-07:00

So while Blamerbell speculates on what was offered by Labour to Plaid during the discussions. I began thinking about what supposed deal breakers actually were for Plaid, although the things offered (although the business compulsion in the Welsh Langauge Act is an absolute no-no as far as i am concerned) arent something i am against in principle, i dont see what more we could offer to Plaid. Although being in government is always something to strive for, i think long term the Rainbow is going to be the most beneficial for Welsh Labour. Now i am sure there maybe people in Welsh Labour who disagree with me, i had a very animated discussion with a Labour assembly member who had a different view (some points were very reasonable).

He argued that it is a huge step not being seen as the party of government is a terrible thing for Labour, and could do them more damage than good. This is a good point...

My own view is dealing with the reality, Plaid and the Lib Dems know they got more sway in a Rainbow coalition, Labour are simply not going to convince them otherwise, nor should they. As Blamerbell stated...

"It is thought Labour were offering a referendum on a Scottish-style parliament, a review of the Barnett formula AND a new Welsh Language Act (in some form)."

Thats pretty a reasonable offer to make, i dont see WHAT Plaid actually wanted from Labour, the one thing Labour couldnt offer them- Real power.

Now this is not a rant at Plaid, they make their bed, they will have to lie in it. But Welsh Labour now have to accept it is out of their hands at the moment, and prepare for a rainbow coalition.

The beauty of offering those things to Plaid is that many people will now accuse Plaid of taking power over principles- even before they begin to answer the 'tory in power' line.

Now we know probably know what was offered, it gives an inkling into what we should be looking to do looking towards 2011. A new leader that will come into place before the next election MUST grasp the devolution nettle, what better way to show that Welsh Labour is fighting on a devolutionist platform than supporting the YES campaign on the referendum AND a review of the Barnett Formula. If we was willing to offer them to stay in power, we must surely offer them to the public to win back power!

The next general election will focus peoples minds sharply in Wales and change things down the senedd- will the tories back the YES campaign on a referendum? Will a potential Tory welsh secretary veto it?

New Music...

2007-05-21T03:39:00.000-07:00

I watched the 7 ages of rock last night, looks like another belter from the BBC. Much like Soul Deep was, its a chance to write down some new (old) tunes to listen to. Anyway, got me in the musical mood...

Battles- atlas...I love this band, really well read also.

The Fall of Troy- fcpremix- this band are scarily good, technically brilliant with just enough grasp of a good tune.

Thrice- deadbolt...another really catchy band with a great skill. All their albums are amazing and different.

The Adverts- Gary Gilmours eyes

Whats left of the left?

2007-05-21T00:21:00.000-07:00

I cant say i agree with every Nick Cohen says, particular with his sabre rattling regarding the Iraq War, but THIS ARTICLE certainly raised some very important points and made me ponder. It seems that there is a lack of coherence with the 'left', i mean its hardly a new problem granted but there is even less clarity than even ten years ago.

So thinking of Cohen's article i wondered what actual policies, ones which have a realistic chance of being heard at policy discussions would equate to a 'leftist' direction? To someone whose socialism is always defining itself by a set of values, a commitment to achieving certain goals, i think it is very difficult for me to say this is a policy programme that is on the left. I have never believed in dogmatic socialism based around certain policies that mean you are socialist and should you not believe in those policies you are suddenly not a true left-winger.

Renationalisation? Well, i believe that there is some merit in the argument for renationalising the Train Service and other public transport. For too long our transport is being run by asset stripping companies who are trying to squeeze higher prices for less service. With climate change becoming a huge problem for the world, it is important governments have the ability to enduce people onto public transport as much as possible. It maybe far more prudent to run a renationalised transport system that can lower prices with the backing of extra investment in the long term, because we need a massive shift to public transport in the fight against climate change. People have an appetite for public transport if it is not too costly, efficient and invested in. NONE of these have occurred under privatisation. But then thats it for me with nationalisation, no seizing of British Telecom of British Gas, is this approach something people on the left can unite about?

Privatisation? This is an area i place more hope for in Wales than England, PFI has been limited in Wales compared to England. And this Blairite 'choice' concept is not a popular or well known one in Wales. I think universal well maintained public services are more of a pressing priority to Wales than a choice of glossy brochures from different hospitals. I can see the logic in some private investment in different areas of health, particularly with regards certain treatments, but i am also very wary of ANY private investment anywhere. I am WHOLLY OPPOSED to any privatisation in Schools, education is something that should be offered to children without any privatised influence. Although school academies seem a good idea on paper, the people investing in them are not the red cross, they will want something in return! In america they are further down the road than we are, whether it be the privatisation of food vending (with exclusive deals on campus) or equipment being donated with caveats attached (Apple donate computers as long as the pupils watch half and hour of advertising a day) i believe we should keep private investment out of schools.

I believe the left need to unite around tackling this myth that the markets know best, and some how market solutions will also streamline and make more efficient anything it touches. Using market practices can make public services cut down on waste, but that is not the same as marketisation on public services.

Inequality? To me this is the one thing Cohen is a bit coy to recognise as a constant throughout most people on the left. Unlike Peter Mandelson, i do have a problem with people getting stinking rich, particularly if they are dodging taxes to become rich. Mr Meacher god bless him offers a very valid point about non-domicile tax status, something which i think is abhorrent to be occurring under a Labour Government.

Perhaps the most damning statistic for New Labour is that inequality hasnt really improved in that the rich/poor gap has widened. This is unacceptable and something the 'left' much surely agree on. I would like to see interventions to improve this, which will include more taxation of the very rich, the maintaining of the inheritance tax and i would go further than Peter Hain and compel tax on city bonuses.

Does anyone else see any other policies we can unite on? I dont mean it a party political sense, i mean what policies do people on the left unite around? Be really good if people can offer some to add on the brief post i have just done.

As cohen ends with, it is important anyone on the Left truly realises the affect of what they are supporting, as Cohen points out-

"When I go to the homes of the richest people I know, I see the works of Michael Moore and Noam Chomsky and I think: 'Well, of course you can read them because they're no threat to you.' They, along with millionaire comedians, stockbrokers and the aristocrats on the board of the ENO, strike leftish poses safe in the knowledge that the political left no longer threatens their interests or demands anything from them. All they have to be is against British and American policy, which Bush and Blair have given ample reasons for so doing.

Please don't mistake their fury for true radical anger. Opera singers bouncing about in their underpants are no substitute for a radical programme for political change, which the Labour left has proved doesn't exist any more."

Rod, Jane and Freddy should run Wales...

2007-05-18T01:51:00.001-07:00

It looks like a rainbow coalition is happening in Wales, and according to Dafydd El, there are lots of examples of the biggest party being frozen out of government. Although i am not denying those claims, i havent seen any examples myself, answers on a postcard please.

I have always made my blog being seen through a Labour prism, something which i do not apologize for, and it is important to analyse the rainbow coalition in this regard.

First of all, you will not see me bleating if a rainbow coalition does occur. Yes it is hardly wholly democratic and i would contend that many in Wales did not vote for this, but it is important as a party we accept it, learn from it and attack our role as opposition with vigour. In truth, the longer talks go on, the more i worry we as a party will either give away too much to get a deal or the 'pact' will be too unstable. The welsh electorate might never forgive any government that agrees a coalition or agreement that falls apart, and this is my worry. I dont see what we can really offer the lib dems or plaid other than a foothold in a government they can pick and choose to take credit or attack.

Lets see how Plaid can run a country then, it will be a massive step up for a party that has run anything bigger than some Gwynedd council. Especially with parties wholly against their very being in government, something has to give, Welsh Labour should play the long game. In opposition we can regroup and think about the future, i think the time has come to reposition ourselves for devolved politics. New Labour delivered devolution, but i feel sometimes as a party in Wales we are not playing by devolution rules.

Welsh Labour needs to become a force in its own right, we need to embrace the notion of self-governance and how that is different to independence. I received a personal email from John McDonnell today, who stated that if he had got on the leadership ballot he would have fought for scottish style powers. This is view shared by many of my friends in Welsh Labour, THIS IS NOT NATIONALISM!. This the solid and inspiring Labour value of empowerment to people in all walks of life, surely the Welsh Assembly represents a massive opportunity to allow such an ideal to course through Welsh Labour veins?

We as a party must grasp the idea of self governance, and Welsh Labour should be formulating all policy on those terms. Plaid especially can do this, and i am sure this could be very liberating for Welsh Labour. Gordon Brown said he welcome 'diversity of opinion', well lets have some diversity.

The political communications student in me sees that there are many things we can do on the surface that need to added onto a revamp of welsh labour ideals. We need a new logo, and a distinct identity that goes with it. People need to know what Welsh Labour is, a party of country that is moving towards self governance, a party that takes UK Labour values and filters them through a Wales specific politics. This does mean we are in conflict with UK Labour or should shun them, but we should make the people of Wales clear in the knowledge that Welsh Labour is offering welsh solutions and more importantly a VISION of a future Wales that is on its way to self governance. We need to play the game on the right pitch and forge a new welsh labour identity...THE TIME IS NOW.

I have an essay to write so i will keep this brief

2007-05-16T05:06:00.000-07:00

So it looks like the deputy leadership contest is in full swing, and thank god quite frankly because the stalemate down the Senedd (i am trying to be privvy to views, but even my Labour sources are keeping stum!) has made every go a bit politically quiet.

I have decided to try and get selected as a councillor in my home town of Torfaen, fingers crossed to see if i even get on the panel.

I have stated that i will be supporting Peter Hain for the deputy leadership contest. I think he has a broad support throughout all sections of the party, has cruical government experience, and has come forward with ideas and policies that appeal to me. I havent wavered from that view.

HOWEVER

It is great to see a good number of the candidates coming forward with excellent ideas and engaging in necessary debates. A close joint second to Mr Hain in my choices was Jon Cruddas and Alan Johnson, and they have reaffirmed by beliefs that they are talking about things we need as a party to grasp. This piece by John Cruddas is very much due, what is more pressing at this moment in time is making sure we reconnect with the core Labour voters. Yes, talk of 'big tents' (I.e. tents that include Middle Englad and Waivering voters) are also important, but unless Labour is willing to galvanise people who have gave them unflinching support for generations, the 'big tent' wont have a base to tap its pegs into.

Alan Johnson's ideas regarding aspiration is crucial also, because its an idea that is about a common goal (to get on in life) and one which we can achieve ourselves.

The success of this idea in my eyes is not to push one aspirational model. To many in deprived areas, aspirations can often mean holding down stable employment and seeing their childrens education improve. This is not a shared aspiration with middle class voters, but it is key that we as a party recognise that people have different aspirations. The notion of an aspirational society is a kinetic, shapeshifting one, one that never stays still. It is key that as a party we offer the chance for people to improve, or to see improvement in all aspects of their lives.

It is good to see that the deputy leadership contest has acutally brought about some honest and frank debate...WE ALSO MUST HAVE A LEADERSHIP CONTEST.

Its so frustrating regarding the events down the senedd, as i can honestly say i am none the wiser as to what is going on. The day i spent down there was fruitless regarding finding out what progress is being made. All the journos i had a chat to were none the wiser either.

I still think that Labour has the mandate to be doing the negotiations though.

As soon as everything is sorted, i hope to post a flurry of ideas on the future of Welsh Labour.

Anon Comments...

2007-05-15T12:41:00.000-07:00

Anon comments have been enabled...So lets see how it goes.

Had a day down the senedd today, was much fun bumping into a few pals.

Turn that smile to a Brown...

2007-05-14T08:09:00.000-07:00

My recent lack of posting is due to the very excellent and humbling news that i am going to be a father for the first time in January 2008. It is very early days in my partners pregnancy, but i look forward to being a daddy.

Now onto some Politics!

I must admit, it has been a pretty downhearted time being a Labour supporter lately. If it isnt those pesky opposition parties attacking at us with good punches, its those even peskier voters voting against us (i jest of course). Much soul-searching needs to be done, which isnt the same as sulking, or 'business as usual' it is a real opportunity to come out fighting and use the debate to re energise all parts of the party and the electorate.

But now, maybe, at last, at long last, we might actually see some wheels in motion on the Labour front. Even the most committed Labour supporter recognises the enormity of the task facing Mr Brown, i do see some gravity in the view that it maybe too late and no matter what Brown does we will lose the next general election. However, i was truly impressed by his opening gambit. It was assured, measured and was a good tone setter for his leadership. I think those marking his downfall underestimate the man's brilliant mind, and his potential weaknesses do not look unbeatable.

Even in the office today, i feel my views on a Brown premiership are swimming against the tide. Many point to this supposed 'lack of charisma' as a stumbling block, of course he lacks Tony Blair's dulcet tone and delivery but havent we all despaired and attacked New Labour for this supposed Blair 'charisma'?

I really think that Brown can counteract this natural lack of ability in front of the media by utilising the talents around him. David Milliband is a huge asset to Gordon Brown, and an able and charming media operator to go with it. Peter Hain needs to be given a more prominent role, and new blood needs such as Yvette Cooper, Ed Milliband and Ed Balls need to be part of the 'government of all talents'. It works two fold because Cameron's cabinet is still riddled with failed chinless Tories. William Hague, talented speaker though he is, is a failed leader, not new. Liam Fox is a neo-con who wants tax cuts today and even cheerleaders like Iain Dale are climate change deniers.

Brown's sketching of ideas are promising, asset based welfare within the democracy he talks about is definitely something to pursue. The green towns thing is a great packaging of the green issues while tackling a massive problem of social housing

So, i have a cautious optimism for Brown's leadership, particularly as he will crush Osbourne and Cameron when the real fight starts...

Alot of water under the bridge still to go...

Down the senedd, god knows what is really going on, i think i have seen Plaid support and back out of every permetation possible. Rhodri Glyn-Thomas gave me a giggle, Plaid/Lib Dems/Trish Law with the tories helping from outside, come on man! you cant just shout the first thing that comes into your head and hope for the best.

Goodbye Mr. Blair...

2007-05-10T08:35:00.000-07:00

I am sure many millions of words will be spoken and written about Tony Blair in the next few weeks, and no doubt written and spoken far more elegantly and with far greater authority then i can ever muster. But i think it would be right to at least blog a bit about the man...

I think ultimately Iraq was a huge mistake, that will blight him and my opinion of him. But history will be begin to treat him differently, even the most politically blind must accept some the good things his government has done. I have been very vocal regarding Mr Blair being too cautious in implementing true social-democratic policies, perhaps never quite going far enough, but i think it wasnt as easy to do that in the political climate he inherited. England still remains are very conservative country, and Mr Blair skillfully operated under the tight constraints of a right-wing media storm that will forever blight any Labour government.

I believe he missed a fantastic opportunity to steer the political climate leftwards, perhaps he has slightly, but his majorities were so strong he could have been so much more bold. Although Tony Blair has shifted the debate slightly to the left, David Cameron's apeing is perhaps testament to that, it is still a shift that can be undone in less time than it took to put together.

Will Labour have this opportunity again? I certainly hope so.

*please dont see this as some sort of detailed analysis of his reign, it just some observations*

Anyway, no one can argue the political ability of the man as a communicator, in short, he is bloody brilliant at giving speeches. As a student of political communication i can only marvel at his delivery of this excellent speech- do i think its a bit too syrupy? yes. Is there too much moralising with a whiff of theism? Of course. Is is another great speech from Blair? Most definitely...

Transcript of Tony Blair MP's speech

Trimdon Labour Club, Sedgefield

Monday 10 May 2007

It's a great privilege to be here with you again today and to thank all of you too for such a wonderful and warm welcome.

I'd just like to say also if I might and just a special word of thanks to John Burton. John has been my agent here for many years now. He's still the best political adviser that I've got. He's...he's all the years I've known him he's been steadfast in his loyalty to me, to the Labour Party and to Sunderland Football Club, not necessarily in that order.

You know it's been my great good fortune at certain points in my life to meet exceptional people and he is one very exceptional person. And also if I may refer to another exceptional person who's my wife, friend and partner, Cherie.

And the children of course. Euan and Nicky and Katherine and Leo who make me never forget my failings...but give me great love and support.

So, I've come back here to Sedgefield, to my constituency, where my political journey began and where it's fitting that it should end. Today I announce my decision to stand down from the leadership of the Labour Party. The party will now select a new leader. On the 27th June I will tender my resignation from the office of Prime Minister to the Queen.

I've been Prime Minister of this country for just over 10 years. In this job, in the world of today, I think that's long enough, for me, but more especially for the country. And sometimes the only way you conquer the pool of power is to set it down.

I can only describe what I think has been done over these last ten years and perhaps more important why I tried to do it, and I never quite put it in this way before. I was born almost a decade after the Second World War. I was a young man in the social revolution of the 60s and the 70s. I reached political maturity as the cold war was ending and the world was going through a political and an economic and a technological revolution. And I looked at my own country. A great country with a great history and magnificent traditions, proud of its past. But strangely uncertain of its future. Uncertain about the future, almost old fashioned.

And all that was curiously symbolised you know in the politics of the time. You, you had choices, you stood for individual aspiration and getting on in life, or a social compassion of helping others. You were liberal in your values, or conservative. You believed in the power of the state or the efforts of the individual. Spending more money on the public realm was the answer, or it was the problem. And none of it made sense to me. It was twentieth century ideology in a world approaching a new millennium.

Of course people want the best for themselves and their families, but in an age when human capital is a nation's greatest asset, they also know it's just and sensible to extend opportunities, to develop the potential to succeed for all our people not just an elite at the top. And people today are open minded about race and sexuality. They're averse to prejudice. And yet deeply, rightly, conservative with a small 'c' when it comes to good manners, respect for others, treating people courteously.

They acknowledge the need for the state and the responsibility of the individual. And they know spending money on our public services matters and they know it's not enough. How they are run and organised matters too.

So 1997 was a moment for a new beginning. The sweeping away of all the detritus of the past. And expectations were so high. Too high probably. Too high in a way for either of us. And now in 2007 you could easily point to the challenges or these things that are wrong or the grievances that fester.

But go back to 1997. Think back, no really think back. Think about your own living standards then in May 1997 and now. Visit your local school - any of them round here or anywhere in modern Britain. Ask when you last had to wait a year or more on a hospital waiting list or heard of pensioners freezing to death in the winter unable to heat their homes.

There is only one government since 1945 that can say all of the following: more jobs, fewer unemployed, better health and education results, lower crime and economic growth in every quarter. Only one government. This one

But we don't need statistics. There's something bigger than what can be measured in waiting lists or GCSE results or the latest crime or jobs figures. Look at the British economy: at ease with globalisation. London, the world's financial centre. Visit ou8r great cities in this country and compare them with 10 years ago. No country attracts overseas investment like we do.

And think about the culture in Britain in the year 2007. I don't just mean our arts that are thriving - I mean our values. The minimum wage. Paid holidays as a right. Amongst the best maternity pay and leave today in Europe. Equality for gay people.

Or look at the debates that reverberate around the word today - the global movement to support Africa in its struggle against poverty. Climate change, then fight against terrorism. Britain is not a follower today - Britain is a leader.

It gets the essential characteristic of today's world. It's interdependent. This is a country today that fort all its faults, form all the myriad of unresolved problems and fresh challenges, it is a country comfortable in the twenty-first century. At home in its own skin, able not just to be proud of its past but also confident of its future. You know I don't think Northern Ireland would have been changed unless Britain had changed. Or the Olympics won if we were still the Britain of 1997.

And as for my own leadership, throughout these ten years where the predictable has competed with the utterly unpredicted, right at the outset one thing was clear to me. Without the Labour Party allowing me to lead it nothing could ever have been done. But I also knew my duty was to put the country first. That much was obvious to me when just under 13 years ago I became Labour's Leader.

What I had to learn, however, as Prime Minister was what putting the country first really meant. Decision-making is hard. You know everyone always says in politics: listen to the people. And the trouble is they don't always agree.

When you are in Opposition, you meet this group and they say 'why can't you do this?' And you say: 'it's really a good question. Thank you'. And they go away and say: 'it's great, he really listened'. And then you meet that other group and they say: 'why can't you do that?' And you say: 'it's a really good question. Thank you'. And they go away happy that you listened.

In Government you have to give the answer, not an answer, the answer. And, in time, you realise that putting the country first doesn't mean doing the right thing according to conventional wisdom or the prevailing consensus or the latest snapshot of opinion. It means doing what you genuinely believe to be right; that your duty as prime minister is to act according to your conviction. And all of that can get contorted so that people think that you act according to some messianic zeal. Doubt, hesitation, reflection, consideration, reconsideration; these are all the good companions of proper decision-making but the ultimate obligation is to decide.

And sometimes the decisions are accepted quite quickly; Bank of England independence was one, which gave us our economic stability. Sometimes, like tuition fees or trying to break up old, monolithic public services, the changes are deeply controversial, hellish, hard to do. But you can see we're moving with the grain of change around the world. And sometimes, like with Europe, where I believe Britain should keep its position strong, you know you are fighting opinion but you're kind of content in doing so. And sometimes, as with the completely unexpected, you are alone with your own instinct.

In Sierra Leone and to stop ethnic cleansing in Kosovo I took the decision to make our country one that intervened, that did not pass by or keep out of the thick of it. And then came the utterly unanticipated and dramatic September the 11th 2001 and the death of 3000 or more on the streets on New York. And I decided we should stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our oldest ally and I did so out of belief. And so Afghanistan and then Iraq, the latter bitterly controversial. And removing Saddam and his sons from power, as with removing the Taliban, was over with relative ease, but the blowback since from global terrorism and those elements that support it has been fierce and unrelenting and costly. And for many it simply isn't and can't be worth it. For me, I think we must see it through. They the terrorists who threaten us here and around the world will never give up if we give up. It is a test of will and of belief. And we can't fail it.

So: some things I knew I would be dealing with. Some I thought I might be. Some never occurred to me, or to you, on that morning of 2 May 1997 when I came into Downing Street for the first time.

Great expectations not fulfilled in every part, for sure. Occasionally people say, as I said earlier, the expectations were too high, you should have lowered them. But, to be frank, I would not have wanted it any other way. I was, and remain, as a person and as a Prime Minister an optimist. Politics may be the art of the possible; but at least in life, give the impossible a go.

So of course the visions are painted in the colours of the rainbow; and the reality is sketched in the duller tones of black, white and grey.

But I ask you to accept one thing. Hand on heart, I did what I thought was right. I may have been wrong, that's your call. But believe one thing, if nothing else. I did what I thought was right for our country. And I came into office with high hopes for Britain's future and, you know, I leave it with even higher hopes for Britain's future. This is a country that can today be excited by the opportunities, not constantly fretful of the dangers.

And people say to me it's a tough job, not really. A tough life is the life led by the young, severely disabled children and their parents who visited me in Parliament the other week. Tough is the life my Dad had; his whole career cut short at the age of 40 by a stroke.

Actually, I've been very lucky and very blessed and this country is a blessed nation. The British are special. The world knows it; in our innermost thoughts we know it. This is the greatest nation on Earth.

So it has been an honour to serve it. I give my thanks to you the British people for the times that I have succeeded and my apologies to you for the times I've fallen short.

But good luck.

My eyes have seen the glory, of a sacred wunderkind...

2007-05-10T02:23:00.000-07:00

I have received some life changing news last night, so dont expect nothing of much worth today.

Check these guys out...

Shy Child

I am stronger than Mensa...

2007-05-08T02:12:00.000-07:00

Lack of internet access in new house doth not maketh a regular blogger...

I have been torn and undecided about my views on the coalition/informal agreement argument all weekend, and until i have a good idea of the real options on the table (waiting on my sources post-group meeting today) it is difficult to get firmly behind any idea. I must admit my gut feeling is an informal agreement, implementing some of the policies put forward by Plaid, allowing Welsh Labour to still form a government and fight the next four years without the formal tie to another party. Although in truth i dont think it is beyond the realms of possibility to actually go on with 26 and seek agreements where needed on an adhoc basis.

All talk of '4-party' government is not good for Wales...what we need in our fledging democracy is government being scrutinised by genuine opposition, not different parties having their own departments. That lacks a fundemental vision for shaping Wales, how long before the tory education minister blames the Plaid Health Minster for making his or her job harder? Or a Labour Environment minister blaming a lib dem transport minister for not doing enough to tackle climate change? Trite observations perhaps, but i think the Plaid spin-doctor is kite flying a bit optimistically.

Plaid and Labour do appear to have workable differences, yet enough difference to provide visible government with scrutinising opposition. It also provides accountability for both and a platform to take forward to the next election. In truth the Lib Dems seem a bit all over the place at the moment, so until that picture becomes clearer it is hard to pinpoint the merits of a Labour/lib coaltion. It will be very interesting...

Huw Lewis speaks alot of sense here, we need to tackle the problems head on and be bold. The results were not good enough, next time is going to be even more intense and we need to provide a truly WELSH Labour vision. More on that this week...

The morning after...

2007-05-04T00:34:00.000-07:00

Bit bleary eyed to be honest having not been to bed and just got into work.

I went to the newport east/west count, and i think there was some worried faces when i arrived there with regards John Griffiths' seat, however my relief was huge when we began to get an idea of the votes. Can i congratulate John Griffiths and Rosemary Butler on their re-election, two AM's who are popular and will work hard for Newport.

The Lib Dems have produced some absolute drivel regarding Newport East, their vote day leaflet hardly mentioned any actually positive policy commitments, and in their words the choice was between 'A lib dem or a New Labour AM who will put your party before your area' with a picture of Bush and Blair next to it. Anyone who has dealt with John Griffiths knows full well his credentials as a Newport man through and through, and has stated he was AGAINST the Iraq War and marched against it. This rubbish by the Lib Dems is wholly wrong, and quite frankly in bad taste, still they got what they deserved in newport east.

I managed to meet Chris Chapman, who is a tory councillor in Rogerstone and 19 no less. He didnt seem to mind chatting away to the BNP while puffing on his fag telling them how the tories have won newport west and how the next general election is a done deal. For future reference it appeared his main garb at anyone Labour was 'we wouldnt be smoking outside if it wasnt for your party', well Mr Chapman, i am sure all the non-smokers were glad of a non-smoking building (a building that is a bloody leisure centre, so it has been non-smoking for many a month).

Now i dont think that Mr Chapman is a regular at the gym, but he should at least think before he opens his young mouth as the leisure centre has been non-smoking long before the ban.

I think all the toddlers to teens who use the tennis centre this afternoon will be glad that there is no smoking in the leisure centre. I am an occasional smoker, something i rarely do but i am 100% behind the smoking ban and see the reasons for it. Perhaps Mr Chapman would like to put his own wheezy walk outside the leisure centre down as a sacrifice for the comfort and health of all the non-smokers.

He wasnt nowhere to be seen once his 'prediction' regarding newport west was over a thousand votes out, one think he has a lot to learn.

So the national result,

Looks like Labour have 26 seats, which being frank is about right for what i thought (i wonder where all those people saying Labour were in meltdown and will only get 22 seats have gone?). I dont think it is good enough, but i think the key now is to rebuild and set the ground running at all levels of the party...

I want to congratulate Mohammed Asghar on his election, its vital that the assembly is far more reflective to the society it serves. I believe far more needs to be done to get young people into politics as well as ethnic minorities with perhaps future list nominations being used to positively promote underepresented groups in Wales.

The BNP slight growth is massively worrying, and is something people from all parties must take the can for, we need to democratically defeat this hateful party.

Coalition- Despite Tory/Plaid predictions, the fact they havent mustered enough seats between them to have more seats than Labour speaks volumes. Yes we can talk about share of vote, but we all knew the system (dont forget 300,000 Labour regional votes didnt garner one list seat last time) and had Labour taken a beating then the system would have been fine then for the opposition. I think this has put any rainbow coalition to bed...

It looks like the Labour/Lib Dem coalition is on, and i think it is not the end of the world. It gives Wales the stability it needs from the assembly, and i think it gives Labour a steady platform to rebuild their support.

Plaid and especially the Tories have done well, but Plaid knew this was an excellent chance to really forge ahead of the tories and they havent done it. Plaid will look long term and see this isnt such a great result for them.

Music...

2007-04-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

The Blood Brothers- love rhymes with hideous car wrecks

Nice little change of tack by this band, although i love all their stuff.

The Faint- paranoia attack

This is one of the songs of so many nights out for me.

My Vitriol- always your way

They promised so much with this song and 'cemented shoes' but failed to deliver that killer album. Shame

King Adora- smoulder

Sleazy and trashy, shit live though!

Clipse- Mr me too

One thinks Pharrell been listening to Kool Keith!!!