GLA list announced

An update to my post Update GLA: LibDem Candidate farce. The list of the top 11 candidates selected for the London Assembly list elections next year has been announced:

1 Mike Tuffrey 2 Dee Doocey 3 Caroline Pidgeon 4 Jeremy Ambache 5 Geoff Pope 6 Ben Abbotts 7 Stephen Knight 8 Shas Sheehan 9 Duncan Borrowman 10 Monica Whyte 11 Merlene Emerson.

What is disgusting is that there are no BME candidates in the top 5 names. With the 35% of London's population being of ethnic minority origin it is a rather shameful state of affairs. Have been reliably informed that even Cllr Meral Ece from Islington as the current Chair of the Ethnic Minority Liberal Democrats is one of the most high profile BME member of the party at the moment only came 11th. She subsequently stood down so Merlene Emerson crept on to the list.

Update: The summary and full results are now available.

The demise of LibDem Voice, just poppycock

The most interesting post this morning is the news or rather claims that Lib Dem Voice blog will close to new contributions and comments on June 19th. Bit sad really, LDV is on my must daily read list. If it really happens and I mean if, there won't be anybody to have a go at me any more. Rob Fenwick's famous for his slagging off, snide remarks and fabricated posts. He's so spiteful and such a miserable moo. Even today's post has the comments .

28. simon Says: May 29th, 2007 at 11:28 am
NO!!! The biggest laugh on the net is going! Rob- try and develop your sense of humour! It needs some work!
29. Rob Fenwick Says: May 29th, 2007 at 11:48 am
This coming from a man who thinks calling the Lib Dems “LibbyDems” is cutting edge wit, and who hasn’t noticed that the constant prattle he posts to this site hasn’t been published for the last month.

Iain Dale in his usual magnanimous style - Lessons from the Demise of LibDem Voice. In truth Iain has some valid points. When not having a go at people, the blog does serve a useful service. Somebody at HQ has been leaking info to him so he's always on the ball with facts about the LibDems.

Though being realistic Iain Dale sums it up articulately with the words,

So I suppose the lesson from this is that it's not easy to make a blog work for a mass, participatory audience, unless you have the resources to devote huge amounts of time and effort to getting it off the ground in the first place and then maintaining it.

Call me sceptical but I don't believe the blog will really close down. Somebody else will be the front man with Rob in the background pulling all the strings. It's all a sympathy ploy. Rob Fenwick is far too egocentric. Bet we'll see a last minute reprieve with all the 'adulation' and 'slapping on the back' comments which he so likes.

Update 31st May: As I predicted - And on the third day, Lib Dem Voice rose from the dead…

PFI Forum elections

It's been raining buckets round here for the past few days. Must have caught a bug or something but I'm just not well, feel sick and have a splitting headache all the time. Definitely off the food which is disturbing. Seem to have caught the bug from my grandson Naim, he came to stay on Friday. It's the first time since he was born I've actually seen him sick. Instead of his usual exuberant self he lay on the sofa all day wrapped in his 'special' blanket not saying a word to anyone, not even to his father when he phoned.

Bit of a panic, had to submit 150 words for the PFI election. Been putting it off, I've never been very good at writing to promote myself at the best of times. Feeling so lethargic at the moment and with this thumping head can hardly write anything sensible. Deadline's tomorrow after the hols so had to force myself.

Those who have been reading the blog know I took on the responsibility Acting Chair of the PFI2 residents forum which came into effect in Oct last year following on from the 2 years pre-contract signing committee which was dissolved.

It's been fun reading the Partners news sheets which is sent to Residents. Before each publication they phone and ask me some questions then produce my words in print with my mug shot. Always bemused to see which sections of the actual improptu interviews they print. Not bad so far.

Wasn't sure about standing again but other committee and Partners members have been very supportive. Seems they actually like my ideas and style of Chairing. Didn't want to let them down so managed to get out my words. Had to wait for my friend to come and edit for me but thanks to email it got there in time.

Now it's wait and see how many others submit their own. It would be nice to have more nominations than places so there's a proper election. Watch this space.

All so refreshing after my nightmare experience with the Islington LibDems whom I resigned from in Sept.

Islington: Another job done & dusted

I forget at times that some readers are following stories on blogs and need to read the conclusion otherwise not knowing the outcome continues to disturb them. Least that's what I was told anyway.

Point taken, I should have concluded on my post, Islington: What's the point of a rapid response number.

I'm not actually sure if it was as a result of my last call or the web post. Quite chuffed to arrive home last Friday and find a hand delivered letter on the door mat from the council's Street Management, Waste office. They apologised for the delay, explained the situation and promiced by the weekend the mess would be cleard away by the specialised graffiti cleaners.

Tuesday morning noticed it was gone. The street was clean and back to normal. Probably get slagged off by one of the neighbours AGAIN when they read this, the usual 'Mrs Busy Body' taunt but don't really care a stuff. Least it gives one the personal satisfaction of seeing another little community job done.

GLA candidate & Dudden Hill update

Reading this post GLA selection bit of shambles really promoted the old grey cells. Received an email saying the GLA candidates selection result has now been delayed until 31st May. Bit frustrating for the candidates. I know a couple who are on tenterhooks waiting.

Today is Brent: Dudden Hill by-election 24th May. The latest from the LibDem camp is that they are NOW confident of winning. A last minute push, feed back on the door step is positive. It's the two horse race and the Sarah Teather factor they are banking on. Not long to go now.

Weekend coming got a large bag of leaflets to deliver. Good exercise. Always say Camden LibDems are a nice lot.

Update Friday: The LibDems definitely have something to crow about this morning. They won the Dudden Hill by-election by 85 votes, all details from Mark Pack. Congratulations to Cllr Pawan Gupta who is therefore re-elected.

Didn't do anything honestly

An early morning check of my emails, had a couple about a LDV post on me. A whole post about me, thought god, whatever next. What piffle has the twerp written now. He's good at fabricating stories in the name of scoops. All ready for a good laugh, clicked on LDV but nothing happened.

The words appeared. Parse error: syntax error, unexpected '<' in /home/tdpqzuhv/public_html/wp-includes/template-loader.php on line 66

What a disappointment. Haven't done anything honestly - it's obviously a server down time problem but seeing how things are going at the mo and somebodies furtive imagination, I'll probably be accused of putting a hex on the site.

To be continued when the sites back up and I've reviewed what I'm supposed to read.

Back home from a meeting, bit late in catching up. The tech side is interesting, learned a lot. Don't quite know what to say best let readers be the judge. Bit disappointed in some of the comments from some of his henchmen. Thought one of two of them were a bit more mature then believing idle gossip.

Matt Sanders is the LibDem candidate for Haverstock by-election

Just waiting for the official announcement before my post.

After weeks of leaflet delivery the LibDems have finally selected 24 year old Matt Sanders as their candidate for Camden's Haverstock ward by-election slated for July 17th. The contact for the campaign is Ben Greening mailto:dandemis@googlemail.com

They say early work always pays great dividends! Activists will certainly have their work cut out with this one.

Not sure of the wisdom of having so many inexperienced young people on a council a party has just taken control of but my opinion doesn't count. One thing is for sure, a politically hungry man will work tirelessly so we expect good things from Matt.

Whoops, I almost forgot. For the labour perspective on the by-election progress, keep a beady eye on Theo's Blog, Camden's infamous labour blogger. I'm sure he'll have something to say over the next few weeks. He can never resist taking a pop at the opposition candidates

Brent: Dudden Hill by-election 24th May

This must be one of the strangest and most pointless by-elections I've ever known. A total waste of time and money.

In Brent, the court disqualified Dudden Hill ward's LibDem councillor, Pawan Gupta, on a point of order. He was working as a part time teacher for the council at the time and hadn't worked out his notice period. My previous post predicted the likelihood of the by-election so no surprises there.

It's clear to everyone that it wasn't his fault. The blame sits squarely on the shoulders of his local party. Even the judge gave them a slap on the wrist.

What is surprising about the whole affair is that it seems the same Pawan Gupta is restanding as the LibDem candidate in the by-election slated for Thursday, 24 May 2007. Shows I'm not current with election law because I didn't think it was possible so soon after being disqualified. In light of the outcome surely it would have been more sensible of the judge to have maintained the status quo rather than all the hoo hah of a by-election.

The London Region making all the right noise have put out the usual campaign spiel calling for the troops. Really wonder how many party members will take up the task.

Dear friends,

A week today we are defending a council seat in Sarah Teather's Brent East constituency.

Pawan Gupta is our candidate and the majority last time was just 32 votes so this is really important that we hold this seat.

Pete Hannon who is the Brent East Organiser told me just last night that he is really grateful to all those who have helped out so far, but we do need more people during the day, evenings and this weekend.

Please contact Pete (info@brentlibdems.org.uk) if you can help telling or knocking up on polling day.

However, if you can help between now and then - don't call or email - just turn up at 1 High Road, Willesden Green, NW10 2TE anytime from 10am on any day.

Sad to have to admit, from all indications there's a real likelihood of losing the seat this time around.

On Brent council's website there's some informative stuff on the whole procedure. Besides listing all the candidates, ALI,Shahrar - Green Party, CHOUDRY, Aslam -The Labour Party, DANBY, Tim - Respect, GUPTA,Pawan - Liberal Democrats, WARREN, John - The Conservative Party.

It's the first time I seen such articulated and clear step by step instructions on how to vote - Dudden Hill Ward By-Election May 2007. Some other councils could take a leaf out of their book.

Later: Seems the situation has other people baffled. On the Association of Liberal Democrat councillors (ALDC) it has the reason for the by-election as Party defending seat: LD. Cause: Resignation which is a load of bollocks.

Just cringe reading

Reading some blogs is just cringe material. Suppose it's different strokes for different folks but some really takes the biscuit.

What a wuss, what a dip-stick. A load of sanctimonious twaddle. You'd think it's the musings of a middle aged adult with some life experience of children and young people's behaviour, not a silly 26 year old, wet behind the ears, trying to impress the world with what he doesn't know.

Update: Sorry folks to spoil the fun, the cringe post has gone. He couldn't take the heat.

On the other hand some blogs say it all. Feeling so annoyed and frustrated about the amendment to of the Freedom of Information Act to protect MPs. Had a load of indignation SHOUTING in my head, just couldn't get my words out right. Found this post What have MPs got to hide?. Penned by a women of the world, couldn't have said it better myself.

Click here for an update of the debate of the Bill on Friday May 18th

Gordon Brown the Dour one is PM

So we have a coronation and Gordon Brown will be the next Prime Minister. Hardly surprising it's been on the cards for years. History in the making, Tony Blair has just been effectively replaced in a quiet coup d'etat.

Was wondering how many nominations Brown actually received in the end. Fishing around found an intelligent blog that has actually produced a list of the MP's who didn't support him. Two names instantly jumped out at me. Gobby Diana Abbott from nearby Hackney and as expected, my local MP the maverick Jeremy Corbyn.

Seems for the next 6 weeks we are in the unique situation of having two for one PM's running the country. Saying that, we have Tony Blair on a worldwide leaving tour and Gordon Brown on his meet the public tour. Wonder what would happen if the country had an emergency situation and who would take the helm.

Was thinking of an apt word to describe Gordon Brown. First preference is DOUR, second choice DEADPAN. Heaven help the country, listening to him speak doesn't inspire anybody, one can fall asleep if not careful. Have to admit though he comes across in his acceptance speech as a man full of good intentions, desperate to please now he has got the job after waiting in the wings for 12 years. Watch it on YouTube. Least in the pic above taken from he's smiling.

Gordon Brown's had a rough ride getting to the top job so lets all be magnanimous at this time and wish him well.

Nevertheless, hope we end up with a more exciting number two. The deputy leadership election is proving to be more interesting.

Hunter and Shooter gets a mention

A blog I've been reading for the entertainment factor is Hunter and Shooter. Just across the border in Haringey is Justin Hinchcliffe. Not even sure what he looks like, can't find a web mugshot of him to add to this post, don't know much about him except he's a Tottenham conservative but he's definitely a Tory with a sense of humour. A fun blog, I really like his sarcy style of writing.

His light-hearted character assassination of opposition members especially some of the LibDem councillors will undoubtedly strike a raw nerve but in truth he really describes some of them down to a T. He wrote in one post, At The Lib Dems' AGM, held last week, Neil "Humourless" Williams fought off a challenge from Cllr. Wayne Hoban. Couldn't help laughing, Neil probably won't like it but it's true, it is really difficult to get a smile out of him.

He must be irritating the hell out of somebody for Spiteful git to mention him on his bible bashing blog - Once again, Justin “complete idiot” Hinchcliffe locates mouth, inserts foot.

Wonder why we don't have any really 'funny' LibDem blogs. They are all so serious and more often than not, just forums for slagging off the opposition.

Update: As directed found some pics on Flicker, Justin's the one with the beard, he's not what I imagined and much better looking.

Islington: What's the point of a rapid response number.

The photo is of a 4 litre tin of paint that's been sitting outside one of the properties by the tube station after it was kicked over by one of the students from Acland Burghley school whilst waiting for a 390 bus. Showing off to his mates, he thought it was so very funny. In the pouring rain it was nothing more than a game to him. Not so for the pedestrians carefully trying to side-step round the mess.

A quick phone call to Islington Council, now called Contact Islington, to get it removed. I was promised a rapid response so the rain wouldn't spread the paint everywhere. Was even given a response number 1496640. Thought 'brilliant', things are looking up in Islington.

Do I ever learn. From experience should have known it was just lip service. The young lady who took the call took it seriously but whoever she passed the info on to apparently didn't. Today 4 days later nothing has happened. What a mess as people have trudged it up and down the pavement. It'll be a real job to clean it properly now.

Another call to them this evening the young man who answered has now included the need of a pressure-washer in the instruction. We live to see how long it will actually take them to do the job.

It is so annoying they don't do what they say they will do when they say they will do it. Will be keeping my beady eye on this, monitoring the situation.

LibDem voters want a change

Getting a lot of slack since my post Is it time to call it a day but the debate continues.

Noticed this cartoon lampooning Ming Campbell by Paul Doyle. It's supposed to be funny. Not sure about that but it makes a point.

Sad to be mentioning the MAN two days in a row but he has used it in his post Lib Dem voters deserting Ming, He refers to the Guardian ' lead column article', Weakened Campbell in trouble as most Lib Dem voters want him out.

It says, More than half of Liberal Democrat voters believe that Sir Menzies Campbell should be replaced as party leader as he seeks to assert his authority in the face of a squeeze from Labour and the Tories. A new Populus poll for The Times, undertaken over the weekend, highlights the decline in his personal rating after a second year of poor local election results. Apparently 54% of LibDem voters want to see Ming Campbell replaced. Very much suspect that the poll is correct.

It even mentions the Liberal Democrat Voice article claiming it brands Sir Menzies as “frankly embarrassing” and “an electoral liability”. Can't really disagree with that.

The problem with some LibDems is that many of them are idealists to the core. They talk about Liberalism as if it's something new and for only a special breed, a selective few. The very concept of personal imagery and high profile party branding is just not conceivable. They don't take into recognition that many voters are really non-political. Such voters vote as they have always voted or as their families vote without giving any thought to what it all means. For many it is the media especially TV that sways their choice often according to the vogue issue of the day and the politician involved.

The turn around of the Tory fortune is nothing more than a result of the David Cameron feel good factor. He portrays a youthful image, is the embodiment of a modern family man. He says all the nice words and looks like an interesting leader. For opposition parties it's a bitter pill to swallow.

What have the LibDems got, an old man for a leader who looks and sounds like a tired old man. It's all good and well Ming being a nice man, we know he is. The voting public who don't know him from Adam are only influenced by what they see on the TV and possibly what they read in the papers. It's his public persona which is the important factor and at the moment it is like the party is being headed by a grandfather. Voters are not impressed.

Why's Iain Dale writing trash

Iain Dale's diary, have to admit his blog is one I do read everyday. A real Tory loyalist he does lay into other parties and their people at times. I don't always agree with him but what he writes is usually interesting. Doesn't quite reach gutter level. Sometimes he even pens a good yarn.

Having achieved the status of being one the British creme de la creme political blogs, I was a bit taken back by his below the belt post - Gordon Brown & Rab C Nesbitt. Never expected him to stoop so low.

To poke fun at a person's use of the vernacular because of a dialect is on par with making fun of somebody with a disability. Iain shame on you.

Yes, Gordon Brown's Scottish accent needs some tuning into at times if one is not used to it but nevertheless he's not alone the way he speaks. He is Scottish after all. For what it's worth he's likely to be the next Prime Minister. Is the way he speaks going to become an embarrassing public issue.

Iain Dale probably doesn't read my blog these days. It's not politically important enough for him to mention anymore. Don't really care but at least I can express my disgust in what he's written in my own way.

Eight teas and one coffee please

An early morning request from the police and firemen outside my flat. It's all go around here. The second time in a week.

Got woken up with the larks this morning by the sound of shouting and continuous breaking of glass. Looked out of the back window and the middle flat next door was on fire. There was a huge ball of red flames flaring out of the window with black smoke bellowing out from the flat above.

The early morning wind didn't help matters either. All quite scary. The way the flames were taking hold there was concern it would extend to our side of the terrace block or the tree in their back garden would catch fire. Thankfully the rain last night meant only the near side branches were singed

Two fire engines and the police arrived. They evacuated the fire side of the building. We were getting worried they were going to ask us to all to vacate as well. The black smoke was everywhere.

The fire was brought quickly under control. Quite amazing the force of the water through the whole building. The flats are currently occupied by mature students. So sad to see all their books and papers being thrown out of the window.

The paramedics brought oxygen masks for the residents but one young man had to be taken to hospital.

My camera to hand as always took a couple of photos from the window of them all standing around whilst the inspection was being done. They must have seen me because my friend going out was asked by a fireman if I was a nice lady, 'yes if you want any info she'll oblige' was the reply, 'No but we'd appreciate eight cups of tea' said the fireman cheekily. Said like that how could I refuse them. Went down to check the order. 'Eight cups of tea and one coffee all with a spoon of sugar' was the response.

Left the front door ajar and a few minutes later two burly firemen all in their gear pounded up the stairs to collect the tray. Poor chaps they must have been desperate for a cuppa.

Ever curious had to ask the inevitable question about what happened. From all indications seems like it was an electrical fire.

It was only last week on bank holiday Monday, about to got to bed when there was a loud bang and a blood curdling scream. Across the road a large pick-up truck misjudged the island in the road, swerved and rammed into a stationary car. The scream was from the truck's passenger who was injured when they hit the car.

What a drama. Pandemonium everywhere, the visitors from the flat above me were about to come in as it happened. Having had a few too many they had lost their phone and their flat keys. Buzzing me non-stop, they shouted up to me to call the ambulance. Always ready to oblige. Had no choice anyway the way my name was being echoed around the street.

This time the emergency services responded in record time, the police, two firemen and an ambulance. They closed off the road diverting the traffic. The men were alive but their legs were trapped. Bit of a drama while they cut the men out of the truck.

People do gawk. I went out to the shops came back and found all the neighbours around all standing in a row watching the show. I'm as curious as the next man but to stand there in the cold for over an hour seemed ridiculous. Quite surprised to see some of them, in hair rollers and dressing gowns, didn't think they were the type.

Two hours later after the men had been taken to hospital, the firemen were still on standby. Not sure what for. The couple from upstairs locked out of their flat said the firemen refused to help them get back in. The lady asked if I could talk to them in my posh voice. Had to laugh, the cheek of her. Don't know how but it worked. Well I am a nice lady after all. With a smile two burly men rushed up the stairs and with a plastic something sprung open the door.

Well they say things happen in 3's. After this mornings event I'm wondering what's going to happen next.

Candidate selection: 2009 European elections

Sarah Ludford MEP looking very glam in a prototype electric car.

I'm always getting loads of bumph. From the returning officer Jonathan Davies, info about candidate selection for the 2009 European Parliament.

Now the Scottish, Welsh and local government elections are out of the way, the Party is starting the process of selecting our candidates for the 2009 European Parliamentary elections. At the last Euro elections in 2005, we elected 12 MEPs in every Region of England and in Scotland, with two gains from the previous elections.

Members of the European Parliament are elected using a form of proportional representation under which the Party puts forward a list of candidates. The number of candidates on the list is the same as the total number of MEPs to be elected for that region, ranging from 10 in the South East to three in the North East. The list is in order, so if there are ten MEPs to be elected and we win 20% of the votes, the first and second candidates on the list will be elected. (Actually, the number of seats each Party wins is determined by a complex formula, the d’Hondt formula, which means it is possible to win 20% of the seats with less than 20% of the votes). Who is on the list, and the order of candidates, is determined in a full STV postal ballot of all Party members.

Party members who want to seek selection must be approved candidates. Approval is dealt with by the English, Welsh and Scottish State Parties. In England, candidates who are already approved to be Westminster Parliamentary candidates can become approved European Candidates by passing a Euro policy conversion interview. Members who want to become approved candidates for the Euro elections, or approved Westminster candidates wanting to become approved Euro candidates, must apply to the English Candidates office by 25th May so the approval process can be completed in time.

The closing date for applications to be selected as candidates in England will be 2nd July (the Scottish and Welsh State parties will set their own timetables). Each Region is setting up a Selection Committee which will interview all the applicants and determine the shortlist from whom members will choose the candidates. The shortlist will be announced at the end of August and will be on the Party’s web site with a link to candidates’ own web sites.

In October there will be hustings in every region. Every member will be sent a manifesto from every
candidate with their ballot paper. Candidates will also campaign by personal and phone canvassing and through web sites and emails. As an innovation in this selection campaign, there will also be an on-line electronic hustings (to ensure you receive full details of the electronic hustings, make sure Membership Services Department has your email address).

The postal ballot of members will close on 7th November, and the selected candidates will be announced a few days later – with over eighteen months to campaign to increase the number of Lib Dem MEPs we elect in 2009

Jonathan Davies
Senior Returning Officer

Well that's the instruction with the timetable, we'll have to wait and see who applies and gets selected.

Here in London it'll be all change. In 2005 we only had one MEP, Islington resident, Baroness Sarah Ludford. Because of European regulations, as a member of the house of Lords, she can't stand for re-election this time around. Sad really. Passionate about Europe, she's a tough cookie, a bit of a dragon but a pushy lady who can hold her own as an MEP. A great asset to the LibDems. Probably why her husband, Steve Hitchins, ex Islington council group leader, has been able to get away with blue murder over the years and nobody has dared to say a dickie bird against him.

The runner-up candidate in 2005 was Jonathan Fryer. Knowing that Sarah wouldn't be allowed to stand again, over the years Jonathan has made his presence felt by attending LibDem social events all over London. Sometimes two or three in a day. It's all about name recognition and getting members to vote for you. Have to admire his determination to be selected as the first preference candidate in place of Sarah. Only recently he even started his own blog - Jonathan Fryer. Will he be selected this time around. I'm not so sure.

Sarah will be a difficult act to follow. Jonathan is highly intelligent, writes some eloquent prose and is a really nice person but by his nature he is a bit wishy washy. In terms of leadership he's another one with absolutely no spunk about him. Some of those Europeans would have him for breakfast. I've nothing against him personally and have to admit he's always treated me with the highest respect but one has to be true to one's conscience. He'd make a non-descript MEP. Members may beg to differ and vote for him.

The country awaits June 27th

At Mid-day the world and his dog watched the greatest show on earth. Tony Blair's emotional announcement he will stand down as prime minister on 27 June was touching.

Typical Blair style, a nice human touch, he travelled to his Sedgefield constituency to make the formal announcement.

Summing up his record he said, "I did what I thought was right for our country." Words which will strike a cord in the hearts of many. I'm not a Blair supporter but one couldn't help be moved by some of his remarks. The BBC has his speech on video Tony Blair's speech and the photo above. IN PICTURES Blair's big day

To sum up the exit time frame Brogan seems to be on the button, he penned,

So Mr Blair's last week will go something like this: June 21-22, EU council in Brussels; June 24, conference confirms Gordon Brown is new leader; June 25, Blair statement on EU to the Commons; June 27, Blair attends last PMQs, then heads for the Palace - Gordon Brown follows him, and is on the Number 10 doorstep in time for the 6 o'clock news.

Over the coming days and weeks, the vultures and political pundits will be out analysing his whole 10 years in office. They will be tearing strips off him bit by bit. Political bloggers from all parties will have a field day. Definitely my coming weekend's reading.

What's next, looks like we will have Brown as the next PM. He's not my kettle of fish, his public persona is so dry and dull. The man has no charisma. Can't envisage his style will endear the public towards accepting him. He's been a brilliant chancellor, arguably the best the country ever had but as the PM, oh please, pull the other one it's got bell on it. Seems for now the country has no choice.

As things are it would be better to call a general election and let the people decide. Obviously Labour won't agree to this. They know the mood of the people at this time would probably result in a kicking.

For reading later, The Blair story From rebellious schoolboy to global statesman. Not really relevant to this post but could be of interest to folks who are curious about the life of the man.

LibDems: Is it time to call it a day?

A sad cartoon some might say, sickening to others. If the truth be told it strikes a raw nerve. Ming's leadership is becoming a liability to the Liberal Democrat party.

It's no-longer a laughing matter. The party is in trouble there can be no doubt about that. A lot of the dead wood needs to be cleared out. Some of the heavyweights at HQ are trying to put a gloss on the current situation and are rather foolishly ignoring the electoral meltdown. Talk about spin, how dare Mark Pack write such garbage. An absolute load of cobblers. A complete misrepresentation of the truth. What is it all for. Is somebody trying to suggest people are idiots and will believe such crap? Better to say nothing than to write something so stupid.

In Wales, Peter Black AM has been castigated for speaking his mind. The next thing you will hear is a suggestion that he is bringing the party into disrepute or he will be stigmatised by the heavyweights in London. They can't actully shut him up. As a member of the LibDem Welsh party there's not much they can really do to him except make verbal noise. No right thinking person in Wales would blame Peter after the disastrous results. Quite sure some of the LibDems in Wales will come out and support him.

In Scotland the LibDems have now turned down the prospect of a coalition with the SNP to form the next government. Scottish Lib Dem leader Nicol Stephen has indicated they refuse to consider the Nationalists' demand for a referendum on independence.

Why are the LibDems taking this undemocratic stance. From all indications, the vast majority of the Scottish electorate including Scottish party members want a referendum. I personally don't like the idea of an independent Scotland but I'm not Scottish. It's the right of the Scottish people to determine the country's destiny not a few individuals.

I suspect the real reason behind the LibDems stance is more about stopping the Nationalist's leader Alex Salmond becoming Scotland's First Minister than any referendum.

Simon Jenkins article in today's Guardian TATTERS the party suggesting it's time to disband. He writes,

What are Liberal Democrats for? They are the flotsam of 20th-century politics drifting on into the 21st, coagulated from ancient clubs, cabals, splits and defections from other parties. Not since the 19th century have they cohered round any great interest. They represent no mass movement, no breaking of the political mould. Ask a Liberal Democrat what he or she is for and you get only a susurration of platitudes.

LibDems won't find it very complimentary but they will have to admit there are elements of truth in his words. Bit harsh to suggest the party disbands but the way things are heading it's going to be reduced to a minority party if care is not taken. Come the GE the party will lose many of the seats they were so proud of gaining last time around.

Update: Blog find : This post led me to THIS.

An unexpected bank holiday present.

Every womans dream, I don't think so but I'm really chuffed to bits. My friend arrived yesterday with a large package under his arm. With great excitement opened the box and found a leaf bird bath. Wow, just what I needed. Honestly not the usual kind of present but it's a kind thought. Was so touched.

Noticed every time I watered the garden, birds hover around looking for water and worms. Felt a bit sorry for them in the heat.

Curious being I am, positioned the bath at the bottom of the garden so I can see it from the window (photo above). Will be watching out to see if the birds actually use it. Hope it doesn't attract more squirrels. They are a nightmare with their digging.

Least I know Naim will have fun with it when he next visits.

Update GLA: LibDem Candidate farce

Update to my previous post. London members are about to receive their ballot papers, some already have. With 11 places on the Lib Dem List, below is the current list of 22 LibDem candidates and their contact details, up for selection.

• Ben Abbots: 07973 353241; benjamin@LLM.co.uk
• Cllr James B Allie: 0794 973 3967; borborallie2003@yahoo.co.uk, http://www.jamesallie.org/GLA.html
• Jeremy Ambache: 07757 285 785; Jambache@aol.com, http://www.jeremyambache.com/
• Norhseen Bhatti: 07761 259 155; norsheen@aol.com
• Duncan Borrowman: 07935 281208; http://www.borrowman.org.uk/
• Nasser Butt: 07710 389 336; Nasser@nasserbutt.com ; http://www.nasserbutt.com/
• Johanna Christie-Smith: 07957 769341; jo@jo4gla.org.uk; http://www.jo4gla.org.uk/
• Leslie Coman: 07970 525 143; leslie.coman@comancommunications.biz
• Dee Doocey OBE, AM: 020 8941 2283; deedoocey@blueyonder.co.uk; http://www.deedoocey.co.uk/
• Cllr Meral Ece: 07949 678 597; meralhece@yahoo.co.uk; http://www.meralece.org.uk/
• Merlene Emerson: 8 Lonsdale Road SW19 9EB; merle@markemerson.net
• Cllr Wayne Hoban: 020 8374 3600; wayne.hoban@btinternet.com; http://waynehoban.org/pages/glamanifesto.html
• Sean Hooker: 0208 449 4379; sean@chippingbarnetlibdems.org
• Rajonuddin Jalal: 07985 291 910; jala59@btinterrnet.com
• Cllr Stephen Knight: 020 8977 4541; cllr.sknight@richmond.gov.uk; http://www.stephenknight.org.uk/
• Ajmal Masroor: 07956 987 398; masroor@btinternet.com; http://www.ajmal4london.co.uk/
• Chris Noyce: 07785 533 907; cnoyce4gla@fsmail.net
• Cllr Caroline Pidgeon: 020 7701 4648; cpidgeon@cix.co.uk; http://www.caroline4london.org.uk/
• Geoff Pope AM: geoff.pope1@london.gov.uk
• Cllr Shas Sheehan: 07810 108 983; shas.sheehan@btinternet.com; http://www.shas4london.net/
• Mike Tuffrey AM: 020 8673 1684; mike.tuffrey@gmail.com; http://www.tuffrey.com/
• Monica Whyte: 07976 665 110; monica@monicawhyte.org; http://www.monicawhyte.org/index.html

It's all a bit of a farce really. Out of 25 members, the Lib Dems currently have 5 Assembly members : Dee Doocey, Sally Hamwee, Geoff Pope, Graham Tope, and Mike Tuffrey. It is only Sally and Graham now members of the Lords who are standing down. It's widely presumed the incumbents restanding will be automatically reselected so the reality is that there are only actually two places to fill.

It would be commendable if an ethnic minority candidate is selected. Being completely realistic that's just not going to happen in a month of Sundays. Sad really because there are a couple of brilliant candidates I recognise on the list, Ajmal Masroor (his website is by far the best) & Meral Ece. Unfortunately the majority of London members are white and when push goes to shove, they will go the usual safe route. Besides there are ongoing behind closed door activities to get Caroline Pigeon selected. She's been selected as a PPC for a no hope seat in anticipation of winning. I suspect Ben Abbotts will be the other candidate chosen, a sympathy vote for not winning last years Bromley parliamentary by-election.

On the other hand wouldn't it be fun if members votes upset the apple cart. There is of course the GLA list candidates to consider. The old grey cells need a jog, can't bring to mind at the mo which boroughs Islington is grouped with.

Later: The winners will be announced 28th May 07

Freecycle: how many politicians actually do

Watch a short animation about Freecycle™

Just hate to throw anything away that might be useful to others. From the Green party, came across Freecycle which has groups all over the country and in most boroughs in London/Greater London . Always looking for ways of recycling things, I joined both the Islington and Camden freecycling groups.

Bit sceptical about the number of emails I might expect so set it to daily digest. With just two emails a day, have been watching what people recycle. Absolutely amazing, literally everything but the kitchen sink seems to go.

Plan to work on the garden this weekend. Some of the plants need pruning or reducing. Especially the beautiful white CanaLillies. They are just too lovely to throw away. Offered on the Islington list and WOW 20 people living locally have responded.

All politicians talk about recycling and renewable energy. Just wonder why most of them don't walk the walk when it comes to themselves. Haven't seen any links to such recycling sights on the big movers and shakers blogs. Bit surprised it's only the Greens who really have taken this on board.

I'm putting a link on my site and daring anybody else to do the same.

Ming's blings with heads in the sand

Like millions of others I have been spending the past couple of days watching with great interest the wind of change blowing over the political spectrum as the result of the elections have come in.

Between BBC 24, 18 Doughty Street and Iain Dale there was no need for anybody really to say another word. Marvelous media coverage

Late Thursday sat watching Nick Robinson and Jenny Scott with their guests from the different parties analysing the incoming results until my lids couldn't stay open anymore. Honestly Sarah Teather's droning voice sent me into the land of nod. Her face would crack if she laughed. Glad I'm not the only one who has a similar opinion of her.
From Iain Dale Live Blogging Until I Fall Asleezzzzzzzz 04.22 Right, think I am going to call it a night now. I don't think I can stand listening to Harriet Harman any longer. Sarah Teather is such an appalling performer for the LibDems. Thanks for the company - 18 Doughty Street will be back on air at 10am to have continuous live coverage throughout the morning and afternoon.

Got to admire those guys staying up all night keeping the show going, they were still at it when I woke in the early hours of the morning.

Feel somebody at the BBC is a little biased against the LibDems. Friday morning's News 24 with Jeremy Vine with his virtual reality graphics. Somebody has coined the phrase 'Ming's Blings'. Couldn't believe my eyes seeing a holographic Ming in a jogging suit rapping. Think it was the shock of seeing something like that on the BBC news but the after the second showing thought it quite funny. Hope somebody out there has a Youtube version.

It's obvious LibDems are now just treading water. To lose so many council seats is not looking good - Lib Dems suffer polls 'mixed bag' Lib Dem leader Sir Menzies Campbell accepted it had been a "mixed bag" of results after his party's share of the vote fell a point from 2006 to 26%.

Mixed bag, my backside. It's a disgrace. The party has been in an obvious decline since Ming took over the leadership. When are they going to face the reality and admit it. All the magic of the Charles Kennedy era and his cheeky chappie image which so endeared the public has been blown out of the window. The youthful charismatic David Cameron has now caught the imagination of voters. The Tories are making gains everywhere. One has to give them credit where credit is due. Sadly it is now going back to the two party politics of yesteryear.

Later: Least 'Spiteful git' has shown he has some bottle with his post on LDV, Will the election results spell the end for Menzies Campbell the answer is in your hands not his - Noticed most of the comments don't seem to have anything nice to say about him.

Poke someone in Facebook

Reading an excellent piece, tuned in and turned on, a reference to Facebook jogged my memory.

It says, For example, LibDem leader Ming Campbell has broken new ground in becoming the first party leader to join the hip social networking website Facebook, racking up well over a thousand ‘friends’, and earning an accolade from the Daily Mirror as the politician with the best online presence.

Well I registered with Facebook some time ago. Other than nosing around other members friends I haven't really bothered with anything else. Can't quite see the point myself. It's just another 'style' of email list sexed up a bit. Seems a good way for young people to socially interact and keep in touch with friends. Actually found my niece Luli has registered. She is in the 18 - 25 age group that politicians try and target.

One thing I can't quite get my head around is the tag 'Poke'. Apart from it sounding disgustingly vulgar I haven't got a clue what is supposed to happen. Poked a few people I found listed, two I have to admit was just to annoy them. Also sent a couple of mails to see what happens. Would be cool though if somebody would explain a bit more about it.