Well, that was a far more fiery debate.
BBC did us proud, and gave us the best debate yet (also helped by the main issue!). How did they all do? Well, here's my thoughts:
Cameron - He appeared more assured on the stage. His answers, however, left a little to be desired. He focussed mainly on attacking the Labour policies as opposed to actually proposing anything substantially new.
Brown - A man on the edge. He changed tack in this debate, and it showed. He seems to be severely worried by the recent polls. I do believe this is the last week of his Premiership.
Clegg - in my opinion he won. He was brave in proposing policies that are likely to be controversial and defended them well. He was also very willing to take the game to Cameron and Brown. This is the Lib Dems election - if they don't get somewhere quite substantial in a weeks time, then the country clearly doesn't like the colour yellow.
A little less commentary than last week... but what did you think?
Thursday 29 April 2010
Election debate 8
Q8: What would you do to ensure that the children in poor areas have the same opportunities in life?
Brown: We've now got nursery education & SureStart centres, child tax credits etc. That's how. We have to have personal tuition, kids staying at school, and therefore have more social mobility. Under performing school to be taken over by a succeeding school.
Cameron: Give the head-teacher control back over their school. Discipline is key - which is not happening now. Change all th crazy rules that stop teachers searching for banned items. We want choice diversity and excellence in our schools, let's get the 'big society' in and get parents etc. Need to get the basics right.
Clegg: take 2.5 bn from savings, into improve the education system. More one to one tuition, more help for kids before aged 8 to make things better for all children. Clearly a link between poverty at home and performance in classroom - it's that link that Lib Dems want to help solve - extra money for these kids, reducing the class sizes is one way of helping that.
Comment: This is a big, big issue - and not one that any party have done particularly well tonight. Clegg's noting and focussing on the need to fix the poverty problem first. Cameron is right that there needs to be less admin because it is at a stupidly high level. Brown is right that SureStart and other such initiatives are very good. But that does not help us to work out what they will do on a full scale.
Brown: We've now got nursery education & SureStart centres, child tax credits etc. That's how. We have to have personal tuition, kids staying at school, and therefore have more social mobility. Under performing school to be taken over by a succeeding school.
Cameron: Give the head-teacher control back over their school. Discipline is key - which is not happening now. Change all th crazy rules that stop teachers searching for banned items. We want choice diversity and excellence in our schools, let's get the 'big society' in and get parents etc. Need to get the basics right.
Clegg: take 2.5 bn from savings, into improve the education system. More one to one tuition, more help for kids before aged 8 to make things better for all children. Clearly a link between poverty at home and performance in classroom - it's that link that Lib Dems want to help solve - extra money for these kids, reducing the class sizes is one way of helping that.
Comment: This is a big, big issue - and not one that any party have done particularly well tonight. Clegg's noting and focussing on the need to fix the poverty problem first. Cameron is right that there needs to be less admin because it is at a stupidly high level. Brown is right that SureStart and other such initiatives are very good. But that does not help us to work out what they will do on a full scale.
Election debate 7
Q7: Some people abuse the benefit system - what you going to do?
Clegg: We need to encourage people to get off benefits, and at the moment it often is not worth it! We need to give incentives to work, which is what our tax system will go. We also need to reform the state pension system.
Brown: You need to be compelled to work, you cannot refuse jobs after 6 months. We should have no life on the dole. Pensions will be linked to earnings in 2012.
Cameron: We should say to people that if you can work we will help. But if you are offered a job that you can take, but don't then you cannot get the benefits. Attacks Brown's answer again.
Comment: It's getting boring listening to Cameron and Brown attacking people. There is very little difference between the parties, forcing people off the dole - only the Lib Dems have anything interesting to say, and that is what they've been saying on every issue - reform the whole tax system. There are plenty of accusations, but they are wasted because the issue is clear and the answer is clear - and they are all agreed on sorting it out. In many ways this one seems a bit semantic.
NB: Gordon Brown's head shaking is quite a sight tonight!
Clegg: We need to encourage people to get off benefits, and at the moment it often is not worth it! We need to give incentives to work, which is what our tax system will go. We also need to reform the state pension system.
Brown: You need to be compelled to work, you cannot refuse jobs after 6 months. We should have no life on the dole. Pensions will be linked to earnings in 2012.
Cameron: We should say to people that if you can work we will help. But if you are offered a job that you can take, but don't then you cannot get the benefits. Attacks Brown's answer again.
Comment: It's getting boring listening to Cameron and Brown attacking people. There is very little difference between the parties, forcing people off the dole - only the Lib Dems have anything interesting to say, and that is what they've been saying on every issue - reform the whole tax system. There are plenty of accusations, but they are wasted because the issue is clear and the answer is clear - and they are all agreed on sorting it out. In many ways this one seems a bit semantic.
NB: Gordon Brown's head shaking is quite a sight tonight!
Election debate 6
Q6: We cannot afford our own family home, what will you do to help families afford housing?
Cameron - agrees with the questioner (yet again, as if he ever wouldn't!). We are going to stop putting your taxes up, and we will stop stamp duty on under 250k. We also need to build far more houses. Part ownership part renting is good. We should reward good behaviour with a part ownership of housing (this is bizarre!).
Clegg - We have a plan to convert 200k empty homes, build more houses and convert 1 bed flats into bigger homes. We need to empower councils. Also we need to see that there is a role for council housings.
Brown - there are 1 million more home owners than there were 10 years ago. We are helping with stamp duty now, and we have got to get the banks lending again. He thinks we will be able to increase home ownership quickly with his policies. Shared equity is a good way forward. Also interest rates need to stay low.
Comment: Poor from all.
Cameron - agrees with the questioner (yet again, as if he ever wouldn't!). We are going to stop putting your taxes up, and we will stop stamp duty on under 250k. We also need to build far more houses. Part ownership part renting is good. We should reward good behaviour with a part ownership of housing (this is bizarre!).
Clegg - We have a plan to convert 200k empty homes, build more houses and convert 1 bed flats into bigger homes. We need to empower councils. Also we need to see that there is a role for council housings.
Brown - there are 1 million more home owners than there were 10 years ago. We are helping with stamp duty now, and we have got to get the banks lending again. He thinks we will be able to increase home ownership quickly with his policies. Shared equity is a good way forward. Also interest rates need to stay low.
Comment: Poor from all.
Election debate 5
Q5: Are you aware that you have become removed from the concerns of the real people esp about immigration, and remember that you are there to serve us, not ignore us.
Brown: I only came into politics to serve. On immigration, we have banned unskilled workers from coming into Britain, and cut the number of semi-skilled people from coming into Britain. We are also training people from the UK to do the jobs. I want to create jobs in this country. Guarentees to everyone under 25 that they will get a job if they are unemployed for an x amount of months. Cameron won't give a figure on the cap.
Cameron: New countries that join the EU should have stronger controls. We need a cap on immigration. Labour's policies not working. Wants to severely reduce immigration. Claims the Lib Dems propose an amnesty on illegal immigrants which does not makes sense.
Clegg: Of course we want to serve you. Immigration has become utterly chaotic under Labour & Tories. We need a border police force, we need a regional policy, and we need to deal with the illegal gangs, and put back in exit controls too. Not advocating a amnesty, but we do need to something about those who are living in the shadows in our society, and the criminal gangs exploit these people - we need to deal with this. We cannot cap immigration because most come from EU. My immigration policy is controversial but needed, we have to deal with it.
Comment: Cameron again does more attacking than actually putting his own policies. Clegg does well at returning the jibes regarding his immigration policy, and turning the tables on Cameron. Brown jumps on the back of both by claiming they are both wrong. Realistically, Clegg's policy is very bold, but the right thing to do for the illegal immigrant that are in this country already and won't leave any time soon - the term 'amnesty' that Brown and Cameron are using is decidedly misleading. Brown is not very convincing regarding his policies, and Cameron is hazy.
Brown: I only came into politics to serve. On immigration, we have banned unskilled workers from coming into Britain, and cut the number of semi-skilled people from coming into Britain. We are also training people from the UK to do the jobs. I want to create jobs in this country. Guarentees to everyone under 25 that they will get a job if they are unemployed for an x amount of months. Cameron won't give a figure on the cap.
Cameron: New countries that join the EU should have stronger controls. We need a cap on immigration. Labour's policies not working. Wants to severely reduce immigration. Claims the Lib Dems propose an amnesty on illegal immigrants which does not makes sense.
Clegg: Of course we want to serve you. Immigration has become utterly chaotic under Labour & Tories. We need a border police force, we need a regional policy, and we need to deal with the illegal gangs, and put back in exit controls too. Not advocating a amnesty, but we do need to something about those who are living in the shadows in our society, and the criminal gangs exploit these people - we need to deal with this. We cannot cap immigration because most come from EU. My immigration policy is controversial but needed, we have to deal with it.
Comment: Cameron again does more attacking than actually putting his own policies. Clegg does well at returning the jibes regarding his immigration policy, and turning the tables on Cameron. Brown jumps on the back of both by claiming they are both wrong. Realistically, Clegg's policy is very bold, but the right thing to do for the illegal immigrant that are in this country already and won't leave any time soon - the term 'amnesty' that Brown and Cameron are using is decidedly misleading. Brown is not very convincing regarding his policies, and Cameron is hazy.
Election debate 4
Q4: How do you propose to build the UK's manufacturing industry up again?
Clegg: Three things: 1. Get the banks lending. 2. INvest in the kind of things we need in the future, renewable energy, public transport. We need to invest in young people and in businesses. But it is all about banks helping businesses - if they don't then it is very difficult for businesses.
Brown: Believes we can create jobs in plenty of areas, and we are investing in the areas where there is growth - but the banks must spend, we will maintain the regional development agencies - we must back the regional manufacturers.More going to uni (not sure how this helps things). Comments on the Conservatives policy of taking money out of the economy now. Back on this again.
Cameron: Things are bad. We must invest in our science base, in apprenticeships, making it easier for businesses to employ people (here comes the NI tax again). Accuses Brown of confusing the government and the economy. Government should give 1/4 of it's contracts to small firms - helping to get them going.
Comment: All basically argue that to begin with the banks need to start lending these small businesses money so that they can expand. Clegg's argument of putting money into 'green' businesses is a good one, but one the other two claim they will do the same. Cameron again simply damns Brown's comments, and dare I say it, doesn't actually answer Brown's questions.
Clegg: Three things: 1. Get the banks lending. 2. INvest in the kind of things we need in the future, renewable energy, public transport. We need to invest in young people and in businesses. But it is all about banks helping businesses - if they don't then it is very difficult for businesses.
Brown: Believes we can create jobs in plenty of areas, and we are investing in the areas where there is growth - but the banks must spend, we will maintain the regional development agencies - we must back the regional manufacturers.More going to uni (not sure how this helps things). Comments on the Conservatives policy of taking money out of the economy now. Back on this again.
Cameron: Things are bad. We must invest in our science base, in apprenticeships, making it easier for businesses to employ people (here comes the NI tax again). Accuses Brown of confusing the government and the economy. Government should give 1/4 of it's contracts to small firms - helping to get them going.
Comment: All basically argue that to begin with the banks need to start lending these small businesses money so that they can expand. Clegg's argument of putting money into 'green' businesses is a good one, but one the other two claim they will do the same. Cameron again simply damns Brown's comments, and dare I say it, doesn't actually answer Brown's questions.
Election debate 3
Q3: How are you going to deal with Banking Bonuses?
Cameron - Have a banking levy, get the banks lending again esp. cosying to small businesses. Retail banks need to be reigned in from the most ricky bets ('we agree with Obama'). Labour have been up with the banks for 13 years - they won't do much to help it! We want to change things, bring the Bank of England back in charge of things. Attacks Clegg's EU policy esp. on the Euro.
Clegg - no bonuses at all from any bankers at board level... we don't want the temptation to be there. No cash bonuses at all above 2.5k. Specific and tough but will root out this unacceptable behaviour. Both Tories & labour have been far too focussed on the City of London and we need to break that stronghold. We need to break up the banks to protect ourselves from the banks ever doing this to us again.
Brown - we bailed out Northern Rock, helped Halifax, Lloyds TSB etc. We need to restructure the banks totally, recapitalise the banks. We will never allow them to act in an unfair way again. We need a levy in line with the international levels. We have already taxed the bonuses.
Comment: It's getting feisty! All are angry at the banks, and the debate is focussed around what Labour has already done, and what we should be doing next. Govt owns shares for most of the banks, and will continue to fight for a global levy so that banks won't leave the country. Cameron and Clegg are firm in saying we need a banking levy now, so that we can get our money back. It seems rather convoluted.
Cameron - Have a banking levy, get the banks lending again esp. cosying to small businesses. Retail banks need to be reigned in from the most ricky bets ('we agree with Obama'). Labour have been up with the banks for 13 years - they won't do much to help it! We want to change things, bring the Bank of England back in charge of things. Attacks Clegg's EU policy esp. on the Euro.
Clegg - no bonuses at all from any bankers at board level... we don't want the temptation to be there. No cash bonuses at all above 2.5k. Specific and tough but will root out this unacceptable behaviour. Both Tories & labour have been far too focussed on the City of London and we need to break that stronghold. We need to break up the banks to protect ourselves from the banks ever doing this to us again.
Brown - we bailed out Northern Rock, helped Halifax, Lloyds TSB etc. We need to restructure the banks totally, recapitalise the banks. We will never allow them to act in an unfair way again. We need a levy in line with the international levels. We have already taxed the bonuses.
Comment: It's getting feisty! All are angry at the banks, and the debate is focussed around what Labour has already done, and what we should be doing next. Govt owns shares for most of the banks, and will continue to fight for a global levy so that banks won't leave the country. Cameron and Clegg are firm in saying we need a banking levy now, so that we can get our money back. It seems rather convoluted.
Election debate 2
Q2: Tax is taking more & more from pay slips - what are you going to do about it?
Brown - we are going to provide tax credits. Brought down basic rate of tax & raise top rate of tax - "so that's fair." Surprisingly he doesn't agree with the Conservatives policies on this. No-one earning under 20k will pay the NI tax rise. The biggest beneficiary of the tax policies in the Tory manifesto are the richest 1%.
Cameron - questioner is right - govt is spending far too much of your money. It is not possible to make tax break promises, because of the economic situation - but lets stop the NI tax. Also, the tax credits will stay under our govt. "If you earn 20k, according to Gordon Brown you are rich" - interesting interpretation!
Clegg - our tax system is unfair. After 13 years of Labour we have a clearly unbalanced system. We will switch the system and so make it fair - you will pay no income tax on anything under 10k. Taxes are unfair on ordinary people! So we are going to change it. We need to help those who are poorest in our society to stand up for themselves and get off benefits.
Comment: All agree on tax credits. But they should not go too far up the income scale, say Cam & Clegg. Brown swings one at the Tories saying he will never enter an alliance with them. Cameron keep going on about Labour mistakes - enough already! Surely we need to move away from blaming and towards solutions - and Clegg seems to have them!
Brown - we are going to provide tax credits. Brought down basic rate of tax & raise top rate of tax - "so that's fair." Surprisingly he doesn't agree with the Conservatives policies on this. No-one earning under 20k will pay the NI tax rise. The biggest beneficiary of the tax policies in the Tory manifesto are the richest 1%.
Cameron - questioner is right - govt is spending far too much of your money. It is not possible to make tax break promises, because of the economic situation - but lets stop the NI tax. Also, the tax credits will stay under our govt. "If you earn 20k, according to Gordon Brown you are rich" - interesting interpretation!
Clegg - our tax system is unfair. After 13 years of Labour we have a clearly unbalanced system. We will switch the system and so make it fair - you will pay no income tax on anything under 10k. Taxes are unfair on ordinary people! So we are going to change it. We need to help those who are poorest in our society to stand up for themselves and get off benefits.
Comment: All agree on tax credits. But they should not go too far up the income scale, say Cam & Clegg. Brown swings one at the Tories saying he will never enter an alliance with them. Cameron keep going on about Labour mistakes - enough already! Surely we need to move away from blaming and towards solutions - and Clegg seems to have them!
Election debate 1
Here we go again! This time it's the economy... hold onto your seats brothers and sisters.
Q1: There are going to be spending cuts - why don't you be honest and tell us?
Clegg - we specify the savings we are going to make in our manifesto. What we can't do is say that just efficiency savings are enough.. they aint.
Brown - 4 year deficit reduction plan, starts in 2011, includes N.I. rising and some cutting (public sector pay and pensions). If we fail to support the economy this year it'll go bad.
Cameron - we were the first to say there will need to be cuts. We will save schools, NHS etc. We are going to freeze public sector pay. People will have to retire later starting 2016. But to stop the jobs tax, we'll make efficiency savings.
Comment: They are all basically dodging the question. Lib Dems seem to be more honest in this regard (honesty is the best policy from Clegg is playing very well). Brown and Cameron are simply telling us what they won't cut - this doesn't cut the mustard. Simple as. The responses are simply going over the same material - it seems to be a choice between so called efficiency cuts now, or a NI tax rise next year, or the Liberal Democrats (who don't seem to be saying much about this specific argument because they are proposing a much more radical tax system as well as more stringent efficiency savings).
Q1: There are going to be spending cuts - why don't you be honest and tell us?
Clegg - we specify the savings we are going to make in our manifesto. What we can't do is say that just efficiency savings are enough.. they aint.
Brown - 4 year deficit reduction plan, starts in 2011, includes N.I. rising and some cutting (public sector pay and pensions). If we fail to support the economy this year it'll go bad.
Cameron - we were the first to say there will need to be cuts. We will save schools, NHS etc. We are going to freeze public sector pay. People will have to retire later starting 2016. But to stop the jobs tax, we'll make efficiency savings.
Comment: They are all basically dodging the question. Lib Dems seem to be more honest in this regard (honesty is the best policy from Clegg is playing very well). Brown and Cameron are simply telling us what they won't cut - this doesn't cut the mustard. Simple as. The responses are simply going over the same material - it seems to be a choice between so called efficiency cuts now, or a NI tax rise next year, or the Liberal Democrats (who don't seem to be saying much about this specific argument because they are proposing a much more radical tax system as well as more stringent efficiency savings).
Tuesday 27 April 2010
A Quick Note on Electoral Reform & a Hung Parliament
We have been hearing in the media plenty about changing the face of politics in this country - the claim, a rightful one when taken in its entirety and with viewed with spectacles that can see forward 50-100 years and not ones that can only see a vision that last until 7 May, comes from the recent debacle we have been put through with the MP's expenses scandal combined with the knowledge that this is only the tip of the iceberg - an iceberg so big it is able to cut the whole of Britain in two, let alone the titanic.
We lack at the moment in our Parliament any sort of proper debate due to the way in which our electoral system favours massive majorities that do not represent the actual views of a more politically divided populous, and as such I do believe that the House of Lords has done a good (not complete, nor easy, nor always consistent with my own views) job in keeping the government in check - because the House of Commons poses no real threat to the government of the day so long as they can hold the allegiance of their MP's (something not always to be taken for granted!). We have needed the House of Lords, with it's current make-up of Lords Spiritual (who sit in the Lords due to their ecclesial offices) and Lords Temporal (majority of Lords, partisan, including some hereditary), to keep a check on the government of the day.
There has been over the past 13 years of Labour a (semi) commitment to reforming the Lords, and we see this policy being taken up as a major policy by both Labour and the Liberal Democrats in the current election campaign - as part of a wider political reform that includes electoral reform of the House of Commons too.
I am very worried by the proposal of an all elected House of Lords that has been emanating from Labour and Lib Dem camps. The House of Lords provides our parliamentary process with two very important things: it provides a chance for experts in various areas of public life to both examine legislation prospectively and to hold the government of the day to account, something I would not want to entrust to most of the elected MP's currently sitting in the Commons. How would having an elected Lords help in these two very important roles when the Lords would have to campaign for election and be embroiled in people pleasing in order to maintain their roles? I fear we would lose the quality we now have in favour of reforming the less problematic House of Parliament, I fear this is an attempt to divert attention away from true House of Commons reform.
Instead we need to think through reforming the electoral system of the Commons that is simply not working and is leading to disillusionment with our political system. Thankfully both Labour and the Lib Dems are talking about this too - and hopefully we will see a delivery of promises should either of these get into government on 6 May. The Conservatives, however, oppose reform of electoral system.
More debate needs to be taking place on this issue - and the wider one of constitutional reform - for it is going ahead according to partisan purposes and going mostly unnoticed to most of the wider public. For a specific Christian perspective on this click here for NT Wright's speech in Parliament. Very worthwhile the half an hour of your life it takes to read it.
A final (perhaps remarkably preposterous) thought on the potential of a Hung Parliament and why the British public don't take the warnings of the Party Leaders seriously on this issue: is it perhaps as a small piece of revenge to the chaos and corruption that the politicians have put the public through over the past few years? Maybe that's just a touch too cynical, but it certainly seems that the more the authorities say that a Hung Parliament will be disastrous for Britain, the more likely it appears to be heading that way.
Also, check in again on Thursday evening for more 'live-blogging' of the last election debate which will be live on BBC1 at 8.30pm.
We lack at the moment in our Parliament any sort of proper debate due to the way in which our electoral system favours massive majorities that do not represent the actual views of a more politically divided populous, and as such I do believe that the House of Lords has done a good (not complete, nor easy, nor always consistent with my own views) job in keeping the government in check - because the House of Commons poses no real threat to the government of the day so long as they can hold the allegiance of their MP's (something not always to be taken for granted!). We have needed the House of Lords, with it's current make-up of Lords Spiritual (who sit in the Lords due to their ecclesial offices) and Lords Temporal (majority of Lords, partisan, including some hereditary), to keep a check on the government of the day.
There has been over the past 13 years of Labour a (semi) commitment to reforming the Lords, and we see this policy being taken up as a major policy by both Labour and the Liberal Democrats in the current election campaign - as part of a wider political reform that includes electoral reform of the House of Commons too.
I am very worried by the proposal of an all elected House of Lords that has been emanating from Labour and Lib Dem camps. The House of Lords provides our parliamentary process with two very important things: it provides a chance for experts in various areas of public life to both examine legislation prospectively and to hold the government of the day to account, something I would not want to entrust to most of the elected MP's currently sitting in the Commons. How would having an elected Lords help in these two very important roles when the Lords would have to campaign for election and be embroiled in people pleasing in order to maintain their roles? I fear we would lose the quality we now have in favour of reforming the less problematic House of Parliament, I fear this is an attempt to divert attention away from true House of Commons reform.
Instead we need to think through reforming the electoral system of the Commons that is simply not working and is leading to disillusionment with our political system. Thankfully both Labour and the Lib Dems are talking about this too - and hopefully we will see a delivery of promises should either of these get into government on 6 May. The Conservatives, however, oppose reform of electoral system.
More debate needs to be taking place on this issue - and the wider one of constitutional reform - for it is going ahead according to partisan purposes and going mostly unnoticed to most of the wider public. For a specific Christian perspective on this click here for NT Wright's speech in Parliament. Very worthwhile the half an hour of your life it takes to read it.
A final (perhaps remarkably preposterous) thought on the potential of a Hung Parliament and why the British public don't take the warnings of the Party Leaders seriously on this issue: is it perhaps as a small piece of revenge to the chaos and corruption that the politicians have put the public through over the past few years? Maybe that's just a touch too cynical, but it certainly seems that the more the authorities say that a Hung Parliament will be disastrous for Britain, the more likely it appears to be heading that way.
Also, check in again on Thursday evening for more 'live-blogging' of the last election debate which will be live on BBC1 at 8.30pm.
Monday 26 April 2010
Friday 23 April 2010
Happy St. George's Day.
Jerusalem
And did those feet in ancient time
Walk upon England's mountains green?
And was the holy Lamb of God
On England's pleasant pastures seen?
And did the Countenance Divine
Shine forth upon our clouded hills?
And was Jerusalem builded here
Among these dark Satanic mills?
Bring me my bow of burning gold:
Bring me my arrows of desire:
Bring me my spear: O clouds unfold!
Bring me my chariot of fire.
I will not cease from mental fight,
Nor shall my sword sleep in my hand
Till we have built Jerusalem
In England's green and pleasant land.
-- William Blake
Thursday 22 April 2010
Election debate - Closing Opinion
Well, a whirlwind 90 minutes from out 3 leaders again tonight. Who came out on top? Perhaps surprisingly the YouGov/Sun instant poll said it was Cameron on 36%, followed by Clegg on 32% and Brown on 29%.
Giant leap for Brown and Cameron, and a bit of a fall from Clegg compared to last week. But is this a true reflection? I'm not so sure. Here's my opinion on the three leaders:
Brown - did much better than last week. Still seemed intent on defending his own policies and attacking the other candidates policies then diagnosing and proposing as the other two did.... perhaps the curse of being the incumbent, but he isn't really using his position very well. He kept defining himself by negatively defining Cameron and Clegg as anti-Europe and anti-USA respectively, not the best way to define yourself, Gordon. Also, he will most likely come to regret saying that he never authorised the leaflets that caused Cameron to call him a liar should it come out that he did authorise them, and that might be the end of his campaign if so. Shocking policy on House of Lords - simply cosying up to Lib Dems. Positively, he is still the only one, in my opinion, who speaks with the authority of a national leader.
Cameron - Again, did much better than last week. He seemed more assured about how to deal with a TV debate. However, he nearly lost his temper at one point, and this could reflect badly. Got one over on Brown by calling him a liar and bringing a potentially disastrous denial from Brown. Lost all ground on the environment question because of his use of a private jet to get about the country - actions still speak just as loud, if not louder, than word... especially with our politicians.
Clegg - Just as good as he was last week, but this week he had to face far more probing and attacking from both Brown and Cameron on Lib Dem policy due to the fact that he no longer holds the element of surprise. Dealt with the potential red herring from the Sky presenter on stories in the papers today with ease and wit. Clegg appeared again to position himself in the 'new politics' camp, making sure everyone knew he has had nothing to do with the last two decades of 'bad' politics. Beaten back by both Cameron and Brown on Trident - but surely the issue is worth a proper debate at the least? As much as Clegg is increasingly turning into a very good politician and rhetorician, I remain totally unconvinced that Lib Dem policies are any good at all.
Finally, all three were of no surprise on the issue of the Pope's visit and Catholic ethics & theology... each using the platform to announce themselves as tolerant, multi-faith welcoming, multi-cultural loving, right-to-choose-own-path defending, liberally minded politicians. This high view of humanity is where we are going wrong in the West... none of these leaders will helps us here. Let's get on our knees.
Giant leap for Brown and Cameron, and a bit of a fall from Clegg compared to last week. But is this a true reflection? I'm not so sure. Here's my opinion on the three leaders:
Brown - did much better than last week. Still seemed intent on defending his own policies and attacking the other candidates policies then diagnosing and proposing as the other two did.... perhaps the curse of being the incumbent, but he isn't really using his position very well. He kept defining himself by negatively defining Cameron and Clegg as anti-Europe and anti-USA respectively, not the best way to define yourself, Gordon. Also, he will most likely come to regret saying that he never authorised the leaflets that caused Cameron to call him a liar should it come out that he did authorise them, and that might be the end of his campaign if so. Shocking policy on House of Lords - simply cosying up to Lib Dems. Positively, he is still the only one, in my opinion, who speaks with the authority of a national leader.
Cameron - Again, did much better than last week. He seemed more assured about how to deal with a TV debate. However, he nearly lost his temper at one point, and this could reflect badly. Got one over on Brown by calling him a liar and bringing a potentially disastrous denial from Brown. Lost all ground on the environment question because of his use of a private jet to get about the country - actions still speak just as loud, if not louder, than word... especially with our politicians.
Clegg - Just as good as he was last week, but this week he had to face far more probing and attacking from both Brown and Cameron on Lib Dem policy due to the fact that he no longer holds the element of surprise. Dealt with the potential red herring from the Sky presenter on stories in the papers today with ease and wit. Clegg appeared again to position himself in the 'new politics' camp, making sure everyone knew he has had nothing to do with the last two decades of 'bad' politics. Beaten back by both Cameron and Brown on Trident - but surely the issue is worth a proper debate at the least? As much as Clegg is increasingly turning into a very good politician and rhetorician, I remain totally unconvinced that Lib Dem policies are any good at all.
Finally, all three were of no surprise on the issue of the Pope's visit and Catholic ethics & theology... each using the platform to announce themselves as tolerant, multi-faith welcoming, multi-cultural loving, right-to-choose-own-path defending, liberally minded politicians. This high view of humanity is where we are going wrong in the West... none of these leaders will helps us here. Let's get on our knees.
Election debate 9
Final Comments:
Brown: Will take responsibility for the decisions that need to be made. He will make sure our army are well equipped, that our economy will continue to recover... appeals to voters to not put the economy at risk as Cameron would do, and not to leave us isolated as Clegg would do.
Cameron: Claims that Brown sounds desperate. Vote for us means you get a fresh team... not an old team. Family comes first for Cam, we face difficult times but we will lead you into the big society we all want to live in.
Clegg: We can be a force for good in the world, leading it not just complaining about it. On all the issues we spoke about tonight can be done differently, we can change and move forward. Appeals for us to not be scared into voting Labour or Tory... we don't need old politics, but we can move forward.
Brown: Will take responsibility for the decisions that need to be made. He will make sure our army are well equipped, that our economy will continue to recover... appeals to voters to not put the economy at risk as Cameron would do, and not to leave us isolated as Clegg would do.
Cameron: Claims that Brown sounds desperate. Vote for us means you get a fresh team... not an old team. Family comes first for Cam, we face difficult times but we will lead you into the big society we all want to live in.
Clegg: We can be a force for good in the world, leading it not just complaining about it. On all the issues we spoke about tonight can be done differently, we can change and move forward. Appeals for us to not be scared into voting Labour or Tory... we don't need old politics, but we can move forward.
Election debate 8
Q8: What new measure will you introduce to make immigration fairer?
Clegg: Border police, directing people where there is space to live, have an exit policy, and getting the illegal immigrants into the clear.
Brown: Condemns Cleggs idea on getting the illegal immigrants out from the shadows of UK. Points system now introduced to reduce the immigrants.
Cameron: We should be warm and welcoming to immigrants because we have benefitted from it. We need to being it down, however, because it's too high - so have a cap. We need controls on new EU countries.
Comment: All seems very insistent on the need to limit immigration - ironic that the question came from an immigrant? I wonder what she is thinking... the answers seem to be directed to us white British sitting at sofa's all around the country. Brown quite insistent that Clegg's ideas will lead to an immigrant amnesty, and therefore more will turn up on our shores. Increasingly turning into last weeks debate. Same issues, same questions, same answers.... will we get any action after May 6? Yet to be seen.......
Clegg: Border police, directing people where there is space to live, have an exit policy, and getting the illegal immigrants into the clear.
Brown: Condemns Cleggs idea on getting the illegal immigrants out from the shadows of UK. Points system now introduced to reduce the immigrants.
Cameron: We should be warm and welcoming to immigrants because we have benefitted from it. We need to being it down, however, because it's too high - so have a cap. We need controls on new EU countries.
Comment: All seems very insistent on the need to limit immigration - ironic that the question came from an immigrant? I wonder what she is thinking... the answers seem to be directed to us white British sitting at sofa's all around the country. Brown quite insistent that Clegg's ideas will lead to an immigrant amnesty, and therefore more will turn up on our shores. Increasingly turning into last weeks debate. Same issues, same questions, same answers.... will we get any action after May 6? Yet to be seen.......
Election debate 7
Q7: Is a coalition government the best way forward for Britain?
Cameron: Whilst cross party cooperation is good, it's not that good!
Clegg: Irrespective of outcome we must work together, especially in terms of the economy... we should work together, and we should not believe that political armageddon will take place if we have a hung parliament.
Brown: We don't have agreement on the way forward on the economic problems. Pubic must decide who should lead us.
Comment: Brown did not answer the question at all... Economy takes over this question. Clegg appears to be gaining headway again because he answers the question and positions himself as the 'better' way into the 'new politics'. Brown is being defensive about his economic policies... Cameron is still harping on about the jobs tax... Brown is doing a lot of accusing, not really getting him anywhere. We're back into many of the same issues as last weeks debate here... and I imagine we'll get more of the same next week too...
Cameron: Whilst cross party cooperation is good, it's not that good!
Clegg: Irrespective of outcome we must work together, especially in terms of the economy... we should work together, and we should not believe that political armageddon will take place if we have a hung parliament.
Brown: We don't have agreement on the way forward on the economic problems. Pubic must decide who should lead us.
Comment: Brown did not answer the question at all... Economy takes over this question. Clegg appears to be gaining headway again because he answers the question and positions himself as the 'better' way into the 'new politics'. Brown is being defensive about his economic policies... Cameron is still harping on about the jobs tax... Brown is doing a lot of accusing, not really getting him anywhere. We're back into many of the same issues as last weeks debate here... and I imagine we'll get more of the same next week too...
Election debate 6
Q6: Is £59 a week a reasonable pension?
Brown: No. We will be linking pensions to earnings from 2012. Free TV licenses, bus travel etc. are here... pension reforms are coming... including every worker having a works related pension.
Cameron: No. We should be giving you dignity and security in old age. We should up the pension fund... and we'll do it by asking men to retire a year later from 2016...
Clegg: Earnings link needs to be restored, immediately. So many other costs which the elderly have to confront, fuel for example.
Comment: Brown attacks others manifestos by saying that they are going to cut the free eye tests etc., Cameron condemns the accusations as lies & claims that Brown needs to withdraw his comments. Brown doing a lot of talking, but not working for him on this question. Clegg does well by seeing bigger picture of social care system, and that the leaders need to stop playing political ping-pong with this issue.
NB: Clegg undoubtedly the best TV personality of the three... how will that influence the outcome?!
Brown: No. We will be linking pensions to earnings from 2012. Free TV licenses, bus travel etc. are here... pension reforms are coming... including every worker having a works related pension.
Cameron: No. We should be giving you dignity and security in old age. We should up the pension fund... and we'll do it by asking men to retire a year later from 2016...
Clegg: Earnings link needs to be restored, immediately. So many other costs which the elderly have to confront, fuel for example.
Comment: Brown attacks others manifestos by saying that they are going to cut the free eye tests etc., Cameron condemns the accusations as lies & claims that Brown needs to withdraw his comments. Brown doing a lot of talking, but not working for him on this question. Clegg does well by seeing bigger picture of social care system, and that the leaders need to stop playing political ping-pong with this issue.
NB: Clegg undoubtedly the best TV personality of the three... how will that influence the outcome?!
Election debate 5
Q5:How do you plan to restore faith in politics?
Clegg: You can sack your MP. Clear up party funding.
Brown: A vote can make a difference. Will give the right of recall. Wants a referendum on new voting system and on House of Lords reform.
Cameron: Anger about expenses fiasco (obvious statement...!). We should cut the cost of politics. Holding open primaries.
Comment: House of Lords reform is a bad idea... more comment on this issue to follow on this blog in the next week or so. All leaders are again saying much the same thing... the rhetoric is similar: we're bad, voters are good, use your vote and we'll clean ourselves up. Drastic rhetoric, but not necessarily any action in their words. Cameron wants people to take responsibility - his big society idea coming through (reluctantly I think he is onto something here...). Essentially it is this issue and the economic issue that we've heard the most in this election. Interesting how all the leaders are making comment without apologies, even if some are saying they are ashamed of the mess.
Clegg: You can sack your MP. Clear up party funding.
Brown: A vote can make a difference. Will give the right of recall. Wants a referendum on new voting system and on House of Lords reform.
Cameron: Anger about expenses fiasco (obvious statement...!). We should cut the cost of politics. Holding open primaries.
Comment: House of Lords reform is a bad idea... more comment on this issue to follow on this blog in the next week or so. All leaders are again saying much the same thing... the rhetoric is similar: we're bad, voters are good, use your vote and we'll clean ourselves up. Drastic rhetoric, but not necessarily any action in their words. Cameron wants people to take responsibility - his big society idea coming through (reluctantly I think he is onto something here...). Essentially it is this issue and the economic issue that we've heard the most in this election. Interesting how all the leaders are making comment without apologies, even if some are saying they are ashamed of the mess.
Election debate 4
Q4: Will you disassociate yourself from the Pope's moral policies, do you back the Pope's visit?
Cameron: Yes he support it. But he does not agree with the Pope on contraception and homosexuality. He agrees that people of all faiths do good work.
Clegg: Wife and kids are Catholic. Understands the depth of feeling in the catholic church and thinks that you cannot keep a lid on sin. He hope that when Pope does visit, that they will have dealt with the abuse... but that he does welcome the Pope's visit.
Brown: The abuse never goes and the church has to deal with these issues. But he wants the Pope to come to Britain as it is a great group in society... and that people of all faiths are good members of our society.
Comment: All thee leaders are poor on this question... all disagree with the Pope's doctrines on things like homosexuality and contraception... all agree that the Pope's visit is a good thing. All the leaders are forwarding a tolerant and accepting society, and are thus all falling for the silly cultural understanding of tolerance. Bad answers all through.
Cameron: Yes he support it. But he does not agree with the Pope on contraception and homosexuality. He agrees that people of all faiths do good work.
Clegg: Wife and kids are Catholic. Understands the depth of feeling in the catholic church and thinks that you cannot keep a lid on sin. He hope that when Pope does visit, that they will have dealt with the abuse... but that he does welcome the Pope's visit.
Brown: The abuse never goes and the church has to deal with these issues. But he wants the Pope to come to Britain as it is a great group in society... and that people of all faiths are good members of our society.
Comment: All thee leaders are poor on this question... all disagree with the Pope's doctrines on things like homosexuality and contraception... all agree that the Pope's visit is a good thing. All the leaders are forwarding a tolerant and accepting society, and are thus all falling for the silly cultural understanding of tolerance. Bad answers all through.
Election debate 3
Q3: What are you doing personally to tackle climate change?
Brown: I've been on trains not planes... only been on one plane this election. We've got a climate change act - first in the world. Wants to explore nuclear power and change our dependence on oil.
Cameron: Has proper insulation in his house... cheaper and greener. He has come out against the 3rd runway at HEathrow, going instead for high speed rail.
Clegg: He also takes the train, but is aware he cannot do enough and does not do enough. He finds it irrational that the plane tax system is on passengers, and not on planes. As that will cut down on unnecessary flights.
Comment: David Cameron has a private jet that is flying him around this election campaign, he has absolutely no credibility in this issue. Clegg comments that nuclear power will take too long to develop, instead we should develop mass insulation programmes. An interesting idea - nuclear energy seems to be still suspect. Brown stands by it. Clegg brings up the copenhagen summit... global problem and global response needed. Brown constantly tells us that Clegg is anti-USA... bizarre comment. Clegg responds using the magic words 'special relationship'.
Brown: I've been on trains not planes... only been on one plane this election. We've got a climate change act - first in the world. Wants to explore nuclear power and change our dependence on oil.
Cameron: Has proper insulation in his house... cheaper and greener. He has come out against the 3rd runway at HEathrow, going instead for high speed rail.
Clegg: He also takes the train, but is aware he cannot do enough and does not do enough. He finds it irrational that the plane tax system is on passengers, and not on planes. As that will cut down on unnecessary flights.
Comment: David Cameron has a private jet that is flying him around this election campaign, he has absolutely no credibility in this issue. Clegg comments that nuclear power will take too long to develop, instead we should develop mass insulation programmes. An interesting idea - nuclear energy seems to be still suspect. Brown stands by it. Clegg brings up the copenhagen summit... global problem and global response needed. Brown constantly tells us that Clegg is anti-USA... bizarre comment. Clegg responds using the magic words 'special relationship'.
Election debate 2
Q2: Will the UK take part in future multi-national operations against terrorists abroad?
Clegg: Basically yes. Then he goes onto claim that the Afghanistan was has not been done properly (helicopters etc.), slips in an anti-Iraq comment.
Brown: We are already in other countries. We are in these countries because the terrorists are linked to attacks in this country, so we musy eb involved to keep our streets safe.
Cameron: Wants to ask 'what's in the national interest?' What will keep us safe here? The closest to a 'no' as we've come tonight - but doubtful that he means it. Again comments on long term planning, equipment planning etc.
Comment: Brown defends his policy on the war. Clegg & Cameron pull up the problems that there have been in equipment terms and Clegg brings up the issue of Trident nuclear plans again. Brown comments that he loves the troops. Cameron quickly agrees. Clegg keeps harping on about equipment... Brown defends the war, saying that they have had to change tactics so many times in order to complete the mission - is he right? We won't know until we've talked to the Armed Forces... and even then there is difference of opinion. Cameron attacks Clegg's Trident ideas... both seem naive. Brown claims that Clegg needs to get real. Cameron agrees with Brown... there's a first.
Clegg: Basically yes. Then he goes onto claim that the Afghanistan was has not been done properly (helicopters etc.), slips in an anti-Iraq comment.
Brown: We are already in other countries. We are in these countries because the terrorists are linked to attacks in this country, so we musy eb involved to keep our streets safe.
Cameron: Wants to ask 'what's in the national interest?' What will keep us safe here? The closest to a 'no' as we've come tonight - but doubtful that he means it. Again comments on long term planning, equipment planning etc.
Comment: Brown defends his policy on the war. Clegg & Cameron pull up the problems that there have been in equipment terms and Clegg brings up the issue of Trident nuclear plans again. Brown comments that he loves the troops. Cameron quickly agrees. Clegg keeps harping on about equipment... Brown defends the war, saying that they have had to change tactics so many times in order to complete the mission - is he right? We won't know until we've talked to the Armed Forces... and even then there is difference of opinion. Cameron attacks Clegg's Trident ideas... both seem naive. Brown claims that Clegg needs to get real. Cameron agrees with Brown... there's a first.
Election debate 1
Q1: How should we tackle European interference?
Cam: In EU but not run by EU. Keep the £ & cut the red tape.
Clegg: On hand experience. Whole lot of things that we can't do on our own, therefore we need to be in the EU. We need to be together - we're better together!
Brown: 3 million reasons why we need to be in EU, JOBS. We are an influence in the EU... when we work together we are so much better.
Comment: Every candidate is hard line on the fact that it is in our interests to stay in the EU. Each argues that there is too much waste but that we need to be in it to be an influence. Cameron wants a referendum and harks back to when he tried to get one, but dropped it. He is rightly pulled up on this by Clegg. Brown is firm in saying that we need to solve the economic problem and as such he needs to work with the right people in EU and thus keep growth and jobs. Cameron is lambasted for joining a fringe group in the EU - and rightly so.
NB - Clegg looking confident, Brown looking better, Cameron looking frustrated.
Cam: In EU but not run by EU. Keep the £ & cut the red tape.
Clegg: On hand experience. Whole lot of things that we can't do on our own, therefore we need to be in the EU. We need to be together - we're better together!
Brown: 3 million reasons why we need to be in EU, JOBS. We are an influence in the EU... when we work together we are so much better.
Comment: Every candidate is hard line on the fact that it is in our interests to stay in the EU. Each argues that there is too much waste but that we need to be in it to be an influence. Cameron wants a referendum and harks back to when he tried to get one, but dropped it. He is rightly pulled up on this by Clegg. Brown is firm in saying that we need to solve the economic problem and as such he needs to work with the right people in EU and thus keep growth and jobs. Cameron is lambasted for joining a fringe group in the EU - and rightly so.
NB - Clegg looking confident, Brown looking better, Cameron looking frustrated.
Tuesday 20 April 2010
Monday 12 April 2010
Sunday 11 April 2010
Internet Resources
Below are a few Christian web-based resources that help in attempting to understand more about the election and the differing policies - thanks goes to numerous people who have pointed a number of these out to me......
The Evangelical Alliance
Care
The Christian Institute
SUSA
Also see (though not specifically Christian run):
Vote For Policies
Political Compass
Happy browsing! Hopefully these resources will be of value for deciding how to vote and whom to vote for. If you know of any more helpful resources, let us all know by popping them in a comment.
The Evangelical Alliance
Care
The Christian Institute
SUSA
Also see (though not specifically Christian run):
Vote For Policies
Political Compass
Happy browsing! Hopefully these resources will be of value for deciding how to vote and whom to vote for. If you know of any more helpful resources, let us all know by popping them in a comment.
Friday 9 April 2010
When Caine Came...
So Michael Caine came out in support of Cameron's Tories (bringing headlines of 'I'm a Tory, not a lot of people know that.'), and specifically his plan to offer voluntary citizen service for all 16 year olds. An interesting proposal, a good idea indeed - but if voluntary will it work any better or reach any more kids than the Duke of Edinburgh? Yes, the government needs to act in this area, but I don't think this is firm enough. Make it compulsory.
Labour have continued with their courting of the Lib Dems. Lord Adonis (Labour Transport Secretary) has now come out calling for Liberal Democrat supporters to vote Labour in marginal seats in order to avoid a Conservative government. It makes some sense, the Lib Dems do have more in common with Labour than they do the Tories - but with Clegg's insistence that he will not be king maker (which, if we do have a hung parliament, he will. He won't be able to avoid it.) is it worth attempting to woo them this early on?
Also, Dragons' Den millionaire has done a uturn on Labour's NI tax. James Caan originally said the increase would cost thousands of jobs, but now says after looking at the figures closely he believes this to be the way forward. An interesting swing back in support of Labour's NI tax increase... I wonder how many more will come out in support now that one person has.
Labour have continued with their courting of the Lib Dems. Lord Adonis (Labour Transport Secretary) has now come out calling for Liberal Democrat supporters to vote Labour in marginal seats in order to avoid a Conservative government. It makes some sense, the Lib Dems do have more in common with Labour than they do the Tories - but with Clegg's insistence that he will not be king maker (which, if we do have a hung parliament, he will. He won't be able to avoid it.) is it worth attempting to woo them this early on?
Also, Dragons' Den millionaire has done a uturn on Labour's NI tax. James Caan originally said the increase would cost thousands of jobs, but now says after looking at the figures closely he believes this to be the way forward. An interesting swing back in support of Labour's NI tax increase... I wonder how many more will come out in support now that one person has.
Tuesday 6 April 2010
Ready, Steady, GO!
And so today we begin. This will be the closest election for a long, long time. Nick Robinson, BBC political editor, is excited.
Dave Cameron is fighting for 'the great ignored', those who he claims are the honest, hardworking people of our country who want to know whether this country can be great again - but are currently held back by Labour's shocking policies. Cameron believes his plans are exciting, and that real change can come. He hints at a new economic model - but will it really happen? He's also promising to reform the political system... something that has been on Labour's cards for the last 13 years. Will the Tories follow through on their promise if they get in, or bail out like Labour? Can Cameron really be a radical reformer?
Nick Clegg has claimed this is the beginning of the end of Brown, and that seems to be his only certainty - other than Brown being personally responsible for all that has happened in the past three years economically. Are they really in with a shout this time round?
Brown, after seeing the Queen this morning, has said in his speech to the country that he will never forget his lowly working class values, claiming his government have fought hard for families whilst getting Britain out of the recession. 'Britain is on the road to recovery!' is he rallying cry. He promises to get the big decisions right. He subtly damns the Tories plans of severe cut backs, and thus he asks the British people "for a clear and straightforward mandate" to continue his work. He also guarantees to keep Britain's frontline public services - available to us all as individuals when and where we need them. He also asks for a mandate to improve public trust in the politics of our country. Labour will fight for fairness at all times, a future fair for all. "Lets Go To It" are his final remarks.
Oh, and he also confirmed the date as the 6 May. It is now campaign season. Who'll do it? I'm not sure. But it's exciting, very exciting.
Dave Cameron is fighting for 'the great ignored', those who he claims are the honest, hardworking people of our country who want to know whether this country can be great again - but are currently held back by Labour's shocking policies. Cameron believes his plans are exciting, and that real change can come. He hints at a new economic model - but will it really happen? He's also promising to reform the political system... something that has been on Labour's cards for the last 13 years. Will the Tories follow through on their promise if they get in, or bail out like Labour? Can Cameron really be a radical reformer?
Nick Clegg has claimed this is the beginning of the end of Brown, and that seems to be his only certainty - other than Brown being personally responsible for all that has happened in the past three years economically. Are they really in with a shout this time round?
Brown, after seeing the Queen this morning, has said in his speech to the country that he will never forget his lowly working class values, claiming his government have fought hard for families whilst getting Britain out of the recession. 'Britain is on the road to recovery!' is he rallying cry. He promises to get the big decisions right. He subtly damns the Tories plans of severe cut backs, and thus he asks the British people "for a clear and straightforward mandate" to continue his work. He also guarantees to keep Britain's frontline public services - available to us all as individuals when and where we need them. He also asks for a mandate to improve public trust in the politics of our country. Labour will fight for fairness at all times, a future fair for all. "Lets Go To It" are his final remarks.
Oh, and he also confirmed the date as the 6 May. It is now campaign season. Who'll do it? I'm not sure. But it's exciting, very exciting.
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