Alexander isolated as former leaders join attack
Douglas Fraser: "Labour's shock new tactics revealed"
Wendy Alexander, Labour's Holyrood leader, was cut adrift by the party's Scottish establishment, with two former first ministers joining in the chorus of internal party criticism over her call for an immediate referendum on independence, while Gordon Brown made it clear that he was "not persuaded" of her strategy.
Last night's criticism came as the Labour leader at Holyrood again sought to justify her call for an early referendum.
With the Prime Minister confirming the political distance between himself and his once-favoured protege, former first minister Henry McLeish attacked Ms Alexander.
"This is the worst of all possible worlds," said Mr McLeish. "We have marginalised the Calman Commission, confused the Scottish public, taken the Liberals and the Tories out of the equation and seemed more enthusiastic than the SNP to have a referendum."
He added: "Labour supporters and activists will find it difficult to work out what on earth is going on. It's hard to understand how Labour could get itself into this position. What about the public? They have been treated with contempt."
Jack McConnell, whose resignation ushered in Ms Alexander as Labour's Holyrood leader, warned of the need for "clarity" between Labour's leaders in Scotland and Westminster, and said they did not always have to agree on policy. "If there is a disagreement, let's have it out in the open and just admit that," said Mr McConnell. "What we need is to be able to move on with a clarity about what each is saying and get back to challenging the SNP government here in Scotland."
Former Scotland Office minister Brian Wilson, who opposed the devolution settlement, joined the public censure of Ms Alexander. He said: "To commit to a
referendum which ultimately only the UK Government can deliver, without checking out what the UK Government thinks when it is of the same party - I think carelessness would be an understatement."
Ms Alexander was left clinging to her policy for an immediate referendum on independence as the Prime Minister and her own brother Douglas Alexander, the International Development Secretary, said they were not persuaded of the case for a vote on the future of Scotland.
Mr Brown was careful yesterday to defend Ms Alexander as an "excellent leader" of Labour in Scotland, but he pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.
Mr Brown called for an alliance of pro-Union parties, together with business and trade unions, to fight to prevent the break-up of the UK. "Some issues are bigger than party politics and need to be addressed in the common interest," said Mr Brown.
Despite such a policy gulf opening up between her and
Mr Brown a week on from her "bring it on" call for an immediate referendum, the embattled Ms Alexander again denied
misrepresenting the PM's view when she earlier claimed his support on the issue. "I have the Prime Minister's support in
pursuing whatever tactics are right in the Scottish Parliament," she said.
Ms Alexander dismissed talk of an irreparable rift with Mr Brown or that she had any plans to resign. "What we have learned this week is that the SNP are unwilling to let Scotland speak," said Ms Alexander. "I don't think it's gambling with the constitutional future of Scotland to say we trust the people. A year ago Labour in Scotland lost an election and I said we would listen - and we have listened to people in Scotland."
First Minister Alex Salmond branded her the "Comical Alexander" of Scottish politics. "The situation is utterly farcical for Labour," said Mr Salmond.
© All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without
permission is prohibited.
Posted by: haud me back, glasgow on 10:21pm Sun 11 May 08
She's got a screw loose!, hard to believe this woman is leading the Labour MSP's in Scotland. Read Ian MacLeod's essay in Saturday's Daily Mail it's an eye opener!
She's got a screw loose!, hard to believe this woman is leading the Labour MSP's in Scotland. Read Ian MacLeod's essay in Saturday's Daily Mail it's an eye opener!
Posted by: Saul Tyre, Germany on 10:23pm Sun 11 May 08
[italic]'First Minister Alex Salmond branded her the "Comical Alexander" of Scottish politics. "The situation is utterly farcical for Labour," said Mr Salmond.'[/italic]
Was Alex Salmond comparing her to Councillor Alexander Gallagher of Largs by any chance?
'First Minister Alex Salmond branded her the "Comical Alexander" of Scottish politics. "The situation is utterly farcical for Labour," said Mr Salmond.'
Was Alex Salmond comparing her to Councillor Alexander Gallagher of Largs by any chance?
Posted by: Mrs I P Knightly, Scotland on 10:27pm Sun 11 May 08
The Alexander's - the Fran and Anna of Scottish politics - apologies to Fran and Anna for the slur.
The Alexander's - the Fran and Anna of Scottish politics - apologies to Fran and Anna for the slur.
Posted by: Duns Scotus, The Borders on 10:31pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote]Mr Brown was careful yesterday to defend Ms Alexander as an "excellent leader" of Labour in Scotland, but he pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to [bold]preserve[/bold] the United Kingdom.[/quote] Tomb it may concern:I suggest he try aspic, formaldehyde or embalming.
Mr Brown was careful yesterday to defend Ms Alexander as an "excellent leader" of Labour in Scotland, but he pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.
Tomb it may concern:I suggest he try aspic, formaldehyde or embalming.
Posted by: Steve A, Glasgow on 10:34pm Sun 11 May 08
Alexander isolated from planet earth!
Alexander isolated from planet earth!
Posted by: Karin, glasgae. on 10:38pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote]Jack McConnell, whose resignation ushered in Ms Alexander as Labour's Holyrood leader, warned of the need for "clarity" between Labour's leaders in Scotland and Westminster, and said they did not always have to agree on policy. "If there is a disagreement, let's have it out in the open and just admit that," said Mr McConnell. "What we need is to be able to move on with a clarity about what each is saying and get back to challenging the SNP government here in Scotland."/quote]
WHAT LIKE ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE JOKE!!!!!!!!
Jack McConnell, whose resignation ushered in Ms Alexander as Labour's Holyrood leader, warned of the need for "clarity" between Labour's leaders in Scotland and Westminster, and said they did not always have to agree on policy. "If there is a disagreement, let's have it out in the open and just admit that," said Mr McConnell. "What we need is to be able to move on with a clarity about what each is saying and get back to challenging the SNP government here in Scotland."/quote]
WHAT LIKE ATTENDANCE ALLOWANCE JOKE!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Karin, glasgae. on 10:40pm Sun 11 May 08
well i guess slab do not want autonomy from london then?
well i guess slab do not want autonomy from london then?
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 10:43pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote]
"We have marginalised the Calman Commission, confused the Scottish public, taken the Liberals and the Tories out of the equation and seemed more enthusiastic than the SNP to have a referendum."
[bold]Henry Mcleish[/bold]
[/quote]
Concise
"We have marginalised the Calman Commission, confused the Scottish public, taken the Liberals and the Tories out of the equation and seemed more enthusiastic than the SNP to have a referendum."
Henry Mcleish
Concise
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 10:44pm Sun 11 May 08
,,,,the public?
[quote][bold]They have been treated with contempt.[/bold][/quote]
,,,,the public?
They have been treated with contempt.
Posted by: Duns Scotus, The Borders on 10:48pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Mrs I P Knightly[/bold] wrote:
The Alexander's - the Fran and Anna of Scottish politics - apologies to Fran and Anna for the slur.[/quote] Gordon & Wendy - the Alexander Brothers (accordian to the opinion polls).
Mrs I P Knightly wrote:
The Alexander's - the Fran and Anna of Scottish politics - apologies to Fran and Anna for the slur.
Gordon & Wendy - the Alexander Brothers (accordian to the opinion polls).
Posted by: Jimmy the Pie on 10:56pm Sun 11 May 08
I hope the events of the last week will make things very clear for anyone considering voting Labour, just what they are capable of doing to retain power. Lying, cheating, committing fraud to name 3. These people have no morals, conscience or decency.
[bold]They must never be allowed to hold power again.[/bold]
I hope the events of the last week will make things very clear for anyone considering voting Labour, just what they are capable of doing to retain power. Lying, cheating, committing fraud to name 3. These people have no morals, conscience or decency.
They must never be allowed to hold power again. Posted by: Traquir, Alba on 11:00pm Sun 11 May 08
None of last weeks ultra self-destructive Labour behaviour
seems to make any logical sense which started me
thinking there must be something deeper going on here.
If you guys would indulge me I have a theory that I would
like to bounce off you :
. For the last 50 years Scotland has in effect
been a single-party state where Labour has dominated
and become completely institutionalized to the
extent that we ended up with the red rosette
on a monkey syndrome where any member chosen
by the single state party would be elected irregardless
of talent, capability or intelligence. The end result
is the set of Neanderthals which sit on the opposition
benches of the Scottish Parliament who are only
now being recognized by one and all as a national
embarrassment to the Scottish Nation.
. This single-party state looks eerily similar
to the now collapsed Eastern European Communist
regimes who rigorously engineered and manipulated
to ensure the continued succession of their
regime by grooming and promoting only the
most loyal, power hungry and sycophantic of their followers.
. In an article in The Telegraph yesterday
(see tinyurl.com/5dxffo ) it was pointed out
that :
"It is said that their father first advised that
they (Wendy & Douglas) aim for different
parliaments, with the
long-term objective of landing the top jobs
in both." !!!
Wendy has been described as
"power-crazed, arrogant, sycophantic, abrasive"
They were mentored by the leading figures of the
Scottish Labour party such as Dewar & Brown.
My basic theory is that the Alexanders had basically been
groomed and nurtured by the Scottish Labour party
to be anointed successors of this corrupt political
regime. Then it starts to make sense why despite the
utter stupidity of both Wendy and Douglas both
have been promoted way beyond their capabilities
and despite massive and frequent screw-ups they
remain in their positions. As Brown told us
in Aviemore, Wendy will be Scotland's next First Minister.
The succession line which they have groomed for years
has now come undone and they are in absolute panic
as there is no back up plan since there never was
one since a single-party state institution like
Scottish Labour never expected any opposition so
why bother. With the succession line now destroyed the
regime is now guaranteed to collapse which explains
the descent into their headless chicken final
Scottish Jig.
Just a theory, but makes eminently more sense that
anything else I have seen or heard in the last week :)
None of last weeks ultra self-destructive Labour behaviour
seems to make any logical sense which started me
thinking there must be something deeper going on here.
If you guys would indulge me I have a theory that I would
like to bounce off you :
. For the last 50 years Scotland has in effect
been a single-party state where Labour has dominated
and become completely institutionalized to the
extent that we ended up with the red rosette
on a monkey syndrome where any member chosen
by the single state party would be elected irregardless
of talent, capability or intelligence. The end result
is the set of Neanderthals which sit on the opposition
benches of the Scottish Parliament who are only
now being recognized by one and all as a national
embarrassment to the Scottish Nation.
. This single-party state looks eerily similar
to the now collapsed Eastern European Communist
regimes who rigorously engineered and manipulated
to ensure the continued succession of their
regime by grooming and promoting only the
most loyal, power hungry and sycophantic of their followers.
. In an article in The Telegraph yesterday
(see tinyurl.com/5dxffo ) it was pointed out
that :
"It is said that their father first advised that
they (Wendy & Douglas) aim for different
parliaments, with the
long-term objective of landing the top jobs
in both." !!!
Wendy has been described as
"power-crazed, arrogant, sycophantic, abrasive"
They were mentored by the leading figures of the
Scottish Labour party such as Dewar & Brown.
My basic theory is that the Alexanders had basically been
groomed and nurtured by the Scottish Labour party
to be anointed successors of this corrupt political
regime. Then it starts to make sense why despite the
utter stupidity of both Wendy and Douglas both
have been promoted way beyond their capabilities
and despite massive and frequent screw-ups they
remain in their positions. As Brown told us
in Aviemore, Wendy will be Scotland's next First Minister.
The succession line which they have groomed for years
has now come undone and they are in absolute panic
as there is no back up plan since there never was
one since a single-party state institution like
Scottish Labour never expected any opposition so
why bother. With the succession line now destroyed the
regime is now guaranteed to collapse which explains
the descent into their headless chicken final
Scottish Jig.
Just a theory, but makes eminently more sense that
anything else I have seen or heard in the last week :)
Posted by: Astonished, Inverclyde on 11:01pm Sun 11 May 08
The comment piece (I assume by Alf) is titled Alexander's woes - No mention of the problems facing Alf and the Herald.
Oh dear - Alf and Dougie have run this once fine newspaper into the ground.
http://business.time
sonline.co.uk/tol/bu
siness/industry_sect
ors/media/article390
7840.ece
All those folk sickened by your unquestioning Labour bias - I cannot see how you are ever going to get them back.
And a Scotland six news seems much more likely, just in time for the referendum - The SNP are really having a great couple of weeks - Thanks Wendy !
The comment piece (I assume by Alf) is titled Alexander's woes - No mention of the problems facing Alf and the Herald.
Oh dear - Alf and Dougie have run this once fine newspaper into the ground.
http://business.time
sonline.co.uk/tol/bu
siness/industry_sect
ors/media/article390
7840.ece
All those folk sickened by your unquestioning Labour bias - I cannot see how you are ever going to get them back.
And a Scotland six news seems much more likely, just in time for the referendum - The SNP are really having a great couple of weeks - Thanks Wendy !
Posted by: Scunnert, Travelling in Nihlon on 11:03pm Sun 11 May 08
Gordon Brown:
[quote] pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.[/quote]
That sounds a wee bit ominous. What can ye dae Broon? Refuse Scotland's democratic right tae have a referendum? Have a UK wide referendum on Scottish Independence? Send oot the sodgers tae shoot us aw? What can ye dae ya eejit ye?
Gordon Brown:
pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.
That sounds a wee bit ominous. What can ye dae Broon? Refuse Scotland's democratic right tae have a referendum? Have a UK wide referendum on Scottish Independence? Send oot the sodgers tae shoot us aw? What can ye dae ya eejit ye?
Posted by: Curley Bill, the southwest on 11:04pm Sun 11 May 08
Kudos to the Politics Show producer who decided Wendy's theme song should be [italic]'Sweet little lies...'[/italic] very apt.
Right enough, I think it will soon be [italic]'It's cryin' time again, you're gonna leave me...'[/italic]
Any other suggestions?
(Here's one for Jackie - [italic]'Somewhere over the rainbow, wae a pie...'[/italic] )
Kudos to the Politics Show producer who decided Wendy's theme song should be
'Sweet little lies...' very apt.
Right enough, I think it will soon be
'It's cryin' time again, you're gonna leave me...'
Any other suggestions?
(Here's one for Jackie -
'Somewhere over the rainbow, wae a pie...' )
Posted by: Kadok, West End on 11:05pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote](Gordon Brown) pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.[/quote]
Am I the only person who finds this statement quite menacing and threatening?
(Gordon Brown) pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.
Am I the only person who finds this statement quite menacing and threatening?
Posted by: Mrs I P Knightly, Scotland on 11:05pm Sun 11 May 08
Posted by: Duns Scotus, The Borders on 10:48pm today
boom boom - I liked that!
Posted by: Duns Scotus, The Borders on 10:48pm today
boom boom - I liked that!
Posted by: george alexander, north lanarkshire on 11:06pm Sun 11 May 08
Has anyone noticed todays 'SNP spoiler' story........Scottis
h economic downturn due to increased oil prices; the irony eh?
Has anyone noticed todays 'SNP spoiler' story........Scottis
h economic downturn due to increased oil prices; the irony eh?
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:07pm Sun 11 May 08
[bold]Angus Macleod - The Dark Heart of Unionism[/bold]
www.timesonline.co.u
k/tol/news/uk/scotla
nd/article3913521.ec
e
[quote]One senior and influential figure in the Scottish party told The Times: “She is as close to a busted flush as you can get, but what keeps her alive as the leader in Scotland is that there is simply no alternative. She is losing the belief of the party in Scotland and her own group in the Scottish Parliament.”[/quote]
Angus Macleod - The Dark Heart of Unionism
www.timesonline.co.u
k/tol/news/uk/scotla
nd/article3913521.ec
e
One senior and influential figure in the Scottish party told The Times: “She is as close to a busted flush as you can get, but what keeps her alive as the leader in Scotland is that there is simply no alternative. She is losing the belief of the party in Scotland and her own group in the Scottish Parliament.”
Posted by: Independent, Scotland on 11:07pm Sun 11 May 08
By all accounts, the policy change was flushed out by the Press and Wendy, sick of Brown's dithering called time with her now famous "bring it on" statement.
After what looks like Wendy on the hoof, Labour now realises the only route it has out of the SNP calling the date for the referendum and the wording thereon, is for an emergency Bill at Westminster, which certainly would not put a smile on the SNP.
Perhaps Alex should now call Wendy's bluff and introduce the SNP Bill at Holyrood as soon as possible. I know it is not the best time, but better the SNP get the wording on the ballot papers than that crowd of liars and traitors in Westminster.
Independence is a grand goal, not just for Scotland but perhaps it should start with the Labour Party itself, for as it stands now, the Labour Party in Scotland simply cannot be trusted...with anything.
By all accounts, the policy change was flushed out by the Press and Wendy, sick of Brown's dithering called time with her now famous "bring it on" statement.
After what looks like Wendy on the hoof, Labour now realises the only route it has out of the SNP calling the date for the referendum and the wording thereon, is for an emergency Bill at Westminster, which certainly would not put a smile on the SNP.
Perhaps Alex should now call Wendy's bluff and introduce the SNP Bill at Holyrood as soon as possible. I know it is not the best time, but better the SNP get the wording on the ballot papers than that crowd of liars and traitors in Westminster.
Independence is a grand goal, not just for Scotland but perhaps it should start with the Labour Party itself, for as it stands now, the Labour Party in Scotland simply cannot be trusted...with anything.
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:10pm Sun 11 May 08
[italic]From the Times[/italic]
[quote]Asked if she was saying that Labour would support an SNP Bill in 2010, she said: “There are no blank cheques here. We want to see a Bill. We want to see the question. We have called the SNP’s bluff. They will not let the Scottish people speak.”[/quote]
Has she even looked at the National Conversation publication 'Choosing Scotland’s Future' published in AUGUST 2007????
It has a draft copy of the proposed legislation & question in it.
[bold]Page 44 Wendy love, Appendix B[/bold]
www.scotland.gov.uk/
Publications/2007/08
/13103747/10
From the Times
Asked if she was saying that Labour would support an SNP Bill in 2010, she said: “There are no blank cheques here. We want to see a Bill. We want to see the question. We have called the SNP’s bluff. They will not let the Scottish people speak.”
Has she even looked at the National Conversation publication 'Choosing Scotland’s Future' published in AUGUST 2007????
It has a draft copy of the proposed legislation & question in it.
Page 44 Wendy love, Appendix B
www.scotland.gov.uk/
Publications/2007/08
/13103747/10
Posted by: beckypumps1, fife on 11:12pm Sun 11 May 08
Some people have no shame, I think she is also a bit mad l hope the Scottish bit of the Labour keep her as leader as she is also very funny,I wonder what her next oopsy will be?
Some people have no shame, I think she is also a bit mad l hope the Scottish bit of the Labour keep her as leader as she is also very funny,I wonder what her next oopsy will be?
Posted by: para handy, brittany, France on 11:14pm Sun 11 May 08
Irrespective of her politics, is there anyone out there who can make a serious case for Wendy Alexander as a potential first minister of Scotland?
If not, is it not time that the Labour party put her out of harm's way and put in place someone who is capable of mounting a credible opposition?
As someone with a distaste for all things Tory, it sticks in my craw to say it, but Cameron's Scottish Granny seems to me the only one on the opposition benches with any credibility whatsoever.
Irrespective of her politics, is there anyone out there who can make a serious case for Wendy Alexander as a potential first minister of Scotland?
If not, is it not time that the Labour party put her out of harm's way and put in place someone who is capable of mounting a credible opposition?
As someone with a distaste for all things Tory, it sticks in my craw to say it, but Cameron's Scottish Granny seems to me the only one on the opposition benches with any credibility whatsoever.
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:18pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Independent[/bold] wrote:
By all accounts, the policy change was flushed out by the Press and Wendy, sick of Brown's dithering called time with her now famous "bring it on" statement.
After what looks like Wendy on the hoof, Labour now realises the only route it has out of the SNP calling the date for the referendum and the wording thereon, is for an emergency Bill at Westminster, which certainly would not put a smile on the SNP.
Perhaps Alex should now call Wendy's bluff and introduce the SNP Bill at Holyrood as soon as possible. I know it is not the best time, but better the SNP get the wording on the ballot papers than that crowd of liars and traitors in Westminster.
Independence is a grand goal, not just for Scotland but perhaps it should start with the Labour Party itself, for as it stands now, the Labour Party in Scotland simply cannot be trusted...with anything.[/quote] The National Conversation publication 'Choosing Scotland’s Future' published in August 2007 has a draft copy of the proposed legislation & question in it......
[bold]Page 44 Appendix B[/bold]
www.scotland.gov.uk/
Publications/2007/08
/13103747/10
There isn't any chance that brown would introduce a referendum bill at Westminster, it would break his premiership by opening up the EU Lisbon Treaty referendum calls throughout middle England.
Funnily enough, there was rumour that the SNp were going to introduce a consultative EU Lisbon Treat referendum bill in Scotland for a wee while, is passed, that would have been a very sore head for Brown Bear!
Independent wrote:
By all accounts, the policy change was flushed out by the Press and Wendy, sick of Brown's dithering called time with her now famous "bring it on" statement.
After what looks like Wendy on the hoof, Labour now realises the only route it has out of the SNP calling the date for the referendum and the wording thereon, is for an emergency Bill at Westminster, which certainly would not put a smile on the SNP.
Perhaps Alex should now call Wendy's bluff and introduce the SNP Bill at Holyrood as soon as possible. I know it is not the best time, but better the SNP get the wording on the ballot papers than that crowd of liars and traitors in Westminster.
Independence is a grand goal, not just for Scotland but perhaps it should start with the Labour Party itself, for as it stands now, the Labour Party in Scotland simply cannot be trusted...with anything.
The National Conversation publication 'Choosing Scotland’s Future' published in August 2007 has a draft copy of the proposed legislation & question in it......
Page 44 Appendix B
www.scotland.gov.uk/
Publications/2007/08
/13103747/10
There isn't any chance that brown would introduce a referendum bill at Westminster, it would break his premiership by opening up the EU Lisbon Treaty referendum calls throughout middle England.
Funnily enough, there was rumour that the SNp were going to introduce a consultative EU Lisbon Treat referendum bill in Scotland for a wee while, is passed, that would have been a very sore head for Brown Bear!
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:19pm Sun 11 May 08
[bold]Bring on the Clowns - Wendy Alexander's referendum U-turn[/bold]
[italic]www.timesonline.co.u
k/tol/news/uk/scotla
nd/article3908816.ec
e[/italic]
Bring on the Clowns - Wendy Alexander's referendum U-turn
www.timesonline.co.u
k/tol/news/uk/scotla
nd/article3908816.ec
e Posted by: subrosa on 11:20pm Sun 11 May 08
Labour don't do politics which ought to be persuasion, information and discussion ( the SNP style).
Labour do lies, scaremongering and bribery as their style.
I know which one I prefer.
Labour don't do politics which ought to be persuasion, information and discussion ( the SNP style).
Labour do lies, scaremongering and bribery as their style.
I know which one I prefer.
Posted by: Steve A, Glasgow on 11:22pm Sun 11 May 08
Independent
Patience is a waiting game!
Independent
Patience is a waiting game!
Posted by: Kadok, West End on 11:22pm Sun 11 May 08
Angus Macleod in the Times says Wendy is still defying Brown after repeating on TV that she will not stand in the way of a referendum in 2010. MacWhirter in this paper says she has done a double U-turn.
Does anyone know what the position of the Labour Party in Scotland actually is???
Angus Macleod in the Times says Wendy is still defying Brown after repeating on TV that she will not stand in the way of a referendum in 2010. MacWhirter in this paper says she has done a double U-turn.
Does anyone know what the position of the Labour Party in Scotland actually is???
Posted by: beckypumps1, fife on 11:25pm Sun 11 May 08
I will be sad to see her go but who will replace her? Putting the funnies aside we do need an affective opposition to keep the SNP on their toes.
I will be sad to see her go but who will replace her? Putting the funnies aside we do need an affective opposition to keep the SNP on their toes.
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:25pm Sun 11 May 08
[bold]Scotsman Story regarding wording of Question[/bold]
http://news.scotsman
.com/politics/Legal-
setback-to-Wendy39s-
39straightchoice39.4
070893.jp
[bold]Proposed Wording[/bold]
[quote]......the Scottish Government should negotiate a settlement with the Government of the United Kingdom so that Scotland becomes an independent state. [bold]X[/bold][/quote]
The SNP's proposed wording appears to be entirely legal and legitimate in the context of the Scotland Act.
Unlike Labours[italic] yes/no[/italic] proposal
[bold]The Scottish Act 1998[/bold]
[italic]Section 29 - Legislative Competence[/italic]
[bold]Schedule 4, 2 (1)[/bold]
An Act of the Scottish Parliament cannot modify, or confer power by subordinate legislation to modify, the law on reserved matters.
[bold]Schedule 4, 4 (1)[/bold]
An Act of the Scottish Parliament cannot modify, or confer power by subordinate legislation to modify, this Act.
[bold]Schedule 5, 1[/bold]
The following aspects of the constitution are reserved matters, that is—
[bold](b)[/bold] the Union of the Kingdoms of Scotland and England
[bold]
Wendy is winging it[/bold]
I thought she was suppsoed to have a grasp of detailed policy?
Scotsman Story regarding wording of Question
http://news.scotsman
.com/politics/Legal-
setback-to-Wendy39s-
39straightchoice39.4
070893.jp
Proposed Wording
......the Scottish Government should negotiate a settlement with the Government of the United Kingdom so that Scotland becomes an independent state. X
The SNP's proposed wording appears to be entirely legal and legitimate in the context of the Scotland Act.
Unlike Labours
yes/no proposal
The Scottish Act 1998
Section 29 - Legislative Competence
Schedule 4, 2 (1)
An Act of the Scottish Parliament cannot modify, or confer power by subordinate legislation to modify, the law on reserved matters.
Schedule 4, 4 (1)
An Act of the Scottish Parliament cannot modify, or confer power by subordinate legislation to modify, this Act.
Schedule 5, 1
The following aspects of the constitution are reserved matters, that is—
(b) the Union of the Kingdoms of Scotland and England
Wendy is winging it
I thought she was suppsoed to have a grasp of detailed policy?
Posted by: John Clark, Edinburgh on 11:26pm Sun 11 May 08
Who would vote Labour now? Be honest? They really are a mess. The real laughing stock are those party members who keep in her in "power". What do they clowns look like - as per Brown Nose Bailey? Very severe clowns indeed eh? Sad really.
Who would vote Labour now? Be honest? They really are a mess. The real laughing stock are those party members who keep in her in "power". What do they clowns look like - as per Brown Nose Bailey? Very severe clowns indeed eh? Sad really.
Posted by: Peter Thomson, Labour for the Perrier Award on 11:28pm Sun 11 May 08
A quick read of the BBC Scotland and you would think its all been sorted, Gordon has spoken, Wendy has backed down and the SNP are still the real cads and rotters conning the people of Scotland with their self seeking arguments with Westminster to break up the Union according to wee brother Douglas - so that's OK then - Union saved!
So Aunty Annabelle and Spotty 'oik' Stephens can come back on board the Calman Commission and they can all be friends again.
So much for the Slab guy who honestly pointed out the Westminster Labour don't give an F about Scotland unless it threatens their general election hopes (What hopes we ask!).
Still Wee Eck will be happy if Broon is keeping Wendy in place.
A quick read of the BBC Scotland and you would think its all been sorted, Gordon has spoken, Wendy has backed down and the SNP are still the real cads and rotters conning the people of Scotland with their self seeking arguments with Westminster to break up the Union according to wee brother Douglas - so that's OK then - Union saved!
So Aunty Annabelle and Spotty 'oik' Stephens can come back on board the Calman Commission and they can all be friends again.
So much for the Slab guy who honestly pointed out the Westminster Labour don't give an F about Scotland unless it threatens their general election hopes (What hopes we ask!).
Still Wee Eck will be happy if Broon is keeping Wendy in place.
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:30pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]John Clark[/bold] wrote:
Who would vote Labour now? Be honest? They really are a mess. The real laughing stock are those party members who keep in her in "power". What do they clowns look like - as per Brown Nose Bailey? Very severe clowns indeed eh? Sad really. [/quote]
What's even sadder are the clowns like PtBS, Exiled Aussie and the like who claim that Labour still represent socialist values.
From Exiled Aussie's postings on other threads he's earning between £25-£50k off his pension and yet this 'TARTAN TORY' was complaining that under LIT he'd have the ability to pay more!!!
[bold]Hypocritical Socialism[/bold], the worst kind
[italic]See Cherie Blair for further examples[/italic]
John Clark wrote:
Who would vote Labour now? Be honest? They really are a mess. The real laughing stock are those party members who keep in her in "power". What do they clowns look like - as per Brown Nose Bailey? Very severe clowns indeed eh? Sad really.
What's even sadder are the clowns like PtBS, Exiled Aussie and the like who claim that Labour still represent socialist values.
From Exiled Aussie's postings on other threads he's earning between £25-£50k off his pension and yet this 'TARTAN TORY' was complaining that under LIT he'd have the ability to pay more!!!
Hypocritical Socialism, the worst kind
See Cherie Blair for further examples
Posted by: Brian D Finch, Brigadoon on 11:31pm Sun 11 May 08
See how the Brothers love the Sisters...
Should there not be a law against it?
Oh yes, there is...
See how the Brothers love the Sisters...
Should there not be a law against it?
Oh yes, there is...
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:32pm Sun 11 May 08
[bold]Peter Thomson, Labour for the Perrier Award on 11:28pm today[/bold]
This wee bbc gem might give ye a chuckle Peter
[italic]
http://news.bbc.co.u
k/1/hi/scotland/7395
044.stm[/italic]
Peter Thomson, Labour for the Perrier Award on 11:28pm today
This wee bbc gem might give ye a chuckle Peter
http://news.bbc.co.u
k/1/hi/scotland/7395
044.stm Posted by: Steve A, Glasgow on 11:32pm Sun 11 May 08
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is!
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is!
Posted by: John Clark on 11:32pm Sun 11 May 08
The trout out, expensive hair do, caked in makeup, power suits and girly - and very phony - mannerisms say it all. She is just a two bob actress who is where she is because of who her family knows. WE all know that.
Labour will get hammered and hammered again by virtue of middle class Trendy Wendy sorts. The Bearsden "Proletariat" eh? Cheese and wine night socialists. Beyond belief. A party that seems to be going down the bog.
She is where she is because of Daddy. Is she a lecturer? Yes she became that after she married the professor. Says it all.
The trout out, expensive hair do, caked in makeup, power suits and girly - and very phony - mannerisms say it all. She is just a two bob actress who is where she is because of who her family knows. WE all know that.
Labour will get hammered and hammered again by virtue of middle class Trendy Wendy sorts. The Bearsden "Proletariat" eh? Cheese and wine night socialists. Beyond belief. A party that seems to be going down the bog.
She is where she is because of Daddy. Is she a lecturer? Yes she became that after she married the professor. Says it all.
Posted by: Kadok, West End on 11:34pm Sun 11 May 08
The Times says U-Bend is a busted flush.
http://www.timesonli
ne.co.uk/tol/news/uk
/scotland/
The Times says U-Bend is a busted flush.
http://www.timesonli
ne.co.uk/tol/news/uk
/scotland/
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:34pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Steve A[/bold] wrote:
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is![/quote]
I'm wanted in TEN systems!
Steve A wrote:
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is!
I'm wanted in TEN systems!
Posted by: beckypumps1, fife on 11:35pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Steve A[/bold] wrote:
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is![/quote] We all know who wouldent get served as well, some people always kick the **** out of everything what say you baron.
Steve A wrote:
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is!
We all know who wouldent get served as well, some people always kick the **** out of everything what say you baron.
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:36pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Steve A[/bold] wrote:
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is![/quote]
Brown & Wendy
Master & Apprentice?
Steve A wrote:
Looking at the labour benches in holy rood reminds me of that bar scene in star wars and we all know who jaba is!
Brown & Wendy
Master & Apprentice?
Posted by: Ben Lomond, Ardlui on 11:38pm Sun 11 May 08
"Labour supporters and activists will find it difficult to work out what on earth is going on. It's hard to understand how Labour could get itself into this position. What about the public? They have been treated with contempt." (Henry McLeish)
He is right, you know. Ms Alexander has committed the cardinal leadership sin of sowing confusion about her party's policy. The general public will be confused about what now appears to be a double U-turn on a major policy issue within the space of a week. More importantly, perhaps, Labour voters and activists will be confused, as Mr McLeish points out, and they will no doubt be dismayed to find that the party in which they have placed their trust has turned out to be as badly led, unprincipled and incompetent as its opponents have been claiming that it is.
Ms Alexander has holed Scottish Labour below the waterline. Unless her distorted perception of reality can change the laws of physics as well as lead her to believe that she can re-write the history of the past week's extraordinary developments, that party must now sink. Whether it sinks with all hands will depend on whether the predicted defections now take place.
"Labour supporters and activists will find it difficult to work out what on earth is going on. It's hard to understand how Labour could get itself into this position. What about the public? They have been treated with contempt." (Henry McLeish)
He is right, you know. Ms Alexander has committed the cardinal leadership sin of sowing confusion about her party's policy. The general public will be confused about what now appears to be a double U-turn on a major policy issue within the space of a week. More importantly, perhaps, Labour voters and activists will be confused, as Mr McLeish points out, and they will no doubt be dismayed to find that the party in which they have placed their trust has turned out to be as badly led, unprincipled and incompetent as its opponents have been claiming that it is.
Ms Alexander has holed Scottish Labour below the waterline. Unless her distorted perception of reality can change the laws of physics as well as lead her to believe that she can re-write the history of the past week's extraordinary developments, that party must now sink. Whether it sinks with all hands will depend on whether the predicted defections now take place.
Posted by: Steve A, Glasgow on 11:39pm Sun 11 May 08
The baron is a dead ringer for that wee creature with a huge nose and a wee pair of wings that lets him hover over people.
The baron is a dead ringer for that wee creature with a huge nose and a wee pair of wings that lets him hover over people.
Posted by: Alastair, Aberdeen on 11:39pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Kadok[/bold] wrote:
[quote](Gordon Brown) pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.[/quote] Am I the only person who finds this statement quite menacing and threatening?[/quote] No you're not the only one! Let's just hope and pray common sense prevails.
Kadok wrote:
(Gordon Brown) pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.
Am I the only person who finds this statement quite menacing and threatening?
No you're not the only one! Let's just hope and pray common sense prevails.
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:39pm Sun 11 May 08
[bold]Ben Lomond[/bold] , Ardlui on 11:38pm today
It has been noted that Daily Retard Readers who are Labour Supporters will have mixed up 'independence, referendum, labour support'
Expect a landslide.
Ben Lomond , Ardlui on 11:38pm today
It has been noted that Daily Retard Readers who are Labour Supporters will have mixed up 'independence, referendum, labour support'
Expect a landslide.
Posted by: Jwil, Lanarkshire on 11:40pm Sun 11 May 08
Another side to this fasco is that Wendy does no favours to the cause of women in positions of power. For that alone she should walk the walk.
Another side to this fasco is that Wendy does no favours to the cause of women in positions of power. For that alone she should walk the walk.
Posted by: Jwil, Lanarkshire on 11:41pm Sun 11 May 08
Correction - fiasco
Posted by: Peter Thomson, Labour for the Perrier Award on 11:42pm Sun 11 May 08
GHA Break deemed illegal in EU judgement.
That's another fine mess you've gotten Labour into Wendy. (Guess who was the junior minister responsible for the legislation)
Purcell is going to be pleased with this........honest!
Bye, bye to lots of wee sinecures and brown envelopes in Glasgow when the SNP ditch this on advice from the Lord Advocate in line with their keeping to EU rules - e.g. the Lewis Wind Farm.
I can't wait to hear Wendy in Holyrood wiggling out of this Labour inspired piece of ineptitude - ye but, no but, see you, your claimed so ye are - bring it oan pal.....
GHA Break deemed illegal in EU judgement.
That's another fine mess you've gotten Labour into Wendy. (Guess who was the junior minister responsible for the legislation)
Purcell is going to be pleased with this........honest!
Bye, bye to lots of wee sinecures and brown envelopes in Glasgow when the SNP ditch this on advice from the Lord Advocate in line with their keeping to EU rules - e.g. the Lewis Wind Farm.
I can't wait to hear Wendy in Holyrood wiggling out of this Labour inspired piece of ineptitude - ye but, no but, see you, your claimed so ye are - bring it oan pal.....
Posted by: Traquir, Alba on 11:42pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]John Clark[/bold] wrote:
The trout out, expensive hair do, caked in makeup, power suits and girly - and very phony - mannerisms say it all. She is just a two bob actress who is where she is because of who her family knows. WE all know that.
Labour will get hammered and hammered again by virtue of middle class Trendy Wendy sorts. The Bearsden "Proletariat" eh? Cheese and wine night socialists. Beyond belief. A party that seems to be going down the bog.
She is where she is because of Daddy. Is she a lecturer? Yes she became that after she married the professor. Says it all. [/quote]
"expensive hair do, caked in makeup, power suits and girly "
I assume you are referring to Gordon Brown's
Barbara Cartland moment on American Idol.
For those of you who have already eaten I apologize
in advance here it is :
- tinyurl.com/4xx8jh
After seeing this I am sure you will want
to vote NO in Madame Tussauds poll as clearly
another waxwork dummy is not needed.
Only a couple of days to vote so don't miss out.
www.madame-tussauds.
co.uk/GordonBrownVot
e
or
tinyurl.com/448o9v
John Clark wrote:
The trout out, expensive hair do, caked in makeup, power suits and girly - and very phony - mannerisms say it all. She is just a two bob actress who is where she is because of who her family knows. WE all know that.
Labour will get hammered and hammered again by virtue of middle class Trendy Wendy sorts. The Bearsden "Proletariat" eh? Cheese and wine night socialists. Beyond belief. A party that seems to be going down the bog.
She is where she is because of Daddy. Is she a lecturer? Yes she became that after she married the professor. Says it all.
"expensive hair do, caked in makeup, power suits and girly "
I assume you are referring to Gordon Brown's
Barbara Cartland moment on American Idol.
For those of you who have already eaten I apologize
in advance here it is :
- tinyurl.com/4xx8jh
After seeing this I am sure you will want
to vote NO in Madame Tussauds poll as clearly
another waxwork dummy is not needed.
Only a couple of days to vote so don't miss out.
www.madame-tussauds.
co.uk/GordonBrownVot
e
or
tinyurl.com/448o9v
Posted by: Peter Thomson, Labour for the Perrier Award on 11:48pm Sun 11 May 08
Steve - I think that Foulkesake is that big toad thing outside of Jabba's place that eats everything as it passes.
The wee flying thing is more like Malky Chisolm and Iain Gray is a dead ringer for Jabba's steward
Steve - I think that Foulkesake is that big toad thing outside of Jabba's place that eats everything as it passes.
The wee flying thing is more like Malky Chisolm and Iain Gray is a dead ringer for Jabba's steward
Posted by: Steve A, glasgow on 11:49pm Sun 11 May 08
jwil
In the bendys case that would be fwiasco!
jwil
In the bendys case that would be fwiasco!
Posted by: Andrew BOD, Aberdeen on 11:49pm Sun 11 May 08
Not for the first time on the Politics Show, Glenn Campbell's question's were more interesting and exciting than Wendy Alexander's answers. At one point in the interview, he looked visibly angry at her evasiveness with answers like this (which was a spun quote from above:)
"What we have learned this week is that the SNP are unwilling to let Scotland speak," said Ms Alexander.
Now tell me if I'm wrong, but there are 52 weeks in a year, so by her own calculation, Labour have been unwilling to let the Scotland speak for the past 51 weeks. Anyway, this is pure illogical rhetoric. And rhetoric is now not enough to save Wendy. As 'haud me back' said @10:21 she has seriously got a screw loose. It'll not be the men in suits who come to take her away, it'll be the men in white coats.
Not for the first time on the Politics Show, Glenn Campbell's question's were more interesting and exciting than Wendy Alexander's answers. At one point in the interview, he looked visibly angry at her evasiveness with answers like this (which was a spun quote from above:)
"What we have learned this week is that the SNP are unwilling to let Scotland speak," said Ms Alexander.
Now tell me if I'm wrong, but there are 52 weeks in a year, so by her own calculation, Labour have been unwilling to let the Scotland speak for the past 51 weeks. Anyway, this is pure illogical rhetoric. And rhetoric is now not enough to save Wendy. As 'haud me back' said @10:21 she has seriously got a screw loose. It'll not be the men in suits who come to take her away, it'll be the men in white coats.
Posted by: Clare, Lanarkshire on 11:53pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Jwil[/bold] wrote:
Another side to this fasco is that Wendy does no favours to the cause of women in positions of power. For that alone she should walk the walk.[/quote] Jwil, I think Thatcher was the one to kill that notion : )
Jwil wrote:
Another side to this fasco is that Wendy does no favours to the cause of women in positions of power. For that alone she should walk the walk.
Jwil, I think Thatcher was the one to kill that notion : )
Posted by: daveymac, web on 11:54pm Sun 11 May 08
Wendy and Labour have well an truely shafted themselves.
A referendum in late 2010 is as good as certain
Scottidh Government will setup the exact date.
Scottish Government will setup the exact wording of the qustion.
Scottish Government will setup the possible choices.
'Scottish' London labour will be... upset.
Thanks Wendy, looks like you will go down in history after all, a bit like the titanic?
Wendy and Labour have well an truely shafted themselves.
A referendum in late 2010 is as good as certain
Scottidh Government will setup the exact date.
Scottish Government will setup the exact wording of the qustion.
Scottish Government will setup the possible choices.
'Scottish' London labour will be... upset.
Thanks Wendy, looks like you will go down in history after all, a bit like the titanic?
Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:55pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote]Iain Gray is a dead ringer for Jabba's steward[/quote]
ha ha ha ha
[italic].....weak minded fool[/italic]
Iain Gray is a dead ringer for Jabba's steward
ha ha ha ha
.....weak minded fool Posted by: Wardog, Buckie on 11:58pm Sun 11 May 08
[quote][bold]Wardog[/bold] wrote:
[quote]Iain Gray is a dead ringer for Jabba's steward[/quote]
ha ha ha ha
[italic].....weak minded fool[/italic] [/quote]
[bold]Jackie Bailie & Ian Gray?[/bold]
http://moviesmedia.i
gn.com/starwars/imag
e/article/608/608596
/star-wars-episode-i
ii-revenge-of-the-si
th-20050429010730471
.jpg
My last star wars post, promise
Wardog wrote:
Iain Gray is a dead ringer for Jabba's steward
ha ha ha ha
.....weak minded fool
Jackie Bailie & Ian Gray?
http://moviesmedia.i
gn.com/starwars/imag
e/article/608/608596
/star-wars-episode-i
ii-revenge-of-the-si
th-20050429010730471
.jpg
My last star wars post, promise
Posted by: Steve A, glasgow on 11:59pm Sun 11 May 08
Daveymac
you forgot
Scottish people will vote Yes!
Daveymac
you forgot
Scottish people will vote Yes!
Posted by: Harry Shanks, Rutherglen on Mon 12 May 08
[quote][bold]haud me back[/bold] wrote:
She's got a screw loose!, hard to believe this woman is leading the Labour MSP's in Scotland. Read Ian MacLeod's essay in Saturday's Daily Mail it's an eye opener![/quote] That well known religious fundamentalist and homophobe MacLeod ALSO has a screw loose.
Takes one to know one I suppose
haud me back wrote:
She's got a screw loose!, hard to believe this woman is leading the Labour MSP's in Scotland. Read Ian MacLeod's essay in Saturday's Daily Mail it's an eye opener!
That well known religious fundamentalist and homophobe MacLeod ALSO has a screw loose.
Takes one to know one I suppose
Posted by: Andrew BOD, Aberdeen on Mon 12 May 08
[quote]Posted by: Alastair, Aberdeen on 11:39pm today
Kadok wrote:
(Gordon Brown) pledged to do "whatever is necessary" to preserve the United Kingdom.
Am I the only person who finds this statement quite menacing and threatening?
No you're not the only one! Let's just hope and pray common sense prevails.[/quote]
I found that statement threatening too, but on reflection I think he means disposin
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