The Labour group met at lunchtime, it pondered, and it reached the decisive, once-and-for-all, final position that... it won't say what it is going to do with the SNP's referendum Bill in 2010. It may have decided what it wants to do, and isn't telling us, but much more likely is that it hasn't a clue what it's going to do, and would dearly love the rest of us to please stop asking awkward question.
After Wendy Alexander appeared on TV on Sunday, it seemed Labour MSPs would scrutinise the legislation, would raise questions about timing and wording of the referendum ballot, but would either vote with the SNP or abstain. It would not stand in the way of the Scottish people having their say. Not now, though. In a further twist, it now seems that Labour reserves the additional option of voting against the SNP Bill.
Malcolm Chisholm, who appears to have become constitutional affairs spokesman (when did this happen? It's not what it says on the Labour website) has issued a statement saying:
"The SNP have run scared of any early referendum to end the uncertainty they have caused.
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
"The SNP have turned down the chance to end the uncertainty facing Scotland and now will be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics.
"We will not support a voting system where potentially Scotland could leave the UK on a minority of the votes, as the SNP is now advocating.
"Scots deserve a fair choice on a fair question."
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.
Posted by: Disgusted Dorothy at 6:21pm on Tue 13 May 08
What a happy week I've had . All those wonderful interviews with various members of the Labour party , have caused me much mirth , not only me but a great number of friends and family.
It has been so entertaining and to be able to watch it all again on youtube has provided me with endless hours of fun , trying to work out what Labour are actually saying .
I am still none the wiser . It has given me sore sides and aching jaws , but my goodness, it was worth it!
P.S My favourite interview is the desperate Iain Gray.
What a happy week I've had . All those wonderful interviews with various members of the Labour party , have caused me much mirth , not only me but a great number of friends and family.
It has been so entertaining and to be able to watch it all again on youtube has provided me with endless hours of fun , trying to work out what Labour are actually saying .
I am still none the wiser . It has given me sore sides and aching jaws , but my goodness, it was worth it!
P.S My favourite interview is the desperate Iain Gray.
But don't Labour understand how the uncertainty of their indecision over whether or not they'll vote down a referendum might harm Scotland? Did they run scared of answering the awkward question? Do they think it's right that the people of Scotland have a right to be heard, so long as we don't speak too loudly and only say things Labour would like us to say? Don't they realise their leaders in London are still saying something entirely different to what they are saying in Scotland? Please God, [italic]didn't they even find time to preach?[/italic]
But don't Labour understand how the uncertainty of their indecision over whether or not they'll vote down a referendum might harm Scotland? Did they run scared of answering the awkward question? Do they think it's right that the people of Scotland have a right to be heard, so long as we don't speak too loudly and only say things Labour would like us to say? Don't they realise their leaders in London are still saying something entirely different to what they are saying in Scotland? Please God, didn't they even find time to preach?
I saw it on the STV news, the Labour MSPs belting down the corridor like a herd of panicked wildebeest with the 'lions' of the Scottish meeja in close pursuit - well, right enough, Brian Taylor was wheezing like a burst accordion and was some way behind.
When Dunky McNeil was cornered the fear in his eyes was physical. And as for Mr Chisolm, his desperate rearguard action fools no one - even he doesn't believe what he's saying.
However - Mr Fraser, I have to say your writing on your blog easily surpasses your writing in your articles; in fact, reading your blog is a pleasure, and reminds of the time when I was a callow youth and thought of you as one of Scotland's best journalists.
I saw it on the STV news, the Labour MSPs belting down the corridor like a herd of panicked wildebeest with the 'lions' of the Scottish meeja in close pursuit - well, right enough, Brian Taylor was wheezing like a burst accordion and was some way behind.
When Dunky McNeil was cornered the fear in his eyes was physical. And as for Mr Chisolm, his desperate rearguard action fools no one - even he doesn't believe what he's saying.
However - Mr Fraser, I have to say your writing on your blog easily surpasses your writing in your articles; in fact, reading your blog is a pleasure, and reminds of the time when I was a callow youth and thought of you as one of Scotland's best journalists.
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.
Douglas thats not the only place that wendy alexander has caused great hilarity.
Douglas whats the difference between the labour party and a circus?
A circus is a cunning array of stunts.
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.
Douglas thats not the only place that wendy alexander has caused great hilarity.
Douglas whats the difference between the labour party and a circus?
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.
Douglas thats not the only place that wendy alexander has caused great hilarity.
Douglas whats the difference between the labour party and a circus?
A circus is a cunning array of stunts.
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.
Douglas thats not the only place that wendy alexander has caused great hilarity.
Douglas whats the difference between the labour party and a circus?
Posted by: Grassy Knollington at 10:44pm on Tue 13 May 08
1. Douglas while I don't confuse your disenchantment with Wendy and Gordon as any kind of warming to the SNP it is a refreshing change.
2. On another matter is it possible for someone, ANYONE to explain to the humble and increasingly frustrated readers the rationale behind the restriction on comments on certain stories.
3. Who would have thought that the seemingly innocuous and ( previously) well liked Malcolm Chisolm would turn out to be the apologist for this shambles? It reminds me of Hilary Benn on the mothership who could be reliably wheeled out to defend the indefensible.
1. Douglas while I don't confuse your disenchantment with Wendy and Gordon as any kind of warming to the SNP it is a refreshing change.
2. On another matter is it possible for someone, ANYONE to explain to the humble and increasingly frustrated readers the rationale behind the restriction on comments on certain stories.
3. Who would have thought that the seemingly innocuous and ( previously) well liked Malcolm Chisolm would turn out to be the apologist for this shambles? It reminds me of Hilary Benn on the mothership who could be reliably wheeled out to defend the indefensible.
[quote]It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.[/quote]
lol i'm sure that the SNP will be losing sleep over that! So far labour's tactics have been to moan, snipe, remain in denial, have a scandal or two then u-turn so much that even my head is spinning.
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor.
lol i'm sure that the SNP will be losing sleep over that! So far labour's tactics have been to moan, snipe, remain in denial, have a scandal or two then u-turn so much that even my head is spinning.
Malcolm Chisholm,...issued a statement saying:
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Repeat....
Malcolm Chisholm,...issued a statement saying:
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Malcolm Chisholm said
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill.
Posted by: Disgusted Dorothy at 10:05am on Wed 14 May 08
****! I missed Newsnight last night , hope someone has posted it on youtube!
I want some clever person to make a compilation of all the interviews so that we can compare and contrast with humorous ease !
****! I missed Newsnight last night , hope someone has posted it on youtube!
I want some clever person to make a compilation of all the interviews so that we can compare and contrast with humorous ease !
Posted by: Duns Scotus at 12:37pm on Wed 14 May 08
Dorothy, I thought I was watching YouTube!
Gordon Brewer was in his empty studio set and the camera swung wildly from Chisholm standing in the studio back lot (or so it appeared) and back to a lonely Brewer peering about looking for Chisholm.
Glenn Campbell was a disembodied voice, Chisholm stood like an auld-farrant cinema commissionaire and as [bold]jwil[/bold] says, repeated himself. Campbell kept repearing the question [italic]a la Paxman[/italic] .
If Chishoilm doesn't have a big riddy this morning then he is a gey funny (peculiar) man.
Dorothy, I thought I was watching YouTube!
Gordon Brewer was in his empty studio set and the camera swung wildly from Chisholm standing in the studio back lot (or so it appeared) and back to a lonely Brewer peering about looking for Chisholm.
Glenn Campbell was a disembodied voice, Chisholm stood like an auld-farrant cinema commissionaire and as jwil says, repeated himself. Campbell kept repearing the question a la Paxman .
If Chishoilm doesn't have a big riddy this morning then he is a gey funny (peculiar) man.
[quote][bold]Karin[/bold] wrote:
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor. Douglas thats not the only place that wendy alexander has caused great hilarity. Douglas whats the difference between the labour party and a circus? A circus is a cunning array of stunts.[/quote] Aye, and a circus will eventually leave town.
Karin wrote:
It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor. Douglas thats not the only place that wendy alexander has caused great hilarity. Douglas whats the difference between the labour party and a circus? A circus is a cunning array of stunts.
Posted by: George Laird at 5:00pm on Wed 14 May 08
Dear Douglas
“The Labour group met at lunchtime, it pondered, and it reached the decisive, once-and-for-all, final position that... it won't say what it is going to do with the SNP's referendum Bill in 2010”.
That was the second topic on the agenda as sorting out “who wants what” for sandwiches was the burning topic.
“It may have decided what it wants to do, and isn't telling us, but much more likely is that it hasn't a clue what it's going to do, and would dearly love the rest of us to please stop asking awkward question”.
The awkward question, surely you mean the awkward questions? One that flows off the tip of the tongue, when is Wendy Alexander resigning?
“After Wendy Alexander appeared on TV on Sunday, it seemed Labour MSPs would scrutinise the legislation, would raise questions about timing and wording of the referendum ballot, but would either vote with the SNP or abstain. It would not stand in the way of the Scottish people having their say”.
Well that’s bull$hit for a start, they are going to block it, something along the lines of five economic tests sounds about right. As you know you can count to five using one hand and it’s catchy and been done before.
“Not now, though. In a further twist, it now seems that Labour reserves the additional option of voting against the SNP Bill”.
In other words the position is no to a referendum which was the stated position before Greedy Alexander open her trap and put both feet in.
“Malcolm Chisholm, who appears to have become constitutional affairs spokesman (when did this happen? It's not what it says on the Labour website) has issued a statement saying”.
Such disloyalty Douglas, have you been cast out from the inside circle?
"The SNP have run scared of any early referendum to end the uncertainty they have caused”.
This position shows how out of touch with reality Chisholm is, but you have to feel sorry for him talking the flak and looking like a dummy. If it was me, I would say to Alexander to feck off and clear up her mess by her lonesome.
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill”.
That is totally contradictory and insulting to the intelligence of halfwits.
"The SNP have turned down the chance to end the uncertainty facing Scotland and now will be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics”.
Best to wait till 2010 and there is a tory government in Westminister.
"We will not support a voting system where potentially Scotland could leave the UK on a minority of the votes, as the SNP is now advocating”.
Does this not fly in the face of the first past the post which Labour supports?
"Scots deserve a fair choice on a fair question."
Really when did that start?
“It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor”.
Douglas, you have to laugh their faces and behind their backs loudly as they walk away for the message to sink in. Liberal sprinklings of “idiot” and “halfwit” can do wonders as well.
Why not take a tape recorder and play “send in the clowns” while the Labour Party enjoy the hot scoff at the Holyrood canteen. Anyone asks tell them you like musicals!
The line you want is;
"Quick, send in the clowns.
Don't bother, they're here".
And then point your finger at Labour MSP's, try it and see the reaction, the witches coven of Curran, Jamieson, Baillie and McNeil seems about right for starters.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Dear Douglas
“The Labour group met at lunchtime, it pondered, and it reached the decisive, once-and-for-all, final position that... it won't say what it is going to do with the SNP's referendum Bill in 2010”.
That was the second topic on the agenda as sorting out “who wants what” for sandwiches was the burning topic.
“It may have decided what it wants to do, and isn't telling us, but much more likely is that it hasn't a clue what it's going to do, and would dearly love the rest of us to please stop asking awkward question”.
The awkward question, surely you mean the awkward questions? One that flows off the tip of the tongue, when is Wendy Alexander resigning?
“After Wendy Alexander appeared on TV on Sunday, it seemed Labour MSPs would scrutinise the legislation, would raise questions about timing and wording of the referendum ballot, but would either vote with the SNP or abstain. It would not stand in the way of the Scottish people having their say”.
Well that’s bull$hit for a start, they are going to block it, something along the lines of five economic tests sounds about right. As you know you can count to five using one hand and it’s catchy and been done before.
“Not now, though. In a further twist, it now seems that Labour reserves the additional option of voting against the SNP Bill”.
In other words the position is no to a referendum which was the stated position before Greedy Alexander open her trap and put both feet in.
“Malcolm Chisholm, who appears to have become constitutional affairs spokesman (when did this happen? It's not what it says on the Labour website) has issued a statement saying”.
Such disloyalty Douglas, have you been cast out from the inside circle?
"The SNP have run scared of any early referendum to end the uncertainty they have caused”.
This position shows how out of touch with reality Chisholm is, but you have to feel sorry for him talking the flak and looking like a dummy. If it was me, I would say to Alexander to feck off and clear up her mess by her lonesome.
"We believe that the Scottish people have right to have a say in the future of Scotland but as we made clear all of last week we are not going to give the SNP a blank cheque on the question, the voting system, the time-tabling or scrutiny of any bill”.
That is totally contradictory and insulting to the intelligence of halfwits.
"The SNP have turned down the chance to end the uncertainty facing Scotland and now will be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics”.
Best to wait till 2010 and there is a tory government in Westminister.
"We will not support a voting system where potentially Scotland could leave the UK on a minority of the votes, as the SNP is now advocating”.
Does this not fly in the face of the first past the post which Labour supports?
"Scots deserve a fair choice on a fair question."
Really when did that start?
“It's worth lingering over the words: "The SNP ... will now be at the mercy of Labour's Parliamentary tactics". It has caused great hilarity in Holyrood's press corridor”.
Douglas, you have to laugh their faces and behind their backs loudly as they walk away for the message to sink in. Liberal sprinklings of “idiot” and “halfwit” can do wonders as well.
Why not take a tape recorder and play “send in the clowns” while the Labour Party enjoy the hot scoff at the Holyrood canteen. Anyone asks tell them you like musicals!
The line you want is;
"Quick, send in the clowns.
Don't bother, they're here".
And then point your finger at Labour MSP's, try it and see the reaction, the witches coven of Curran, Jamieson, Baillie and McNeil seems about right for starters.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
[quote]Expectations were high of Alex Salmond's speech on Moving Scotland Forward at Holyrood yesterday, but it added little momentum and failed to match the advance hype.[/quote]
You really are a **** Douglas.
Expectations were high of Alex Salmond's speech on Moving Scotland Forward at Holyrood yesterday, but it added little momentum and failed to match the advance hype.
Posted by: George Laird at 4:01pm on Thu 15 May 08
[quote][bold]Wardog[/bold] wrote:
Dougie can you confirm whether you ate a member if the Labour Party?[/quote] Dear Wardog
You may remember that Robbie Dinwoodie has already stated that Douglas Fraser is not a member of the Labour Party.
Douglas has refused to answer that or indeed any questions put to him.
As you have an eye for detail, I am surprised you should mention that.
Dinwoodie if you recall stated that during Douglas Fraser's "War of the Rats".
I don't know if you saw Newsnight Scotland last night but Margaret Curran of New Labour Witches coven of central Scotland delivered another screaming rant but transparency.
Mike Russell missed a trick when he should have asked, "do you mean like Wendy Alexander and the secret emails she sent to the Electoral Commission.
Finally if the SNP were clever they should put in an FOI request to the Electoral Commission and ask if the emails submitted by Alexander were verified and checked by the Commission came from the computers and servers used by Alexander.
I suspect they didn't check the servers but just accepted hard copy paper.
Maybe there is a scandal there regarding transparency.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Wardog wrote:
Dougie can you confirm whether you ate a member if the Labour Party?
Dear Wardog
You may remember that Robbie Dinwoodie has already stated that Douglas Fraser is not a member of the Labour Party.
Douglas has refused to answer that or indeed any questions put to him.
As you have an eye for detail, I am surprised you should mention that.
Dinwoodie if you recall stated that during Douglas Fraser's "War of the Rats".
I don't know if you saw Newsnight Scotland last night but Margaret Curran of New Labour Witches coven of central Scotland delivered another screaming rant but transparency.
Mike Russell missed a trick when he should have asked, "do you mean like Wendy Alexander and the secret emails she sent to the Electoral Commission.
Finally if the SNP were clever they should put in an FOI request to the Electoral Commission and ask if the emails submitted by Alexander were verified and checked by the Commission came from the computers and servers used by Alexander.
I suspect they didn't check the servers but just accepted hard copy paper.
Maybe there is a scandal there regarding transparency.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
George Laird at 4:01pm on Thu 15 May 08
Hi George
Haven't online for a e while, whilst on work.
Aye, always worth a chance to see if Dougie will go into one of his 'ra rants' and come clean about why comments are being suspended on particular stories.
Didn't see the Newsnight you referred to but it sounds the usual dissarry from Margaret Curran, does she ever answer a question straight, I noticed that she has now went on to vote against the Parliament's opinion that attendance allowance should be reinstated immediately...... tells you all you need to know about that particular banshee
There is something fishy going here, Robbie has given part excuse but hasn't explained why it is only the Scottish Politics stories which have comments banned.
The Herald are acting in a very strange way, far from being open and upfront about the nature of the complaints
A clear statement must now be given,explaining the nature of the complaints that they have received and if possible some nayalis of where they originated from.
It is almost certain that unionist posters are trying to shut down discussion on these boards, so beleaguered are they with the truth and other's criticisms of Wendy Alexander.
The Herald's participation in this is damaging their loyal readership.
George Laird at 4:01pm on Thu 15 May 08
Hi George
Haven't online for a e while, whilst on work.
Aye, always worth a chance to see if Dougie will go into one of his 'ra rants' and come clean about why comments are being suspended on particular stories.
Didn't see the Newsnight you referred to but it sounds the usual dissarry from Margaret Curran, does she ever answer a question straight, I noticed that she has now went on to vote against the Parliament's opinion that attendance allowance should be reinstated immediately...... tells you all you need to know about that particular banshee
There is something fishy going here, Robbie has given part excuse but hasn't explained why it is only the Scottish Politics stories which have comments banned.
The Herald are acting in a very strange way, far from being open and upfront about the nature of the complaints
A clear statement must now be given,explaining the nature of the complaints that they have received and if possible some nayalis of where they originated from.
It is almost certain that unionist posters are trying to shut down discussion on these boards, so beleaguered are they with the truth and other's criticisms of Wendy Alexander.
The Herald's participation in this is damaging their loyal readership.
Posted by: George Laird at 2:33pm on Sat 17 May 08
Dear Wardog
I find it laughable that Wendy Alexander and Labour claim to stick up for ordinary people but when the test comes in backing money for the attendence allowance they keep their mouth firmly shut.
Is this what Wendy Alexander means when she talks about social justice?
As to Margaret Curran, you missed a treat, Curran never fails to disappoint with her ill timed rants, I wonder how exactly she got selected as an MSP.
I remember on election night when she went mental at people booing her and Labour, unfortunately the two I want to see chopped the most, Des McNulty and Kenny MacIntosh kept their seats.
Their conduct during the Shirley McKie enquiry was disgraceful and bordering on bullying.
As to the Unionists wanting to shut down discussions, that is probably because they want to relaunch Alexander. I suspect that the anti Alexander crowd has won the argument so that leaves them and the Herald only censorship left.
Finally as to complaints I am sure that I possibly figure in that list of "we don't like the way he writes abouts us". The herald is acting in a strange way but I put that down to the cull they want of reporters.
They are not happy, sales falling through the floor, bad reporting and Labour propaganda has done for them.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Dear Wardog
I find it laughable that Wendy Alexander and Labour claim to stick up for ordinary people but when the test comes in backing money for the attendence allowance they keep their mouth firmly shut.
Is this what Wendy Alexander means when she talks about social justice?
As to Margaret Curran, you missed a treat, Curran never fails to disappoint with her ill timed rants, I wonder how exactly she got selected as an MSP.
I remember on election night when she went mental at people booing her and Labour, unfortunately the two I want to see chopped the most, Des McNulty and Kenny MacIntosh kept their seats.
Their conduct during the Shirley McKie enquiry was disgraceful and bordering on bullying.
As to the Unionists wanting to shut down discussions, that is probably because they want to relaunch Alexander. I suspect that the anti Alexander crowd has won the argument so that leaves them and the Herald only censorship left.
Finally as to complaints I am sure that I possibly figure in that list of "we don't like the way he writes abouts us". The herald is acting in a strange way but I put that down to the cull they want of reporters.
They are not happy, sales falling through the floor, bad reporting and Labour propaganda has done for them.
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
George Laird at 2:33pm today
Just watched Maggie Curran on aye-player.
Shocking
And she anticipates that she's a potential future leader, back stabbing Wendy Alexander?
Breathtaking
George Laird at 2:33pm today
Just watched Maggie Curran on aye-player.
Shocking
And she anticipates that she's a potential future leader, back stabbing Wendy Alexander?
Posted by: George Laird at 5:33pm on Mon 19 May 08
Dear Douglas
I have to say how much I enjoyed the closure of comments and the mentality of "its my ball" as demonstrated by the Herald.
Alf Young, the old guy who turns up on Newsnight Scotland and tell us we are all doomed even pulled a piece I wrote on his "comment", and everyone elses too.
Poor poor Alf, to show how ridiculous he is I even included his famous, "I can take you to slums in Barcelona" quote.
It was a classic.
Hopefully someone in the Herald Office will defy the Labour Whip and restore comments............. for the Herald's sake.
Given that it is the Fall of Rome down at the Herald re job losses are you sticking round or jumping ship?
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Dear Douglas
I have to say how much I enjoyed the closure of comments and the mentality of "its my ball" as demonstrated by the Herald.
Alf Young, the old guy who turns up on Newsnight Scotland and tell us we are all doomed even pulled a piece I wrote on his "comment", and everyone elses too.
Poor poor Alf, to show how ridiculous he is I even included his famous, "I can take you to slums in Barcelona" quote.
It was a classic.
Hopefully someone in the Herald Office will defy the Labour Whip and restore comments............. for the Herald's sake.
Given that it is the Fall of Rome down at the Herald re job losses are you sticking round or jumping ship?
Yours sincerely
George Laird
The Campaign for Human Rights at Glasgow University
Posted by: David Alexander at 6:12pm on Mon 19 May 08
Ah well, no comments here, but if you look in the English papers there is an absolute [bold]tsunami[/bold] of readers' criticisms of Broon.
The hatred of the man (and the whole New Labour movement) has to be read to be believed.
So there you go, Alf and Dougie, the vermin north and south of the border have made their opinions known.
Happy days!
Ah well, no comments here, but if you look in the English papers there is an absolute tsunami of readers' criticisms of Broon.
The hatred of the man (and the whole New Labour movement) has to be read to be believed.
So there you go, Alf and Dougie, the vermin north and south of the border have made their opinions known.
right okay folks we appear to have two good dates for the buy the herald protest day to show the herald how much revenue they are losing due to their editorial policy of supporting labour and therefore unionism.
The dates are
[bold]4th of JUly. independence day[/bold]
(i personally like this although as spagan said lots of people may be on holiday)
[bold]Tuesday 24th JUne - anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn?[/bold]
ST andrews day was also put forward but that is quite a while away?
any more thoughts anyone? i.e. preference for a one of these days or how we can make this more successful or get the word out?
right okay folks we appear to have two good dates for the buy the herald protest day to show the herald how much revenue they are losing due to their editorial policy of supporting labour and therefore unionism.
The dates are
4th of JUly. independence day
(i personally like this although as spagan said lots of people may be on holiday)
Tuesday 24th JUne - anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn?
ST andrews day was also put forward but that is quite a while away?
any more thoughts anyone? i.e. preference for a one of these days or how we can make this more successful or get the word out?
Still a deathly silence from Douglas over the censoring of comments. Has he retreated to the bunker? Will he ever add to this blog again? Is he under a three line whip from management to ignore the posters?
Still a deathly silence from Douglas over the censoring of comments. Has he retreated to the bunker? Will he ever add to this blog again? Is he under a three line whip from management to ignore the posters?
When the herald were accused of having an agenda against the snp they said we were wrong and gave the odd lame excuse. Now they have banned all comment on all Scottish political news stories and they are reduced to a deafening silence as there is no excuse they can offer for this shameful censorship. They have proved our point that we were right all along and we can now watch their total collapse just like labour. Mugabe and all the dictatorships round the world have nothing on them. Pot and Kettle springs to mind. When this is all they have left to do, they have lost the argument , lost Scotland and her people but most importantly they have lost theirselves. Independence is near.
When the herald were accused of having an agenda against the snp they said we were wrong and gave the odd lame excuse. Now they have banned all comment on all Scottish political news stories and they are reduced to a deafening silence as there is no excuse they can offer for this shameful censorship. They have proved our point that we were right all along and we can now watch their total collapse just like labour. Mugabe and all the dictatorships round the world have nothing on them. Pot and Kettle springs to mind. When this is all they have left to do, they have lost the argument , lost Scotland and her people but most importantly they have lost theirselves. Independence is near.
I think I can explain why the Herald have stopped allowing comments on political articles. The Herald has decided to come clean and report fairly on the Scottish political scene and not actively militate against the SNP government ever time it produces a new policy. It has also decided to report the failures of the Labour administration when in power, e.g. PPP/PFI to give but one example. Because of this move towards truthful reporting the Herald has concluded that there is no need to have comments sections.
Not!
I think I can explain why the Herald have stopped allowing comments on political articles. The Herald has decided to come clean and report fairly on the Scottish political scene and not actively militate against the SNP government ever time it produces a new policy. It has also decided to report the failures of the Labour administration when in power, e.g. PPP/PFI to give but one example. Because of this move towards truthful reporting the Herald has concluded that there is no need to have comments sections.
dougie dougie dougie.
My offer to turn round the heralds forutunes was a genuine one.
My idea will revolutionise not just the herald but every newspaper and media industry in the world. and you dont want to be a part of it.
Fine.
i will just let the herald go to the wall. the price for my support is balanced journalism and the restoration of comments.
THATS IT thats all i want for providing you with the information not any monetary gain and you still wont do it.
Maybe you will all change your minda when you all get the redundancy notices still it will be too late then.
meanwhile im off to find someone to put the ideas i have into practice.
maybe i will go see if the scotsman is interested.
dougie dougie dougie.
My offer to turn round the heralds forutunes was a genuine one.
My idea will revolutionise not just the herald but every newspaper and media industry in the world. and you dont want to be a part of it.
Fine.
i will just let the herald go to the wall. the price for my support is balanced journalism and the restoration of comments.
THATS IT thats all i want for providing you with the information not any monetary gain and you still wont do it.
Maybe you will all change your minda when you all get the redundancy notices still it will be too late then.
meanwhile im off to find someone to put the ideas i have into practice.
maybe i will go see if the scotsman is interested.
Posted by: Jock Politicaljunkie at 3:01pm on Wed 21 May 08
Re-Herald censorship.
Whilst I share the frustrations of most in the prevention of comment on many political stories, I cannot share in the casual abuse levelled at Douglas and Robbie. [bold]In my view they are good journalists whom I suspect are themselves being censored.[/bold] As political hacks they will NOT be the ones in charge of the Heralds website or its operation.
We have had an admission from Robbie in the past that he IS a supporter of Independence - do we want him to become some blind mouthpiece for the SNP? - NO, he would probably be first out of the door come the redundancies, for a start; and for seconds, I for one would prefer a balanced view. Robbie has also let it out in the past that Douglas is NOT a member of the Labour Party.
It is worth repeating observations already made that there is a marked difference between Douglas' writing in his blog as opposed to his articles for the paper. His articles in the paper look to be the result of poor censorship of churnalisticly produced uninspired rubbish whilst his blog has taken on a completely new cynical angle. It has been both enjoyable and informative to read. His day by day run down of the multiple Scottish Labour U-turns the other week was both a hoot and an accurate account. His total p!sstake of UUendy calling for the Commonwealth games to be brought forward (Bring it on!) was brilliant.
We have no idea what pressures these two guys are working under or how shaky the coat nails are given the present downturn in advertising revenue and readership. [bold]So, I think we have to tone down a bit on the guys and aim our irritation a bit higher up the food chain.[/bold]
I feel, and have expressed, that after Independence, the printed media will be falling over themselves to wrap their titles in Saltires; print songs for the celebratory parties; and contrive to claim a longstanding and ongoing support FOR Independence. Karin's great idea for a "BUY THE HERALD DAY" on Tuesday the 24th of June may (I hope) be able to show the Herald in clear figures the benefit of moving into poll position early. BY becoming the only title able to report clearly and honestly they would be rewarded massively both before AND after Independence by huge INCREASES in circulation.
Re-Herald censorship.
Whilst I share the frustrations of most in the prevention of comment on many political stories, I cannot share in the casual abuse levelled at Douglas and Robbie. In my view they are good journalists whom I suspect are themselves being censored. As political hacks they will NOT be the ones in charge of the Heralds website or its operation.
We have had an admission from Robbie in the past that he IS a supporter of Independence - do we want him to become some blind mouthpiece for the SNP? - NO, he would probably be first out of the door come the redundancies, for a start; and for seconds, I for one would prefer a balanced view. Robbie has also let it out in the past that Douglas is NOT a member of the Labour Party.
It is worth repeating observations already made that there is a marked difference between Douglas' writing in his blog as opposed to his articles for the paper. His articles in the paper look to be the result of poor censorship of churnalisticly produced uninspired rubbish whilst his blog has taken on a completely new cynical angle. It has been both enjoyable and informative to read. His day by day run down of the multiple Scottish Labour U-turns the other week was both a hoot and an accurate account. His total p!sstake of UUendy calling for the Commonwealth games to be brought forward (Bring it on!) was brilliant.
We have no idea what pressures these two guys are working under or how shaky the coat nails are given the present downturn in advertising revenue and readership. So, I think we have to tone down a bit on the guys and aim our irritation a bit higher up the food chain.
I feel, and have expressed, that after Independence, the printed media will be falling over themselves to wrap their titles in Saltires; print songs for the celebratory parties; and contrive to claim a longstanding and ongoing support FOR Independence. Karin's great idea for a "BUY THE HERALD DAY" on Tuesday the 24th of June may (I hope) be able to show the Herald in clear figures the benefit of moving into poll position early. BY becoming the only title able to report clearly and honestly they would be rewarded massively both before AND after Independence by huge INCREASES in circulation.
[quote][bold]Karin[/bold] wrote:
dougie dougie dougie.
My offer to turn round the heralds forutunes was a genuine one.
My idea will revolutionise not just the herald but every newspaper and media industry in the world. and you dont want to be a part of it.
Fine.
i will just let the herald go to the wall. the price for my support is balanced journalism and the restoration of comments.
THATS IT thats all i want for providing you with the information not any monetary gain and you still wont do it.
Maybe you will all change your minda when you all get the redundancy notices still it will be too late then.
meanwhile im off to find someone to put the ideas i have into practice.
maybe i will go see if the scotsman is interested.[/quote] You really do have rather a high opinion of yourself Karin, don't you? After saving the newspaper inductry, any chance of bringing about world peace?
Karin wrote:
dougie dougie dougie.
My offer to turn round the heralds forutunes was a genuine one.
My idea will revolutionise not just the herald but every newspaper and media industry in the world. and you dont want to be a part of it.
Fine.
i will just let the herald go to the wall. the price for my support is balanced journalism and the restoration of comments.
THATS IT thats all i want for providing you with the information not any monetary gain and you still wont do it.
Maybe you will all change your minda when you all get the redundancy notices still it will be too late then.
meanwhile im off to find someone to put the ideas i have into practice.
maybe i will go see if the scotsman is interested.
You really do have rather a high opinion of yourself Karin, don't you? After saving the newspaper inductry, any chance of bringing about world peace?
Yes steve I do have high self esteem thats because i know im worth it.
The world peace however is beyond me much like your attempt to increase your self esteem.
Yes steve I do have high self esteem thats because i know im worth it.
The world peace however is beyond me much like your attempt to increase your self esteem.
Posted by: Jock Politicaljunkie at 10:03am on Thu 22 May 08
Steve,
Just 1 year into an SNP Devolved Government and self esteem is high and climbing - just think what full Independence will bring for the self esteem of the whole Country, [italic]including you![/italic]
On a wider note, your comment on Karin's post has missed the point entirely. Karin IS obviously an "Ideas Person" - the "BUY THE HERALD DAY" plan for Tuesday the 24th of June is brilliant. What the offer of assistance and its (fully expected) refusal was actually proving, was that the High Heid Yins at The Herald [bold]have[/bold] a policy and are following it regardless. The metaphorical blinkers and earmuffs are on and the whistling is loud and tuneless. Quite what they think they will get in return (other than the circulation continuing to slide) is beyond me. "Exclusives" with UUendy?? - aye, lets double the print run for that!! Heh heh!!
It is disappointing that the fine journalists at The Herald are under such censorship. I continue to hope that editorial controls [italic]can be[/italic] relaxed and the guys allowed to get on with REPORTING the Scottish Scene. As well as allowing balance it would free up the writing and return enjoyment to the reading of the articles.
The present routine of taking it all with a pinch of salt; reading between the lines; focusing on what has been omitted from the article; and cross referencing other sources, can be tiresome. We can all do it, however, and for The Herald to [italic]continue[/italic] to treat us all like children is an insult. We Scots have a fine literary tradition and today we can smell the b"llsh!t all the more clearly since the SNP knocked the lid off the liebore cesspit of Bungs, Backhanders and Back Scratching.
Steve,
Just 1 year into an SNP Devolved Government and self esteem is high and climbing - just think what full Independence will bring for the self esteem of the whole Country, including you!
On a wider note, your comment on Karin's post has missed the point entirely. Karin IS obviously an "Ideas Person" - the "BUY THE HERALD DAY" plan for Tuesday the 24th of June is brilliant. What the offer of assistance and its (fully expected) refusal was actually proving, was that the High Heid Yins at The Herald have a policy and are following it regardless. The metaphorical blinkers and earmuffs are on and the whistling is loud and tuneless. Quite what they think they will get in return (other than the circulation continuing to slide) is beyond me. "Exclusives" with UUendy?? - aye, lets double the print run for that!! Heh heh!!
It is disappointing that the fine journalists at The Herald are under such censorship. I continue to hope that editorial controls can be relaxed and the guys allowed to get on with REPORTING the Scottish Scene. As well as allowing balance it would free up the writing and return enjoyment to the reading of the articles.
The present routine of taking it all with a pinch of salt; reading between the lines; focusing on what has been omitted from the article; and cross referencing other sources, can be tiresome. We can all do it, however, and for The Herald to continue to treat us all like children is an insult. We Scots have a fine literary tradition and today we can smell the b"llsh!t all the more clearly since the SNP knocked the lid off the liebore cesspit of Bungs, Backhanders and Back Scratching.
Sorry, am I missing something here? How are Herald journalists under censorship? As far as I can tell, they are still reporting on political events in Scotland and beyond, day in and day out. The only censorship, such as it is, involves those who use the website and somehow feel they have a God-given right to be abusive towards said journalists.
In case you hadn't noticed, putting comments on newspapers websites is a relatively new thing. Did people really believe they were being denied the right to free speech in those days? No, if they had something to say they wrote it down and posted it to the editor. If you're really so outraged, I suggest you do the same.
Sorry, am I missing something here? How are Herald journalists under censorship? As far as I can tell, they are still reporting on political events in Scotland and beyond, day in and day out. The only censorship, such as it is, involves those who use the website and somehow feel they have a God-given right to be abusive towards said journalists.
In case you hadn't noticed, putting comments on newspapers websites is a relatively new thing. Did people really believe they were being denied the right to free speech in those days? No, if they had something to say they wrote it down and posted it to the editor. If you're really so outraged, I suggest you do the same.
Posted by: Jock Politicaljunkie at 11:50am on Thu 22 May 08
Steve, I'm totally with you on the abhorance of the abuse that, Douglas in particular, gets. It's wrong and should stop RIGHT NOW. As for online comment, it is now a part of open debate in our society and is enjoyed by the readers of [bold]all[/bold] the big papers in the UK.
The jounalists do report daily on the political scene - correct.
That many stories are somehow debarred from online comment IS a form of censorship - of the readers.
That the angle taken on any story is frequently from a very partisan Labour viewpoint IS ALSO a form of censorship - of the journalists.
Take as an example of the story by Joe Quinn about the medical records left abandonned in an empty Dundee Hospital in todays paper. I have commented on the story and have kindly levelled my ire at his "source" with a hint that Joe may wish to consider the language and angle of a story fed to him in future.
This story headlines "Calls for Minister's resignation over NHS blunder" when it was the present SNP Minister that had discovered and put in motion the solving of the problem. An SNP partisan headline would be: "Another Labour Can Of Worms Uncovered As NHS Records Found Abandoned In Derelict Hospital for 3 Years" - and in the story: "Labour's former Health Minister, Andy Kerr, who closed the hospital against the wishes of the local populous was unavailable for comment yesterday".
And that angle would be wrong too. I want balance from the paper. I want stories and "sources" thoroughly investigated to find out the truth and that truth to be reported. In this particular story it's probably the fault of some oik in the health board. It is not the job of the Health Minister (of any party) to personally go round and inspect every public building that is no longer in use lest some records be left behind in a filing cabinet. Though the local Health Board are most likely at fault here, even here I am thankfull that someone [italic]did eventually[/italic] come forward and let it be known. The spilling of the beans for political gain whilst NOT fully apreciating that it happened on their watch is, however, disappointing on many levels.
Steve, I'm totally with you on the abhorance of the abuse that, Douglas in particular, gets. It's wrong and should stop RIGHT NOW. As for online comment, it is now a part of open debate in our society and is enjoyed by the readers of all the big papers in the UK.
The jounalists do report daily on the political scene - correct.
That many stories are somehow debarred from online comment IS a form of censorship - of the readers.
That the angle taken on any story is frequently from a very partisan Labour viewpoint IS ALSO a form of censorship - of the journalists.
Take as an example of the story by Joe Quinn about the medical records left abandonned in an empty Dundee Hospital in todays paper. I have commented on the story and have kindly levelled my ire at his "source" with a hint that Joe may wish to consider the language and angle of a story fed to him in future.
This story headlines "Calls for Minister's resignation over NHS blunder" when it was the present SNP Minister that had discovered and put in motion the solving of the problem. An SNP partisan headline would be: "Another Labour Can Of Worms Uncovered As NHS Records Found Abandoned In Derelict Hospital for 3 Years" - and in the story: "Labour's former Health Minister, Andy Kerr, who closed the hospital against the wishes of the local populous was unavailable for comment yesterday".
And that angle would be wrong too. I want balance from the paper. I want stories and "sources" thoroughly investigated to find out the truth and that truth to be reported. In this particular story it's probably the fault of some oik in the health board. It is not the job of the Health Minister (of any party) to personally go round and inspect every public building that is no longer in use lest some records be left behind in a filing cabinet. Though the local Health Board are most likely at fault here, even here I am thankfull that someone did eventually come forward and let it be known. The spilling of the beans for political gain whilst NOT fully apreciating that it happened on their watch is, however, disappointing on many levels.
Jock,
I don't blame you for not knowing this, but Joe Quinn is a journalist with the Press Association, a national news agency renowned for its balanced reporting. What's more, Mr Quinn has more than 30 years' experience and is probably the most respected journalist in Scotland. So to accuse him of anything other than total impartiality is pretty wide of the mark.
The fact is, that when the Lib/Labs were in power, they were the ones who copped most of the flak that was going because the buck stopped with them. Now the SNP are in government, the same is happening to them. It's really that simple.
And if anyone honestly believes Wendy Alexander has been anything other than widely pilloried in the press for her referendum chaos, then I suggest they take off their tartan specs forthwith.
Jock,
I don't blame you for not knowing this, but Joe Quinn is a journalist with the Press Association, a national news agency renowned for its balanced reporting. What's more, Mr Quinn has more than 30 years' experience and is probably the most respected journalist in Scotland. So to accuse him of anything other than total impartiality is pretty wide of the mark.
The fact is, that when the Lib/Labs were in power, they were the ones who copped most of the flak that was going because the buck stopped with them. Now the SNP are in government, the same is happening to them. It's really that simple.
And if anyone honestly believes Wendy Alexander has been anything other than widely pilloried in the press for her referendum chaos, then I suggest they take off their tartan specs forthwith.
Posted by: Jock Politicaljunkie at 1:46pm on Thu 22 May 08
Steve,
You're right, I don't know Joe Quinn or the length of his experience. My comments about his source and the angle still stands, however, 30 years in the trade does not excuse [bold]churnalism[/bold] . The alternative angled headline above showed that there is more than one way to cover a story. I DON'T want that other angle either - [bold]I want a balanced researched piece.[/bold] Question 1 - How much research did he do to check the position?; Question 2 (and probably more pertinant) - How closely does the story he wrote resemble that which appeared in the paper?; and Question 3 - Where is he based, would he know or have any control over the editing of story [italic]after[/italic] he sold it to a paper? I repeat my criticism from earlier that our ire should be directed higher up the food chain.
It was not the responsibility of Kerr to physically check the building after closure. This would be delegated. With the hospital having been closed for [bold]3 years,[/bold] [italic]how on earth[/italic] could Robison have [italic]known[/italic] that there [italic]was[/italic] a problem and therefore how can any fair minded person criticise her. The problem was brought to her attention and she delegated the duty of sorting it forthwith. How hard can it be to go to an old hospital and collect some files? If Robison was inept I'd be quite happy for her to be sacked never mind asked to resign. I just don't think this incident has any hinting of that. The original person 3 years ago who failed and the person sent to fix it recently but dragged their feet need a wee talking to I think.
Wendy HAS had a hard time of it recently, and I do feel a bit sorry for her, but then she will spout off before engaging brain........
The recent U-turn fiasco has been very damaging to her, though I think she will recover. I think her bad press over the last 6 months, however, was the result of some one briefing against her. There appears NO WAY that some of the stories could have become known otherwise. That said, if she hadn't taken the money, hadn't tried to cover it up, hadn't.......well.
It's just another churnalistic variation i'm afraid - to kick the politician that's down. Satire can hurt them too, did you read the piece in Doulas' Blog about Wendy calling for the Commonwealth Games to be advanced? Remember Spitting Image? The Gray John Major and the 4 inch David Steel sitting on David Owen's knee ruined those two.
It's a tough old life in politics and I for one could never do it - but it's fun to watch from the sidelines - and I will stay up tonight for the by-election result!
Steve,
You're right, I don't know Joe Quinn or the length of his experience. My comments about his source and the angle still stands, however, 30 years in the trade does not excuse churnalism . The alternative angled headline above showed that there is more than one way to cover a story. I DON'T want that other angle either - I want a balanced researched piece. Question 1 - How much research did he do to check the position?; Question 2 (and probably more pertinant) - How closely does the story he wrote resemble that which appeared in the paper?; and Question 3 - Where is he based, would he know or have any control over the editing of story after he sold it to a paper? I repeat my criticism from earlier that our ire should be directed higher up the food chain.
It was not the responsibility of Kerr to physically check the building after closure. This would be delegated. With the hospital having been closed for 3 years,how on earth could Robison have known that there was a problem and therefore how can any fair minded person criticise her. The problem was brought to her attention and she delegated the duty of sorting it forthwith. How hard can it be to go to an old hospital and collect some files? If Robison was inept I'd be quite happy for her to be sacked never mind asked to resign. I just don't think this incident has any hinting of that. The original person 3 years ago who failed and the person sent to fix it recently but dragged their feet need a wee talking to I think.
Wendy HAS had a hard time of it recently, and I do feel a bit sorry for her, but then she will spout off before engaging brain........
The recent U-turn fiasco has been very damaging to her, though I think she will recover. I think her bad press over the last 6 months, however, was the result of some one briefing against her. There appears NO WAY that some of the stories could have become known otherwise. That said, if she hadn't taken the money, hadn't tried to cover it up, hadn't.......well.
It's just another churnalistic variation i'm afraid - to kick the politician that's down. Satire can hurt them too, did you read the piece in Doulas' Blog about Wendy calling for the Commonwealth Games to be advanced? Remember Spitting Image? The Gray John Major and the 4 inch David Steel sitting on David Owen's knee ruined those two.
It's a tough old life in politics and I for one could never do it - but it's fun to watch from the sidelines - and I will stay up tonight for the by-election result!
Hello again Jock,
Can I say how much I am enjoying our discussion.
All newspaper stories need to have an angle as a way of encouraging readers to read on. In this instance, 'Minister faces call to resign' was probably the most news-worthy approach to the story in this instance. It doesn't suggest an anti-SNP bias. Like I said, had the election gone the other way, the minister in the firing line would have been Andy Kerr and the story, I believe, would have been the same.
I take your point about balanced journalism, but I believe Mr Quinn's story IS balanced, as it gives an airing to all the views expressed.
I have no idea how closely the article in the paper represents the story he files, however I suspect Mr Quinn is based at the Scottish Parliament as a political reporter, and so has a reasonable knowledge of where the respective protagonists are coming from.
And enjoy the by-election coverage, although I have to say the focus of my attention this evening will be Tannadice and Pittodrie!
Hello again Jock,
Can I say how much I am enjoying our discussion.
All newspaper stories need to have an angle as a way of encouraging readers to read on. In this instance, 'Minister faces call to resign' was probably the most news-worthy approach to the story in this instance. It doesn't suggest an anti-SNP bias. Like I said, had the election gone the other way, the minister in the firing line would have been Andy Kerr and the story, I believe, would have been the same.
I take your point about balanced journalism, but I believe Mr Quinn's story IS balanced, as it gives an airing to all the views expressed.
I have no idea how closely the article in the paper represents the story he files, however I suspect Mr Quinn is based at the Scottish Parliament as a political reporter, and so has a reasonable knowledge of where the respective protagonists are coming from.
And enjoy the by-election coverage, although I have to say the focus of my attention this evening will be Tannadice and Pittodrie!
Posted by: Jock Politicaljunkie at 3:20pm on Thu 22 May 08
Hi Steve,
Yes, I can see the headline IS pretty typical fare. Ho hum. One has to attract the attention I supose and there [italic]were[/italic] calls from the opposition for said resignation. Now if some of the more abusive [italic]posters[/italic] can resign - we might get our threads back!
Anyway, cheers for the discussion and I hope whichever flavour you are following tonight puts up a good showing and does themselves justice at least. Might even tune in myself - wonder if it will be an "open mike" job on Radio Scotland?
Hi Steve,
Yes, I can see the headline IS pretty typical fare. Ho hum. One has to attract the attention I supose and there were calls from the opposition for said resignation. Now if some of the more abusive posters can resign - we might get our threads back!
Anyway, cheers for the discussion and I hope whichever flavour you are following tonight puts up a good showing and does themselves justice at least. Might even tune in myself - wonder if it will be an "open mike" job on Radio Scotland?
Posted by: Jock Politicaljunkie at 4:12pm on Thu 22 May 08
Hi Steve,
Yes, I can see the headline IS pretty typical fare. Ho hum. One has to attract the attention I supose and there [italic]were[/italic] calls from the opposition for said resignation. Now if some of the more abusive [italic]posters[/italic] can resign - we might get our threads back!
Anyway, cheers for the discussion and I hope whichever flavour you are following tonight puts up a good showing and does themselves justice at least. Might even tune in myself - wonder if it will be an "open mike" job on Radio Scotland?
Hi Steve,
Yes, I can see the headline IS pretty typical fare. Ho hum. One has to attract the attention I supose and there were calls from the opposition for said resignation. Now if some of the more abusive posters can resign - we might get our threads back!
Anyway, cheers for the discussion and I hope whichever flavour you are following tonight puts up a good showing and does themselves justice at least. Might even tune in myself - wonder if it will be an "open mike" job on Radio Scotland?
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