Tony Blair – VERY Latest & Other News Updates

• Home page – or – Click for more links at end of this post

[Note: The VERY latest posts are on the right hand columns.  Or view the ‘All Contents of SIte Index’ here. The page you are currently viewing has posts dating from April – September, 2007.]

• All Contents of Site – Index
• Blair- ‘Cometh The Hour’ Vs Militant Secularism
• Wilders Video – Strife laden?
• Iraq, Blair & the “Art of the Possible”
• Embryo Research, Winston & Why Religious ‘Interference’ Is Dangerous
• Iraq – And What the Press HAVEN’T told you
• Who said: “I met a man who wasn’t Blair …”?
• Thank You to the British Troops – You’re The Best

Comment at end of page

• Alastair Campbell – The Blair Years
• See ALL of Tony Blair’s final PMQs, including unprecedented standing ovation
• Read the full Hansard transcript of the final Blair PMQs – 26 July, 2007
• View short ending clip of Tony Blair’s last PMQs – two remarks –

1. “From first to last I never stopped fearing it” (the House of Commons – PMQ sessions).
2. “Some may belittle politics but we know who are engaged in it that it is where people stand tall and although I know it has its many harsh contentions it is still the arena that sets the heart beating a little faster. And if it is on occasions the place of low skulduggery it is more often the place of the pursuit of noble causes … and that is that – the end.”

OTHER PAGES

• PM, Sedgefield: Gives leaving date to constituents
• It was “YEAH Blair” not “Yo”: Hear and watch this myth exploded
• View page on Blair Resignation: “I did what I thought was right”
• Click here to go down to the latest on Tony Blair

[Click on the YouTube video arrow and let it run while you read. “I did what I had to do, and saw it through without exemption.” Must have been written for Mr Blair.]

---

YouTube video on the man they used to call “all things to all men”. Conviction politician?

---

“Yeah Blair”

How many other lies do we swallow willingly? It was – “Yeah, Blair – NOT “Yo, Blair“

Political myths uncovered.

---

Go here to view more Blair videos

LATEST

19th September, 2007

GIULIANI IN LONDON: NO IRANIAN NUKES.Rudy Giuliani has been in London today, meeting up with three prime ministers! What ! You didn’t know we had that many. Oh, yes. There’s the Current one – GB/PM, the Real one, TB, and Lady T – the Resurrected one. Mr Giulani is on his presidential hustings, though I don’t know if he knows something we don’t. We’re not actually the latest US state.

I found the reaction by the American newscaster an eye opener. He was all excited about the picture of Mr Giulani outside Downing Street. What! I hear you say. That little terrace? Whether we realise it or not that modest street in WC1 has been the setting for many a political drama for centuries, and is still of worldwide significance. And in recent years Blair, on his many newscasts made it central to the American psyche.

A pity Lady T had the gates put up at the end of the street in response to terrorism and stopped us all getting a closer look. Now – if Blair had tried that in the last couple of years the Lippies would have wanted to have him hung from them.

[And those were Irish terrorists! Those now in government, largely thanks to TB. Any lessons here?]

Watch the American newscast.

GIULIANI IN LONDON: NO IRANIAN NUKES. Now in London to give the inaugural Margaret Thatcher Atlantic Bridge lecture and receive a medal from the former prime minister, now baroness, Rudy Giuliani said today that under no circumstances should Iran be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.

Giuliani had a public meeting yesterday with Prime Minister Gordon Brown and a private meeting with former Prime Minister Tony Blair, now the special Mideast envoy. Giuliani, who was knighted by Queen Elizabeth in 2002 for his leadership of New York during 9/11, is clearly making the rounds in London.

18th September, 2007

CANADA LUNCH DATE FOR BLAIR

CALGARY 1ST SPEAKING STOP FOR CITIZEN TONY BLAIR

Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair will make his first Canadian speech since leaving office next month in Calgary.

Blair will speak to 1,500 people about “Building Global Relations.”

Blair stepped down at the end of June and was then appointed as an envoy to promote peace between Israel and the Palestinians by the so-called Quartet of Mideast peacemakers. His $400-a-plate lunch, which is sponsored by TD bank, will be held at the Calgary Telus Convention Centre on Oct. 26.

SCARCITY VALUE

So, Mr Blair will still be talking politics when people come to see and hear him. Or should I say, will AGAIN be talking politics. The value of his words will have increased due to their recent paucity. There’ll be nothing about business in the community or how to put over one’s message etc. For his experience and thoughts on the issues facing the world today people will happily pay, since the pearls we are used to hearing have been strictly limited since he left office. And on a personal level it might help compensate for everything else he does for nothing.

Watch this space. I have a feeling that when he speaks to a paying audience, presumably of opinion formers, there may just be more value in it.

For years here in the UK, he’s been “too good for the room”.

13th September, 2007

“BLAIR HOPED TO AVOID IRAQ WAR”, says Manning

It’s about time Blair got a touch of support from those who were near the former PM when he made the difficult decision to support the USA in its Iraq invasion. Too often, since 2003, we have been fed the “Blair lied”, “Blair wanted to invade before Bush”, “Blair was the brains behind the power”, lines by the Blair haters.

And the former PM has invariably behaved courteously to friend and foe throughout, seldom criticising his critics, and never finding fault with his friends, even when fault is fairly easy to see.

You only have to glance through a few records of discussions at the time, through books written about Blair’s years, to notice how “unwarlike” his approach has always been. He seemed to want to do anything to avoid bloodshed.

That’s what makes it so sad and unjust that the consequences of the sectarian violence in Iraq have bounced back on Blair (and Bush) as though it was joint premeditated murder.

And, of course, if everything had worked out beautifully, quickly and cleanly with few deaths, Blair would not be described as a warmonger so easily and carelessly by those I wouldn’t trust to run my bath, much less my country.

Perhaps David Manning’s comments will go some way to correcting this picture many still have of Tony Blair. Although with such as the Daily Mail and the Independent on their continuing Blair Witch Hunt, I’m not holding my breath.

BBC report follows:

Tony Blair hoped war in Iraq would not be necessary and Saddam Hussein would be removed by diplomatic pressure, his former foreign affairs adviser says.Sir David Manning said the former prime minister had not committed to the war at George Bush’s ranch in 2002.

But he told the New Statesman the way the post-war situation was handled had been a failure.

In March 2003 Mr Blair won Parliament’s backing to send British troops to war – despite a rebellion by 139 Labour MPs.

In the interview Sir David, who is soon to step down as British ambassador to Washington, denied Mr Blair had already committed to war nearly a year before.

UN pressure

He said Mr Blair “was always in favour of regime change, but that did not mean he always wanted regime change through military means.

“He must have known it might come to military action, but I have always believed he hoped and probably believed there was a way of getting there by using the UN to put pressure on Saddam.

“I don’t think he ever wanted to go by the military route.”

He added: “He didn’t talk to me as a prime minister saying to me: ‘I’ve made up my mind…we’re going to war with Iraq’.”

He also said Mr Blair had believed there were weapons of mass destruction in Iraq and had not fabricated concerns to justify the policy of going to war.

‘Overoptimistic’

Sir David said Mr Blair may have put too much weight on assurances from the US that plans for post-war Iraq had been drawn up by Colin Powell’s State Department, when in fact he was sidelined by Donald Rumsfeld.

Within weeks of the fall of Saddam Hussein there were serious concerns about the way the US was handling the occupation, he told the magazine.

“I don’t think anybody can see that the immediate post-war situation was anything other than a failure,” he said.

“We had hoped that rapidly the situation would stabilise, that it would be possible to introduce reconciliation, get the economy moving quickly and rebuild society.

“Did it happen quickly? No, we failed. We were over-optimistic.”

Mr Blair was succeeded by Gordon Brown in June. As prime minister he faced criticism from within his own party over his policy in Iraq, but always strongly defended his interventionist foreign policy.

2nd September, 2007

WHERE’S THE MISSING ENVOY?

For those of you who keep asking on search engines – “where is Tony Blair?” – here’s some news. He has arrived in the Middle East for a two week visit, prior to the New York UN meeting later this month. Kuwait tonight, Palestine/Israel meetings on Tuesday.

I understand it takes some getting used to, knowing that Blair is around and yet we don’t hear much of what he’s up to; I feel the emptiness too in this vacuous, dreary, domestic political scene. But the normal situation with envoys is that they operate behind the scenes – negotiating and reporting back, back and forth, back and forth.

Apart from that there is the small matter of his security. As far as I’m concerned at this time, no news is good news.

1st September, 2007

BLAIR TO SPEAK AT CATHOLIC FUND-RAISER, NEW YORK

Mr Blair’s intentions on his conversion to Roman Catholicism – ‘will he or won’t he’ are as yet unclear. But, he is said to be lined up as the featured speaker, at the $1,000 a ticket catholic fund-raising event on October 18th at the 62nd annual Alfred E. Smith Memorial Foundation Dinner, at New York’s Waldorf-Astoria, according to the new Catholic New York.

17th August, 2007

BLAIR “DEAL ON MEMOIRS”

We were all wrong, it seems, on the general expectation that the former PM would wait a bit before publishing his memoirs. Well now that Campbell has published his and even John Prescott has signed a deal, Mr Blair must be feeling the pressure to get HIS side of the story out there.

“Although sources close to Mr Blair, who stood down in June, say the process is at a very early stage, the news could give Gordon Brown cause for concern.

The pair had a famously turbulent relationship but Mr Blair has repeatedly insisted his top priority was securing a fourth term in government for Labour.”

So does that mean that GB/PM had better delay the next general election? If all Mr Blair wanted to be sure of was a”fourth general election victory”, then once that is secured – well, the sky’s the limit. We’ll hear all about the TB-GBs – at least from Blair’s side. I’m really not sure what to make of this. Is Tony Blair just flying a kite, putting the scarers onto his successor, about to publish a bland piece of stuff anyway, or WHAT exactly? I’d love to see what he REALLY thinks/thought of Brown, but somehow I don’t really see this happening. Wish it would though!

13th August, 2007

BLAIR URGED TO TALK TO HAMAS – AND URGED NOT TO

The Foreign Affairs Committee, and Tory Michael Ancram are pressing Tony Blair to talk to Hamas in Gaza – the group proscribed by many, including the EU and the USA. Of course others disagree. The committee criticised Mr Blair for delaying his calling for a halt to Israel’s bombing of the Labanon last summer. Have they wondered what he might have been doing for those two weeks? Negotiating? Discussing options? Trying diplomatically to get Israel to withdraw? But you can’t win them all – even Mr Blair. And really – what makes them think that the UK is SO powerful that Israel would have stopped on OUR say-so? Silly.

But they can have a plus point for recognising that Tony Blair should have his remit widened. Still, why are these committees often so far behind common sense? It’s clear that Blair long ago decided to, directly or indirectly, bring Hamas into the discussions. How ELSE is he going to get them to agree to anything?

Here’s what one blogger thinks of our MPs. Flattering, is it not? Not, is the word you’re looking for.

Meanwhile the UN is expressing concern over the Palestinian humanitarian situation in Gaza following Israel’s closing of ALL their external crossing points.

FROM RUSSIA WITH LOVE?

(See my new page on this here)

And Russia is writing its own script, in which it sees Blair being discredited when he is seen to be too close to the Americans & Israel. Then they reckon he will fail abysmally and they can step into the breach with their own agenda. Interesting read.

I hope Mr Blair has had a restful and energising break. In his post as envoy, with all the competing voices, he is likely to need to draw on all of his reserves in the coming months.

BROWN SORELY TEMPTED BY AUTUMN POLL

Will GB/PM go for an election in October/November as suggested here before he took the hot seat? Yes, of course he will, and not just because he is 10 points ahead at the moment. Mainly for these reasons:

• The Tories are in a mess, and don’t look like recovering any time soon.
• Later might be TOO late if the economy falters or other “events” come into play.
• Brown needs to be sure of keeping southern England seats on board. They’re still honeymooning him now. That won’t last.
• Which big political issue could lead a Labour campaign?
• Iraq! Sooner means less time to worry about giving a complete withdrawal date.
• In his own ‘new’ Labour government Brown wants to put Blair firmly in the past.

On the other hand, are Labour’s finances in place yet? And is the public ready to vote in numbers again being just over two years since the last general election?

NO MESSING WITH OUR CLIMATE, MR BROWN!

The government says there is no change in the government’s goals on renewable energy targets, following a leaked paper saying that we are less than half way on track on some of our 2020 aims, set by Mr Blair in March. What’s this I hear? Honest to Gord’s government spinning their way out of it? Changing the way figures are measured or interpreted? Nah! Never! Plus ca change, plus c’est la meme chose. N’est-ce pas?

Looks like it’s up to GB/PM to sort it out. Can’t call on the former PM to fix it now. He still has another little task to oversee.

10th August, 2007

WHAT’S ALL THIS ABOUT RELEASING SUSPECTED TERRORISTS?

If Mr Blair thought we should not entertain the thought of releasing these five from Guantanamo, I’m with him. STILL. He understood what was going on. Brown & Co only understand placating the muslim vote as far as I can see, ready for the election in October/November or whenever he is 15% ahead in the polls. The 98% of us, muslims and non-muslims do NOT want these five back on our streets if there is good cause for them NOT to be released.

Excerpt: “The Blair government did call for the closure of Guantanamo Bay and acted on behalf of British citizens held in the camp, and they have been freed, but it always rejected demands that it support these five.”

9th August, 2007

According to a statement from the UN, the Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, who wraps up a one-week visit to Barbados today, met Tony Blair to discuss the volatile political climate in the Middle East. They discussed recent developments in the region and the ongoing efforts of the Quartet to bring about a peaceful solution to the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.

28th July, 2007

Gordon Brown is about to announce his own Middle East envoy, expected to be former journalist Michael Williams, presently UN Mid-East special co-ordinator for Middle East peace.

• So why the fuss? Didn’t Tony Blair always have a British government envoy – most recently Lord Levy?

Political commentators have suggested that the expected job announcement indicates that Brown is keen to develop his own Middle East policy, despite his predecessor being appointed as an international envoy to the region.

• Well of COURSE he is. And so he should.

A diplomat quoted by the Guardian indicated that there could be difficulties between Mr Blair and Mr Brown’s Middle East envoy if the latter tried to focus on Palestinian economic development – a matter said to have been of interest to the current prime minister before he entered Downing Street.

• Ah well, then! So because Mr GB/PM was “interested” in something Mr TB/Ex-PM is NOT supposed to touch it? What rot.
• Look out Africa & Climate problems. They’re up next – of common interest.

“If he works on the economic road map, Williams will be playing on the same pitch as Blair, and Blair is a bigger and a better player,” the unnamed source told the paper.

Downing Street has not confirmed that Mr Williams will be appointed as Mr Brown’s new Middle East envoy, but a spokesman told the Times that the prime minister was intending to make such an appointment “in due course”.

Analysts say that whoever takes the role will have to decide whether to engage with Palestinian political movement Hamas, which last month seized control in the Gaza Strip and is still refusing to formally renounce violence or recognise Israel.

I know the press is missing the TB/GB spats and must be feeling the need to make them up as they go along, but there is bound to be some juggling for position here by GB/PM now that the other guy (the ‘rock star’) has already got them all hanging on his every thought.

But if Brown thinks that he can take Blair’s eye off the ball and therefore away from any credit by making waves with the new British envoy’s demands, he needs to get real. Nor will GB/PM hope to sway George Bush tomorrow in Washington by suggesting drawing up some deeper or stronger limitations of responsibility of Blair’s powers.

I think they have your number, Mr GB/PM.

INNOCENT! WELL, THANK GOD & COMMON SENSE FOR THAT!

[Pic: Too late! We’re still stuck with GB/PM for Britain!]

JULY 20th, 2007: Note the corrected update in this Guardian report!! Amazing how the press still managed to misinterpret the CPS’s decision. Is there any hope for justice or trust in politics when THIS is the best we can do?

My own page on the CPS’s decision, which can be found here, is the first to come up (of 440, 000 listed) when you google “cash for honours 20 July 2007”. So you’re in the right place for anything to do with innocence and sweetness and light ;0)

So no-one is to be charged over the silly cash-for-honours inquiry. Despite the best efforts of the SNP MP Angus MacNeil to get our former PM behind bars, he has FAILED SPECTACULARLY! And without the 16 month old inquiry hanging over Mr Blair’s and Labour’s heads the politically motivated nationalists most probably would have failed to win that one extra seat which gave them power in the Scottish Elections in May.

Many questions to be asked, though it seems Mr Blair does not want those who were under suspicion to pursue the Police or anyone else for any of this. And he is the one who has suffered most. In the history books HIS name will go down as the first British PM questioned, not once or twice but THREE times over this nonsensical business. Shameful.

The man is too forgiving and far too generous, apart from being too good to be in the company of such low-life as MacNeil.

See The Independent’s report here

19th July,

ON THIS DAY – BBC PAGES

On this day, ten years ago – 19th July,1997, the IRA declared its second cease-fire in three years. Ten years later, thanks in large part to Tony Blair, it was finally all over. Go here to read. I wonder if this anniversary is on Mr Blair’s mind as he starts his envoy job in Milan today?

WHAT ARE THEY ON?

Since GB/PM announced the change of policy on cannabis the sinners from the sixties and seventies are ‘fessing up! “Just had a drag or two…” etc. Personally I couldn’t care less which ministers indulged in soft drugs in their youth, as long as it wasn’t heavy, wasn’t habitual, and they didn’t keep doing it. I care more about their changing policy without any REAL explanation. Don’t do it just to be different from Mr Blair, GB/PM. It’s a bad habit to get into. Never know what you might dump. Stub the habit out. Smartish.

“NOT BLAIR” GB/PM BROWN REJECTS BLAIR LEGACY – AS IF!?

It’s all about “CHANGE” – I think! Now, what else can he change that won’t really change anything much? Cannabis / Casinos / USA relationships?

Done them. NEXT!

Following the ‘Daily Mail’ agenda (‘gotta win the Mail – GOT TO!’) the Brown camp have made what could be called ‘changes’ on moral issues, rather than on distinct left/right issues.

According to The Alastair Campbell diaries, Blair thought that Brown was a great strategist. Perhaps. His strategy seems to be to tinker at the edges and hope people feel it is substantive.

I have news for you, folks – it ain’t!

Just six weeks ago Gordon Brown said there was no need for “change” on cannabis laws. Today there is a need! But six weeks ago the PM was still Tony Blair – remember him?

So what’s changed since then, to make change needed now?

Ah! I remember, Mr CHANGE himself … the headline grabbing GB/PM/NotBlair chap.

Since the people wanted a change – (Did they? No-one asked ME!) he is groping around changing things here and there to fool some of the people some of the time – usually the Left of Labour – with a few other populist changes thrown into the mix.

No need to prove WHY there is need for a change! No evidence based policies; just change for change’s sake.

I think we need to change the PM back to where we were – and fast!

SOMEBODY’S got to have the courage of his convictions.

18th July, 2007

THE LAUGH-A-MINUTE ISLAMISTS

I’ve worked it out. These ‘ultra-religious’ fundamentalists have NO sense of humour at all. If they had, they’d have laughed off the Danish cartoons, as we from a Christian background have had to do regarding our religion for centuries. Instead four have been imprisoned for inciting violence and encouraging racial hatred.

They’ve certainly encouraged racial hatred, but I wonder if they realise who has been encouraged.

And today the Danes, who share British our values, will be pleased that these people have been locked up.

The Danish government has consistently argued the cartoon row was about freedom of expression. One year on, the prime minister is confident he handled the crisis correctly.

“My conclusion is that freedom of speech is the most valuable right of liberty. We must defend it to the very last,” Mr Rasmussen said.

He rejects any accusations of his foreign policy being dictated by the US.

“Across the world, there is respect that we didn’t give in to the pressure of fanatical Muslim groups. In many places, the story has put Denmark on the map and, except for a few countries, we have seen almost exclusively positive reactions.”

Well said, Mr Rasmussen. View part of the demonstrations here, in February 2006.

17th July, 2007

HOW WILL RUSSIA RESPOND?

Still awaiting Russia’s response to sending their four diplomats back. Hmm … I wonder if our Middle East envoy is likely to be targeted, or will another political step be taken? Will update you here.

14th July, 2007

CHERIE ATTACKED FOR STATING THE OBVIOUS

An argument I put on this blog a few months ago about the personal danger to Mr Blair and on a wider front to the rest of us, is taken on by Cherie Booth QC, aka Mrs Blair. Of course, in the usual way, she is abused. This time for sounding a teensy weensy bit concerned that she may be left as a single mum of four, as Tony goes off to try to sort out the cauldron that is the Middle East. Read more about this here

TESCO STORES CLOSED – THREATS

Got the Sunday shopping in yet? Following threats, several main stores have been closed.

TERRORISM CHARGES

The net seems to be closing in on some suspected of involvement over the London and Glasgow attacks.

13th July, 2007

ALEXANDER’S RAG TIME BAND?

Not quite sure what Mr WhatsisnameNewPM thinks he is up to. But his man in the USA, Douglas Alexander, is clearly His Master’s Voice, so there must be some manouvering going on, some distancing of his NEW OLD Labour Party from America, despite denials. If there is distancing it’s not only shortsighted, but a BIG MISTAKE. Probably more kite flying looking for a plaudit or two for not being joined at the hip to Bush.
The BBC’s Nick Robinson’s blog is usually quite interesting. I like him; he almost seems human, for a journalist. A kind of feral-free zone. I have added a contribution on his “Not Blair” (aka Brown) post.

10th July, 2007

AL QAEDA THREATENS BRITAIN OVER RUSHDIE HONOUR

On 24th September 1998 the Iranian Fatwah was lifted from Salman Rushdie after ten years. Now, because of his knighthood, Al Qaeda is threatening ALL of us.

Extract follows from this website:

Osama Bin Laden’s deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, has threatened to retaliate against Britain for giving a knighthood to novelist Salman Rushdie. In a 20-minute audiotape, the al-Qaeda leader said the group was preparing a “very precise response”.

The recording was posted on a website often used by Islamic militants.

Sir Salman’s book The Satanic Verses sparked protests by Muslims around the world and led to Iran issuing a fatwa in 1989, ordering his execution.

Addressing UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown, Zawahiri said Britain’s strategy in the Middle East had “brought tragedy and defeat upon you, not only in Afghanistan and Iraq but also in the centre of London”.

In the speech, entitled Malicious Britain and its Indian Slaves, Zawahiri was quoted as warning Mr Brown: “And if you did not understand, listen, we are ready to repeat it for you.”

The bespectacled former Egyptian surgeon, who is believed to be the architect of the al-Qaeda ideology, said Britain’s award for Indian-born Sir Salman was an insult to Islam.

In response to the tape, the British government said the knighthood awarded to the author was a reflection of his contribution to literature.

“The government has already made clear that Rushdie’s honour was not intended as an insult to Islam or the Prophet Muhammad,” said a spokesman for the UK Foreign Office.

Weasel Words from our government or calm response? Do they accept that these people are not like us? They do not respond to reason or common sense. They have no regard for our freedoms, culture, liberal democracy or respect for the opinions of the individual. We, who do, are seemingly at their command simply BECAUSE we do.

Presumably our security services will need to redouble their efforts. I hate to say it, but we should ensure that personal protection is raised around figures of state and former figures of state. The rest of us will need to keep our level of awareness extremely high. So much for “not being intimidated”!

JURY DISCHARGED ON TWO OTHER DEFENDANTS

It is as yet unclear as to what happens now to the remaining two defendants in this terrorist case. Update by going to the BBC website.

FOUR CONVICTED OF 21/7 TERROR PLOT – QUESTIONS ASKED

This news is not actually about Blair. But in order to stretch the tiny minds which conflate Blair & terrorism, not to mention the rest of us better-balanced individuals, here is a link to news about the latest terrorists to be convicted in our courts. The BBC website is a good place to start for most news, btw.

9th July, 2007

CAMPBELL ANSWERS QUESTIONS ON BOOK

Go here to read his answers to readers’ questions. Also, panic not if you heard PM at 5:30pm and now have a picture of two naked Saints – Mo & Tony in your head – as I had earlier. I listened again! Thank God!

BROWN LOCKED IN LOO

The BBC’s noon news today said that, according to Campbell’s Diaries, in 1994 Blair locked Brown in the loo in the Granita restaurant until Brown rang Blair and agreed that Blair would stand as leader unopposed. WRONG. He’d have had to use a mobile and 13 years ago there were none. Just a little example of how the Beeb gets things wrong. Don’t get me wrong – I’d have loved it! The Big Clunking Fist with the cojones, to mix metaphors, stamps his foot down with a heavy hand. Go here for the real story.

8th July, 2007

BLAIR & BROWN TO SHARE FUND-RAISING PLATFORM

This week the Brothers B will appeal to the well-heeled to dig out their cheque books. The party is in dire need of fresh funds and together, well, they might make a difference.

WILL LEVY BE CHARGED?

The CPS is coming round to a decision as to whether to charge anyone in the cash-for-honours business and if so, who exactly. Amazing how much room for manouevre has been given to this investigation – which seems to have been purely politically motivated from the start. The ‘parties’ digging and dishing the dirt on this matter – which worries very few of the more mature public – are champing at the bit at the prospect of Levy in court and Blair in the witness box. If that ever happens woe-betide those dirt dishers if their little noses are ever found to be in the trough either for themselves or their parties.

4th July, 2007

BLAIR’S SEDGEFIELD SEAT CHOOSES PPC

Phil Wilson has been selected as the prospective parliamentary candidate for the by-election called for 19 July in Tony Blair’s Sedgefield constituency. Mr Blair has held this safe Labour seat for 24 years and had a majority of 18,457 at the last general election. He fully backed the choice of candidate.

It’s something to come to terms with; after all these years, at least ten of which he has completely dominated British politics, Mr Blair will no longer be an MP in two weeks time.

Let’s hope his Peace Envoy post will keep him, when appropriate, in the public eye, as well as in the hearts of many of us.

FIRST PMQs FOR GB/PM

From “first to last”, he should “never stop fearing it”. That way (Blair’s), must be how to excel and dominate the whole shooting match. Perhaps he was nervous, but “Mr Not Blair” was definitely not Blair. Impressive? Not for me, as you might expect, but possibly for others. Go to the PMQs page for more, if you must.

BBC’s ALAN JOHNSTON FREE

Great news! Read report here

TERROR ALERT LIKELY TO BE LOWERED

Security experts are considering lowering the terror levels from “critical” to “severe”, it seems.

3rd July, 2007

GIVING AWAY POWER TO THE PEOPLE

Today a tired-looking Gordon Brown, PM, told the Commons that HE will not take the country to war without THEIR permission.

It’s worth reminding ourselves that Blair sought and GOT their permission in 2003 – ALTHOUGH HE DID NOT NEED TO UNDER THE PREROGATIVE.

Some of us, Mr Brown, are not convinced by your side-ways snipe at your predeccesor. Afterthoughts, 20/20 hindsight, belief that we, poor luvs, were all misled – NONE of that detracts from the fact that Blair DID get Parliament’s permission. The fact that no more than two of you stood up against him shows what kind of leader he was. And perhaps what kind of MPs the rest of you are.

And some of the press have gone ‘way over the top on greeting Brown’s announcements, imho. It’s as though we had been liberated from a police state. Oh yes, that’s it – I’d forgotten – we ARE in a Police state. Give me a break!

It’ll be years before changes kick in, and most of us won’t notice anyway.

YOU’RE IN CHARGE SO SORT OUT THE BIG PROBLEM NOW, NEW PM

The failed car-bombings were ALLOWED to happen here because the previous Home Secretary and PM were stopped by the rest of you from clamping down on the Islamo-Fascists. The message is and was that Islamo-Fascism is rooted deeply in this country. THIS is the problem.

It has NOT been tackled due to the Liberal Intelligentsia Press and political correctness. You and your ilk have shot the messenger(s). I hope you can live with yourselves.

‘SPIKED’ – (Good idea!)

First time I’ve seen this site but it has a very good analysis of the ‘new’ ‘changes’ being proposed under GB/PM (sorry – can hardly spit it out!) Go here to read. Interesting.

Australian report on Brisbane man questioned over British bombs

1st July, 2007

BRITAIN ON HIGHEST ALERT AFTER TERRORIST ATTACKS

It was probably to be expected that they would try something like this on the change-over, since it HAD actually been pre-announced (“hiroshima etc …”). So now we’ll see how the new PM copes. Can’t hide away now, Mr Brown. Decisions to be made. Toughen the stance on terrorism and Iraq or give in to the antis? I wonder?

Who said: “these people are evil”; “we will not be intimidated”; “they are using a perversion of religion” – Brown AND Blair. So all change then eh, Gordon?

“WAKE ME UP – I’m the Prime Minister!”

The report that he was upset because he wasn’t woken when the 1:00am car bomb was uncovered (accidently) early on Friday morning is interesting. Hadn’t he let it be known that he SHOULD be awakened in such an event? Or was it always handled by the Home Secretary in the previous ‘control freak’s’ tenure? Hhmm..mm?

Panic not dear PM – this is just the beginning.

TWO-JOBS BLAIR

If you’ve noticed that the previous PM seems to have disappeared off the scene – well, you’re right! He’s busy getting organised for his next two jobs – Middle-East Peace Envoy and as a guiding force in the Africa Progress Panel, which Blair himself set up last year to see through the G8 promise to double the amount of aid to Africa by 2010. Busy boy, eh? Listen to this audio report on Blair after No 10. Interesting, but I don’t agree that he’ll find it THAT hard to cope with the other big tasks going on around him.

And when he has the Jerusalem and the pan-African offices up and running he’ll have time for two more major jobs – EU President and International Climate Co-ordinator.

Mark my words.

UK Prime Minister? It was only the warm-up!

30th June, 2007

After two failed London bombs and one at Glasgow airport, for the first time since last August the UK terror threat has been raised to its highest position – ‘critical’.

Gordon Brown has held two COBRA meetings in the last 24 hours. He and his new Home Secretary have had a baptism of fire! Welcome to power and instant decision-making, Mr Brown.

The critical threat level indicates terrorist attacks are imminent. It is the highest possible level and was also in place after the 7 July 2005 suicide bomb attacks on London. It was lowered subsequently to ‘serious’.

Brown’s TV message on the ‘bombs’ in London and Glasgow.

Interesting that the terrorists waited until the ‘anti-terrorism’ PM had left the stage. I wonder if Brown will feel tempted to ring him? Somehow I doubt it.

29th June, 2007

BOMB DEFUSED IN CENTRAL LONDON

Was this car bomb the ‘Hiroshima’ threat referred to a couple of weeks ago, timed to coincide with the Blair/Brown handover? Gas and petrol cylinders laden with nails might have killed hundreds or thousands, but certainly not millions. Although ‘hundreds’ are hundreds too many!

The intelligence analysis on this ‘vehicle borne explosive device’, commonly used by Al Qaeda in Iraq and elsewhere, indicates it was not foreseen or expected at this time or place. The UK threat level is still at ‘severe’ as since August 2006.

28th June, 2007

CASH-FOR-HONOURS INQUIRY

For a third time, Tony Blair has been questioned by police in the cash-for-honours investigation. He was NOT questioned under caution, indicating that he is NOT being seen as a suspect, but only as a witness.

Whatever, it really IS time this investigation was brought to a conclusion. Read BBC report.

MID EAST ENVOY JOB CONFIRMED

Some are happy, some are not – I say – just be thankful for what you’ve got. You’ve got OUR MAN who is DRIVEN to get a result in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict. He has always said that on this kind of settlement depends peace in the rest of the Middle East.

View Reaction to Blair’s Envoy Appointment

27th June, 2007

TWO PMs – ALL IN ONE DAY

(Aplogies to the hugely increased numbers of visitors here today looking for updates on this morning’s prime minister. I’ve been a little busy today with personal matters.)

After an unheard of standing ovation from all sides of the House of Commons, Tony Blair ended his last PMQs session with a personal note (at least I THINK it was personal):

“… and that is that. The end”.

And he didn’t hang about. He obviously knew that he had the Middle East Envoy job in his pocket, despite the delay of the official announcement last night. So it was off on the train to Sedgefield to resign as an MP.

And as for the PM post, well, I understand that someone else took over.

Yes, a day is a long time in politics.

P.S. SCHOOL MOTTOES & TRYING ONE’S “OUTMOST”

That’s what Mr Brown said in Downing Street. Honestly. I heard him. Hardly inspirational. Not “a new day dawns, does it not?” as with Blair ten years ago. Or “enough of talking, now it is time to do.”

But, c’mon now Mr Prime Minister – UT UT UTmost!

I’m not being over critical or anti-Scot. I was born in Brown’s city too. But what on earth did THIS mean: “I will try my outmost”.

My school motto was “altiora peto” – “I seek higher things”. I know where to search, and I’ll try my outmost , utmost, to find him again.

26th June, 2007

MID-EAST ENVOY … OR NOT?

No announcement yet – it seems Russia is keeping us all hanging on. Oh, the power!

If reports are right, Mr Blair must be reasonably hopeful. It seems he will go straight to his constituency after seeing the Queen tomorrow, to resign as an MP. He has been the Sedgefield MP since 1983.

TERMINATED – BLAIR’S LAST FULL DAY AS PRIME MINISTER

Speaking at his final press conference in Downing Street before stepping down as Prime Minister, Mr Blair ended on a lighter note with a nod to his famous guest.

“My press office said to me, whatever else you do this morning, don’t say ‘I’ll be back’.”

Arnold Schwartzenegger, Governor of California, shared a Number 10 press call today with the PM to thank Mr Blair for his leadership on climate change issues. He stressed American hopes for technology to “save the world from climate change” and emphasised the central role Tony Blair played in bringing the USA to its present acceptance of the issues.

View YouTube video of press conference. Read Downing Street report.

25th June, 2007

BLAIR TO BE ANNOUNCED AS MIDDLE EAST ENVOY

Never let it be said that Tony Blair runs away from a challenge. It seems that tomorrow our outgoing man in Downing Street is headed for hotter climes; much hotter.

Today The Financial Times said that Mr Blair would be announced as Mid East envoy tomorrow, even BEFORE he departs Number 10.

Quotes from FT article:

The Quartet of Middle East negotiators — the United States, the European Union, the United Nations and Russia — is expected to confirm Blair’s appointment as the group’s new envoy at a specially convened meeting in Jerusalem on Tuesday, the newspaper said.

“Blair’s appointment has been 150 percent approved,” an unnamed source, described as aware of negotiations over Blair’s new role, was quoted as saying.

However, Gordon Brown, who will succeed Blair as prime minister, is said to be unhappy with the proposal because it will distract from his plans to use economic incentives to promote reconciliation between the Israelis and Palestinians, The Financial Times reported.

Others too are yet to confirm their approval. The Quartet of Middle East negotiators — the United States, the European Union, the United Nations and Russia – are mostly onboard with Moscow uncertain, but not opposing.

Like Brown, EU foreign policy envoy Javier Solana opposes the idea since he is already making his own efforts in the region. Is he? I hadn’t really noticed.

So we can see the attraction. Mr Blair is a high profile international politician with exemplary communication skills. The doubts of others could be interpreted as being grounded in their OWN self-interest rather than that of the Middle East. True, Mr Blair would rather go down in history as peacemaker than ‘war leader’, so he might be said to have self-interest at heart too.

But he is certainly driven by a much greater force than any of his detractors.

At his party conference in September last year he said he would work to bring peace to the Middle East, when he said “I may not succed, but I will try”.

There hasn’t been much time for him to concentrate on trying anything much recently since he had had to cram two years of work into the last nine months. We couldn’t have expected much progress. So, now, with Iraq ringing in his ears, and no-one else around with the right credentials to bring warring factions together, it’s going to be ‘Blair the Peacemaker’. Preferable to the words commonly bandied around about him.

I still have my concerns for his personal safety as mentioned here some time ago, but if he is acting on behalf of the international community, and not expected to camp out in various hot dusty ‘safe houses’ I am a bit more relaxed. He is bound to be as protected as he has been as prime minister.

But can he do the job? I don’t know. It took ten years to sort out Northern Ireland, and there he understood and even shared (both sides of) the religious context. On the other hand the NI peace mission was only ONE of the policy needing his attention, albeit one that took 40% of this time in his first year in office. So, with 100% of his time – well, who knows?

24th June, 2007

POLITICAL MYTHS – “Yo Blair / Yeah Blair”

Radio 4’s Westminster Hour tonight shattered a few myths, including the “Yo Blair” of recent times. Bush actually said “Yeah, Blair”. Any more myths to debunk? DON’T get me started. Go here to see “Yeah Blair” on YouTube Or click here to view it on this page.

BROWN CROWNED – HARMAN DEPUTY

Harriet Harman pipped Alan Johnson to win by less than 1%. Turnout was VERY low, but there we are. That’s democracy for you.

Don’t expect me to get excited about any of this. I’m turning to Keats for comfort:

“My heart aches, and a drowsy numbness pains my sense … “

But I won’t moan about Labour’s present woes or joys. It’s their choice. If they’re happy …

And, despite reports of a dreadful Tony & Gordon relationship over 13 years, today they patted each other on the back. Complicated? Maybe.

See Sky News report – and video of Brown

Blair’s last day as PM on Wednesday – what happens next? (Apart from me going off to do something else, that is!)

LAST DAY FOR BLAIR AS PARTY LEADER – SOBERING SUNDAY?

As Brown takes over the crown uncontested from Blair we have a positive opinion poll for Labour, press thoughts and reports, interviews with luminaries past and present, election of a deputy, silence as to Brown’s policy intentions, Blair’s secret plans to sack Brown, analysis of the EU summit deal, the Pope and British miracles. An interesting news day for British politics.

Brown & Blair – Bound to End In Tears? What John Rentoul thinks on the Brothers B.

View Blair’s visit to the Vatican

How NOT to Win Friends & Influence People

The normally sure footed Mr Blair seemed to have lost the plot as regards his gift to Pope Benedict. Perhaps it was his lack of sleep after Brussels, but I imagine the gift of the Cardinal Newman photograph, a man who is in line for canonisation, must have raised a papal eyebrow. Or maybe not. Perhaps it was JUST the right thing to do.

See this report on the visit, the supporting attendees, and the conversation.

A senior Catholic source emphasised the importance of the meeting to Mr Blair, and pointed to the symbolism of the Prime Minister’s choice of gift.

One senior Catholic Church source said: “We are not talking about gifts of a walking stick and box of chocolates – this is a highly significant present to give the Holy Father.

“This audience was always going to be a very significant one with a lot of emphasis on the personal aspect and this gift of photographs of Cardinal Newman is a clear indication of the Prime Minister’s path to conversion. It could not be more clearly spelt out.”

Is it a sign that the outgoing prime minister feels in dire need of salvation, despite ‘unresolved ‘ issues with the Roman Catholic church? Is the only way he feels sure of that through similar canonisation? Some will interpret it as such. But the message was clear. He means to make recompense for the ‘mistakes’ of Iraq. The Pope has always been unempathic towards Blair’s Iraq position, and nothing has changed there.

“Miracles Hard To Come By in Britain”

The Pope is reported to have said that miracles are hard to come by in Britain.

I don’t know – it depends on what you rate as a miracle!

But I wonder if the prime minister’s enemies have got to him? In my humble opinion he is NOT in need of God’s forgiveness for Iraq. Even in our earthly judgement forums, intent as well as outcome are taken into consideration. Mr Blair KNOWS he did not intend the deaths of thousands in Iraq. HE did not kill people or order their murder.

At the same time it has been clear from Vatican accounts that Blair’s liberal social changes at home, such as greater stem cell research on human embryos, easy access to abortion, same-sex marriages, and adoption by gay couples as well as contraception – (WHY ON EARTH AREN’T WE OVERRUN BY CATHOLICS?!?) – are NOT part of the accepted creed of the roman church.

So those issues may be more “unresolved” than the Iraq question. Whether the Vatican makes an exception for this man, with his hopes as peacemaker in the Middle East we will have to see. And today Gordon Brown indicated that he thinks Tony Blair is well suited to work in Iraq and the mid-east. So he is NOT worried about Blair’s interference in Brown’s policies there?

After today’s revelations on Blair’s plans to sack Brown pre-2005, Brown’s not hoping our man in Baghdad will be kidnapped or anything (a concern of mine, here)? No. SURELY not.

As to the question of the difference between the anglican and roman church, I am reminded of a story told to me by a friend whose son wanted to train to become a priest in the anglican church.

In his interview he was asked if he had any problems with the church’s teaching. He replied, “Well, yes, actually. I don’t really believe in the virgin birth.” “Fine”, came the reply, “many of us see that as allegorical. Anything else? “Erm … I can’t accept the idea of Christ’s resurrection”. The reply, “Right. Well, ditto to that. Anything else?” “Just one more thing – I’m a homosexual.” “Good”, came the reply, “when would you like to start?”

Of course that is the liberal anglican church, the one which has shaped Tony Blair’s religious background and presumably social considerations.

Is he willing to sacrifice his earthly conscience to save his eternal soul?

I wonder what God would make of that choice? Over to you, Mr Blair.

23rd June, 2007

The Attorney General, Lord Goldsmith, has announced that he will be standing down with Tony Blair next week. Not surprising, but it does mean that he will NOT be the one who has to make the final decision as to whether or not prosecutions should be brought in the cash-for-honours case, should any case be brought in the end.

22nd June, 2007

Update

EU SUMMIT – Go here for latest – Deal All But There for Blair

“I’M IN CHARGE” … “NO, I’M IN CHARGE”

[Pic: Is this the First EU President?]

It seems Mr Brown has been panicking somewhat with regard to the competition rules, requested, and supposedly agreed between M Sarkozy and Mr Blair. This afternoon the soon-to-be PM has rung the soon-to-be-gone one THREE times insisting that the competition rules are NOT to be weakened. On a news report Mr Blair still insists that the rules would definitely NOT be weakened by any change.

Without our agreement to this, the whole agreement may be in danger, despite the other ‘red lines’ being secured. So, is it swords out across the channel for the Blood Brothers, B &B?

On the other hand – and though I am NOT a conspiracy theorist, this IS politics, and there’s plenty of politicking going on – there may be more to it than meets the eye. Perhaps we should be reading between the lines.

Read this – The First EU President?

EU SUMMIT BRUSSELS – AWKWARD SQUAD

Update, 5:00pm Friday

Signs of movement, it would seem. The talks have been as difficult as the pre-summit hype. But Tony Blair’s red lines seem to have been accommodated, though his proposed opt out from the Charter of Fundamental Rights is proving trickier.

Blair has some ‘red lines’ he ain’t gonna cross! And the Poles are another part of the awkward squad. Watch BBC video on the various countries’ positions.

And what about the ‘partnership” between Sarkozy and Blair regarding competition rules? Is this a quid pro quo arrangement in return for support over Blair’s four red lines?

And why exactly does Sarkozy want to drop the ‘free and undistorted competition’ phrase as a treaty objective? Mainly because of domestic considerations. If the reference to competition is removed, then in future the EU would not perhaps be limited in their sanctions to EU business.

Tony Blair would be expected, if his normal free market stand is continued, to stand against Sarkozy. Unlikely if their present relationship is properly understood. But it seems it depends if Blair’s ‘red lines’ are able to be held. He says he will not give way on the charter of fundamental rights changing uk law, but some say that even with this red line, there will still be transfer of powers to Europe.

Gordon Brown says that “provided the red lines are not crossed in this ‘amended’ treaty there should be no need for a referendum.”

No wonder this is a difficult summit. Blair is negotiating on Britain’s behalf; Brown has to trust him; and the rest of us have to wait and see.

As for Britain “killing its kings…” by Romano Prodi. Interesting comment. Wonder which ‘king’ he was referring to.

View my new EU Summit post

Read The Times article on the EU summit, and Blair’s red lines & tactics

BROWN TO ASHDOWN – DIRTY TRICKS OR GENUINE ‘BIG TENT’?

It’s not yet clear whether Labour or the Liberal Democrats have lost more from this debacle. Interesting timing, though, on Mr Brown’s part. If you cast your mind back to 1997 you may recall that Tony Blair and Paddy Ashdown became VERY good friends discussing the idea of including Lib Dems in government pre the 1997 general election. It was Blair’s idea, definitely not Brown’s. But as soon as it became clear that Mr Blair had managed to win a huge majority for Labour in 1997, his colleagues, led by Gordon Brown, stamped on the VERY idea!

Nothing shows the comparative weakness of this government’s present position, or rather expected future position, than that Mr Brown has felt the need to make this approach. Whether it was for reasons of nullifying the Lib Dem threat by tying them into Labour, or whether Brown REALLY DOES want a “big tent” is for him to know and us to ponder. But it does show that they are missing at least one element in the equation:

Tony Blair – the man who has never lost Labour a general election.
21st June, 2007

ON THE SHOULDERS OF A POLITICAL GIANT

At the last Cabinet meeting today of the Blair premiership years there was many a lump in a political throat as they said goodbye and thank you to Mr Blair, Mr Prescott and to each other. Gordon Brown paid full tribute to Tony Blair saying:

“Whatever we achieve in the future it will be because we are standing on your shoulders.”

Saying that “it is the right moment to go”, Mr Blair promised “unswerving support” for Mr Brown as prime minister.

Mr Blair’s official spokesman said the PM was given a standing ovation which only ended when he left the room.

David Miliband, arriving late in the Commons for environmental questions, apologised and said:

“The tolerance of the House, I’m sure, is related to the fact that it understands it takes a very long time to enumerate all the achievements of the Prime Minister and the Deputy Prime Minister.”

It took “still more time to cross the floods of tears that are now trailing down Downing Street”, he added.

On the shoulders of a political giant. Yes, indeed. Hopefully it won’t take 100 years for that realisation to percolate through.

So even if the backstabbing has turned at the last moment to backslapping, I have to congratulate Mr Brown for putting it in that generous way. And if Mr Blair still feels the sting of the knives and has been hurt more than he usually shows, he was finally appreciated in the end by those who owe him so much. So, for those words Mr Brown has gone up – a bit – in my estimation.

Read USA Today’s report on Blair’s last cabinet meeting and his possible future prospects.

BLAIR – OUR MAN IN BAGHDAD?

View BBC video of the US interest in Blair as Mid-East envoy

As I say here and for reasons that no one else seems to have mentioned as far as I can see, I don’t really like this idea.

Apart from the security angle for this, the second best known politician worldwide and probably the most photographed, there are several questions raised here in The Guardian.

To summarise the Guardian’s, and my thoughts:

• 1. Would he be willing to stay the course – many years, possibly?
• 2. Could he stand the rough and ready, hot conditions on the ground?
• 3. Would his being there make further problems for Middle Eastern politicians who are identified with the “western” side in Middle East policy?
• 4. Would he be acceptable to ALL parties involved, including Iraq/Iran/Syria?
• 5. Would Russia and Mr Putin rather have Blair there than anywhere else?
• 6. Are the personal dangers too high?

To answer those questions it is probably wise for Mr Blair and the rest of us to wait until he’s had a break. He’s got to be in need of a holiday, after which he will have had time to consider his options as well as his own personal and political journey.

At only 54 Tony Blair has many years ahead of him and it would be wrong to waste them speaking to the American corporate world, lucrative and tempting as that may be. And he himself has expressed the desire to do something worthwhile after he leaves office.

The need to bring Iraq to some final and satisfactory conclusion is bound to weigh heavily on his mind. Even for this latter reason, I hope he does NOT make what may turn out to be a wrong decision.

“TOUCH AND GO” ON EU SETTLEMENT, SAYS PM

Last EU Summit for Blair

He takes to Brussels a series of “red lines” he says cannot be crossed in the search for a reform treaty to replace the constitution sunk two years ago by French and Dutch referendum rejections.

A replacement text – no longer called a “constitution” and unlikely to face risky referendums – is needed to streamline EU decision-making and avoid gridlock in the expanded union of 27 and more member states.

But it means more majority voting at EU level, and a reduced right of national veto, which Mr Blair says he will not give up in key areas such as justice and home affairs and foreign policy.

Avoiding a referendum is still at the top of the government’s agenda. Why? Simple. We know that in referendums people frequently DO NOT vote for the question on the ballot paper.

20th June, 2007

Read the Press Briefing from PMOS at Number 10

It seems that President Bush and Condoleezza Rice have spoken to Mr Blair about his becoming an envoy to the Middle East when he leaves Downing Street. The Washington Post seems to have confirmed that this proposal is on the cards.

“Mr Bush and US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice directly discussed the idea with Mr Blair, the [Whit House] official said. The president would reportedly like him to be an envoy for the quartet of the US, European Union, UN and Russia.

The official spokesman for Mr Blair said “there is a lot of speculation about the prime minister’s future and much of it is inaccurate”.

My thoughts: Two points – 1. this may be a starter if the quartet can be persuaded (Russia might be doubtful) and if Middle East countries are open to this. If his diplomatic and negotiating abilities bore fruit he might yet bring some closure to Iraq even after he leaves domestic political power. That would be a great bonus for all of us, not least Bush and Blair.

2. I have the same doubts as I expressed here when this was mentioned before. If he is not provided with full and comprehensive protection, in fact much greater security than normal for an envoy (because of his international high profile past and position), I am yet to be persuaded. Since most people realise that Tony Blair is likely to have several options open to him after next Wednesday, he’ll need to consider this Mid-East option carefully. I still think it might be too, TOO risky for him personally and perhaps, for the reasons I mentioned at the “Blair for Iraq” page here, for world peace.

Salmon Rushdie – Still Upsetting Some

Listen, you lot – whoever you are! If our government/queen/prime minister want to award a knighthood to ANYONE, including someone YOU don’t like – TOUGH! WE don’t threaten when you – whoever you are – support people who want to kill writers! WE don’t stop free speech, even if some of the LIPpy* types could do with it. THIS is OUR country and WE will decide what WE wish.

[*Liberal Intelligentsia Press]

Sorry for shouting. Rude of me, I know. But I shout when I’m angry. I DON’T threaten to kill.

18th June, 2007

THREATS TO KILL BBC NEWSMAN

Al Jazeera broadcasts threat to “get closer to God … by killing” Alan Johnston. The very use of these words betrays the difference between their thinking and that of civilised peoples. They get closer to God by killing people! And some in this country would no doubt support these people as ‘freedom fighters’.

“Our demands are known, to release our Muslim prisoners … If they don’t meet these demands there will be no release of this prisoner,” the Army of Islam spokesman, said.

“If things get worse we will get closer to God by killing this journalist.”

BLAIR FACES TOUGH EU NEGOTIATIONS

Telegraph report on some of the difficulties the PM faces to satisfy all sides in Brussels this week and still come out smelling of roses.

BLAIR & THATCHER – COMRADES IN ARMS

Under the title “comrades in arms” the Telegraph pictures Lady Thatcher and Tony Blair arm-in-arm at the Falklands service in London. Well, nice that they each have SOMEONE who understands the responsibilities of power.

17th June, 2007

Falklands – 25 Years On

Lady Thatcher, Tony Blair and others joined Prince Charles for this commemoration of the end of the Falklands War in 1982. I wonder what thoughts were going through their minds in this picture.

FOREIGN SECRETARY ON EU

“The revised EU treaty will have to be in Britain’s national interests for the government to accept it, Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett has said. “

Mrs Beckett told the BBC’s Sunday AM programme: “We do not want to see a constitutional treaty or a treaty that has the characteristics of a constitution.”

The thoughts of the Sunday papers on the EU Summit & Blair for Presidency

The Summit takes place on 21st and 22nd June in Brussels. So Mr Blair will be asked about it at PMQs this Wednesday and on his last PMQs on 27th June (surely he won’t hand over to Brown until AFTER that session, though he’ll hand over his seals of office to the Queen on that day.) So the next couple of weeks will be ALL about our relationship with the EU. Could be interesting.

Here are my scores out of 10 for the Sundays, following Mr Blair’s ‘feral press’ speech, as to whether papers are providing politics, in their obviously limited and biased way, completely without electoral mandate, or just doing a reporting job. An out of ten score – the higher the better.

First of all – the story of Sarkozy touting Blair for EU President broke with The Financial Times. They provide an interesting insight into the ins-and-outs of political complexities, including hinting at some of the reasons Blair & Brown seem to be best good mates again, rather than the mortal enemies that we might expect, considering that the knives can still be viewed sticking out of Blair’s back. Who needs whom more? (9 out of 10)

The Sunday Mirror just reports the controversy without opinion. Well done. (10 out of 10)

The Times Online says that Blair is preparing to do a deal over the EU Charter. Some opinion – but reasonably well-balanced reporting. (8 out of 10.) And this Times article is even better researched. (9 out of 10)

The Telegraph says that it will be Brown’s first test as PM to put Blair’s “new deal” whcih they distrust completely, to the electorate in a referendum. So plenty of opinion there, then. (6 out of 10)

The Guardian/Observer’s take on the EU summit is quite the opposite from The Times’s – saying that Sarkozy will endorse Blair’s opt-out position. (7 out of 10)

You pays your money – or buys your politics – and takes your choice.

SENSATIONALISM and EMOTION FROM THE INDIE – AGAIN

And of course that rag The Independent comes up with a ghastly picture of a dead or dying young man, seemingly murdered by British troops, which the paper says “will haunt Mr Blair”! Not as much as you LOT will, Indie, with your relentless PERSONALISED rants. Mr Blair Is NOT on trial for this, much as you and nationalist MPs would like him to be.

The charity Christian Aid has blamed Britain’s policy for the mess in the Palestinian regions. COME ON! This government is NOT responsible for those tribal wars too! I only mention this nonsense to show that we are fighting many on our OWN side as well. Many of whom we support generously. Disturbed, unbalanced reaction? I think so. Again – COME on!

The Observer on a different story on the Andrew Rawnsley film on Blair to be broadcast next Saturday says that Blair knew that the US had no ‘after war’ strategy for Iraq. He struggled to get them to plan one, but still decided to stay with the US even without, and even though Bush offered him an opt-out.

One day, and it may be a long way away, we’ll hear Blair’s side of the story of Iraq. Don’t expect it any time soon, though. In the meantime, let’s remember who is on OUR side.

16th June

BLAIR FOR EU PRESIDENT?

Mr Blair is being touted by M Sarkozy of France as the new EU President, although Downing Street says that Mr Blair will be standing down from front line politics on 27th June. If he’s not to be the Climate Czar, EU President would be worth watching. Don’t give up politics, Mr Blair. You’re too young – and we NEED you.

By the way the courts locked up seven al-Qaeda cell members yesterday. A timely reminder of what this terrorism is all about.

Seven men have been jailed for up to 26 years over an al-Qaeda-linked plot to kill thousands in the UK and US. Woolwich Crown Court heard they were in a “sleeper cell” led by Dhiren Barot, who is already serving a life sentence.

Barot planned attacks including blowing apart a London Underground tunnel and bombings using an explosives-packed limousine and a dirty radiation device.

Six of the men admitted conspiracy to cause explosions and a seventh was found guilty of conspiracy to murder.

15th June, 2007

EU MEETING NEXT WEEK

Blair is being blasted by the Europhobes on any plan he might have in mind to “amend” our treaty arrangements with the EU. Interesting that the Lib Dems are NOT complaining, for once. But Brown, Sarkozy and Blair are getting together BEFORE then to talk it all through, so presumably Brown will be onboard.

13th June, 2007

FALKLANDS 25th Anniversary – Lady Thatcher’s Message

Margaret Thatcher, the Prime Minister who sent troops to war in the Falkland Islands, sent a message to today’s troops. They will have been inspired by her words and by her appreciation, as will today’s Prime Minister. Listen here

12th June, 2007

BLAIR HAS A GO AT THE “FERAL BEAST” PRESS

Click to view the PM explain his thoughts on the purpose of his speech on the press.

Read BBC report on this. I have to say that I believe it is largely the printed press, and not the television or radio channels, which are the villains of the piece. Possibly because tv and radio are required to balance reports, unlike newspapers who can take their own editorial stance and invariably do.

Mr Blair has attacked the media’s reporting and says the media hunts in a pack – it is a “feral beast tearing people and reputations to bits.” He criticised in particular The Independent newspaper who provide “views not news”. (The Indie is also my least favoured paper at the moment, interestingly.)

Mr Blair says it is rare to find a balance in that newspaper and it is becoming worse. The Indie editor Simon Kellner says he is “quite flattered” but “slightly enraged” because Blair “wilfully misunderstands what we’re about.”

Although Michael Howard, former Tory leader agreed with some of the PM’s comments, he blamed Alastair Campbell!!! AGAIN! Well, fancy that.

Lance Price, former Blair aide has had a look online at newspaper responses to the PM’s speech in this 24/7 media world. He said The Independent has NOT yet responded. I expect we can hang about for a day or so while they DO. He points out that The Times says Blair’s words are, “a venomous attack on the media”, making Blair’s point of – exaggeration – black and white – no balance!

Listen to Blair’s thoughts on this – audio

Read the Downing Street press briefing from 12 June – interesting how there is such a lot on there about and from the press. Self-obsessed, eh?

Go to my feral beast page

COMMONS – PM’s G8 REPORT TO MPs

Yesterday, Monday 11th June, in the Commons, following the G8, Mr Blair made his report to MPs. It was well received, as well it should have been. Click here to read the debate.

This video recording will be available for 28 days from the parliament website. Click here to view the whole day’s business, including the Tory debate for an Iraq inquiry AGAIN (defeated in the end). This video is an 8 hour session. The PM’s G8 report lasts for about one hour and is an hour or so into the debate.

10th June, 2007

Well the G8 is over to fairly positive reviews on Africa and the Climate issues. Putin has calmed down, Bush wasn’t killed off by the German bier and frankfurters and Geldof said that Blair “went down all guns blazing” but the rest of them contributed to a “farce” of a meeting! Will write a new post on this.

View PM’s full speech in Africa

Blair – stars in “Mr Global Cool” film at the IIFA this weekend.

Shekhar Kapur turns Tony Blair into a ‘carbon crusader’

Washington, June 10: British PM Tony Blair is starring in Global Cool ¸a short film about climate change awareness, which is directed by Indian director Shekhar Kapur. The 54-year-old plays a ‘carbon crusader’ in the film that also has blonde beauty, Sienna Miller playing a leading role. Blair said that he has been preparing for the role for more than a decade, and that he felt great to be a part of Global Cool. He added that he is just one among those billion people trying to save the planet. “I’ve been preparing for this role for the last 10 years, It was great to be part of Global Cool. But remember, I was only one of a billion people saving the planet in this movie – and they are all stars,” Contactmusic quoted Blair, as saying. The movie premiered this weekend at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony in the UK.

WOW! Didn’t realise he’d been preparing for the role for so long! So that’s it already – two jobs before he’s stopped being PM.

Mr Global Cool and Blair The Actor!

7th June, 2007

It’s all happening – the G8, John Reid’s terrorism proposals, the BAE inquiry call and even Salmond having hairy fits over Blair!!! So what’s new? Click through to the links to read the latest.

Read the PM’s G8 Report to Parliament

Watch video of Blair’s reaction to the Climate Change agreement.

Watch John Reid’s proposals on counter terrorism legislation in parliament.

See timetable of BAE “deals”. Remember – this did NOT take place under Blair’s watch, but between 1985 and 1995. Excerpt from Guardian report:

‘Standing beside George Bush, a close family friend of former US ambassador Prince Bandar, Mr Blair said it would have “wrecked” the relationship with Saudi Arabia if he had allowed investigations to go on. “This investigation, if it had gone ahead, would have involved the most serious allegations and investigation being made of the Saudi royal family,” he said.

“My job is to give advice as to whether that is a sensible thing in circumstances where I don’t believe the investigation would have led to anywhere except to the complete wreckage of a vital interest to our country.”

Neither Mr Blair nor the Ministry of Defence made any attempt to deny the allegations revealed by the Guardian.

Prince Bandar last night issued a statement through his lawyers categorically denying that payments made to Riggs Bank in Washington “represented improper secret commissions or ‘backhanders'”.’

Alex Salmond accuses Tony Blair of side-stepping Scotland and Scottish law over a deal Blair made with Gaddafi over jailed Lockerbie Libyan.

On Newsnight tonight Kirsty Wark gave Alex Salmond a bit of a tough time over his urgent emergency statement to the Scottish Parliament. She accused Salmond of “politicing” over the ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ which Salmond says Blair has agreed without reference to the Scottish Parliament and its leader. Downing Street has a different take on the whole matter. Not sure whether they’ll get round to telling Salmond though.

It sounds as though Alex is still upset because Tony didn’t ring him to congratulate him on his victory in the Scottish elections. Watch this space.

5th June, 2007

Ruth Turner and Lord Levy are under further investigation following the CPS’s request to the Met, according to a BBC report. Excerpt:

Two of Tony Blair’s closest aides have been re-bailed by police as part of the cash-for-honours inquiry.

No 10 fundraiser Lord Levy and Downing Street aide Ruth Turner returned to police on Tuesday. All involved with the inquiry deny any wrongdoing.

On Monday it emerged the Crown Prosecution Service had asked police, who interviewed 136 people during the course of the investigation, to carry out further inquiries before deciding whether any charges should be brought.

4th June, 2007

A MEETING ABOUT A MEETING

No sooner was he back from Africa than the PM was off to Germany for a pre-G8 meeting with the German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

World leaders are due to gather in Heiligendamm, northern Germany, from Wednesday for a three day summit. Discussions will take place along the theme of “growth and responsibility” on trade, economic growth, climate change and Africa.

Also on their agenda would have been how to tackle President Putin’s threat that nuclear war might break out if the USA insists on its plans to construct a “shield” to take out nuclear missiles. Another famous Russian , Mikhail Gorbachov also threw in some rude sounding comments about the west today. None of this is helped by the Litvinenko stand-off.

All this rushing around is going to push Mr Blair’s adrenalin levels through the roof. He copes well at those levels as we all know, but it’s surely going to be so much more difficult for him to unwind after June 27th. Hopefully Mrs Blair has a holiday sorted out for them – with a famous personality or three – just to irritate the British press.

3rd June, 2007

BLAIR’S BOAT GETTING CROWDED

Even as we throw the skipper overboard – they’re all climbing onto Blair’s boat. The world’s gone mad! If he has all the right ideas – why let him go?

1. Brown on board Blair’s anti terrorist boat. More here

2. Cameron – Blair Mark II – gets his own ‘Alastair Campbell’ for New Tories

[Not to mention his controversial acceptance of Blair’s Academy schools]

3. Bush – recognises climate problems

[It might be worth remembering that President Bush DID recognise there was a problem back in 2001. He has now moved on, largely thanks to Blair.]

4. Deputy Leadership Contenders – Peter Hain & Harriet Harman. YES! That’s what I said! Hain and Harman (and probably another few by the end of the day!) are struggling to be first to back Brown, who backs Blair, on being tough on terrorism!

So now it’s OK to say it’s ‘OK NOW’ to look at extending 28 days detention and even introducing intercept evidence! Why? Because the would-be Deps need to keep in with Brown. They can pretend it’s to do with Brown promising to consult more – wider party and voter government if they like. But it’s RUBBISH! They’ve been thrown into an apoplectic fit by Brown. They should remember that Machiavelli has nothing on Mr Brown.

The PM Elect’s policy ideas are still a closed book to most of us, and that’s why the Deps don’t know them. In fact I believe his mentioning of being tough on terror has only one purpose.

That purpose is to spike Blair’s guns, so that he has no excuse to try to push through anti-terror legislation in the next few weeks.

Don’t let that stop you, Mr Blair. Why don’t you give DC a ring? He could do with a friend at the moment – and a friendly policy his party could vote for!

2nd June, 2007

G8 PROTESTS

MUCH DONE – MUCH MORE TO DO

In London and in the German town of Rostock where the G8 will begin next Wednesday, the campaigners are out. As it is Tony Blair’s last G8 summit we can expect that he will be pushing for as much as possible just as he did at Gleneagles in 2005 (which was widely considered the most successful G8 so far.) Africa debt relief has been implemented as has funding of health campaigns. The former was comparatively easy since African debt-heavy countries were not paying their debts anyway.

Chief outstanding issue here is climate change. Following President Bush’s recent pronouncements we can expect to see SOME US movement on the issue. Although Germany is in the chair, Mr Blair will be called upon to use all his political and diplomatic skills to keep the USA and the rest on board the same low-pollution boat. There is no doubt whatsoever that without the USA’s involvement the reducing of carbon emissions for the rest of us will go nowhere.

View video on Gleneagles here.

31st May, 2007

CONGRATULATIONS Mr Blair

President Bush is finally on board the Climate change debate, thanks in no small part, to OUR Prime Minister, who happens to be the prime mover internationally on this hugely important issue. A new organisation has been mooted by the President of the USA.So I’d like to congratulate both of them today on this momentous move.

And I’d like to be the first to congratulate Mr Blair on his new job – International Climate Change/Control Co-ordinator.

What do you mean you didn’t know? It’s been clear to me for months now that no-one else, bar no-one is the right person to run this essential new organisation. I mentioned it when the Stern report was published and our prime minister acted on its conclusions ahead of every other country in the world.

Am I the only one who could see this? Surely not? Yet others were strangely mute about the possibility. I think some people just don’t like to think that Tony Blair could be ‘responsible’ for such an important task … “He thinks he’s God, already” etc.

More on this and Africa later ….

30 May, 2007

Blair in Africa

The Prime Minister is on a 5-day trip to Africa. He’ll be gathering useful information for discussion with others at the G8 and European summit in the next few weeks. And it’d be a pleasant change from home for him to be greeted in a friendly manner in Sierra Leone, where his desire to intervene where injustice thrives was a great success in 2000. Now you can hardly walk along a street without bumping into several little Tony Blairs. All under 6 years old, of course.

Conservatives – the Heirs to Blair

The Shadow Chancellor has proudly admitted that David Cameron and the New Conservatives are the heirs to Blair as regards social policy – health and education, being the biggies. Well, yes we’d noticed that. Well done anyway for recognising SOMETHING useful Mr Blair has done. Of course it’s probably something to do with the fact that they think New New Labour is going to go Old again under Brown – on the basis that two positives make a negative – yeah, right!

Anyway, this analysis has an interesting take on it. If by any chance the Tories DID win the next election on Blair’s policies it would be some legacy for him. A bloody nose for those in Labour who booted him out, too.

After all if Brown’s Labour lurches away from the NHS and Education reforms – but Cameron’s Tories usurp them and win, Mr Blair can still smile inwardly. He will know that he wasn’t around in 2009 to cause Labour’s failure, while at the same time, HIS policies won the day, even if it was for the opposition. A bit like Mrs Thatcher’s in a way – though personally I think Blair’s positive domestic legacy will be written much more largely than hers.

Welcome praise from the Tories anyway, regardless of their motives; this is politics so there are invariably motives. In marked contrast Blair gets muted thanks from many of the Labour Deputy Leadership candidates heading back to the future, as evidenced on last night’s Newsnight.

I haven’t really been paying much attention to this campaign as my interest is purely distant and academic now that Labour has lost the plot and got rid of their best election winner ever; but it was an eye-opener. Harriet Harman was unbelievably populist in her anti-spin & anti-Iraq rhetoric. Now wasn’t SHE spinning things herself as she criticised the ‘leaking’ of Tony Blair’s thoughts on control orders and the judiciary?

I thought it was an article – not a ‘spin’ on his thoughts!

Ms Harman – it’s surely spin to use the word ‘spin’ if it doesn’t apply.

Mr Blair is in Africa all this week – parliament is in recess – he feels there is something that the country should be thinking about – and he has less than one month in office to try to persuade parliament. Much of this time he’ll be working on the G8 and the European summit. Why shouldn’t he get his thoughts out there?

It’s fairly clear he may not get universal support from many in his own party – who seem to have two major concerns at the moment. One, getting out there to say the right things to the unions and the grass root members via the deputy leadership hustings. Two, not upsetting the inner city muslim vote ahead of the next general election.

I can understand the former, but if the latter is correct we are entitled to feel anger.

Did anyone ever mention the security of the nation as being at least of as much importance as resuscitating the Labour party or keeping muslims in the Labour boat?

With power will come responsibility. I just don’t see Brown hacking it if those who support him are a signal to the reticent chancellor’s intentions.

27 May, 2007

NEW anti-terrorism laws are to be pushed through before Tony Blair leaves office. These will provide “wartime” powers to the police to stop and question people.

You mean the police can’t do that already? How crazy! The Human Rights Act has raised its politically correct head once too often for my liking. Good on you, Mr Blair and Mr Reid. Go for it – and the louder the LIP (Liberal Intelligentsia Press) shout, the more you can be sure you’ve got it right.

And while you’re at it – how ‘s about a state of emergency, new border controls, and a purge of the secret hiding places of the murderous madmen who are at war with us, even whilst we offer them a peaceful and protected life in our islands.

CPS sends Yates back to drawing board. The Independent again. Plug the leak, won’t you!

26 May, 2007

Gordon Brown in Trades Unions hustings at Bristol, has said that Britain and others have failed to bring employment and stability in Iraq, and said that mistakes have been made. Right Mr Brown, well spotted. Any other gems to tell us?

25 May, 2007

Tony Blair said on Newsnight last night that the US may be willing to back an agreement at June’s G8 summit on cutting carbon dioxide emissions. Well, if anyone can persuade them (and India … and China) Blair’s your man.

The Home Secretary’s threat to declare a state of emergency has been greeted by the usual LIP (Liberal Intelligentsia Media) as being ten steps to the right of the Stassi. So it must be a good idea, then.

Go for it, Mr Reid! I actually drafted an article suggesting the same thing last week, even before the ‘Control Orders’ proved itself an oxymoron. I have not yet published it here, because I had second thoughts that it would be considered too right wing or reactionary. It would also confirm to those who think so anyway, that anyone who supports this prime minister or government is a controlling, anti-libertarian, right-winger.

I should have published it. I’ll go and check it out again and make a link here, if you think you’re ready for it!

And today an Islamic cleric has been deported. Great! One down – how many to go?

24 May, 2007

The “No” Control Orders

Tony Blair said in a Downing Street press conference today:

“Control orders are necessary but by their very nature they are difficult for our security services and police to enforce.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to maintain the legislation which we wanted to do which would give us the power to detain people. In the end, that is the best protection for the British people.”

Read full story from PM at No 10 website

Read the Prime Minister’s Official Spokesperson’s Reply to the Control Orders issue

View Alex Carlile interview – as independent reviewer, on the limits of “Control Orders”

Reid: Working with “One Hand Tied Behind Our Back”

Now that this misnomer ‘Control Orders’ has been revealed for what it is – a self-imposed rebuke to our liberal democracy – John Reid is threatening to derogate from parts of the European Law of Human Rights, unless current Lords ruling comes down on the side of the government. The courts frequently come down on the side of the Human Rights Act. Opting out of Article 5 of the European Convention – The Right to Liberty – is a much bigger step to take. The Home Office is now insisting on greater powers to detain suspects of terrorism. If we DO suspend one of the fundamental principles of British justice, there will be a backlash form the usual suspects – the LIP – Liberal Intelligentsia & Press. I imagine it’ll be three cheers, though, from the ordinary voter.

Also interesting that the 90 days’ detention, that the PM tried to push through and was his first parliamentary defeat on 9th November 2005, is possibly now back on the agenda. A 28 days amendment was passed in the end. At that time Mr Blair said he hoped MPs –

“… do not rue the day” they rejected his call to allow police to detain terror suspects for up to 90 days without charging them.

COMMONS VOTES in the 90 days legislation, 9th November 2005.

90 days’ detention time limit: Defeated by 322 votes to 291, majority 31

Backbench compromise of 28 days’ detention: Passed by 323 votes to 290, majority 33.

Watch Tony Blair’s BBC (video) interview following this, his first defeat in his eight and a half years in power. Yet, they criticised that loss, and some called, again for his resignation. And now, May 2007? Well, who might have been right after all? Yes, that man Blair again.

Unfortunately as his time in office comes to a close, we may well notice that MANY of the things for which he has been criticised will be seen as having been correct, after all.

REMINDER:

Exactly one month ago Tony Blair warned that terrorism continues to be a “global threat” and needs to be fought wherever it is. Read BBC report:

Excerpt:

Mr Blair said his view was “not popular”, but the “large part of the Western world” which blamed George Bush was wrong.

“This is a very deep-rooted problem right round the world… if we don’t fight it it’s going to come after us,” the prime minister told the BBC.

View Blair interview 24 April, 2007

Control orders are in the spotlight again following the escape of three suspected terrorists. “We told you so”, might well be heard through the corridors of the Home Office, where John Reid referred to the inevitable weakness of control orders a few days ago. But if security service and government powers are strengthened as a result of this, I expect Liberty et al to cry ‘foul’. They seem to have an instinct which leads them to oppose government, security and anti-terrorist action as though such trust, freedom to act, and to keep some secrets secret threatens ALL of us. Power to REALLY control suspects, against whom there may as yet be insufficient evidence is essential.

Alex Carlile, the independent reviewer of British anti-terrorist laws, (and, how’s this for “trust’, Liberal Democrat?) has in the past been condemned by Shami Chakrabati of Liberty, for advocating the development of legislation in conformity with provisions of the Bush government’s USA PATRIOT Act. Among those civil liberties targeted included the right to a trial, the requirement that charges be issued against the imprisoned, and limits on government wiretapping of citizens.

The Director of Liberty, Shami Chakrabarti, called his continued support for control orders “disappointing” in a February 2006 press release condemning the introduction of control orders by the Prevention of Terrorism Act 2005. The press release said that this had led to the railroading of significant human rights. [1]

Of course, some MAY just – may JUST – have other agendas. Me? I prefer to trust my democratically elected government rather than be seduced by any organisation, pressure group or body which (my democratically elected government) in its wisdom allows free rein in this most free of countries. And yesterday a commission for security was formed to address how to deal with terrorism and crime facing us.

The UK is currently unable to meet the challenges posed by the various threats it is facing, a new commission for security in Britain has warned.

Ex-Nato chief Lord Robertson and former Lib Dem leader Lord Ashdown are to lead the 17-strong Independent Commission on National Security in the 21st Century.

Power to the People, I say – and that, in a democracy, means to the people’s representatives. And THAT, here in the UK, means to our elected government. Let’s not forget it.

TRUST? Some people seem to have born without it. Hopefully that very deficit in their make-up does not speed their or our unexpected exit.

23 May, 2007

PM and Nuclear power – backed by Brown, dismissed by Salmond. See report.

22 May, 2007

DECISION TO CHARGE LUGOVOI: HE SAYS, ” POLITICALLY MOTIVATED”

Now that Andrei Lugovoi, former KGB officer has been named as the suspect in the Litvinenko murder case the sparks are flying – or NOT – if the Russians decide to cease providing our gas supplies!

The UK’s director of public prosecutions, Sir Ken MacDonald said today:

“Andrei Lugovoi should be tried for this ‘grave crime’.”

Earlier UK Foreign Secretary Margaret Beckett said she had told the Russian ambassador that she expected “full co-operation” with regards extraditing Mr Lugovoi.

Prime Minister Tony Blair’s official spokesman said the Foreign Office permanent under-secretary had met with the Russian ambassador to “underline that they should comply with the extradition request”.

He added the government has “left nobody in any doubt at all as to the seriousness with which we view this case”.

In the meantime the Russian Kremlin says their constitution doesn’t allow extradition. And Andrei Lugovoi has today promised to reveal “sensational details about the case”.

Mr Lugovoi has added, this evening: “I don’t consider myself guilty. Moreover … my family and I were attacked when we were in the UK”.

Oh, go on then – tell us Mr Lugovoi! No … let me guess, let me guess – Mr Blair did it!

Events, dear boy? A national emergency? I can already hear the little bloggers and conspiratorial journalists tapping away excitedly! Read this AP report

P.S. With reference to international relations at this time of “cold war” frostiness, please read Melanie Phillips’ article today highlighting something which has been focusing in my mind since I started this blog, and thus following British commentary on many issues.

Comparing how conflicts in that troubled area are treated in the British press, she closes her article thus:

“Who needs al Qaeda when the enemies of the free world have got the western media on their side?”

The anti-western tone over many, if not most political issues has been clear to me and is widespread. The consequence if not (always) the intent, is that there IS A RAGING WAR AGAINST THE WEST being fought in liberal editorials and on the internet, and its perpetrators are inside the Liberal Intelligentsia Press. (“Lip” for short!)

As I used to be told if I sounded off in my obstreperous childhood, “enough of your lip”.

I think it’s time they addressed this. Seriously.

21 May, 2007

CAMERON Says: Go now, Blair – Then I can call Academy Trusts MY BIG IDEA!

David Cameron has been accusing the Prime Minister of “acting like a pop star” by making several trips round the world. In his rush to see the back of this most formidable of Tory foes in decades, the Tory leader says the PM is “indulging in vanity” by staying on as prime minister until the end of June.

Tony Blair says the Tory leader was “flailing around a bit, adding, “It’s a little bit pathetic”.

Of course it’s more than that. It’s diversion tactics on Mr Cameron’s part, and we all know why. His party is having panic attacks over his proposals to let grammar schools drift into history. And to make matters worse, he and David Willetts are accepting Blair’s Academy Trust schools as the right way forward. Now if Blair were out of the picture, while the Tory grammar schools row is brewing, Cameron could sound off in PMQs against Brown about how great the Academies REALLY are and how they were all HIS idea. And would Brown defend them as eloquently as can Blair? You got it!

19 May, 2007

ATTACKING BLAIR – SO WHAT’S NEW?

See Sky News report on the PM’s expected last visit in office, to Iraq

I’m adding to this post following the relentless attacks today. No, not on Baghdad or Basra, but on the other “B” – Blair.

What is wrong with our people? Rather than support the Prime Minister, our troops, the Iraqi people and their government who are all working flat out for peace, our politicos prefer to act as a mouthpiece for the killer insurgents.

Aided and abetted today by British think-tank Chatham House and former US president Jimmy Carter, I am drawn to the sad conclusion that there is another agenda in play here, on which I will expand on a new page and link to it here when complete.

ATTACKING BAGHDAD & BASRA – SO WHAT’S NEW?

As Mr Blair landed in Iraq today for his seventh visit, attacks in the Green Zone in Baghdad preceded his landing, and later in the day, while he was present, hit Basra. He was not thought to have been in any danger, but became thoroughly irritated with British journalists who continually raised questions over security. See BBC video overview of Blair’s visit

He said, suggesting journalists speak to Iraqis about what THEY think, “These guys are facing attacks every day. And they’re standing up to it, and WE should be standing up to it”.

Losing patience with journalists’ continual questions on the attacks, which Mr Blair had earlier brushed aside as a “distraction”, he said that we are assisting them by publicising the attacks, rather than the progress being made in the country. President Talabani backed him on this and detailed areas where progress IS being made. (Co-incidentally, and making Blair’s point, this video was cut short half way through the president’s words.) View this clip of the press conference here

Clearly irritated the PM suggested reporters ask the Iraqi people what THEY think BBC.

In the Baghdad press call the PM said he wanted to forge ahead with the process of reconciliation between Sunnis and Shias and to encourage Iran not to undermine the process. Also, he re-assured the Iraqi government that a new British PM would NOT mean there would be a change of British policy on Iraq. Although it seems unlikely that the attacks were aimed at Mr Blair personally, it highlights my concerns for his safety if and when he continues this quest for peace in Iraq AFTER he leaves office, presumably WITHOUT the security afforded prime ministers.

And meanwhile former President Jimmy Carter again voiced his feelings against the war in Iraq, blaming Tony Blair for not standing back from Bush at the beginning.

Clearly, Mr Blair is not cowed by the guns and mortars. Pity so many others want to surrender. But then Blair has been toughened by the constant ‘attacks’ from his own side. What’s a few more bullets when he’s already riddled through?

See my thoughts on the Blair Foundation and its plans, including what might face our soon-to-be former prime minister if he maintains his quest for peace personally, in Iraq.

18 May, 2007

BLAIR FOR PRESIDENT – OF THE WORLD BANK?

You can just imagine – President Bush gets a phone call to say that Paul Wolkawitz has resigned. He turns to his British friend, who happens to be visiting, “Tony – want a job?”

Just a touch more important kind of finance job than that of his premiership successor, eh? Musn’t gloat; he might not even be tempted. But it WOULD keep him out of Iraq. And what a turn up for the books if our ‘presidential’ ex-PM gets a job with THAT title. It probably won’t happen – for one reason or another – but right now I feel like the cat that got the cream.

17 May, 2007

THE END OF THE PEERS SHOW – GEORGE & TONY

President Bush, with reference to Mr Blair – “Am I to blame for his leaving?” After a pause, and an uneasy shrug he said, voice becoming quieter … “I don’t know.”

Watch Sky News’ Adam Boulton’s question here

Watch today’s full press conference at The White House – President Bush & Tony Blair

Read BBC report here

At the press conference Mr Bush called the British PM “a clear, strategic thinker”. Mr Blair said the US president had been “unyielding, unflinching and determined”.

Mr Blair insisted he would take the same decision again to stand “shoulder to shoulder” with America in the aftermath of the 11 September attacks.

The Prime Minister, and that’s what I’ll call him until 27th June … the Prime Minister has been talking about the USA’s relationship with Britain in Washington.

Mr Blair told the US Network NBC: “I believe our country should be a strong ally of America, and I’ve never had any problem with that. I think it will be a very dark day for my country when we do have a problem with it.”

Mr Bush paid his own sincere tribute to Blair last Friday, after the Prime Minister announced his departure and paved the way for a Brown succession.

“I’m going to miss him. He’s a remarkable person. And I consider him a good friend,” the President said.

Read the President’s thoughts and see the White House Queen’s Room where Blair slept

Read The Telegraph’s report

16 May, 2007

“… just wild about Harry”?

Well THIS Harry, HRH, is going to be disappointed and kind of wild inside as it has been decided by the Head of the Army, Sir Richard Dannatt, that they will not risk his presence. I’m afraid I saw this coming. Go to Iraq page.

At a meeting of the joint Houses of Parliament last night, Bertie Ahern, Irish Taoiseach said:

“Tony Blair has been a true friend to me, a true friend of Ireland,” he said.

“He has an honoured place in Irish hearts and in Irish history.

“And we thank Prime Minister Blair for ten years of enormous effort to help us get to where we are today. And the fact is we would not have achieved it without his efforts.”

[Picture:Tony Blair listens to Bertie Ahern in a special session of the British Parliament a week after NI devolution settlement.]

15 May, 2007

Update to “Democracy in Action”, down a bit.

Seems the BBC’s Radio 4 10:30pm report from parliament had it WRONG. Thank God for that! MPs actually voted AGAINST the proposal to remove the prerogative powers from the PM. They voted FOR Parliament to have a “stronger say” in war decisions it would seem. Which reporter is going to be up before the Radio 4 bosses in the morning then? I already had the news printed on my blog until I heard it corrected at 11.00pm.

Good, so Mr Blair can still go to war BEFORE June 27th ;0)

I really imagine that if it had been the case there would have been merry hell to play. After all, this is in actual fact the queen’s prerogative, and is passed by her to the prime minister. Knee jerk legislative reaction like this would likely have been unconstitutional and highly dangerous. And like other knee-jerk laws, they might well live have lived to regret it.
CHANGE YOUR LEAVING DATE, MR BLAIR – MAKE IT MAY 2009

Not content with stabbing him in the back, some in his party are now knifing him everywhere else in FULL view of the rest of us. “There’s no election campaign”, they say, “so let’s have Gordon leading us NOW!”

No!

Mr Blair has given his retirement date and it is several weeks away. He has been working on various upcoming programmes and policy areas. If his stupid party (sorry if you belong to Labour, but I’m fuming here) … if his stupid party thinks he can bring FORWARD his departure date, then he can also put it BACK.

Until Thursday we won’t know for sure if there will be a leadership election, but with only 27 nominations of support, 18 short of the minimum required, John McDonnell has a job on. The chancellor has 282 nominations out of 354 MPs. So it’s obviously a racing bet.

Could it be that some of his 282 supporters are nervous if Brown and his policy ideas stay in the spotlight of this ‘election campaign’? We might spot the inconsistencies, such as the one tonight at the CBI meeting when he promised to “make every child count”. According to Professor David Reynolds of Plymouth University, the chancellor would not provide the money ten years ago when the same proposal was made under Tony Blair.

But this is the ONLY way we are going to get any idea about Brown and his ideas, new or rehashed. The public, even the Labour party as a whole, will have NO say about who is our new Prime Minister. We NEED to see what he’s about NOW. Once ensconced inside Number 10 he’ll clam up in his usual way. And then we’ll get whatever he wants.

DEMOCRACY in action? Don’t make me laugh!

And tonight in Parliament they have REALLY leapt upon Blair with gusto. I CAN’T BELIEVE THE TREACHERY! Even before they’ve dumped him in the Thames, they have passed the motion, without reference to him, that his powers to decide on taking the country to war have been removed SUMMARILY! Tonight!

DISGUSTING.

He did not use this “royal prerogative” power when we went into Iraq, but put the motion to the vote and with Conservative support it was passed. So, did they fear he was about to lengthen his time in power by going to war AGAIN between now and the end of June? Him and which army?

I am finding it very difficult to contain my anger at this treatment of the country’s prime minister. “Unceremonious dumping”, was how Frank Field described Blair’s treatment at the hands of his own the other day. But with every passing day it becomes much, MUCH more despicable.

Hang on in there, Mr Blair. With any luck we might have had enough of Brown before June 27th.

Is there ANY Labour MP out there who thinks this behaviour is abominable? If so, leave a comment here.

12 May, 2007

The Economist has some insightful thoughts on Tony Blair’s demise, amongst which the reckoning that it might herald a Conservative victory next time round. David Cameron, Blair Mark 2, lacks much of the original’s qualities, the first of which being originality itself, in my humble opinion. But if ever we needed proof that it is VERY MUCH about personality in today’s politics, here it is. This is the media driven age and no amount of disengaging from that will make the new soon-to-be PM a long-term winner. We know who Labour’s winner is. Mr Cameron versus Mr Brown? Hhmm..

11th May, 2007

Blair Backs Brown – So Gordon’s the big clunking fist

10th May, 2007

LAST DAY FOR PRIME MINISTER BLAIR – 27th JUNE 2007

OK – he’s delivered his speech to the constituency. In case you haven’t seen the TV coverage, go and have a quick look at Sky’s excerpt here. Then exit the page to come back here – I still have LOADS to say about our great PM.

View the whole speech on You Tube.

LOSING THE WINNER

Neil Kinnock said on “Today” today: “The one word to associate with Tony Blair is – ‘WINNER’ “.

How right, Lord Kinnock.

What a pity Mr Blair is surrounded by so many who don’t yet recognise that. Or if they have noticed, they don’t understand its value.

And William Hague says that, much as he and people generally like Mr Blair, the Tory party will not be sorry to see the back of the man who has beaten them in three elections.

It’s all so sad. You might as well go off and watch the television coverage for a bit or click through to all the outlets who have their own take. I can’t write at the moment – got to get armed with a cup of something.

View my page on Blair Resignation: “I did what I thought was right”

8th May, 2007

NORTHERN IRELAND – RETURN OF STORMONT

Devolution in Northern Ireland – settlement of devolved democracy, after all these years. Surely this is something of which Mr Blair can be justifiably proud?

Go here to read my report with video links.

Click here for the BBC’s report.

7th May, 2007

Blair Congratulates new French President – Nicolas Sarkozy

Sarkozy est-il Margaret Thatcher française?So technologically with it these days is Mr Blair that he has wasted no time in posting a video on YouTube – no, two videos (one in English, one in French) – congratulating Nicolas Sarkozy on his presidential victory, replacing President Chirac. Click the arrow on the video to play. Want it in French? See the video below this one.

Tony Blair congratulates the new French President, the Conservative Nicolas Sarkozy. Monsieur Sarkozy has praised Mr Blair’s Britain and expressed the intention to take France on the same journey.

Tony Blair félicite le nouveau Président français Nicolas Sarkozya.
M. Nicolas Sarkozy a félicité la Grande-Bretagne de M. Blair et a exprimé l’intention de prendre la France sur le même voyage. (Félicitations sur votre français M. Blair).

1997 Election Coverage, BBC – PAINFUL, DISAPPOINTING or WONDERFUL to watch?

If you want to watch 14 hours of the BBC’s live coverage of the 1997 election on your computer I think you’ve missed it. This is the live streaming site for you to check – click here.

Tony King said at the beginning of the day’s count: “If the exit polls are right this is not a landslide, but an asteroid hitting the planet and destroying all life on earth”.

Alastair Campbell highlights their party organisation as the most important factor. Wonder how it’ll be for the next general election?

Listening to some of the winning Labour candidates, they were proud to thank and praise Tony Blair and “New Labour” then. What happened? Tony Blair is still true to New Labour. What about the rest of them? I don’t for one moment think it is all about Iraq.

6th May, 2007

Happy Birthday Mr Blair – though I expect you’ve had happier ones during your premiership.

Goodbye Mr Reid

John Reid is leaving his ministerial post as Home Secretary when Tony Blair departs, leaving the way clear for Gordon Brown, who he is backing for next PM, to bring in new cabinet talent. Some say he is jumping before he is pushed. I couldn’t possibly comment.

It’s clear that his is not a permanent retirement, as he only wants to “charge his batteries”. So, is he thinking of coming back after the Labour party loses the next general election to try to lead (or to stand alongside Tony Blair when they resurrect him!)

If the latter scenario is the plan, unfortunately I imagine Mr Blair will be a bit busy by then. Anyway, his silly party, if they lose, won’t work out what’s missing.

Liberal Democrats Won’t Work With The Nats in Scotland

Because of the independence issue the Lib Dems say they won’t work with the Scottish Nationalists. Nor will they work with Labour either. Who is going to work with whom now then or are the Nats on their own in a minority government? Meanwhile two legal procedures are on the cards – one from a Labour candidate in Scotland and another by voters whose votes were disqualified. So, Salmond better get on with forming his minority government in Edinburgh before the prize is grabbed back from him! Whatever, my guess is it’ll be a short-lived term in power for Salmond anyway – two years at the most.
4th May, 2007

SCOT NATS WIN BY ONE SEAT

By one seat only slimey Salmond (sorry, just don’t like the man) has beaten Labour into second place. So now the political niceties begin. Who can work with whom? The Liberal Democrats as king-makers will have much to chew over this weekend. They have more in common with Labour than with the Scottish Nationalists, in particular they are a unionist party and are not in favour of a referendum on independence. But they and the Nats were against Iraq, and as such may gang up to try to force Brown’s hand on even earlier withdrawal than is presently planned.

Alternatively I wonder if Menzies Campbell and Gordon Brown can get it together? Will Ming’s party put up with propping up Labour? Is saving Scotland more important than saving Iraq?

You’ll have to click through to other sites to read what Salmond says, by the way. Won’t pollute my pages with his words. I regard him with the same personal distaste as he does Mr Blair.

Go here to see links to the results and analysis across the UK.

WHY YOU’LL MISS BLAIR

While we wait for ALL the results, I’d like you to read this. It puts in a nutshell why we will miss THIS Prime Minister. My hope is that his political abilities are not lost to us forever. We might find we need them more than ever in the very near future.

ELECTION RESULTS AWAITED

Midnight now, and no results in yet – so who knows what’s happening? But The Telegraph seems to know what our present PM will be doing soon – something BIG in Africa. If they’re right – good for him, good for Africa, and good for us. Read it here.

2nd May, 2007

• In Prime Minister’s Questions today in parliament Tony Blair refused requests for a public inquiry into the Intelligence and Security Committee’s handling of intelligence information linked to the 7/7 bombings in London. He said that such an inquiry would be a dangerous distraction. Compared to the USA where they had reams of documents following an inquiry into 9/11 our security organisations seem measurably unaccountable. Perhaps the next PM will permit such an inquiry, but if not, the families campaigning on behalf of the 52 dead and 700 injured from 7/7/200, say they will take the government to court. Read extensive opinion here.
• Geoff Hoon, former defence secretary has written critically about the aftermath of the Iraq invasion, in particular the de-Baathification process in Baghdad and Dick Cheney’s influence on decisions. Mr Blair says he has made similar points.
• Liverpool MP Peter Kilfoyle has avoided prosecution for leaking confidential details of a meeting in April 2004 between President Bush and Tony Blair on Iraq, due to “insufficient evidence”.

Mr Kilfoyle admitted passing on secret details of George Bush’s alleged threat to bomb the Al-Jazeera TV station. The Labour left-winger was questioned under caution for three hours last year by Scotland Yard detectives investigating a possible breach of the Official Secrets Act.

It followed the leak of what was said to be a summary of President Bush’s meeting with Tony Blair in April 2004, at which the Prime Minister apparently argued against missile strikes on Al-Jazeera’s Qatar headquarters.

Click to read more about Kilfoyle here

1st May, 2007

Blair & Brown – New, er, Old Best Friends

View Blair’s Goodbye & Brown Endorsement

Well, you couldn’t have had it any clearer from the PM than saying that a Scot will be PM soon, and one who has run the country’s economy so well. So that’s not Reid, then.

Unless Mr Blair means himself! Surely not? He was born in Scotland and as PM is the “First Lord of the Treasury” by convention, though you might have fooled Gordon. So perhaps Blair is actually “the big clunking first” ;0)

And today Brown has praised Blair in glowing terms. All great pals then.

So that’s it. Read more on my thoughts here

And since it’s Ten Years from that “bright new dawn”, Mr Blair, Mr Brown and others are scribbling their thoughts. So here are Mr Blair’s today. Read The Sun’s praise for PM.

TENTH ANNIVERSARY FOR BLAIR & New Labour

Today we have five convicted terrorists in prison! It’s ten years since Tony Blair and New Labour came to power. But what is on The Independent’s front page? Blair & Iraq! Come, ON! Surely there is ANOTHER story?

Well, here’s mine (and yours), The Independent – Happy Anniversary Mr Blair

30th April, 2007

FIVE JAILED FOR LIFE FOR TERRORIST PLOTS ON UK

After a year long trial, five men have been given life sentences for plotting terrorist attacks on a Kent shopping centre, the gas network and a London night club, amongst other targets, possibly including parliament. Click here for more on this.

MI5 website

Statement by Jonathan Evans, the Director General of the Security Service.

29th April, 2007

• Gordon Brown was asked by Andrew Rawnsley if it worried him that the opinion polls, even now, rate Tony Blair more highly than him as Prime Minister. Mr Brown said that opinion polls said all sorts of things. He defended Blair’s style of government and said it had actually been by cabinet and parliamentary decisions and not the oft criticised “sofa” government.

• According to The Sunday Times, Downing Street sources say that Mr Blair will back Gordon Brown for the leadership, given that David Miliband has refused to stand and the only other contenders so far are the Left wing, no hope, candidates. The Independent (not Mr Blair’s biggest fan club) has its own take. Click through to “Leadership Candidates” for my moans and groans about this news.

• Blair Defends His Legacy on NHS changes: Tessa Jowell says “no more Blairites and Brownites”

But already the cracks are showing as Mr Blair seems to disagree with Mr Brown on an independent board to run the NHS:

Blair today attacked the idea of creating an independent board to run the NHS, which had been floated by some ministers. In a September 25th interview with the Sunday Telegraph, Brown talked about devolving power over running public services to ‘civil servants, the public services or in some cases external bodies.’ The newspaper and BBC reported that Brown supported the NHS board concept.

‘I’d be very wary if it became a means of avoiding making decisions,’ Blair said. ‘In the end, somebody’s got to make decisions.’

28th April, 2007

Tough On the Causes? – Early Intervention

Today the PM expands upon his views on society’s ills, lack of respect, and being tough on crime AND the causes of crime. He says he no longer agrees with his own analysis of 1997 or that of Cameron on “civility” (of 2007). He has been tough on crime he argues, and repeats that “early intervention” is the remedy for the other half.

Referring back 15 years to his own “misguided” policy of simply pouring money into disadvantaged areas, he points out that David Cameron has caught up with that 15 year old stance. So, by inference, the Tories are at least ten years behind in their analysis and remedy. The PM links together recent societal advances through his party’s Sure Start, and localised work to show his party’s move forward on this issue.

How galling for him that, since Mr Brown might well take his eye off this particular political ball, Mr Cameron might be the one to gain from the present PM’s stance. After all, he’s emulated Mr Blair on just about everything else. If you want “Change” is Cameron the right man? View Cameron IS Blair video.

26th April, 2007

Downing Street said today that the PM would not be quitting before May 3rd. And in Warsaw, he said, “I wouldn’t hold your breath on this one”.

The spokesman said: “I have one word for the stories: wrong. The stories this morning are wrong.”

Asked if he was saying the stories Mr Blair would make an announcement about his future before the local elections were wrong, the spokesman replied: “Correct.”

‘Hiroshima’ or ‘False Flag’ Operation – Which Would You Prefer?

One day to go before something big hits us, according to some. Click here to read more.

To paraphrase, –

Cry “God for Harry, – England, and King George” (Charles’ expected name when he ascends the throne).

25th April, 2007

A “Smear”

The Tory leader more or less accused the government of leaking in PMQs today. The PM denied all knowledge but refused an inquiry. Elections in the air, so hi-ho, the pressure is on. Go to Leaks page to read more.

24th April, 2007

The PM was interviewed on the BBC today and defended the fight against global terrorism. View interview here.

“If we don’t fight it, it’s going to come after us”, says Blair

Terrorism continues to be a “global” threat and needs to be fought whether it is in “Iraq, Afghanistan or anywhere else”, the PM said. He said that he knows his view is “not popular”, but the “large part of the Western world” which blamed George Bush was wrong, in his opinion.

“This is a very deep-rooted problem right round the world… if we don’t fight it, it’s going to come after us,” the prime minister told the BBC.

He spoke before he and other ministers were briefed by the new head of MI5.

Also announced today: Tony Blair will chair the first meeting of the security & terrorism committee, set up as part of new Home Office setup. The new ministerial committee will be backed by a new Office for Security and Counter-terrorism(OSC), which will meet weekly and be chaired by the Home Secretary.

23rd April, 2007

According to “The Independent” Mr Blair is likely to endorse Gordon Brown as his successor when he stands down on 9th or 10th April. He could hardly do anything other if David Miliband, John Reid and Charles Clarke are unwilling to stand for fear of being embarrassingly defeated. Or do you think he’s going to open a can of worms and say what he REALLY thinks of Brown?! No. Of course not. For that we’ll have to wait a few years.

The End For New Labour?

And for Mr Blair even his closest allies can’t help but blame him:

“New Labour has come to an end,” one close Blair ally said yesterday. “The game is up. We don’t have a candidate. David Miliband was the only hope of carrying it on and winning the leadership.”

Some allies blame Mr Blair for dropping a plan to install Mr Miliband as Foreign Secretary after the 2005 election, when he appointed Margaret Beckett to the post. They believe this would have given him the experience and confidence to run against Mr Brown. “Psychologically, David isn’t ready for it, because Tony didn’t bring him on quickly enough,” said one Blair aide.

So there we are then, it’s all Tony’s fault, of course! Or is this a last chance plea to find Miliband Mark 2? If so, it’s a vain hope as Mr Brown already has a majority of Labour MPs backing him. Since the prime minister holds the power of patronage, “knowing which side their bread is buttered on” comes to mind.

A Brown U-Turn?

As to whether it is really the end of New Labour, we will have to wait a while. Gordon Brown was the joint-architect of New Labour so this will have been a u-turn if it is all over. If it IS finished, so is Labour (Old or New) for foreseeable general elections.

The Left in politics is no more, and that is Tony Blair’s most potent legacy. The Left, in the pre-New Labour sense, will NEVER return as a political force, of that I am as sure as I can be.

22nd April, 2007

• Call the plumber!

The leakers are at it again. Secret plans to woo high value donors and police recommending charges of all of the Prime Minister’s inner circle are amongst the inside word that’s now outside. The Sunday Telegraph’s regurgitating of a long-dismissed report by an adviser to Downing Street will only add to the excitement of imminent charges being soundly based. Click here to read more about this leak

• Total campaigning and the future
  

Now New Labour is accused of having been TOO good at targeting widely across the political terrain in a kind of “third way”, as in Blairism/Clintonism. As in the USA swing voters were studied and worked on – adopting such slogans as “forward not back”. That’s supposed to weaken them as a movement! And now there is talk about Brown’s strong American leanings, which some think are more natural for him than Blair, who is by many considered ‘more European than American’ in outlook.

THAT analysis might surprise some, who still see the present PM as being an American puppet. But if it is true perhaps we WILL see Mr Blair making a move on the EU ‘constitution’ issue before he leaves office. I have NO doubt that Mr Blair is not about to, in Harold Wilson’s words, “live” after he leaves office. Remember this is a man who is still young, motivated and hungry enough to want to make a difference.

And as the French elections throw up two Blair admirers in the top slots to win power, look out Europe, voici Monsieur Blair.

• Miliband backs Brown. Well, he had to , didn’t he? Otherwise, no job for David in Brown’s government, and another career down the chute.

20th April, 2007

• BREAKING NEWS – CPS – Cash-For Honours
  

Today Inspector Yates has finally handed over his files on cash-for-honours to the Crown Prosecution Service. Interesting – after the recent Tory election funding unanswered questions I mentioned yesterday (below). If the number of documents handed over to the CPS is anything to go by, 6,300, they surely have SOMETHING to go on, or on the other hand enough to show that it’s a lot of smoke without fire.

Whether the CPS can quickly sort it out or not – and it seems they have been working in close co-ordination with Scotland Yard throughout the last year or more – hopefully they will bear in mind the possible consequences on our democracy of a criminal prosecution at THIS time. If they decide that there ARE grounds to proceed and charge anyone, let’s hope they wait until after the local elections. If only one or a few individuals are to be charged there will nonetheless be a fallout effect on at least ONE of the parties standing in these important elections. I say this out of “public interest” and as a member of NO political party, not because the thought of our international statesman being hauled in front of a court gives me nightmares (though it kind of DOES!)

On the other hand, perhaps they should let us know sooner rather than later if they do NOT intend to press charges. Whatever – stand by for the usual press leaks! Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

From the BBC report today:

Scotland Yard said that 136 people had been interviewed. They include Tony Blair and some of his closest aides.

The Crown Prosecution Service will now decide whether anyone should be charged. All involved deny wrongdoing.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said that what they consider to be their main file on the investigation was “a 216 page report with supportive material”.

He said there had been extensive consultation with the CPS during the inquiry, and this was the 12th police submission – in total they have handed over 6,300 documents.

19th April, 2007

• Is Inspector Yates after the Tories too?

If so, perhaps we can expect more than just the Prime Minister to be clapped in irons once he’s out of Downing Street. Well, if the worst happens to Mr Blair, Labour will dish it up about Ashcroft and the Tory sleaze machine. Or maybe even if Blair and co are exonerated. It seems we can expect a lot of dwelling on past looseness with the cheque book and honours.

It seems Labour is waiting for Blair’s departure before they start on Tory sleaze over funding. The Tory treasurer Lord Ashcroft seems to have been up to some sleight of hand with the pennies. And, what’s worse, it seems it was due to Ashcroft’s funding of marginals that Labour got into its very own financial pickle still hanging over Number 10.

Hopefully nothing will come of any of it as far as the past is concerned. A few lessons will have been learnt all round by all sides, party funding will be reformed and Inspector Yates can go off and catch some REAL criminals.

• Lock ’em up BEFORE they murder

The man who killed 32 in the USA Virginia university shootings was mentally ill, but not enough to keep him off the streets it seems. The video message he sent to NBC part-way through his murderous rampage indicates his obsession with death, hatred of peers and general insanity. Perhaps now, our government’s proposals of “prevention rather than cure” detainment doesn’t seem quite so misguided.

• “We live in a democratic society, not the Wild West. It is not for people to decide they are going to be the sheriff in town.”

Two men, former trusted government aides, have gone on trial accused of disclosing secret papers concerning a meeting on April 16 2004 meeting between Mr Blair and Mr Bush.

18th April, 2007

Well, he’s on his way, but Mr Blair can’t stop working. On Sudan, Northern Ireland and his party’s battle in the important local elections, the PM just keeps on keeping on.

PM says – Darfur situation “unacceptable”.
Sinn Fein in Number 10 for talks
“Hold your nerve, and be confident”, says Blair to Labour party.
Watch Prime Minister’s Questions – House of Commons, 18th April, 2007
Read main points of PMQs.
Watch the Prime Minister’s Monthly Briefing to the Press (1 hour 3 mins)
View – Tony Blair, latest video interview with Jon Sopel, Politics Show, 15 April (26 mins)

17th April, 2007

David Miliband says again today that he won’t stand for the leadership! Is anyone listening? Well, some are. There’s a new blog supporting Miliband for the leadership. It’s called “There is an Alternative”. Although it may look like my blog in its infancy, (a bit like Blair compared to Miliband) the Miliband blog has nothing to do with me. I’m only here for Blair; I’m out of here soon, folks. Good luck to Miliband’s blog anyway.

Lowest Opinion polls for Labour but not too good for the Tories either.

Read the PM’s press conference details here

Watch video of monthly press conference

Blair’s last monthly press call?

Now that the PM will soon be off to do something more rewarding than running the country, I’m only keeping an eye on anything which impacts on him until such time as he is off the scene. Then I’ll take my life back! Thus, I may not be posting daily any more.

15th April, 2007

RESIGNED TO RESIGNATION?

So that’s it then. I can get back to my own business now we know Mr Blair is going soon.

BUILDING BLOCKS IN PLACE OVER NEXT FEW WEEKS

In a BBC interview today on the Politics Show with Jon Sopel, the PM seemed in reasonably buoyant mood, supporting his government’s changes and progress and emphasising the nature of “shifting challenges”. He said he thought his legacy would “stand the test of time”. Adding that the “final building blocks” of reform are being put in place he said that reducing NHS waiting times, building more schools and tackling anti-social behaviour were among his government’s achievements. He also said that recent proposals were not aimed at “binding” his successor, but “doing what is right”.

He refused to be drawn on the leadership campaign, but seemed to confirm that these were his last few weeks in power.

In the usual way of dissecting his every word, I’ll just mention one interesting little thing he said, on crime, and its challenges-

“… the next generation of politicians have got to take on …”

So, does he have a younger new leader in mind, given that Gordon Brown is actually older than Mr Blair?

14th April, 2007

BROWN MEETS BUSH

Well, I’ve just watched Gordon Brown talk at the WMF gathering in Washington. I’m aware of what I said about respect below – honestly I am – and I DO TRY with Mr Brown because he has been a good chancellor and is intellectually very capable, BUT… (everybody knows that here comes the but) … but, he was AWFUL! He looked and sounded like a novice. You wouldn’t think he’d been around for ten years. OK, so he’s a charisma-free zone, but c’MON, Mr Brown, our next Prime Minister will have to do better than this.

We know President Bush had called to say, “Hello”, or something. We understand that American eyes were watching his performance. What WERE they thinking?

[Pic: If looks could kill… there’d be a vacancy right now for PM]

What happens in the UK when Blair’s gone? Who’s Brown anyway? What’s he like? What difference is he going to make to the USA in Iraq? What if Brown pulls his troops out? What are the Brits thinking, anyway? Are we responsible for Blair’s early departure? If so, how can we get Bush for Blair’s fate? And, heck buddy, how soon can we change our constitution so that Blair can stand for president?

Yes, our American friends still obsess about Tony Blair, and are more in mourning than in hopeful anticipation regarding Mr Brown’s expected arrival on the international scene.But all of that is no excuse for the Chancellor looking like he’s had a rough night and sounding like a boring finance minister! Talk about an embarrassment to us Brits after our scene-stealing superstar of a PM. Watching Brown, I kept thinking –

• Why does Brown keep touching his nose?
• Why did he keep gazing vacantly, without any warmth or contact, to only those cameras to his left? There were cameras and newsmen to his right and in front.
• Why does he always look so baggy-eyed?
• Why does his hair always look as though you could fry an egg on it?
• Why does he sound as though the only thing he REALLY understands is economics? It’s the only thing most of the rest of us DON’T! Good starting point, Mr Brown.

OK, so he’s not “famous” like Blair, even at home. But his attempt to counteract today’s celebrity mad society by suggesting that people want to “have a deeper look to see what lies behind the character and personality” is a bit of a non-starter. We’ve got to be INTERESTED in the first place, Mr Brown. And since the Chancellor has been around for ten years, we’re about as interested as we’re ever likely to be.

Mr Blair still holds a kind of intriguing, semi-opaque hold over the media and politics, with the addition of his “open”, and “I feel your pain” personality. His humanity is clearly there and we get a tantalising peek every now and then. As for the Chancellor, well … I’m sure he has a soul, but, am I bothered?

Oh, and by the way, Mr Brown, impressions given in the first ten seconds are the only ones that stick.

POLITICS NOW A CHARISMA-FREE ZONE? WISHFUL THINKING

Saying as the Chancellor did that he believed Britain was moving on from a situation where people were “famous for being famous” is wishful thinking on his part.

“People are moving away from that to what lies behind the character and the personality,” he told The Guardian.

This, Mr Brown, is the age of the media, and presentation matters! In many ways it is THE MAIN INGREDIENT for successful politicians today. Who needs substance when you’re media friendly? Just look at David Cameron for proof. But you’ve either got or you haven’t got – style, Mr Brown. I’m afraid you haven’t.

Now here’s a guy with style …

“DON’T KICK ME ON THE WAY OUT”, says PM to Scots voters (May 3rd elections)

Mr Blair said in Glasgow

“They say people can give me a kicking one last time on my way out of the door.

Except I will be out of the door – but the consequences of an SNP government will be there for the next four years and, if they have their way, forever.

They try to make the elections about Iraq or Trident. All these issues are fiercely controversial, but they are not what are at issue here.”

13th April, 2007

NO MORE MR (POLITICALY) NICE GUY!

On Black Kids & Violence

Tony Blair in Cardiff made a speech about knife crime. He called on the black community to pull together and speak out to tackle gang culture. Group leaders need to be taken out of circulation, he said, calling for “intense police focus”. He raised a few hackles by stating the obvious, “we won’t stop this by pretending it’s not young black kids doing it.” So nothing new there yet. He still has a fascinating ability to raise hackles by stating the obvious.

[Pic: The Prime Minister leaving Cardiff’s City Hall after a Business Meeting]

Tony Blair has claimed the spate of knife and gun murders in London was not being caused by poverty, but a distinctive black culture.

Giving the James Callaghan Memorial Lecture in Cardiff, the prime minister admitted he had been “lurching into total frankness” in the final weeks of his premiership. He called on black people to lead the fight against knife crime. He said that “the black community – the vast majority of whom in these communities are decent, law abiding people horrified at what is happening – need to be mobilised in denunciation of this gang culture that is killing innocent young black kids”.

About time too, Mr Blair. For quite some time I have taken great pride in NOT being politically correct. Your words were not to attribute ‘blame’ so much as to identify ‘responsibility’.

On “basic mutual respect”

Mr Blair also said, “We are still too often missing the component that cannot be delivered by money alone: the basic, mutual respect that makes a community work.”

Taking questions from the audience, Mr Blair said solving the social alienation that drew some young people to crime needed more than money. Some people working with children at age four or five knew whether the youngsters were going “to be in real trouble” later in life, he said.

THE COMPUTER MONITOR IS MIGHTIER THAN THE TV – maybe

The PM must have noticed that lack of respect in society throughout this last unpleasant couple of years. As the ‘decision maker’ as regards Iraq, he has been hammered as a liar and a war criminal. There is no regard for how this must make him feel, but worse, less consideration of how it might impact on his family. For quite some time I have felt very angry about this determination of large numbers of people to indulge in this kind of arrogant accusation.

The printed press, including some idiot-bloggers, are the main culprits, and today their words are online in perpetuity, to resurface with ease.

On the other hand, the face-to-face interactivity of a television interview means that humanity on both sides of the argument is evident. Room for getting behind the simple words; space to understand the background to decision making.

The papers are partly responsible for this, striving to support their own agenda, and to cast doubt on his word and the conclusion of inquiries supporting him. The printed press holds more responsibility for any detrimental impression we have of Tony Blair than does television or radio.

I think I know why.

GETTING THE MESSAGE

When someone is speaking on radio and more particularly on television, we get a true to life, clear impression of the man or woman, including their expressions, pauses and external factors influencing their words. Whereas, when their words are being reported in written form, the meaning can be nuanced by the reporter or writer, to convey the writer’s own message. This happens all the time. So, according to some papers Mr Blair is arrogant, doesn’t listen, doesn’t apologise for his mistakes. The fact is simply that the writer or reporter with this opinion is unhappy because the PM does not agree with him/her; and of course why should the PM apologise if he thinks he is right? Would you? When many people, who disagree with the PM, actually meet him, and interact face to face, it seems a different impression emerges of him and of what motivates him.

The pen may be mightier than the sword, figuratively speaking, and by use of its modern day equivalent, the internet, we are proving it. By dint of widespread computer use and viral spread of numbers the message in the public domain is that Tony Blair is a liar and a war criminal. Yet, he is neither. It is only that some people hold those opinions. They have concluded thus. That is all. But on the internet it is stated as fact!

Respect and responsibility, please.

12th April, 2007

YouTube Superstar! The Prime Minister shows ’em how it’s done.
Click the video below to activate here

THE SMOKING GUN

Who dunnit then? Who decided and when that the navy crew could sell their stories? Des Browne? The Navy chiefs? The PM? ALL of them? On Monday we should have a clearer picture when Des Browne reports to parliament, but in this pre-election period the opposition are still point-scoring. In Wales, Tony Blair said he did not know until Sunday. View video report.

LAST GASP SEARCH FOR – ANYONE BUT GORDON

Those faithful Blairites are determined. Today’s Guardian has a new plot unfolding to ‘persuade’ Miliband to stand for the party leadership. Somehow I don’t think it’ll work. The backbenchers are too scared to come out in favour of anyone but Gordon! They’re all after promotion in the ‘new’ Labour government, remember.

My advice, for what it’s worth – let Brown have his time in the sun. It’ll only be his for a year or two and then the REAL party leader can return. Miliband is acceptable, though not exactly riveting. He’s not Blair, and folks, it ain’t fair! Right, that’s my blubbing done for the day ;0(

Perhaps, to paraphrase David Miliband on Newsnight a while ago, we’ll be calling before too long, “Tony Blair – Come Back – All is Forgiven!”

11th April, 2007

HEADS TO ROLL?

Des Browne, Defence Secretary, has explained that “the buck stops” with him on his change of mind on the naval cash for stories.

But on the local electioneering battlefield, David Cameron called today for two things:

1. We need to learn all the lessons of what went wrong. We need a full MoD inquiry, (into the capture), to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

2. A full explanation of the “calamitous decision that ministers made to encourage our armed forces personnel to sell their stories to the media.”

He said that if it was an “important decision”, why didn’t Mr Browne consult more widely. When did Downing Street know, when was the Prime Minister told, what did Downing Street say, what involvement did the PM have in this decision.

It was a “dreadful decision which caused great damage to our armed forces.”

He repeatedly queried the PM’s involvement in the decision, and when he knew. Saying that “in the end the buck stops with him (the PM)” makes clear what Cameron has already decided.

True, bad decisions have been made, but to say, as Cameron does, that the Government is doing long term damage to our armed forces, is to pre-judge. Or to electioneer even. And how can he so easily state that the government is doing damage to our armed forces?

Does he KNOW the heads of the navy are lying when they say it was a Royal Navy decision? Of course not. He is throwing dirt around hoping much of it will stick to the PM and the government. It’s their jobs he’s after. Making noises about defending the armed forces is facile, but Cameron, like Ahmadinejad, knows the value of good p.r. He’s learnt that from Tony Blair and this government, much as he criticises.
In the end Cameron’s target was clear – the usual one – “We need answers from the Prime minister and in the end the buck stops with him.”Well since Mr Cameron’s words the Defence Secretary and the Prime minister have spoken. Mr Browne says he understood that Mr Blair knew on Sunday, but that he, Mr Browne, had first spoken to the PM about it on Monday, three days after having been informed of the Navy’s decision. Will that stop the Tories? Of course not. There’s an election in the offing!

Read PM’s statement – “I did not know about decision until afterwards”

View video of Des Browne’s explanation

View video of David Cameron’s questions, if you must ;0)

[Pic: In Cardiff today – a PM under stress!?]

And the PM this evening says that it won’t happen again, and enough has been said on it. Of course, he knows that as well as providing succour to the opposition at this local election time, there is another we need to starve of the oxygen of publicity for THEIR cause; the Iranian regime.

So, some now ask, what has happened to the tight grip of the famous Number 10 Media Machine. Is the PM in the clear? Is it symptomatic of his losing his grip on events, so close to his resignation?

Hang on a minute! Is this what we’d get if we lost the hated and much maligned control & spin machine in Downing Street? Maybe losing it is not such a good idea after all, eh?

I said a couple of days ago that Ahmadinejad had met his match in Blair, the great communicator. Look what happens when he doesn’t communicate!

View BBC video – Who Made the Cash for Stories u-turn?

10th April, 2007

THE PM DID IT, OF COURSE!

So at the Downing Street press briefing today they wanted to know when the Prime Minister knew about the decision to pay the navy personnel for their stories, and why he didn’t stop it. I suppose they want to find out if it was HIS idea in the first place; it’s always more fun to knock the prime minister than just another minister or our services, come to that. The press should stop their point scoring. They’ve already bled him dry with the blame game, or haven’t they noticed? He’s departing anaemic as much as hurt.

5th April, 2007

NAVY CREW BACK HOME

Well now that they’ve landed, I believe it. But as their plane taxied in, the Prime Minister spoke solemnly in Downing Street. He drew attention to the disparity between today’s good news and the bad news from Iraq of four more soldiers’ death. Denying he was making any actual link he nonetheless pointed out that Iran was known to be supplying help to those attacking the British troops in southern Iraq. And he insisted we had made ‘no deals’ to secure their release.

[Pic: A solemn Blair. Mixed message. 15 back, 4 dead]

Over the next few days we can expect the cud will be well-chewed in the aftermath. We all know the questions, but not yet the answers. And we may not know all the answers for a long time, if ever.

WHO YOU GONNA BLAME …?

I predict that our self-flagellation over Iran’s clever tactics will become harsher. We will blame our Prime Minister, our government, the Foreign Secretary, our sailors, their superiors, the Royal Navy, the line in the water, the war in Iraq, the UN, the EU, the USA, ourselves, Iran, Ahmadinejad, the Mullahs …

The papers will have a field day, as experts tell us why this, and why that.

And meanwhile Iran can breathe a sigh of relief. It didn’t get blown to kingdom come by the western powers, and it told us to go to hell, in a polite and friendly manner.

The questions will cause those who don’t believe we should be engaging in activities in the region to strengthen their calls for withdrawal. So what’s new there then?

I never forget who is on my side and whose side I am on. That’s democracy, British style.

[Pic: Tony Blair speaks at 5:30pm on the announcement of the release of sailors & marines ]

The PM today – a study in careful reckoning. Who cares wins. Who wins, cares. What do you reckon?

“We bear the Iranian people no ill will”, says PM

NAVY PERSONNEL FREE!

This ‘Tony Blair – VERY Latest’ page carries on from the Tony Blair – Latest page, which was getting a bit full. Lots of interesting stuff on there, if you want to take a look.

Relief at Sailors’ Impending Release – update

4th April, 2007

SAILORS TO BE FREED, I think!

Even Downing Street was taken by surprise at the deft move made by Iran today. After a couple of hours digesting the news that our personnel would be released, the Prime Minister put his thoughts together and carefully thanked those who needed to be thanked, pointedly omitting to mention the Iranian President.

President Ahmadinijad, saying the “soldiers” could go in his press conference, added this:

( honestly he did ;0) …

“I’m asking Mr Blair to not put these fifteen people on trial because they admitted” what they have done.

Er, right. We’ll try to hold him back!

Anyway, I’ll believe they’re free when I see it. “There’s mony a slip ‘twixt cup and lip”.

Watch BBC correspondent interviewing Ahmadinejad

3rd April, 2007

BREAKING NEWS 10:00pm

MIXED MESSAGES FROM LONDON?

Downing Street has just released a statement saying that they are in close contact with the chief Iranian negotiator Ali Larijani. The Foreign Secretary and the Prime Minister seem to have a difference of views over the likelihood of progress over the next “48 hours”. And we must remember that some in Iran attribute their troubles, wrongly, to Britain over the last 100 years, so they are still very touchy about Blair sounding “tough”. However, it is a reminder to the Iranians that Blair DOES have at least one ally who might not be too unhappy about failure of diplomacy within 48 hours. Chess is a complicated game.

And to add an extra pawn to this game, where is Iraq’s support in all of this? Iran is seemingly supporting Iraq, but today’s Iraq supports the UK and the other coalition nations. Complicated indeed.

And is Ahmadinejad in the background on purpose? He is mainly the domestic issues man and is seen as too aggressive for international communications. Ali Larijani, chief negotiator on nuclear issues and foreign minister is a shrewd operator and consensus builder. He is evidently the man with whom to negotiate.

We seemingly failed to notice the threat by Iran, just two days before the sailors’ capture, that if “we break the law” they will too.

Whether our “second track” would be a second approach to the UN or something tougher still, well, who knows? Whatever, negotiations should stay confidential if they are to succeed.

SEIZED IRANIAN DIPLOMAT FREED IN IRAQ

Early days for analysis, but it seems that an Iranian diplomat, kidnapped in Iraq in February was freed last night (Monday) and has today returned to Iran.

Jalal Sharafi, the second secretary at the Iranian embassy in Baghdad, apparently walked back into the embassy off the streets of the Iraqi capital.

No-one has admitted seizing him, but Iraqi officials had been working for his release – and that of five Iranian officials seized by the US in January.

Separately, Iraqi officials say they are urging Iran to free 15 UK Navy personnel they seized on 23 March.

“We are intensively seeking the release of the five Iranians,” an unnamed Iraqi official said.

“This will be a factor that will help in the release of the British sailors and marines.”

It is unclear if there is a link with the five Iranian officials which Iran says the Americans kidnapped. But this may explain the “diplomatic moves” to which Iran has recently referred. To them it will be interpreted as a quid pro quo – and thus a victory.

Go to my newest page on Brown and Miliband and New, New LabourThe next 48 hours will be “fairly critical” in resolving the crisis of UK sailors held in Iran, Tony Blair says. Mentioning two tracks which could be taken, his tone is by no means that of surrender, but for that reason might serve to inflame the touchy Iranians to refer to him as arrogant. Still, he has an angry British electorate to satisfy too. Never mind that most of them couldn’t negotiate their way out of a paper bag, HIS is the task and responsibility. I’ll bet he does it too. Not that he’ll be thanked for it.

You mark my words. It’ll be the diplomatic service we are urged by the press to thank if we manage to get the sailors released and Tony Blair in the press firing line if we don’t. View PM’s response today.

Click the arrow on the video to watch the Prime Minister’s comments after the first video broadcast by Iran of Faye Turney.

Tony Blair says video “doesn’t fool anyone” “Our people have got to be released … the lives of our personnel come first”.

BLAIR CAMPAIGNING FOR LOCAL ELECTIONS

“Offer them hope” says the optimistic PM to activists, at the launch of his party’s local elections campaign. It must be his own natural optimism which has kept him going in recent months.

What I find interesting is the analysis of polls. For example, this one, reported today:

A poll of Labour council leaders last month found a majority wanted the PM to say when he would quit before polling day and more than four in 10 wanted him out before May 3.

Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t that mean that a MAJORITY – almost 6 out of 10 – DON’T want him out before 3 May? Oh how it sticks in the craw of such prejudiced analysts to provide ANY glimmer of hope or reason for optimism to our PM.

BROWN’S SLIPPERY CROWN ON ITS WAY DOWN?

The hubbub over the pension arrangements of ten years are coming back to haunt the Chancellor. Oh, dear. I AM sorry.

CRISIS IN IRAN (WHERE CHESS WAS INVENTED)

2nd April, 2007 – Day 11

IRAN’S NEW IMAGES OF OUR CAPTURED NAVAL PERSONNEL

Iran says they have “confessions” of being in Iranian waters but are holding them back because “Britain has made some proposals”.

SkyNews report

These pictures could have been taken days ago. Are they all still well? Alive? Let our consulate see them.

BBC report

Iranians “proud” of their stance –

Excerpt from BBC report

“This is a crisis right up his [President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s] street. Britain is still regarded with great suspicion in Iran, having in 1953 joined the US in overthrowing Prime Minister Mohammed Mossadegh in favour of the Shah. Iran has also been calling for Britain and the US to leave Iraq and has been accused in turn of helping Shia militias to attack coalition forces. So the background is one of suspicion.”

Not to mention the five Iranians held by the USA and the nuclear issue.

2nd April, 2007 – Downing Street press briefing on Iran and Brown – Pensions

1st April, 2007 – Day 10

BLAIR RESIGNS!!!

( Sorry – April Fool! )

Quieter diplomacy from OUR side today. Meanwhile two more seamen “confess” on Iranian TV.

Mobs riot outside British Embassy – “Death to Britain”. Wonder what they’d do if WE were the ones holding THEIR sailors.

31st March, 2007 – Day 9

ALL QUIET ON THE EASTERN FRONT

No sooner had I written the sentence below than Iran had a moan about the British government’s “arrogance” in their response from modest, gentle Ahmedinijadh. Ho-hum. And at 10.15pm President Bush has made an utterance which will no doubt upset the apple cart even more. He has just said that the capture of the British 15 was “unacceptable”.

The Foreign Secretary seems quietly confident now that Iran has mellowed its tone this Saturday afternoon. No more videos, so far.

Read this excellent article from today’s Times on the Iranian treatment of Faye Turney

BRITISH SAILORS & MARINES TO “STAND TRIAL”

So, not much chance of peace and quiet this weekend, then. The Iranian ambassador to Moscow has this morning told the Russians (the Russians!?) that they ‘may’ put the British Royal Navy personnel on trial and “such legal moves are afoot”. If charges against them are proven, “they would be punished”. So would that be beheading or hanging?

Yesterday the EU said “appropriate measures will be taken” if Iran fails to let our people free. Now let’s see if their actions match their words.

MILIBAND – A SACRIFICE?

As if the Foreign Secretary hasn’t got enough to think about this weekend, with letter writing to Iran, she is warning David Miliband that he will be a human sacrifice if he stands against Gordon Brown for the Party leadership. She also talks about Brown “falling under a bus”! Talk about blood on the carpet! Come on Mrs Becket, you’re only negotiating with your own party here, not Iran.

Still, it was noticeable that Mr Miliband DID NOT say “never” when prompted by Oliver Letwin on ‘Any Questions’. And also noteworthy that both the Liberal Democrats and the Conservatives say they’d like a general election asap when Blair stands down. Me too. So, hang on in there, Mr Blair.

TO TAKE BLAIR’S YOUNGEST PM CROWN, MILIBAND MUST STRIKE NOW

And for anyone who is convinced that Mr Blair wants Miliband to take his crown in his immediate departure, remember that if this happens Blair loses his place as the youngest PM to be elected in 185 years. No greater love, er, hate has any (former) prime minister.

Yes, if he wants to beat Blair’s record 41 year old Miliband (born 15 July 1965) has to become PM before 20th June 2009. Not all that likely unless he grabs the opportunity NOW. Once Brown is leader, there will be no shifting him before an election.

Remember that Blair is only 12 years older than Miliband. Hardly a father figure; more a caring big brother. By Miliband’s age Blair was already leading the Labour Party.

Tony Blair was 43 year 11 months and 5 days when he became Prime Minister on 1st May, 1997. He was the youngest tenant of Number 10 since Robert Banks Jenkinson, Earl of Liverpool who was appointed in 1812, when he was 42 years, 1 day.

Miliband will be 42 years 1 day on 16 July 2007, so he will not beat Jenkinson. But if he moves fast, he could yet better Blair’s record.

BROWN’S PENSION ‘SECRET’ FROM BUDGET NO. 1

Gordon Brown’s leadership bid could be in serious trouble over the ‘pension hole’ left over from his first budget. Seems he was warned at the time that the annual cost of billions to pension funds would cause many such funds to collapse and fold. He is accused of not listening to that warning. So, nothing new there, then.
30 March, 2007

PM’s LECTURE in MANCHESTER – “personalisation”

Tony Blair is still proving he is no dead duck. Whether he is determined to put down a marker for policies HE promoted or hopes to tie the hands of his successor, he seems a driven man. Much of the time it is not reported and even if it is, it is often not appreciated. I foresee that this will change with the benefit of hindsight.

In Manchester “Our Nation’s Future – The Role of Work” was the theme. This covered a range of work/life issues of interest and consequence to all of us. “Learner Accounts” being piloted in “personal” training. Extending skill academies. Flexibility & technology. Over 3 million home workers in the UK.

Unions work with the employer now, and one third of employers now offer flexi-time. Flexibility of the hours matter. A right to time off. Now 26 weeks paid maternity leave and fathers get two weeks paternity leave, part-time workers too.

View the video on work and life, and the changed nature of work. Work and welfare became detached after the second world war. He said that a modern welfare state should be more than just a way to get adults back to work.

A WEEKEND OF PRESS PURDAH?

Our government may have to practise a few days of silence, perhaps not even responding to any further videos, in order for diplomacy behind the scenes to work. Then Mr Blair might be in a position to utter the words “Check mate”.

Within the Iranian regime, Khomeini and the Revolutionary Guards are the real powers, not Ahmedinijad, although he is the face we recognise and ostensibly deal with. Knowing which parties to really deal with is half the battle.

Diplomatically we may need to allow Iran a way out without a climb-down, however unpalatable that seems given their evident lack of truth and legality thus far.

At the same time we have a duty to educate our citizens as to what is REALLY going on here. This audio clip by Dr Walid Phares – an excerpt below – is well worth listening to.

EU SUPPORTS BRITAIN UNRESERVEDLY

Today we received unconditional support from all 27 members of the EU. Yesterday the UN showed cracks urging consular action but not freedom for our naval personnel. In the UN, Russia was hostile due in part to its interests in Iran, which are evidently more important than the possibility, however remote, of losing its lucrative gas contracts to the EU.

We need to understand that there are geo political and economic forces at work here. We also need to recognise that, whether we agree with every tactic or not, our government is on OUR side.

The US Nimitz nuclear power carrier is now sailing to the region. This will likely raise the temperature, but raising the heat may well be the only thing the Iranians understand.

What about the diplomacy to free sailors? Well, Iran say they won’t respond to “demands and threats”. Wider issues, in particularly Iraq, play into the whole scene. As do their own five hostages held in Iraq by the USA. Retaliation was threatened by Ayatollah Khamenei just last week. He is the real power behind the regime of Ahmedinijad.

And although the UK felt some disappointment at the lesser UN Security Council statement than that wished, Iran expressed annoyance at its acceptance, saying that the statement was “unwarranted and unjustifiable”.

WHAT’S BEHIND IRAN’S ACTIONS ?

“We condemn the action of the British army”, the assembled masses shouted tonight in Tehran. Some waved placards saying – ” Execute the British”.

Fifteen sailors – pawns in a geo-political game.

There is a long history of the UK in the region, where we are hated as an imperialist power of the past as much as is the USA as today’s “imperialist threat”. This article “The Larger Plan” clarifies the thinking on this – Tehran’s Regime

Excerpt from ‘Tehran’s Regime – The Larger Plan’:

Royal Navy, “incident”: The larger plan of Teheran’s regime – by Walid Phares

The capture of British Navy servicemen by Iranian forces is not simply an incident over sea sovereignty in the Persian Gulf. It is a calculated move on behalf of Teheran’s Jihadi chess players to provoke a “projected” counter move by London and its American allies. It is all happening in a regional context, carefully engineered by the Mullahs strategic planners. Here is how:

The Iranian regime’s master plan is to wait out the remainder of Tony Blair’s mandate (few more months) and the remaining “real time” of President Bush (till about the end of 2007). For the thinking process in Tehran, based on their Western consultants, believe that Washington and London have reached the end of the rope and will only have till 2008 to do something major to destabilize Ahmedinijad regime. As explained by a notorious propagandist on al Jazeera today the move is precisely to respond to the Anglo-American attempt to “stir trouble” inside Iran. Anis Naccash, a Lebanese intellectual supporter of the Ayatollahs regime, appearing from Tehran few hours ago on the Qatari-based satellite and “explained” that the “US and the UK must understand that Iran is as much at war with these two powers in as much as they support the rise of movements and security instability inside Iran.” He added that Khamenei is clear on the regime’s decision to strike: “we will be at war with you on all levels: secret, diplomatic, military and other.” Pro-Iranian propagandists in the region, via media and online rushed to warn that this movement is part of Iran’s counter-strike against any attempt to destabilize the regime. Two major tracks emerge from these statements, the Iranian military maneuvers and the capture of British Navy personnel.

MARINES – “SACRIFICE” & “APOLOGISE”

Two more media bits of propaganda today.

Another marine has spoken. Nathan Summers ‘deeply apologised’ for entering Iranian waters. The broadcast of his reported confession has been aired on Iran’s official Arabic-language TV channel Al Alam. (52secs)

He was pictured in the company of Faye Turney and another sailor, all of whom looked quite relaxed, smiling and joking. All good propaganda for their captors. But in the clip of the second marine to talk it was clear that the clip had been edited, notably after the word “apologised”.

The female British sailor has been asked/persuaded/forced/bullied into writing a third letter which goes far beyond anything a service member would have written off their own bat. Saying that she had been a “sacrifice to the US and UK policies”, she again asks for the western coalition countries to leave Iraq. Is anyone really fooled by this? Even the Iranian people? Surely not.

Turney’s first letter

Turney’s second letter

The Prime Minister has expressed disgust at the way the captured personnel have been “paraded and manipulated”. He said the most important thing is to make sure they are freed safe adding that Iran cannot gain anything from the situation.

Blair (and his Middle East policy) humiliated by Iranians

Video of PM (1min 47secs) Blair expresses “disgust” on today’s developments.

Tony Blair has today received a strong statement of support from the EU. Stronger than the UN, deploring the seizure and calling for the immediate, unconditional release of the naval personnel, but no agreement on action on trade blockades.

It’d be laughable if it weren’t so serious. Like most people I veer between outrage and despair at the moment. We obviously hope that wise heads in government can work it all out and get our service people back safely, because the alternative might be too unpalatable for normal, balanced people and countries to contemplate.

DON’T DIE, LIE

In the meantime our service people are being used on Iranian TV and made to appear personally weak and without moral courage for criticising their own government. Perhaps this is a consequence of today’s Rules of Action – “Don’t die, lie”. Whatever, this whole ridiculous business cannot be allowed to go on much longer

Can diplomacy work? This online poll is receiving a 2/1 negative response at the moment with 68% saying “no”.

Should Mr Blair work day and night to sort out the whole nasty business without military confrontation? Or should we be investigating the regional politics behind it all, and make an important move now, before we allow them the freedom they seek for their own purposes?

I don’t know; I only ask the questions. Thank goodness I don’t have to make the decisions.

Geneva Convention & The Legal Position

British publish proof of our boats’ positions when Iran took Royal Navy crews

Note: Forget the facile anagram of Blair.

Anagram of “Ahmedinijad” – Me, I? Djihad? Na.

Links to other pages & posts on this site

Links to site pages

• Antony Jay – Anti-establishmentarianism – and other big words
• Alastair Campbell – The Blair Year -Read extracts from his diaries
• “Abdication” or Political Assassination – Blair still feels he has been pushed out
• Last PMQs for Blair – 27th June, 2007
• Blair’s Short Goodbye – The Last Day
• Kiss Tony Blair Goodbye – Martin Amis’s trip with the PM
• Terrorists Convicted
• Tony Blair After Downing Street – Thoughts on the last few days of his premiership and updates, when I can find any!
• Blair’s Bombs In The Land of War – Islamic Theology Rues – OK?
• Hiroshima in UK?
• EU Summit – Brussels Review of Blair’s last EU meeting
• Blair speech on “Feral Press” A call to review the power and press responsibility
• Blair – Climate Czar? Is this Blair’s next big job?
• Blair in Africa Legacy of Blair’s leadership in Africa
• Go to “Blair – A Call To Arms?” PM says – police v Human Rights?
• Blair – “I did what I thought was right” Retirement speech
• Full transcript of Tony Blair’s retirement speech 10th May, 2007, Sedgefield
• Leaders Deathbed Confession?
• Tony Blair to Iraq No, No, No – yes, yes!
• All Ending In Tears” Opinion – Brown & Blair
• “Tony Blair’s Successor – Leadership” Brown – The Invisible Man.
• “Thoughts and Opinion on Tony Blair”Political Obituaries for Blair.
• David Cameron – Policy?
• “OK … I give up … sort of!” Blair resignation plans, September 2006
• A Very British Coup – or – How To Kill The Leader and Get Away With It
• “Be Proud, Tony” It was the Sun Wot Said It!
• View Tony Blair Videos
• View Prime Minister’s Questions from Parliament

NEW site: ‘Tony Blair A Tribute’ – Good pictures! Click the icon. Go to top of page

---

---