Brown unveils 150 names to back the Union
Labour today hits back strongly in the election battle for business support, with a pro-Union message signed by a wide range of significant corporate Scots.
The message has been backed by 150 people, including the chiefs and former bosses at Tesco, Bank of Scotland, HSBC bank, Scottish & Newcastle, Scottish Widows, ITV, Zurich, Bupa and Intelligent Finance.
It lists celebrity backing, including former Scotland rugby stars Finlay Calder and David Sole, Duncan Bannatyne of the Dragon's Den TV programme, Michelle Mone of Ultimo bra fame, and music industry managers behind Simple Minds.
Earlier this week, the SNP advertised its own list of 100 business-people supporting Nationalists at the Holyrood election. Sir Tom Farmer, Brian Souter and Sir George Mathewson were alongside representatives of small business.
Gordon Brown, the Chancellor, is at a business breakfast in Edinburgh today, using the message as a new weapon against the SNP.
While assembled by the Labour Party and including many senior business figures closely linked to Mr Brown, today's statement does not endorse Labour. At previous elections, Labour has been able to gather significant business support, but its attempt to get business leaders to sign up to a draft letter this month has been abandoned.
This campaign tactic, with the newspaper advert funded by John Milligan, founder of Atlantic Power, could benefit Liberal Democrats and Conservatives, and underlines Labour's dominant concern with attacking the SNP, ensuring it does not attract the many undecided voters in the vital closing week of the campaign. Earlier this week, a group of senior figures in football also backed the pro-Union message, but not Labour, in tabloid advertisements.
Labour chose not to target today's advert at readers of The Herald. The statement in it reads: "We believe Scotland's best future for investment, jobs and prosperity is being part of Britain and we believe the break-up of Britain would damage Scotland."
Among the signatories are; George Mitchell and Sir Peter Burt, both former Bank of Scotland governors; Sir William Purves, former chairman of HSBC; Peter Balfour, former vice-chairman of the Royal Bank and former boss of Scottish & Newcastle; Mike Ross, former chief executive of Scottish Widows; Charles Allen, former chief executive of ITV; Lord Sandy Leitch, former chief executive, Zurich; Brian Dempsey, a major Labour funder who last week voiced strong praise for Alex Salmond; Peter Jacobs, former chief executive of Bupa; David Murray, chairman of Rangers and Murray International Metals; Jim Spowart, founder of Standard Life Bank and Intelligent Finance; Maitland Mackie, the Liberal Democrat boss of his family's farm and ice-cream business; and Murdoch MacLennan, chief executive of Telegraph newspapers.
Sir Alan Langlands, principal of Dundee University, also signed the message, stressing it was in a personal capacity.
An SNP spokesman responded last night: "Labour can't get anyone in the business community to sign up to a Labour Party advert, and that speaks volumes. They're reduced to a front organisation."
The LibDems have not produced a list of corporate backers, but a spokesman said the party is determined to support Scottish business with more powers at Holyrood but without constitutional upheaval and uncertainty.
Elsewhere, Westminster's influential Treasury Committee handed Labour more ammunition against the SNP by raising further question-marks about the Nationalists' planned key source of revenue - North Sea oil - saying its "volatilityconstitutes a risk to taxation revenue in the future".
© All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without
permission is prohibited.
Posted by: Oscar, Dumfropolis on 11:47pm Tue 24 Apr 07
Is Gordon Brown standing in the Scottish Parliament election? If not he should really slither off to prop up Labour in the Englissh and Welsh council elections. Pity he didn't praise the 15 BNP backed former players....
Is Gordon Brown standing in the Scottish Parliament election? If not he should really slither off to prop up Labour in the Englissh and Welsh council elections. Pity he didn't praise the 15 BNP backed former players....
Posted by: David Nummey, London on 11:54pm Tue 24 Apr 07
Yet more negative stuff from Labour. Looks like nobody in their list would actually sign anything that said 'Vote Labour'.
And what a ridiculous start to the article: 'Labour hits back strongly'. How can you hit back strongly with a list of people who won't even back your party?
Still, when the First Minister has to suffer the indignity of being booed at a Federation of Small Businesses Conference, anything other than being booed tends to look like an improvement.
Yet more negative stuff from Labour. Looks like nobody in their list would actually sign anything that said 'Vote Labour'.
And what a ridiculous start to the article: 'Labour hits back strongly'. How can you hit back strongly with a list of people who won't even back your party?
Still, when the First Minister has to suffer the indignity of being booed at a Federation of Small Businesses Conference, anything other than being booed tends to look like an improvement.
Posted by: Alastair, Aberdeen on 12:07am Wed 25 Apr 07
As I observed yesterday regarding your reporting of the SNP and their backers, why is Brown's Unionist story front page news, while the SNP story and the case for independence barely made it to the bottom of the page of the on-line edition of the politics section. I never used to believe the charges of Unionist bias in The Herald, but it is now so blatant that it you can't ignore it any longer. You really [italic][bold]HAVE[/bold] [/italic] to do better, otherwise you're no better than the Daily Record, the Daily Mail, the Daily Express, or, for that matter, The Sun.
As I observed yesterday regarding your reporting of the SNP and their backers, why is Brown's Unionist story front page news, while the SNP story and the case for independence barely made it to the bottom of the page of the on-line edition of the politics section. I never used to believe the charges of Unionist bias in The Herald, but it is now so blatant that it you can't ignore it any longer. You really
HAVE to do better, otherwise you're no better than the Daily Record, the Daily Mail, the Daily Express, or, for that matter, The Sun.
Posted by: Chris, Greenock on 12:35am Wed 25 Apr 07
Alastair, Aberdeen, spot on.
I visit a news agents daily and the owner has said newspaper sales have plummeted in his shop. Is it any wonder when none of them are speaking for the majority in Scotland. Maybe the Herald should publish a link to the Newsnight program last night staring Jack Mc Connell or whatever he is called so everyone can download the program and watch what a complete idiot has been in charge of our country.
Sadly The Herald is doing as it is told from above, pretty obvious to me.
Alastair, Aberdeen, spot on.
I visit a news agents daily and the owner has said newspaper sales have plummeted in his shop. Is it any wonder when none of them are speaking for the majority in Scotland. Maybe the Herald should publish a link to the Newsnight program last night staring Jack Mc Connell or whatever he is called so everyone can download the program and watch what a complete idiot has been in charge of our country.
Sadly The Herald is doing as it is told from above, pretty obvious to me.
Posted by: Dick on 12:43am Wed 25 Apr 07
I'm sorry but the boss of a supermarket chain and a woman that sells padded bras just don't cut it... OK so a few ex bank bosses are pro union but they're probably sitting pretty with nice healthy pensions and are completely removed from the reality of running a real business under Gordon's regime...
Nice try though..
I'm sorry but the boss of a supermarket chain and a woman that sells padded bras just don't cut it... OK so a few ex bank bosses are pro union but they're probably sitting pretty with nice healthy pensions and are completely removed from the reality of running a real business under Gordon's regime...
Nice try though..
Posted by: Ivan 2 on 12:43am Wed 25 Apr 07
Watched newsnight tonight, Jack McConnell, when asked if he thought that the largest party should form the executive, persistently refused to give a straight answer. Even though he was asked three times by the interviewer he would not give a direct reply to the question. Unfortuanatly it was near the end of the programme, because of this he had to stop. I think this election is reaching a new level. I really hope their is a big turnout on 3rd. May, like the French elections(85%). A lot of people have surely got to vote this time, I really hope they do. The interviewer even said before asking the question that there is word that other parties could do a deal to stop the SNP taking power if they were to be returned as the biggest party. Really starting to wonder now.
Watched newsnight tonight, Jack McConnell, when asked if he thought that the largest party should form the executive, persistently refused to give a straight answer. Even though he was asked three times by the interviewer he would not give a direct reply to the question. Unfortuanatly it was near the end of the programme, because of this he had to stop. I think this election is reaching a new level. I really hope their is a big turnout on 3rd. May, like the French elections(85%). A lot of people have surely got to vote this time, I really hope they do. The interviewer even said before asking the question that there is word that other parties could do a deal to stop the SNP taking power if they were to be returned as the biggest party. Really starting to wonder now.
Posted by: JC, Glasgow on 12:47am Wed 25 Apr 07
Looks like Gordon calling in favours ...
Looks like Gordon calling in favours ...
Posted by: Keith Hendry, Tartan Oil Platform on 12:47am Wed 25 Apr 07
You forgot the Scotsman it is just as bad as the Daily Rancid & the rest of the Vichy press! Something tells me that the undecided voters will sway back to their unionist masters on the 3rd of May because the Brit brigade will find any excuse so they don't have to ring their own till as they prefer handout's from their London superiors. However I believe the long term momentem wil carry the Nationalist cause that bit closer & two years from now the unionist's will regret their complicit folly of relying on London to feed them. Perhaps we may even have another War that Scottish Labour (used to call themselves socialist's ha ha) can convince themself's despite the overwhelming evidence is justifyable to motivate the masses. For the dregs that are leading the Scottish & unionist labour party to call Alex Salmond unfit to lead a govrnment really is rich, what a shower of perfidious wretches they the Kings of nepotism are!!
You forgot the Scotsman it is just as bad as the Daily Rancid & the rest of the Vichy press! Something tells me that the undecided voters will sway back to their unionist masters on the 3rd of May because the Brit brigade will find any excuse so they don't have to ring their own till as they prefer handout's from their London superiors. However I believe the long term momentem wil carry the Nationalist cause that bit closer & two years from now the unionist's will regret their complicit folly of relying on London to feed them. Perhaps we may even have another War that Scottish Labour (used to call themselves socialist's ha ha) can convince themself's despite the overwhelming evidence is justifyable to motivate the masses. For the dregs that are leading the Scottish & unionist labour party to call Alex Salmond unfit to lead a govrnment really is rich, what a shower of perfidious wretches they the Kings of nepotism are!!
Posted by: martin, East Kilbride on 12:52am Wed 25 Apr 07
Labour is in meltdown.
SNP 53 seats
Labour 27 seats
LibDems 20 seats
COns 17 seats
Others 12 seats
Labour is in meltdown.
SNP 53 seats
Labour 27 seats
LibDems 20 seats
COns 17 seats
Others 12 seats
Posted by: Jason4queen, Ayr on 12:52am Wed 25 Apr 07
Chris, Greenock.
What is it that none of the newspapers are reporting?. Are you talking about the 23% of the electorate that would vote yes to an independant Scotland?.
Its just that when I went to School, you had to get 51% to be the majority in a straight yes/no question. 23% is a minority. Even Alex Salmond concedes that he will probably have to put up extra questions for his referendum if he is to get the keys to Bute House. Or did nobody read the stories from yesterday.
And how do you all feel that he will ask these extra questions so he can get a coalition with the Lib Dems. Or as so many SNP supporters on here call them, Fib Dems.
I here daily that we Labour supporters are running with a negative campaign style of election. But surely name calling such as Fib Dem is negative also.
Chris, Greenock.
What is it that none of the newspapers are reporting?. Are you talking about the 23% of the electorate that would vote yes to an independant Scotland?.
Its just that when I went to School, you had to get 51% to be the majority in a straight yes/no question. 23% is a minority. Even Alex Salmond concedes that he will probably have to put up extra questions for his referendum if he is to get the keys to Bute House. Or did nobody read the stories from yesterday.
And how do you all feel that he will ask these extra questions so he can get a coalition with the Lib Dems. Or as so many SNP supporters on here call them, Fib Dems.
I here daily that we Labour supporters are running with a negative campaign style of election. But surely name calling such as Fib Dem is negative also.
Posted by: JC on 12:55am Wed 25 Apr 07
"Labour chose not to target today's advert at readers of The Herald. The statement in it reads: "We believe Scotland's best future for investment, jobs and prosperity is being part of Britain and we believe the break-up of Britain would damage Scotland."
Since it is clear that this is organised and run by the Labour party it should appear on their election expenses ... yes?
"Labour chose not to target today's advert at readers of The Herald. The statement in it reads: "We believe Scotland's best future for investment, jobs and prosperity is being part of Britain and we believe the break-up of Britain would damage Scotland."
Since it is clear that this is organised and run by the Labour party it should appear on their election expenses ... yes?
Posted by: Alan Smart, www.youscotland.com on 12:56am Wed 25 Apr 07
This pretty much is the same people or comanies that urged a No No vote in 1999 - hang you head in shame my former comrasdes.
And Gordon, this ain't a referendum on independece, i'ts a referendum on you,Jack and Tony, But I note not a single of your 150 has signed "yes" to that one.
This initiatve is either 8 years to loate, 4 years to soon, 3rd May, 2007 is about who runs holyood and it won't be your mob - unles dumb Nichol bails you out
This pretty much is the same people or comanies that urged a No No vote in 1999 - hang you head in shame my former comrasdes.
And Gordon, this ain't a referendum on independece, i'ts a referendum on you,Jack and Tony, But I note not a single of your 150 has signed "yes" to that one.
This initiatve is either 8 years to loate, 4 years to soon, 3rd May, 2007 is about who runs holyood and it won't be your mob - unles dumb Nichol bails you out
Posted by: Graham Hendry, Prague on 12:59am Wed 25 Apr 07
Oooh, celebrity backers, and with tits as well...
I remember reading how many under par Sandy Lyle was in the US Masters from the Herald. Amazing that sports news could come across the world like that. And now this. FFS
Oooh, celebrity backers, and with tits as well...
I remember reading how many under par Sandy Lyle was in the US Masters from the Herald. Amazing that sports news could come across the world like that. And now this. FFS
Posted by: Jimbo on 1:14am Wed 25 Apr 07
Tesco? BUPA? Zurich? When did they become Scottish companies?And all the rest predominantly owned outside of Scotland and outside the UK all closely linked to Complicity Brown and backing Labour. Surprise! Surprise! BUT, their statement does not ENDORSE Labour. They're not that stupid.
At least the SNP had REAL Scottish businessmen with REAL Scottish businesses backing them and prepared to put their names to it. Businessmen who reside in and make their living in Scotland and are willing to state that Scotland will be far better off being rid of these proven lying chancers. People who put their money up and put their trust in the country's future get my backing ahead of anyone Complicity Brown pulls out of the hat and who're not even willing to endorse his party.
Tesco? BUPA? Zurich? When did they become Scottish companies?And all the rest predominantly owned outside of Scotland and outside the UK all closely linked to Complicity Brown and backing Labour. Surprise! Surprise! BUT, their statement does not ENDORSE Labour. They're not that stupid.
At least the SNP had REAL Scottish businessmen with REAL Scottish businesses backing them and prepared to put their names to it. Businessmen who reside in and make their living in Scotland and are willing to state that Scotland will be far better off being rid of these proven lying chancers. People who put their money up and put their trust in the country's future get my backing ahead of anyone Complicity Brown pulls out of the hat and who're not even willing to endorse his party.
Posted by: Iain More, Moray on 1:24am Wed 25 Apr 07
How many of the 150 already have knighthoods and how many still want them!
How manty of those who signed this toilet roll will actually vote Labour! Is it a vote Labour document or is it an anti SNP panic attack!
Labour has nothing to offer Scotland but bribes and blackmail!
The SNP lead in Labours own surveys must be huge! Is the Herald about to announce an anti SNP tactical vote! It is the obvious conclusion or inference of Labour publishing a document that includes names of people who are not all Labour voters!
But then I await the Heralds next opionon poll - a poll that thye have already discredited by thier coverage of this election!
How many of the 150 already have knighthoods and how many still want them!
How manty of those who signed this toilet roll will actually vote Labour! Is it a vote Labour document or is it an anti SNP panic attack!
Labour has nothing to offer Scotland but bribes and blackmail!
The SNP lead in Labours own surveys must be huge! Is the Herald about to announce an anti SNP tactical vote! It is the obvious conclusion or inference of Labour publishing a document that includes names of people who are not all Labour voters!
But then I await the Heralds next opionon poll - a poll that thye have already discredited by thier coverage of this election!
Posted by: Am Balach, Skye on 1:30am Wed 25 Apr 07
Where did you get those figures Martin? Is that internal polling by a party or what?
Where did you get those figures Martin? Is that internal polling by a party or what?
Posted by: John on 1:34am Wed 25 Apr 07
What these people, backed by the pension thief Brown, are really saying is that Scots who can't afford to take out massive adverts should have no say in their country's future. They want the Scottish people gagged with no opportunity to have their say in a referendum.
What these people, backed by the pension thief Brown, are really saying is that Scots who can't afford to take out massive adverts should have no say in their country's future. They want the Scottish people gagged with no opportunity to have their say in a referendum.
Posted by: Archie Hood, Argyll on 1:35am Wed 25 Apr 07
They stole, misused and lied about the oil. Now they want our water and electricity, not to mention the vast ammount of timber heading south. I don't think comfy bumfy multi- millionaires are the best judges of reality for the rest of us, and try getting a trial game with any of the teams connected to the football brigade. The Herald is owned by a non-Scottish media oligarth called Gannet. which I find quite typical.
They stole, misused and lied about the oil. Now they want our water and electricity, not to mention the vast ammount of timber heading south. I don't think comfy bumfy multi- millionaires are the best judges of reality for the rest of us, and try getting a trial game with any of the teams connected to the football brigade. The Herald is owned by a non-Scottish media oligarth called Gannet. which I find quite typical.
Posted by: somerferg, Oz on 1:49am Wed 25 Apr 07
Another example of the Herald's balanced reporting of the election campaign? Give me a break - I can only hope the Scots electorate find the pro-labour diatribes this rag produces everyday now as irritating as I do.
Another example of the Herald's balanced reporting of the election campaign? Give me a break - I can only hope the Scots electorate find the pro-labour diatribes this rag produces everyday now as irritating as I do.
Posted by: Jimbo on 5:09am Wed 25 Apr 07
somerferg, Oz
Well said. My sentiments exactly. We should hit them where it hurts and refuse to buy their papers. And where best to advertise this than on their own web site.
somerferg, Oz
Well said. My sentiments exactly. We should hit them where it hurts and refuse to buy their papers. And where best to advertise this than on their own web site.
Posted by: Tommy, Renfrewshire on 5:46am Wed 25 Apr 07
[italic]italic[/italic] This is the time to get rid of this arrogant New Labour party once and for all. Slease slease and more slease that is the question.
This is the time to get rid of this arrogant New Labour party once and for all. Slease slease and more slease that is the question.
Posted by: Pictman, Canberra Australia on 5:58am Wed 25 Apr 07
300 yeras ago a parcel o' rogues sold Scotland's independence. Now an even bigger parcel o' rogues soesn't want them to get it back.
300 yeras ago a parcel o' rogues sold Scotland's independence. Now an even bigger parcel o' rogues soesn't want them to get it back.
Posted by: J M on 6:19am Wed 25 Apr 07
Dealer gives McConnell ace; but how does he play it?
Dealer gives McConnell ace; but how does he play it?
Posted by: donald anderson, glasgow on 6:47am Wed 25 Apr 07
Posted by: Graham Hendry, Prague on 12:59am today
"Oooh, celebrity backers, and with tits as well... I remember reading how many under par Sandy Lyle was in the US Masters from the Herald. Amazing that sports news could come across the world like that. And now this. FFS
Oooh, celebrity backers, and with tits as well..."
I remember reading how many under par Sandy Lyle was in the US Masters from the Herald. Amazing that sports news could come across the world like that. And now this. FFS
Not counting the 15 Record Beano reading named tits of the Old Firm anti Scottish variety. McLeish should follow, follow, Smith out of Team Scotand.
Posted by: Graham Hendry, Prague on 12:59am today
"Oooh, celebrity backers, and with tits as well... I remember reading how many under par Sandy Lyle was in the US Masters from the Herald. Amazing that sports news could come across the world like that. And now this. FFS
Oooh, celebrity backers, and with tits as well..."
I remember reading how many under par Sandy Lyle was in the US Masters from the Herald. Amazing that sports news could come across the world like that. And now this. FFS
Not counting the 15 Record Beano reading named tits of the Old Firm anti Scottish variety. McLeish should follow, follow, Smith out of Team Scotand.
Posted by: jockgray, nZ on 7:01am Wed 25 Apr 07
Remember them well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Remember them well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: MARY STUART, GOVAN on 7:07am Wed 25 Apr 07
SCREW LABOUR - THEIR TIMES IS COMING TO AN END
- THEY HAVE LIED JUST ONE TOO MANY TIMES - AND GORDON BROON IS NOT EVEN WANTED BY THE SCOTS LET ALONE THE ENGLISH!!
[bold]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16bPATQnAU4#GU5U2spHI_4[/bold]
watch the video on YOU TUBE
SCREW LABOUR - THEIR TIMES IS COMING TO AN END
- THEY HAVE LIED JUST ONE TOO MANY TIMES - AND GORDON BROON IS NOT EVEN WANTED BY THE SCOTS LET ALONE THE ENGLISH!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16bPATQnAU4#GU5U2spHI_4
watch the video on YOU TUBE
Posted by: Alexander Johnstone, DUNDEE on 7:09am Wed 25 Apr 07
Wendy Alexander and Jack McConnell - imagine a hybrid child of those two?
I's what doomsday scenario stuff is made of!!
Wendy Alexander and Jack McConnell - imagine a hybrid child of those two?
I's what doomsday scenario stuff is made of!!
Posted by: dougiealba, Edinburgh on 7:18am Wed 25 Apr 07
Peerages anyone? Roll up, Roll up, Get your Peerages here!
We may not have a clue who you are or have any reason to believe that anyone should give a scooby what your views on Scottish issues are, but we are offering people just like you , a number of shop soiled Peerages. Just sign here……………………Roll up , Roll up!
Peerages anyone? Roll up, Roll up, Get your Peerages here!
We may not have a clue who you are or have any reason to believe that anyone should give a scooby what your views on Scottish issues are, but we are offering people just like you , a number of shop soiled Peerages. Just sign here……………………Roll up , Roll up!
Posted by: Norman Macarthur, Stornoway on 7:28am Wed 25 Apr 07
I wonder if Alex McLeish and the other football numpties who want to preserve the Union realise that the logical effect is Scotland No More, Team GB [England] Rules. Regions of countries are not eligible to compete in European Nation Cups or World Cups and before very long we will be excluded. Gordon Brown realises this which is why he has already declared his alliegance to England for the World Cup.
I wonder if Alex McLeish and the other football numpties who want to preserve the Union realise that the logical effect is Scotland No More, Team GB Rules. Regions of countries are not eligible to compete in European Nation Cups or World Cups and before very long we will be excluded. Gordon Brown realises this which is why he has already declared his alliegance to England for the World Cup.
Posted by: Iain MacLaren, Galway, Ireland on 7:30am Wed 25 Apr 07
Hmmm... is this an ad for the union or an application form for a peerage?
We, the undersigned, would like to apply to Gordon Brown for a peerage, knighthood or other such recognition.....
Hmmm... is this an ad for the union or an application form for a peerage?
We, the undersigned, would like to apply to Gordon Brown for a peerage, knighthood or other such recognition.....
Posted by: wonderwoman on 7:37am Wed 25 Apr 07
Ivan, I wouldn't put it past the 3 Unionist parties to band together against the SNP - except that voters would object if they voted strongly for one party and a government excluding that party was imposed on them. The more votes and seats the SNP gets, the bigger would be the protest if the Unionists tried such a tactic.
Those of us who want an SNP government need to go all out between now and 3rd. May to maximize seats and votes. If the result on 3rd. May is the same as Martin's poll, even a Unionist coalition won't stop the SNP forming a government.
Ivan, I wouldn't put it past the 3 Unionist parties to band together against the SNP - except that voters would object if they voted strongly for one party and a government excluding that party was imposed on them. The more votes and seats the SNP gets, the bigger would be the protest if the Unionists tried such a tactic.
Those of us who want an SNP government need to go all out between now and 3rd. May to maximize seats and votes. If the result on 3rd. May is the same as Martin's poll, even a Unionist coalition won't stop the SNP forming a government.
Posted by: Keith on 8:05am Wed 25 Apr 07
I know and understand that the 150 have not backed labour but say they want to stay in the union. The Herald has made a lame attempt to print it like they all are endorsing labour. Which just is not the case.
I soul searched long and hard after the news that Smith, Coisty and big John Greig had come out and backed the union. I was seriously thinking of giving up the Bears and then I thought was the 'Tic any better. Only slightly I thought. When I saw Mr. Murray was on the list I made up my mind, I'm a Partick Thistle supporter from now on. 41 years is a long time with one team. Longer than most husband and wife teams.
Today was the final straw for me. It hurts, but I wont be supporting a crowd that supports murder of the innocent and wholesale lying to the common people of Scotland.
I know and understand that the 150 have not backed labour but say they want to stay in the union. The Herald has made a lame attempt to print it like they all are endorsing labour. Which just is not the case.
I soul searched long and hard after the news that Smith, Coisty and big John Greig had come out and backed the union. I was seriously thinking of giving up the Bears and then I thought was the 'Tic any better. Only slightly I thought. When I saw Mr. Murray was on the list I made up my mind, I'm a Partick Thistle supporter from now on. 41 years is a long time with one team. Longer than most husband and wife teams.
Today was the final straw for me. It hurts, but I wont be supporting a crowd that supports murder of the innocent and wholesale lying to the common people of Scotland.
Posted by: gordon, falkirk on 8:21am Wed 25 Apr 07
what does gordon broon know about life up here by hapless jacks standards he walked away from scotland some time ago!
i did notice though tat none of these 150 have received a peerage [italic][bold]YET[/bold][/italic]
what does gordon broon know about life up here by hapless jacks standards he walked away from scotland some time ago!
i did notice though tat none of these 150 have received a peerage
YET Posted by: gordon, falkirk on 8:30am Wed 25 Apr 07
keep out of politics Mr Bannatyne... you can have my menbership card back
keep out of politics Mr Bannatyne... you can have my menbership card back
Posted by: bobo on 8:36am Wed 25 Apr 07
What a disgrace that the prinicpal of Dundee University has signed up to this. We're paying this guy's wages.
What a disgrace that the prinicpal of Dundee University has signed up to this. We're paying this guy's wages.
Posted by: bobo on 8:40am Wed 25 Apr 07
Maitland Mackie is a rabid anti-nationalist who has stood in various NE seats for the Lb Dems over the years always coming in a dismal third or fourth. He is the type who thinks because he is wealthy and his family has a long standing link to the area that people should vote for him on those grounds alone.
Maitland Mackie is a rabid anti-nationalist who has stood in various NE seats for the Lb Dems over the years always coming in a dismal third or fourth. He is the type who thinks because he is wealthy and his family has a long standing link to the area that people should vote for him on those grounds alone.
Posted by: Andy on 8:53am Wed 25 Apr 07
These people are entitled to express a view.
What worries me is how the Newspapers report these things. I am genuinely concerned that our press has shown itself to be incapable of balanced reporting.
This is reportedly claimed as a "Labour Coup" however, the press seem at pain to state that it is not funded by the Labour party - actively helping them to break the spirit of electoral law. Shame on them.
As one poster pointed out, few of these headline companies are actually run from Scotland and you do suspect that a favour will be due in time - Will Tesco suddenly get some help with those pesky planning applications in Inverness and elsewhere?
These people are entitled to express a view.
What worries me is how the Newspapers report these things. I am genuinely concerned that our press has shown itself to be incapable of balanced reporting.
This is reportedly claimed as a "Labour Coup" however, the press seem at pain to state that it is not funded by the Labour party - actively helping them to break the spirit of electoral law. Shame on them.
As one poster pointed out, few of these headline companies are actually run from Scotland and you do suspect that a favour will be due in time - Will Tesco suddenly get some help with those pesky planning applications in Inverness and elsewhere?
Posted by: James, Carluke on 8:57am Wed 25 Apr 07
To all those prominent Scots who back being ruled from London.
What exactly is it that you are scared of ?
To all those prominent Scots who back being ruled from London.
What exactly is it that you are scared of ?
Posted by: Grant Thoms aka Tartan Hero, Glasgow on 9:00am Wed 25 Apr 07
[quote][bold]Jason4queen[/bold] wrote:
Chris, Greenock. What is it that none of the newspapers are reporting?. Are you talking about the 23% of the electorate that would vote yes to an independant Scotland?. Its just that when I went to School, you had to get 51% to be the majority in a straight yes/no question. 23% is a minority. Even Alex Salmond concedes that he will probably have to put up extra questions for his referendum if he is to get the keys to Bute House. Or did nobody read the stories from yesterday. And how do you all feel that he will ask these extra questions so he can get a coalition with the Lib Dems. Or as so many SNP supporters on here call them, Fib Dems. I here daily that we Labour supporters are running with a negative campaign style of election. But surely name calling such as Fib Dem is negative also.[/quote] Jason sweetie.. no poll has given Independence such a low support as 23% in a straight questions - YES or NO. In fact the majority of polls show a majority in favour on a straight question. It's only the multi option polls that have lower Independence support.
BTW what do you want to be Queen of?
Jason4queen wrote:
Chris, Greenock. What is it that none of the newspapers are reporting?. Are you talking about the 23% of the electorate that would vote yes to an independant Scotland?. Its just that when I went to School, you had to get 51% to be the majority in a straight yes/no question. 23% is a minority. Even Alex Salmond concedes that he will probably have to put up extra questions for his referendum if he is to get the keys to Bute House. Or did nobody read the stories from yesterday. And how do you all feel that he will ask these extra questions so he can get a coalition with the Lib Dems. Or as so many SNP supporters on here call them, Fib Dems. I here daily that we Labour supporters are running with a negative campaign style of election. But surely name calling such as Fib Dem is negative also.
Jason sweetie.. no poll has given Independence such a low support as 23% in a straight questions - YES or NO. In fact the majority of polls show a majority in favour on a straight question. It's only the multi option polls that have lower Independence support.
BTW what do you want to be Queen of?
Posted by: Frank McBride, lusitania on 9:01am Wed 25 Apr 07
Hold on Lads & Lasses.
I said, yesterday, that AM/AM2 was a supporter of the GRADUALIST WING OF THE SNP.
These business people are in the same mould.
Like all cautious business people they look to their customers for guidance in growing their business and, as such, are normally a bit behind the times.
So, let's show them the way by getting rid of ALLTHE OLD, OUT OF DATE STOCK AND REPLACE IT WITH NEW PRODUCTS AND IDEAS. They'll soon change their stance.
FOR A FAIRER AND MORE PROSPEROUS SCOTLAND.
VOTE SNP - 1st, 2nd, 3rd ON 3 MAY.
Hold on Lads & Lasses.
I said, yesterday, that AM/AM2 was a supporter of the GRADUALIST WING OF THE SNP.
These business people are in the same mould.
Like all cautious business people they look to their customers for guidance in growing their business and, as such, are normally a bit behind the times.
So, let's show them the way by getting rid of ALLTHE OLD, OUT OF DATE STOCK AND REPLACE IT WITH NEW PRODUCTS AND IDEAS. They'll soon change their stance.
FOR A FAIRER AND MORE PROSPEROUS SCOTLAND.
VOTE SNP - 1st, 2nd, 3rd ON 3 MAY.
Posted by: Maxie, Clydebank on 9:02am Wed 25 Apr 07
Great wheez Gordon,
You've been having breakfast with these Uncle Toms for months and still they refuse to support Labour!
Indeed, half of them dont even live in Scotland such is the economic success you've created here!
Lets talk basics. You reduced corporation tax for large UK and multi national companies, but increased it for small and medium companies in Scotland to pay for it.
Great wheez Gordon,
You've been having breakfast with these Uncle Toms for months and still they refuse to support Labour!
Indeed, half of them dont even live in Scotland such is the economic success you've created here!
Lets talk basics. You reduced corporation tax for large UK and multi national companies, but increased it for small and medium companies in Scotland to pay for it.
Posted by: Argentocoxus, Ayr on 9:37am Wed 25 Apr 07
Grant Thoms aka Tartan Hero
Jason wants to be Queen of Cumnock with wee Cathy as his Consort. Imagine going oot wi a wummin twice his age.
Jason4Queen
"When I was at school" - judging by your postings, that was last week. You have the same problem as the LibDems - nobody wants independence, so we will not allow proof of that. Ye're feart!
Grant Thoms aka Tartan Hero
Jason wants to be Queen of Cumnock with wee Cathy as his Consort. Imagine going oot wi a wummin twice his age.
Jason4Queen
"When I was at school" - judging by your postings, that was last week. You have the same problem as the LibDems - nobody wants independence, so we will not allow proof of that. Ye're feart!
Posted by: Stephen Shilton on 9:37am Wed 25 Apr 07
Come on Herald - can we have some fair reporting? We've never had it in any past election, but now that the SNP look like winning, even you are not able to be remotely objective.
This Labour manipulation of electoral law, funding and even political message, deserves to be exposed!! All you have done by using words like "Labour hit back strongly" is endorse their lie. This is a pro union scheme - not a Labour party scheme. Get real - your posters here have a much clearer view of this election than you seem to have. You're letting yourselves as well as your readers down.
Come on Herald - can we have some fair reporting? We've never had it in any past election, but now that the SNP look like winning, even you are not able to be remotely objective.
This Labour manipulation of electoral law, funding and even political message, deserves to be exposed!! All you have done by using words like "Labour hit back strongly" is endorse their lie. This is a pro union scheme - not a Labour party scheme. Get real - your posters here have a much clearer view of this election than you seem to have. You're letting yourselves as well as your readers down.
Posted by: Thyme Kelpie on 9:47am Wed 25 Apr 07
Glad that I am not alone in wishing to see more 'balanced' reporting by our 'controlled' media. It is good that youtube and these forus exist though as that can put across the many sides of this.
For those who would like to see the other side, go to www.scotsindependent.org where the bias is maybe the other way, but you want fair reporting - go look!
However it is definitely time for Scotland to stand on its own two feet. Its time.
Glad that I am not alone in wishing to see more 'balanced' reporting by our 'controlled' media. It is good that youtube and these forus exist though as that can put across the many sides of this.
For those who would like to see the other side, go to www.scotsindependent.org where the bias is maybe the other way, but you want fair reporting - go look!
However it is definitely time for Scotland to stand on its own two feet. Its time.
Posted by: Sandy, Glasgow on 9:50am Wed 25 Apr 07
I'd like Salmond put on the spot to explain his wooing of the Muslim block vote and the promises he's made to them.
Over on the MPACUK site plans are being made to the landscape of both the Scottish and Welsh assemblies.
http://forum.mpacuk.org/showthread.php?t=21219
Just how Independent will we be a few years down the line answerable to Europe and controlled by Wee Eck and the Imans?
I'd like Salmond put on the spot to explain his wooing of the Muslim block vote and the promises he's made to them.
Over on the MPACUK site plans are being made to the landscape of both the Scottish and Welsh assemblies.
http://forum.mpacuk.org/showthread.php?t=21219
Just how Independent will we be a few years down the line answerable to Europe and controlled by Wee Eck and the Imans?
Posted by: Doric Dave, Thainstone Mart wae AA Gill on 10:06am Wed 25 Apr 07
Below is the link to JMCtv - Cooncil tax bands
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toQJKa1NP7g
Below is the link to JMCtv - Cooncil tax bands
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toQJKa1NP7g
Posted by: Sonnaidh on 10:12am Wed 25 Apr 07
Even if you do believe that we exist on handouts from London, it's hardly shrewd business tactics to go bragging about it.
Unles of course your hoping for a K or a P.
Even if you do believe that we exist on handouts from London, it's hardly shrewd business tactics to go bragging about it.
Unles of course your hoping for a K or a P.
Posted by: Doric Dave, Buchan SNP Heartlands on 10:14am Wed 25 Apr 07
As set out in the SNPs manifesto for a fairer more inclusive Scotland
we will not alienate scottish people on the basis of their religion
There's enough bigotry alive and well, but i won'y go down that route
BTW - Will the BNP be wooing the Muslim Block?
I don't think so....
As set out in the SNPs manifesto for a fairer more inclusive Scotland
we will not alienate scottish people on the basis of their religion
There's enough bigotry alive and well, but i won'y go down that route
BTW - Will the BNP be wooing the Muslim Block?
I don't think so....
Posted by: Stephen, Hamilton on 10:19am Wed 25 Apr 07
[quote][bold]Sandy[/bold] wrote:
I'd like Salmond put on the spot to explain his wooing of the Muslim block vote and the promises he's made to them.
Over on the MPACUK site plans are being made to the landscape of both the Scottish and Welsh assemblies.
http://forum.mpacuk.org/showthread.php?t=21219
Just how Independent will we be a few years down the line answerable to Europe and controlled by Wee Eck and the Imans?
[/quote] This seems a bit xenophobic to me... what exactly are you getting at?
Sandy wrote:
I'd like Salmond put on the spot to explain his wooing of the Muslim block vote and the promises he's made to them.
Over on the MPACUK site plans are being made to the landscape of both the Scottish and Welsh assemblies.
http://forum.mpacuk.org/showthread.php?t=21219
Just how Independent will we be a few years down the line answerable to Europe and controlled by Wee Eck and the Imans?
This seems a bit xenophobic to me... what exactly are you getting at?
Posted by: george paterson, Inverurie on 10:24am Wed 25 Apr 07
It is generally accepted that Douglas Fraser, Herald's political editor. and his boss, Charlie McGhee are scared stiff they lose any revenues from the Unionist parties. Funny thing is that Scottish Labour and the LibDems are having to dig deep into their own scarce funds as London Labour and LibDems are in a fair old funding dilemma with big bills to pay back down there which they got from dubious donations! The Tories will always have plenty reserves of cash. They stole it from the Empire! This time, though, the SNP have attracted a lot of funding from reliable sources for the first time ever and that is enabling them to compete on a more "level playing field". That is what is causing all the panic in the other parties because in these conditions the SNP is proving more than a match for any of them. PANIC has set in not just here but in Westminster. What will Brown do if he loses control of the revenues from oil? And if he taxes the oil companies any more they will "up and go".The fool can't see that!
It is generally accepted that Douglas Fraser, Herald's political editor. and his boss, Charlie McGhee are scared stiff they lose any revenues from the Unionist parties. Funny thing is that Scottish Labour and the LibDems are having to dig deep into their own scarce funds as London Labour and LibDems are in a fair old funding dilemma with big bills to pay back down there which they got from dubious donations! The Tories will always have plenty reserves of cash. They stole it from the Empire! This time, though, the SNP have attracted a lot of funding from reliable sources for the first time ever and that is enabling them to compete on a more "level playing field". That is what is causing all the panic in the other parties because in these conditions the SNP is proving more than a match for any of them. PANIC has set in not just here but in Westminster. What will Brown do if he loses control of the revenues from oil? And if he taxes the oil companies any more they will "up and go".The fool can't see that!
Posted by: Mac, Dundee on 10:26am Wed 25 Apr 07
150 business people saying they back the Union but not Labour. That's the relevant part.
The "anyone but Labour" message must be a real worry for Gordon Brown. If he can't get the UK business community to publicly back him then he is in real trouble at Westminster.
A future Tory government at Westminster, as everyone now expects, will be the last straw for Scots. It simply won't be tolerated north of the border.
150 business people saying they back the Union but not Labour. That's the relevant part.
The "anyone but Labour" message must be a real worry for Gordon Brown. If he can't get the UK business community to publicly back him then he is in real trouble at Westminster.
A future Tory government at Westminster, as everyone now expects, will be the last straw for Scots. It simply won't be tolerated north of the border.
Posted by: JMC, The wee toon on 10:32am Wed 25 Apr 07
Can anyone remember Robin Day interviewing Ted Heath ( one of the few straight talking politicians) many years ago on tv , He asked "what do you think of Scotland and Independance . I am willing to bet that we never see a flash back to the answer that Ted gave .
At the start of the invasion of Iraq , only one party leader really came out and said what a complete disaster it was. Will we see a flash back to that , I doubt it .
Can anyone remember Robin Day interviewing Ted Heath ( one of the few straight talking politicians) many years ago on tv , He asked "what do you think of Scotland and Independance . I am willing to bet that we never see a flash back to the answer that Ted gave .
At the start of the invasion of Iraq , only one party leader really came out and said what a complete disaster it was. Will we see a flash back to that , I doubt it .
Posted by: stevethebarge, Norway on 10:40am Wed 25 Apr 07
[quote][bold]Jimbo[/bold] wrote:
Tesco? BUPA? Zurich? When did they become Scottish companies?And all the rest predominantly owned outside of Scotland and outside the UK all closely linked to Complicity Brown and backing Labour. Surprise! Surprise! BUT, their statement does not ENDORSE Labour. They're not that stupid. At least the SNP had REAL Scottish businessmen with REAL Scottish businesses backing them and prepared to put their names to it. Businessmen who reside in and make their living in Scotland and are willing to state that Scotland will be far better off being rid of these proven lying chancers. People who put their money up and put their trust in the country's future get my backing ahead of anyone Complicity Brown pulls out of the hat and who're not even willing to endorse his party.[/quote] Non Scottish companies are not significant? Might be a problem when King Alex and Queen Nicola have to deal with the oil companies if we become independant, wouldn't you think?
Not many of them are Scottish, in fact none of them are! Maersk are Danish, Shell are Dutch, and BP are oh my god, British.
Get real, get a life. Maybe if AS gets a seat, maybe if the SNP forms a government, maybe you people will realise that there is more to life than filling these sites with the same old dross every day. Same people, same pie in the sky irrelevant nonsense all the time. Most of it never even refers to the original article. If you don't like the paper, don't read it.
Jimbo wrote:
Tesco? BUPA? Zurich? When did they become Scottish companies?And all the rest predominantly owned outside of Scotland and outside the UK all closely linked to Complicity Brown and backing Labour. Surprise! Surprise! BUT, their statement does not ENDORSE Labour. They're not that stupid. At least the SNP had REAL Scottish businessmen with REAL Scottish businesses backing them and prepared to put their names to it. Businessmen who reside in and make their living in Scotland and are willing to state that Scotland will be far better off being rid of these proven lying chancers. People who put their money up and put their trust in the country's future get my backing ahead of anyone Complicity Brown pulls out of the hat and who're not even willing to endorse his party.
Non Scottish companies are not significant? Might be a problem when King Alex and Queen Nicola have to deal with the oil companies if we become independant, wouldn't you think?
Not many of them are Scottish, in fact none of them are! Maersk are Danish, Shell are Dutch, and BP are oh my god, British.
Get real, get a life. Maybe if AS gets a seat, maybe if the SNP forms a government, maybe you people will realise that there is more to life than filling these sites with the same old dross every day. Same people, same pie in the sky irrelevant nonsense all the time. Most of it never even refers to the original article. If you don't like the paper, don't read it.
Posted by: Keynes on 10:41am Wed 25 Apr 07
Is it just the Herald's selection of unionist backers, or is it general that the financiers are the chief unionists?
Finance has destroyed most of British industry, both manufacturing and farming are now largely "screwdriver factories". See "Farming in the Clouds" by Sir Richard Body, more relevant than ever. Both are damaged by an exchange rate that enriches finance - like a cancer.
Is it just the Herald's selection of unionist backers, or is it general that the financiers are the chief unionists?
Finance has destroyed most of British industry, both manufacturing and farming are now largely "screwdriver factories". See "Farming in the Clouds" by Sir Richard Body, more relevant than ever. Both are damaged by an exchange rate that enriches finance - like a cancer.
Posted by: R MacLeod, london on 10:48am Wed 25 Apr 07
ne other thing it seems to me to be all protestants who wish the union to carry on I WONDER WHY?
Quote | Report t
I take exception to that ridiculous comment do not bring in the religious card you are playing inot the hands of the unionists .
I am a protestant Rangers season ticket holder and been a Nationalist all my adult life so and there are many more like me .
If all the so called Rangers Protestants voted Tory/ Unionist why is the councillor for Larkhall a so called Labour tim?? get smart and talk sense
ne other thing it seems to me to be all protestants who wish the union to carry on I WONDER WHY?
Quote | Report t
I take exception to that ridiculous comment do not bring in the religious card you are playing inot the hands of the unionists .
I am a protestant Rangers season ticket holder and been a Nationalist all my adult life so and there are many more like me .
If all the so called Rangers Protestants voted Tory/ Unionist why is the councillor for Larkhall a so called Labour tim?? get smart and talk sense
Posted by: Alex Porter, Madrid on 11:00am Wed 25 Apr 07
For information on "How Scottish newspapers are out of touch with their readers’ politics" read Murray Ritchie (Former Herald Editor).
http://www.scottishindependenceconvention.com/index.asp
Read it and think that soon the SNP will control the advertising budgets. The house of cards is falling people.
News
INDEX
Comment | Read Comments (118)
