There are bound to be more rats in Powys next year. I've just been catching up on my emails, and came upon one from Darren Millar, Conservative AM for Clwyd West exposing to the world a massive increase in the number of rat and mice infestations over the last year. Almost incredibly, Darren tells us that there were 45,000 such incidents in Flintshire, Swansea and Cardiff alone last year. He puts the blame on Council cuts. Well, after today's National Assembly announcement of next year's grant to Local Authorities, there are going to be plenty more cuts - so plenty more rats.
The increase in the Powys grant is just 1.5%, the lowest in Wales for the second year running. This is bound to be lower than inflation, though we can only guess at what level inflation will be in 2008-09. Today, headline inflation is 5.2%, while real inflation for a rural authority like Powys, where food and fuel are such significant factors is probably about 10%. Some forecasters are suggesting that inflation may fall to about 1-2% next year. Anyway, it looks a really bum deal for Powys at the moment. Looks as if we're in for more cuts - more school closures, less bus services, more rats and less street lighting. At least we will not be able to see the extra rats if all the street lights are turned off. I'm told that councillors are going to be cutting themselves as well - from 73 down to anything from 50-60. That should save a bit, unless its used as an excuse to raise the pay of those left - because of the extra workload you understand.
Now back to these extra rats. Perhaps we should promote 'ratting' as a new 'country sport'. When I was a young lad on the farm, 'ratting' was common. Usually we used air guns and catapults. But we did employ some seriously uncivilised, dirty tricks as well. In those days cattle feed was not stored in rat proof bins, but just dumped in sheds. Booby traps were set. Every orifice but one of the store was securely blocked - and the idea was to sneak up as silently as a barn owl on the hunt, and block the one remaining escape route - before turning on the lights and creating a mass rat panic. There could be 100 of them, which were dispatched by young men armed with hockey sticks and rounders bats. And I knew one man named Monty, (whose wife I saw at last nights Royal Navy Presentation), who used to stick his hand down rat holes and pull them out. His party trick was to hurl them at the ceiling, so that there still writhing bodies would drop on the heads of unsuspecting neighbours. Hard to believe today. I'm told that rats are an increasingly popular and lovable pet.
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
My Day at a Care Conference.
I find day visits to Cardiff a bit of a trial. But this is the way it is, now that we've let our gorgeous flat in the Bay. But today's visit was really worth the trip. The Millennium Stadium was an exciting venue in which to hold the Annual Care Conference for Wales 2008. This subject area is a big interest since I became involved with care provider, EuropeanCare, and an Oxford based 'not for profit' research operation named RESEC (Research into Specialist Elderly Care). RESEC Cymru is a spin off. There were some big hitters in the Welsh 'Care' field on the platform. Learned a lot about the Commissioner for Older People in Wales, and about the regulation of care systems.
The lunchtime session on Care Villages was particularly good. In Room 28 with photographs of Triple Crown winners plastered all over the walls. The idea is that people reaching 'downsizing' age move into a 'village' environment, leasing a two bedroom property, and accessing a range of facilities supported by a service charge - on the same site as a hotel-style block which offers higher dependency care. I'm planning on a visit to the Gibraltar Care Village in Monmouth, at the invitation of session leader, Preyen Dewani.
There was a good session on the impact of the 'Credit Crunch'. Best question of the day was to Howard Crackle, speaking on behalf of The Royal Bank of Scotland. Would RBS be encouraged to lend more favourably to the care sector as a result of having new NEDs appointed by the Government, following this week's partial nationalisation of the banks. No, said Mr Crackle, but not because it would be a very dangerous precedent if banks were pressurised into lending more freely in support of policies favoured by the government of the day. His reason was that RBS is already the biggest lender to the care sector, and thus immune. Did strike me as the triumph of hope over reason. He added that he thought other banks would probably be so pressured. Hmmmm. No wonder Barclay's declined the Government's largess.
And now to read my Telegraph and emails in search of something bizarre to lighten the mood. Not many laughs around whenever I spend the day thinking about how we as a people treat our elderly - not many laughs but much satisfaction.
The lunchtime session on Care Villages was particularly good. In Room 28 with photographs of Triple Crown winners plastered all over the walls. The idea is that people reaching 'downsizing' age move into a 'village' environment, leasing a two bedroom property, and accessing a range of facilities supported by a service charge - on the same site as a hotel-style block which offers higher dependency care. I'm planning on a visit to the Gibraltar Care Village in Monmouth, at the invitation of session leader, Preyen Dewani.
There was a good session on the impact of the 'Credit Crunch'. Best question of the day was to Howard Crackle, speaking on behalf of The Royal Bank of Scotland. Would RBS be encouraged to lend more favourably to the care sector as a result of having new NEDs appointed by the Government, following this week's partial nationalisation of the banks. No, said Mr Crackle, but not because it would be a very dangerous precedent if banks were pressurised into lending more freely in support of policies favoured by the government of the day. His reason was that RBS is already the biggest lender to the care sector, and thus immune. Did strike me as the triumph of hope over reason. He added that he thought other banks would probably be so pressured. Hmmmm. No wonder Barclay's declined the Government's largess.
And now to read my Telegraph and emails in search of something bizarre to lighten the mood. Not many laughs around whenever I spend the day thinking about how we as a people treat our elderly - not many laughs but much satisfaction.
Where's my invite Toby?
How quickly they forget - these media types. I've looked on Toby Mason, ace political journalist from the totally independent and strictly impartial BBC Wales as a close friend, a sort of 'bosom buddy'. No way would I arrange a party to celebrate Barak Obama's victory in the US Presidential Election on Nov. 4th in Cardiff's Cameo Club without inviting Toby. It follows that I was 'deeply hurt' to note this invite on Guido's blog tonight. Perhaps Guido can get hold of the list of the close and privileged who are to be welcomed into Toby's celebratory embrace. That could be as illuminating as the invitation itself. I'm still upset though. Bet it'll be a good do.
Ah, but what's this? Who is this Alun Davies fellow whose name is joined with that of Toby on th einvitation. Could it be the Labour Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales. Perhaps its a Labour Party function. That would explain why I've been personally snubbed.
Ah, but what's this? Who is this Alun Davies fellow whose name is joined with that of Toby on th einvitation. Could it be the Labour Assembly Member for Mid and West Wales. Perhaps its a Labour Party function. That would explain why I've been personally snubbed.
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
The Royal Navy in Welshpool
Just home from a 'presentation' by Commodore Jamie Miller and his team about what today's Royal Navy is and does. The event was in Welshpool Town Hall. There were over 100 of us there. When it was over, and questions were answered, Town Mayor, Councillor Anne Holloway asked me to propose the vote of thanks. It was an honour to do so.
I used not to really appreciate the commitment that the young men and women that join the armed forces make - until I went to the funeral of a young Welshpool soldier killed in Iraq. They put themselves in position where their lives are put at risk on behalf of me. Now that deserves my respect, and it was an honour to be allowed to say that in public tonight. I also said that it was important that our Government made the necessary investment in supporting those who join our armed forces. Tried hard not to make it sound partisan though.
Another reason why tonight in Welshpool Town Hall was special. There was a new lift in operation. But there were 'teething problems'. First time the lift hit the bottom, the door wouldn't open. 5 people stuck inside. Town Clerk was in a hell of a panic. Took a good ten minutes to get the door open out. Must have been quite frightening. Heard someone ask whether we'd seen Joan Collins in 'The Stud'. I didn't understand the point, but I think its a film about people being stuck in a lift.
There are also new men's toilets in the Town Hall. The little ante-room that gives access onto the outside balcony has been converted. At the next General Election, Montgomeryshire's new MP will have climb over the wash basins to reach the people waiting outside to hail him or her. Great care will have to be taken to avoid putting a foot in it, before starting the job.
Must say the Mayor cracked a decent joke as starting things off. After beginning with a comment about the inclement weather for the Royal Navy's visit, she added an aside that a bit of water would probably not bother them. Its all in the timing. All in all, a good night for Welshpool.
I used not to really appreciate the commitment that the young men and women that join the armed forces make - until I went to the funeral of a young Welshpool soldier killed in Iraq. They put themselves in position where their lives are put at risk on behalf of me. Now that deserves my respect, and it was an honour to be allowed to say that in public tonight. I also said that it was important that our Government made the necessary investment in supporting those who join our armed forces. Tried hard not to make it sound partisan though.
Another reason why tonight in Welshpool Town Hall was special. There was a new lift in operation. But there were 'teething problems'. First time the lift hit the bottom, the door wouldn't open. 5 people stuck inside. Town Clerk was in a hell of a panic. Took a good ten minutes to get the door open out. Must have been quite frightening. Heard someone ask whether we'd seen Joan Collins in 'The Stud'. I didn't understand the point, but I think its a film about people being stuck in a lift.
There are also new men's toilets in the Town Hall. The little ante-room that gives access onto the outside balcony has been converted. At the next General Election, Montgomeryshire's new MP will have climb over the wash basins to reach the people waiting outside to hail him or her. Great care will have to be taken to avoid putting a foot in it, before starting the job.
Must say the Mayor cracked a decent joke as starting things off. After beginning with a comment about the inclement weather for the Royal Navy's visit, she added an aside that a bit of water would probably not bother them. Its all in the timing. All in all, a good night for Welshpool.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Facing up to Kieren
Back to my old school today. And to the Geography room in Caereinion High, where, many years ago, Mr Arthur Jones taught me about our continents and capital cities. I think I was one of his favourites. This time I was facing the Lower Sixth, who are studying the Welsh Baccalaureate which involves an introduction to politics. Sian Hughes, the teacher in charge, and Deputy Head I think, decided they should see a real life specimen who participated in this strange practise of politics. This is where I came in.
Amongst other things, I tried to explain the Legislative Competence Order system to the 40 students seated before me. Not sure whether they thought this system impossible to comprehend, understood it but thought it a crazy way to make law, or thought I was making the whole thing up. If only the latter were true.
Had all sorts of questions. One about the doubting of street lights in Llanfair Town, which is to take place this very evening. As we speak, Watergate Street is in darkness for the first time for many decades. I joined local councillor, Viola Evans for tea afterwards. She told me that Llanfair was the first town in Montgomeryshire to have street lights. When I was a pupil at Llanfair School (which is what we called it then) we had a ditty for uncleaned shoes.
"His shoes, they shine like Llanfair, and Llanfair shines like s***".
Don't know the history of this. But from now on she's not going to shine at all. Collette Hume of the BBC was in town, preparing a clip to go out tomorrow night. Powys County Council had tried to keep this quiet, but Viola and her followers gatecrashed the party. Bet Collette pretends that they weren't there.
Another question was whether I thought any politician knew how to resolve the current crisis in the financial world. I didn't lie. I don't think any of us can be sure where its going. I never thought I'd see the day when most the world's banking system was nationalised. I told them to expect rapidly rising employment, rising taxes and cuts in public services. And then Kieren asked me if I liked Lembit Opik. I said I did, but that we had a very different approach to politics. Kieren seemed to get into his stride then, and was up for a political argument. Not sure that the Welsh Bac is about that, so I didn't bite. He's clearly one to keep an eye on though.
It was the last 5 minutes that worked for me. That's when we started to bridge the disconnect. It was Kieren again. He could not believe that I'm a local farmer. He imagined that because I'm a politician, I'm not as he is. But I am. That's the point. If young people are going to be tempted to vote, those who want their votes must satisfy the test that they are one of them. It was an hour and a half that I really enjoyed.
UPDATE - Its BBC across the UK! At last Powys is on the map.
Amongst other things, I tried to explain the Legislative Competence Order system to the 40 students seated before me. Not sure whether they thought this system impossible to comprehend, understood it but thought it a crazy way to make law, or thought I was making the whole thing up. If only the latter were true.
Had all sorts of questions. One about the doubting of street lights in Llanfair Town, which is to take place this very evening. As we speak, Watergate Street is in darkness for the first time for many decades. I joined local councillor, Viola Evans for tea afterwards. She told me that Llanfair was the first town in Montgomeryshire to have street lights. When I was a pupil at Llanfair School (which is what we called it then) we had a ditty for uncleaned shoes.
"His shoes, they shine like Llanfair, and Llanfair shines like s***".
Don't know the history of this. But from now on she's not going to shine at all. Collette Hume of the BBC was in town, preparing a clip to go out tomorrow night. Powys County Council had tried to keep this quiet, but Viola and her followers gatecrashed the party. Bet Collette pretends that they weren't there.
Another question was whether I thought any politician knew how to resolve the current crisis in the financial world. I didn't lie. I don't think any of us can be sure where its going. I never thought I'd see the day when most the world's banking system was nationalised. I told them to expect rapidly rising employment, rising taxes and cuts in public services. And then Kieren asked me if I liked Lembit Opik. I said I did, but that we had a very different approach to politics. Kieren seemed to get into his stride then, and was up for a political argument. Not sure that the Welsh Bac is about that, so I didn't bite. He's clearly one to keep an eye on though.
It was the last 5 minutes that worked for me. That's when we started to bridge the disconnect. It was Kieren again. He could not believe that I'm a local farmer. He imagined that because I'm a politician, I'm not as he is. But I am. That's the point. If young people are going to be tempted to vote, those who want their votes must satisfy the test that they are one of them. It was an hour and a half that I really enjoyed.
UPDATE - Its BBC across the UK! At last Powys is on the map.
Appalling Behaviour
Lib Dem Assembly Member and fellow blogger Peter Black is a cool headed man. I'd never describe him as hyper-sensitive. Always thought it would take a bit to upset him. But it seems that Mr Lembit Opik, MP for Montgomeryshire upset him over the weekend. Peter informs us on his blog today that he is supporting Baroness Ros Scott as his choice to becomePresident of the Liberal Democrats. He assures us that this is nothing whatsoever to do with
"Lembit's attitude and demeaner in Welsh Party Conference yesterday, which in my view was appalling".
Wow. Ouch. Understandably, we all want to know what had taken place. Alas, Peter is not prepared to say more than that
"in a private conversation towards me, he was hostile and aggressive, whilst I did not like the tone of some of his speeches. I also dislike his attitude towards the Welsh Party."
Wow again. Ouch again. Just thought I'd share it with you. Wouldn't want you to miss it.
"Lembit's attitude and demeaner in Welsh Party Conference yesterday, which in my view was appalling".
Wow. Ouch. Understandably, we all want to know what had taken place. Alas, Peter is not prepared to say more than that
"in a private conversation towards me, he was hostile and aggressive, whilst I did not like the tone of some of his speeches. I also dislike his attitude towards the Welsh Party."
Wow again. Ouch again. Just thought I'd share it with you. Wouldn't want you to miss it.
Special Day at Portmeirion.
No blogging yesterday. Left early for Portmeirion, William Clough-Elis's Italianate fantasia built on the estuary of the Dwyryd River, near Porthmadog, in North Wales. Portmeirion is one man's dream, inspired by his love for the Italian village of Portofino and all things Mediterranean, turned into reality. Today, the planning authorities would laugh such a development out of court - as might organisations committed to the protection of rural Wales. Is best known across the world for its role as the film set for 'The Prisoner', and the world famous china which takes its name.
I was there for a birthday party. This year, the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales is 80 years old. William Clough-Elis was one of the original founders. Second day in a row we arrive to the clink and sparkle of champagne. And then it was to lunch. To my left was Derec Llwyd Morgan, former lots of important Welsh things in the academic and cultural world. He delivered the first Sir Kyffin Williams memorial lecture. Sir Kyffin left a lot of money in his will to CPRW - because he loved the landscapes he painted. And seated to Derec's left was Lord Elis Thomas, Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales, another great man of Welsh culture. He delivered a tribute in memory of the much loved Merfyn Williams, former director of CPRW, who died recently. Didn't know until Dafydd El told us that Merfyn was, in his day, an uncompromising wing forward. I knew he was a good man.
To my right was one of the world's greatest opera singers, Bryn Terfyl. He had agreed to unveil our birthday plaque. Photograph's to follow. Bryn is a giant of a Welshman, in so many ways. Despite his world renown, I suspect that he's hardly changed at all since he began singing in the local eisteddfodau in Caernarfon. Suspect only because I didn't know him then. The CPRW feel incredibly fortunate that Bryn has agreed to become a patron. Only downside of his presence was that he ran me a long way in the promise auction as I sought to acquire a Bill Swann work of art that Mrs D had set her heart on. More likely, he knew its value and enjoyed forcing me to pay a decent price.
Stayed overnight in the Portmeirion Hotel, built in the 1850s, and once been known as 'Aber Ia', Welsh for 'Ice Estuary'. Walked around the 'village' this morning and bought the Daily Telegraph from a little shop. Portmeirion is the maddest creation that I've ever seen.
I was there for a birthday party. This year, the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales is 80 years old. William Clough-Elis was one of the original founders. Second day in a row we arrive to the clink and sparkle of champagne. And then it was to lunch. To my left was Derec Llwyd Morgan, former lots of important Welsh things in the academic and cultural world. He delivered the first Sir Kyffin Williams memorial lecture. Sir Kyffin left a lot of money in his will to CPRW - because he loved the landscapes he painted. And seated to Derec's left was Lord Elis Thomas, Presiding Officer of the National Assembly for Wales, another great man of Welsh culture. He delivered a tribute in memory of the much loved Merfyn Williams, former director of CPRW, who died recently. Didn't know until Dafydd El told us that Merfyn was, in his day, an uncompromising wing forward. I knew he was a good man.
To my right was one of the world's greatest opera singers, Bryn Terfyl. He had agreed to unveil our birthday plaque. Photograph's to follow. Bryn is a giant of a Welshman, in so many ways. Despite his world renown, I suspect that he's hardly changed at all since he began singing in the local eisteddfodau in Caernarfon. Suspect only because I didn't know him then. The CPRW feel incredibly fortunate that Bryn has agreed to become a patron. Only downside of his presence was that he ran me a long way in the promise auction as I sought to acquire a Bill Swann work of art that Mrs D had set her heart on. More likely, he knew its value and enjoyed forcing me to pay a decent price.
Stayed overnight in the Portmeirion Hotel, built in the 1850s, and once been known as 'Aber Ia', Welsh for 'Ice Estuary'. Walked around the 'village' this morning and bought the Daily Telegraph from a little shop. Portmeirion is the maddest creation that I've ever seen.
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Day at the races.
Now I understand. All of my life I've wondered what madness gene makes normally sane people risk hard earned money betting on the horses. Biggest such bet I've ever been guilty of is a pound on the Grand National in the family sweepstake. Until today. Mrs D and I were invited to a birthday party in a hospitality suite at Chepstow Races. A new window on the world has been opened up before us.
The big moral issue facing me was how to square my detestation of gambling. We decided on a business plan - with sufficient degree of flexibility to accommodate the anticipated degree of unpredictability. I didn't want to look like a vegetarian at a barbecue - fanning the flames of guilt in others by the light of my righteousness. So we decided to set aside £100 of stake money - what Gordon Brown would call investment. And luckily there was champagne to start the day. Good job I'm not yet an MP or the champagne would be a no-no. Only hair shirts and funereal expressions til the financial crisis is over.
First race, and we decided to go down to the rows of bookmakers at the edge of the course. We chose 'Martin Davies'. After all, there was more chance of him being family than any of the others. We started big and put £20 on - £10 each as £5 each way bets. I had Seymar Lad at 6-1. Walked back up to the suite. When the race started, Seymar Lad had shortened to 4-1 favourite. I felt like a kid as my horse hit the front with two furlongs to go and won by two lengths. £46. It felt like my first bit of pocket money all those years ago. So we stuck with the £5 each way formula. And then I won the third race Warsaw Pact at about 15-1. £78. Like shelling peas. Better than working I thought. And so it went on.
When it was all over, we calculated our budget for the day. We had laid out £140 on the 7 races - and had won £140 between us. Perfect. Our day at the races had not cost us any hard earned cash. And no profit to lead us astray into the desperate downward spiral that would have opened up before us if Bushy Island had just managed to win the last race. The reason I've prattled on a bit has been to avoid having time to post on all the juicy bits of gossip that was floating around the room by the time we left. Bed early tonight. Totally exhausted from all the nervous tension of the day. Don't know whether I will ever feel strong enough to do it again. Wonder when the next Chepstow meet is.
The big moral issue facing me was how to square my detestation of gambling. We decided on a business plan - with sufficient degree of flexibility to accommodate the anticipated degree of unpredictability. I didn't want to look like a vegetarian at a barbecue - fanning the flames of guilt in others by the light of my righteousness. So we decided to set aside £100 of stake money - what Gordon Brown would call investment. And luckily there was champagne to start the day. Good job I'm not yet an MP or the champagne would be a no-no. Only hair shirts and funereal expressions til the financial crisis is over.
First race, and we decided to go down to the rows of bookmakers at the edge of the course. We chose 'Martin Davies'. After all, there was more chance of him being family than any of the others. We started big and put £20 on - £10 each as £5 each way bets. I had Seymar Lad at 6-1. Walked back up to the suite. When the race started, Seymar Lad had shortened to 4-1 favourite. I felt like a kid as my horse hit the front with two furlongs to go and won by two lengths. £46. It felt like my first bit of pocket money all those years ago. So we stuck with the £5 each way formula. And then I won the third race Warsaw Pact at about 15-1. £78. Like shelling peas. Better than working I thought. And so it went on.
When it was all over, we calculated our budget for the day. We had laid out £140 on the 7 races - and had won £140 between us. Perfect. Our day at the races had not cost us any hard earned cash. And no profit to lead us astray into the desperate downward spiral that would have opened up before us if Bushy Island had just managed to win the last race. The reason I've prattled on a bit has been to avoid having time to post on all the juicy bits of gossip that was floating around the room by the time we left. Bed early tonight. Totally exhausted from all the nervous tension of the day. Don't know whether I will ever feel strong enough to do it again. Wonder when the next Chepstow meet is.
Changes at the Assembly
Just catching up on today's news, and read of two items of news from the Assembly, one pleasing to my eye, and one not.
Not pleased to see Jane Davidson announcing that she's standing down in 2011. She is a competent Minister with a genuine commitment to the environment. Its always a bit cheeky for a politician to create 'competence lists' of opposing party's representatives. But I'm cheeky like that. I never held back from declaring my opinion that Sue Essex was the best Labour AM by a mile (in my opinion that is). After that there are a few others that I reckoned were well up the all-party competence list. Jane was one of them. I hope she's got something else in mind. Perhaps she's going to the Lords to become a duchess.
I was pleased to see Mike German finally announce that he's relinquishing his grip on the leadership of the Liberal Democrats in Wales. Pleased I was nowhere near when it happened. I hate the sound of fingernails scratching the floor as a reluctant human body is dragged kicking and screaming out through the door by his bootlaces. And there's going to be a contest. Jenny Randerson is taking on Ms Williams from Brecon and Radnorshire. In my opinion, Jenny is another high up on the all party competence list. It looks as if Peter Black doesn't agree. He dismisses Jenny in a rather contemptuous way as just 'more of the same'. I suppose he's got more rights that me to have an opinion on this. Lets just hope its a brutal bloodthirsty battle. Just imagine if AMs had the same sort of Communications Allowance' as MPs. They could both spend thousands of taxpayers money posting out the same sort of glossy self promotion that Lembit Opik is currently doing in Montgomeryshire. Just thought I'd mention it.
Not pleased to see Jane Davidson announcing that she's standing down in 2011. She is a competent Minister with a genuine commitment to the environment. Its always a bit cheeky for a politician to create 'competence lists' of opposing party's representatives. But I'm cheeky like that. I never held back from declaring my opinion that Sue Essex was the best Labour AM by a mile (in my opinion that is). After that there are a few others that I reckoned were well up the all-party competence list. Jane was one of them. I hope she's got something else in mind. Perhaps she's going to the Lords to become a duchess.
I was pleased to see Mike German finally announce that he's relinquishing his grip on the leadership of the Liberal Democrats in Wales. Pleased I was nowhere near when it happened. I hate the sound of fingernails scratching the floor as a reluctant human body is dragged kicking and screaming out through the door by his bootlaces. And there's going to be a contest. Jenny Randerson is taking on Ms Williams from Brecon and Radnorshire. In my opinion, Jenny is another high up on the all party competence list. It looks as if Peter Black doesn't agree. He dismisses Jenny in a rather contemptuous way as just 'more of the same'. I suppose he's got more rights that me to have an opinion on this. Lets just hope its a brutal bloodthirsty battle. Just imagine if AMs had the same sort of Communications Allowance' as MPs. They could both spend thousands of taxpayers money posting out the same sort of glossy self promotion that Lembit Opik is currently doing in Montgomeryshire. Just thought I'd mention it.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Day by the Seaside.
Been up to Llandudno today. Welsh Local Government Association (WLGA) Annual Conference. I was participating in a panel discussion about blogs, and their influence with Peter Black AM and Lee Waters, Chief Executive of Sustrans, who used to do a bit of blogging himself. Lee made a very good opening speech. Any representative of a political constituency association who happened to be there would have been very impressed! It was all the talk over lunch. Rhun ap Iorwerth of BBC fame chaired the session.
Attending these local council events is a bit like going home for me. Stuffed full of people I know and like, but rarely see. Wyn Evans from Carmarthen, Keith Evans from Ceredigion, Janet Finch-Saunders from Conwy, Bob Parry from Ynys Mon etc. - and a whole tableful from Powys. Stephen Hayes from Montgomery asked Andrew Davies a cracking question about the non-recognition of Mid Wales.
Seemed to be two discussions going on, the first being the fall-out from the Icelandic investments that may never be repaid. Paul Murphy was at the Conference, informing us that since Local Government is devolved, compensation is down to the National Assembly. He was sitting next to Assembly Government Finance Minister, Andrew Davies when he said it. Must have come as a bit of a surprise to Andrew, since I understand he told AMs this week that the Treasury would pick up the tab. I think some councillors were under the impression that Gordon Brown has declared war on Iceland and is treating Icelandic nationals as terrorists. I told them that I didn't think this was true. A lot of tosh being talked about these losses (if that's what they be) having no effect on public serevices or council tax. £4 million in Powys! Of course there'll be an impact. Only question is when it will be felt.
Sir Emyr Jones-Parry, Paul Murphy, and Dafydd Elis Thomas were the panel for an earlier session. Pity I missed it. I'd have enjoyed the squirming. Here we have one of the most able former diplomats in the world, trying to make out that his current non-job is of some significance to the future governance of Wales. I wonder whether Dafydd El or Paul Murphy said they favoured a referendum. Doubt it. I hope Sir Emyr realises what his role is - to create the pretext on which the Assembly Coalition partners can renege on their referendum promise.
I was interested in Lee Water's opinion that the 'Rainbow' coalition is back on the agenda. He reckons that the Assembly Coalition won't survive the retirement of Rhodri Morgan. Personally I think this is unlikely until 2011, but I've always thought it a possibility. Won't happen until the General election is out of the way. Will keep an eye on this. Smart boy, that Lee Waters. Will go far.
Attending these local council events is a bit like going home for me. Stuffed full of people I know and like, but rarely see. Wyn Evans from Carmarthen, Keith Evans from Ceredigion, Janet Finch-Saunders from Conwy, Bob Parry from Ynys Mon etc. - and a whole tableful from Powys. Stephen Hayes from Montgomery asked Andrew Davies a cracking question about the non-recognition of Mid Wales.
Seemed to be two discussions going on, the first being the fall-out from the Icelandic investments that may never be repaid. Paul Murphy was at the Conference, informing us that since Local Government is devolved, compensation is down to the National Assembly. He was sitting next to Assembly Government Finance Minister, Andrew Davies when he said it. Must have come as a bit of a surprise to Andrew, since I understand he told AMs this week that the Treasury would pick up the tab. I think some councillors were under the impression that Gordon Brown has declared war on Iceland and is treating Icelandic nationals as terrorists. I told them that I didn't think this was true. A lot of tosh being talked about these losses (if that's what they be) having no effect on public serevices or council tax. £4 million in Powys! Of course there'll be an impact. Only question is when it will be felt.
Sir Emyr Jones-Parry, Paul Murphy, and Dafydd Elis Thomas were the panel for an earlier session. Pity I missed it. I'd have enjoyed the squirming. Here we have one of the most able former diplomats in the world, trying to make out that his current non-job is of some significance to the future governance of Wales. I wonder whether Dafydd El or Paul Murphy said they favoured a referendum. Doubt it. I hope Sir Emyr realises what his role is - to create the pretext on which the Assembly Coalition partners can renege on their referendum promise.
I was interested in Lee Water's opinion that the 'Rainbow' coalition is back on the agenda. He reckons that the Assembly Coalition won't survive the retirement of Rhodri Morgan. Personally I think this is unlikely until 2011, but I've always thought it a possibility. Won't happen until the General election is out of the way. Will keep an eye on this. Smart boy, that Lee Waters. Will go far.
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Return of Dragon's Eye
Dragon's Eye back with Adrian Masters, a man of gentle demeanor and a probing inquisitor in the Vaughan Roderick mould. Looking forward to seeing him bare his dragon's teeth during the series. Hope its not me or my party he's sinking them into.
To start the new series off, who else but Lord Elis Thomas, Presiding Officer of the National Assembly. He dismissed the two twentieth century Prince of Wales investitures as political stunts, and compared these great historical events with a Royal day at the races. Hard for me to judge, because I've never been to a race meeting. Coincidentally, I'm putting that right on Saturday, when we go to Chepstow Races for a birthday party. Perhaps we had better wear clothes suitable for attending an investiture.
Next up was the impact of the failure of Icelandic banks on councils and other public bodies in Wales. Huge issue - but nothing new. Paul Murphy was on, and he had nothing to say of any significance. Its difficult to find a Welsh angle, when an issue has been all over the network news throughout the day.
And finally there was the row about a 'Team GB' football team in the London Olympics. Nothing new here either. The British Olympic Committee are committed to a GB team, while no-one in Wales wants one. We knew that. Now if Seb Coe had been on, and been asked about what he said when told that we Welsh didn't like the idea, it would have been far more interesting.
To start the new series off, who else but Lord Elis Thomas, Presiding Officer of the National Assembly. He dismissed the two twentieth century Prince of Wales investitures as political stunts, and compared these great historical events with a Royal day at the races. Hard for me to judge, because I've never been to a race meeting. Coincidentally, I'm putting that right on Saturday, when we go to Chepstow Races for a birthday party. Perhaps we had better wear clothes suitable for attending an investiture.
Next up was the impact of the failure of Icelandic banks on councils and other public bodies in Wales. Huge issue - but nothing new. Paul Murphy was on, and he had nothing to say of any significance. Its difficult to find a Welsh angle, when an issue has been all over the network news throughout the day.
And finally there was the row about a 'Team GB' football team in the London Olympics. Nothing new here either. The British Olympic Committee are committed to a GB team, while no-one in Wales wants one. We knew that. Now if Seb Coe had been on, and been asked about what he said when told that we Welsh didn't like the idea, it would have been far more interesting.
How to save £1
This week's Montgomeryshire County Times reports that Powys County Council has decided to withdraw the senior railcard - with immediate effect. Mr Kit Davidson of Llanfyllin will be the last recipient. B*****. About three months ago I collected a concessionary railcard for the first time, and used it just once before I lost it. My fault - so the Council wouldn't supply me with a replacement. While I was in possession, I bought a rail ticket from Newport to Cardiff for £2, instead of the normal price of £3. That was it. Saved myself one pound - enough for a cappuccino at Morrison's!
I understand that the Executive Board found some difficulty dealing with the issue. I understand that there was some embarrassment amongst the councillors about who could vote. I'm told that lady councillors were not keen on admitting whether they had reached the age at which they had to declare a pecuniary interest.
I understand that the Executive Board found some difficulty dealing with the issue. I understand that there was some embarrassment amongst the councillors about who could vote. I'm told that lady councillors were not keen on admitting whether they had reached the age at which they had to declare a pecuniary interest.
The pragmatic politics of wind.
I suppose you could accuse me of supping with the devil. But I rather enjoy the company of this particular 'devil'. He's the 'representative' of a foreign renewable energy business, which is particularly active in Wales - and today, at the Old Station Restaurant in Welshpool, we supped and chatted in highly convivial fashion for over an hour.
Now you might ask what on earth I'm doing engrossed in such deep discussion when I'm very much on the record as seriously unconvinced by the Assembly Government's policy of promoting wind farms. My negativity towards wind farms was a feature of my stint as Conservative spokesman in the National Assembly on environment matters - and is also a feature of my current stint as President of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW). Its all to do with my preparedness to accommodate reality. This is always a tricky business.
I've often recited on this blog that I was opposed to the establishment of the National Assembly. But immediately the decision to create it was irreversible, I turned my attention to what sort of Assembly was best for Wales. Similarly, the decision to drive on full speed with onshore wind farms has been taken by the Assembly Government. I don't like it. But I want to have some influence on how this policy is implemented. Development of wind farms is going to be very significant in Montgomeryshire over the next five years. I have no doubt that the Minister is going to greatly increase the target output from each of the identified SSAs (Strategic Search Areas). Parts of our landscape will be dramatically changed. I really don't think any political candidate can do other than try to limit the damage and maximise the community benefit. Wind farms have to be located on the least damaging sites, and the developers must be forced to provide as much community support as possible to compensate for the imposition of turbines. (reparations of a sort, I suppose). Call it supping with the devil if you like, but to me its pragmatic politics. Pass the long spoon.
Now you might ask what on earth I'm doing engrossed in such deep discussion when I'm very much on the record as seriously unconvinced by the Assembly Government's policy of promoting wind farms. My negativity towards wind farms was a feature of my stint as Conservative spokesman in the National Assembly on environment matters - and is also a feature of my current stint as President of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW). Its all to do with my preparedness to accommodate reality. This is always a tricky business.
I've often recited on this blog that I was opposed to the establishment of the National Assembly. But immediately the decision to create it was irreversible, I turned my attention to what sort of Assembly was best for Wales. Similarly, the decision to drive on full speed with onshore wind farms has been taken by the Assembly Government. I don't like it. But I want to have some influence on how this policy is implemented. Development of wind farms is going to be very significant in Montgomeryshire over the next five years. I have no doubt that the Minister is going to greatly increase the target output from each of the identified SSAs (Strategic Search Areas). Parts of our landscape will be dramatically changed. I really don't think any political candidate can do other than try to limit the damage and maximise the community benefit. Wind farms have to be located on the least damaging sites, and the developers must be forced to provide as much community support as possible to compensate for the imposition of turbines. (reparations of a sort, I suppose). Call it supping with the devil if you like, but to me its pragmatic politics. Pass the long spoon.
Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Are we Dancing on the head of a pin?
I had decided not to blog yet again on the possibility of a referendum on law making powers for the National Assembly for Wales. But the subject is of passionate interest to me. I promise that this is definitely the last time (until the next time that is). I begin by stating that I have absolutely no idea what is in the 'Roberts Report'. I'm not even any longer totally certain about what I want to be in it. I do know what I want as a final objective in the constitutional position of Wales (until there's another final objective of course!) I want to see a National Assembly with law making powers in all devolved matters. What I'm not so sure about is the best way to reach it. Because the context is constantly changing, I find my personal judgements shifting as well. From my perspective, it looks a very difficult ask for David Cameron to come up with a policy that does not have a degree of flexibility built into it.
Lets look at the alternatives (and again I emphasise that I've no idea what's in the Robert's Report.) Or more accurately, the realistic alternatives. I do not think rowing back from the current Government of Wales Act is realistic. There may well be individuals who favour this, but the only reference to a referendum which would precede change that I've seen, assume that a No vote would mean retaining the status quo. This involves the transfer of power from Westminster to the National Assembly for Wales by means of Legislative Competence Orders. Horribly complex, but likely to accelerate over the next few years.
The only other alternative I believe is realistic is transfer of law making power over all devolved matters in one go - following approval by referendum and passage through the both Houses of Parliament. I have seen reference to transfer of law making powers in respect of matters not currently devolved. This seems to me to be a separate issue. And in any case extension of the list of devolved matters can be achieved by the LCO process - so for the purposes of this post, this aspect of the debate should be ignored.
It seems to me that what we are disagreeing about, at the realistic level, amounts to little more that a question of timing. And how big an issue is that? For quite a while I've been predicting that it will be those opposed to transfer of law making powers who will be calling loudest for a referendum. Those who favour full law making power in all devolved matters are beginning to realise that their objective might be more certainly achieved by not holding any referendum at all. When the Government does not give any leadership, the vacuum creates a changing context. Which is why I'm deeply grateful that I don't have to decide on a long term policy myself.
Lets look at the alternatives (and again I emphasise that I've no idea what's in the Robert's Report.) Or more accurately, the realistic alternatives. I do not think rowing back from the current Government of Wales Act is realistic. There may well be individuals who favour this, but the only reference to a referendum which would precede change that I've seen, assume that a No vote would mean retaining the status quo. This involves the transfer of power from Westminster to the National Assembly for Wales by means of Legislative Competence Orders. Horribly complex, but likely to accelerate over the next few years.
The only other alternative I believe is realistic is transfer of law making power over all devolved matters in one go - following approval by referendum and passage through the both Houses of Parliament. I have seen reference to transfer of law making powers in respect of matters not currently devolved. This seems to me to be a separate issue. And in any case extension of the list of devolved matters can be achieved by the LCO process - so for the purposes of this post, this aspect of the debate should be ignored.
It seems to me that what we are disagreeing about, at the realistic level, amounts to little more that a question of timing. And how big an issue is that? For quite a while I've been predicting that it will be those opposed to transfer of law making powers who will be calling loudest for a referendum. Those who favour full law making power in all devolved matters are beginning to realise that their objective might be more certainly achieved by not holding any referendum at all. When the Government does not give any leadership, the vacuum creates a changing context. Which is why I'm deeply grateful that I don't have to decide on a long term policy myself.
Welcome Back, David Hunt.
In Wales we know Lord Hunt of the Wirral very well indeed. As David Hunt, he was Secretary of State for Wales for three years - and in my opinion, a very good one. Although he did not represent a Welsh constituency, the Wirral is pretty damn close. The whiff of muckspreaders in action on the Wirral can be detected in North East Wales when the wind is from the East. He's also a genuinely nice man, and he's been a good and loyal friend to me. David is living proof that politicians can be really good guys.
In John Major's government, he was recognised as a man to sort out a problem. Sometimes he was referred to 'Minister for Banana Skins' because of this reputation. He's been given a new challenge by David Cameron - shadowing the 'soon to be ennobled' Lord Peter Mandelson in the House of Lords. He will not be able to spend as much time in his role as Chair of Beachcroft LLP.
David has another contemporary link with Wales - Michael McManus, who has assisted Lord Roberts of Conwy to write the report on the future of Conservative policy in respect of devolution. Michael is another 'good guy'. He was a special advisor to David Hunt when he was Secretary of State for Wales, and still works in the same building - at least he did when I joined him for tea and a chat a few weeks back. This blog wishes David Hunt good luck in his new role.
In John Major's government, he was recognised as a man to sort out a problem. Sometimes he was referred to 'Minister for Banana Skins' because of this reputation. He's been given a new challenge by David Cameron - shadowing the 'soon to be ennobled' Lord Peter Mandelson in the House of Lords. He will not be able to spend as much time in his role as Chair of Beachcroft LLP.
David has another contemporary link with Wales - Michael McManus, who has assisted Lord Roberts of Conwy to write the report on the future of Conservative policy in respect of devolution. Michael is another 'good guy'. He was a special advisor to David Hunt when he was Secretary of State for Wales, and still works in the same building - at least he did when I joined him for tea and a chat a few weeks back. This blog wishes David Hunt good luck in his new role.
Icelandic shock for our Councils.
Yesterday, I posted about the possible impact of the financial difficulties being experienced by Iceland's banks on local authorities. I did know of one council with high exposure, but did not want to name it. But I did expect the media to ask various Councils what the position is. It seems that its much, much worse than I thought - or could possibly have imagined. This afternoon, the Conservative Party issued a press release which outlined the impact in the London area - around £140 million at risk. Tomorrow, both the BBC and the Montgomeryshire County Times will be outlining the details of how the crisis effects Powys County Council. I will leave them to divulge the details, which were issued by the Council's Press Office earlier today. It's truly frightening.
I have no criticism of the council's involved. Until the day before yesterday, there was no reason to suspect a problem. The Icelandic banks had been offering a slightly better return, and Councils have been encouraged to secure best value on their temporary investments. But it all changed yesterday morning. Its clear that the highly leveraged Icelandic banks are in big trouble. Two have already been nationalised, including Landsbanki, which I understand has a lot of UK investment. And it seems that the Icelandic Government is favouring the deposits of Icelandic nationals over foreign investors. This equals major problem.
This is a massive issue. We are talking many millions of pounds. Councils must be extremely nervous about the possible implications for local services and Council taxpayers. I do hope there will be a quick response by Government to put our councils and taxpayers mind at rest - like tomorrow.
I have no criticism of the council's involved. Until the day before yesterday, there was no reason to suspect a problem. The Icelandic banks had been offering a slightly better return, and Councils have been encouraged to secure best value on their temporary investments. But it all changed yesterday morning. Its clear that the highly leveraged Icelandic banks are in big trouble. Two have already been nationalised, including Landsbanki, which I understand has a lot of UK investment. And it seems that the Icelandic Government is favouring the deposits of Icelandic nationals over foreign investors. This equals major problem.
This is a massive issue. We are talking many millions of pounds. Councils must be extremely nervous about the possible implications for local services and Council taxpayers. I do hope there will be a quick response by Government to put our councils and taxpayers mind at rest - like tomorrow.
Tuesday, October 07, 2008
Pontrobert Friendly Club
This is a post for the Montgomeryshire village of Pontrobert. 
When I was a pupil of Llanfair Caereinion High School, I often went by school bus to stay with my Nain and Taid, who lived near Pontrobert (at No 1 Tan-y ffridd cottages). Taid was the local road man. I've got a soft spot for the small village. Not so small these days. There's been lots of new houses built. Anyway I was there this afternoon.
I enjoy comparatively small local events. Today it was a meeting of Pontrobert Friendly Club, about 40 ish over-60s, just out for a get to-gether, celebrating an award of £850 (I think). My photograph is of Powys Council Chair, Viola Evans, the Club Chairman, Ken Tatlow and the 'person-in-charge' (secretary I think), Rita Evans, who is a relative of mine. Pontrobert is a very active community, with strong Merched Y Wawr and Age Concern groups as well. The former came on a trip around our garden earlier this year.
One lady I met was named Gloria Freeman, who has moved to Pontrobert from Nottingham. When she was a young girl named Gloria Chambers she attended the Albert St School, and shared a desk with Ken Clarke. She tells me that he was very studious, and they all expected him to go a long way. They were right. I promised to get in touch with Gloria if Ken makes another visit to Montgomeryshire. Small world.
When I was a pupil of Llanfair Caereinion High School, I often went by school bus to stay with my Nain and Taid, who lived near Pontrobert (at No 1 Tan-y ffridd cottages). Taid was the local road man. I've got a soft spot for the small village. Not so small these days. There's been lots of new houses built. Anyway I was there this afternoon.
I enjoy comparatively small local events. Today it was a meeting of Pontrobert Friendly Club, about 40 ish over-60s, just out for a get to-gether, celebrating an award of £850 (I think). My photograph is of Powys Council Chair, Viola Evans, the Club Chairman, Ken Tatlow and the 'person-in-charge' (secretary I think), Rita Evans, who is a relative of mine. Pontrobert is a very active community, with strong Merched Y Wawr and Age Concern groups as well. The former came on a trip around our garden earlier this year.
One lady I met was named Gloria Freeman, who has moved to Pontrobert from Nottingham. When she was a young girl named Gloria Chambers she attended the Albert St School, and shared a desk with Ken Clarke. She tells me that he was very studious, and they all expected him to go a long way. They were right. I promised to get in touch with Gloria if Ken makes another visit to Montgomeryshire. Small world.
The impact of Icelandic meltdown.
I take a bit of an interest in Iceland, ever since we spent a very enjoyable holiday in Reykjavik a few years back. Its wet. Its also incredibly interesting. The geological features are like nothing I've seen before. It was fascinating to stand beside Stokkur, a geyser which erupts to a height of anything up to 75 feet approx every 5 minutes - and see the Mid Atlantic Ridge, where the recent movements of tectonic plates are visible on the land surface. I really loved watching the puffins when we were out whale watching - and ate some of them for dinner.
We saw many dolphins, playing hide and seek under our boat when we were out in the Atlantic, and shy porpoises and distant whales. Speaking of Wales, and after reading today's stories of economic meltdown of the Iceland economy started me thinking what this would mean if it happened to us in the UK. And then to thinking what impact the collapse of Icelandic banks might have on Wales. Well, none you would think. But that's not what I'm hearing. I'm told that these banks have been offering attractive terms for the temporary deposit of spare funds, and that some Welsh councils have several million invested with Iceland's beleaguered banks. Yesterday, this money was cast iron safe. It doesn't look so safe today. It really would be interesting to know just how much money is involved. There is also very good salmon fishing in Iceland. And the Icelandic Horse is a popular export. It has a unique gait. But it will take a lot of fishermen and horse buyers to put the Icelandic economy back together.
We saw many dolphins, playing hide and seek under our boat when we were out in the Atlantic, and shy porpoises and distant whales. Speaking of Wales, and after reading today's stories of economic meltdown of the Iceland economy started me thinking what this would mean if it happened to us in the UK. And then to thinking what impact the collapse of Icelandic banks might have on Wales. Well, none you would think. But that's not what I'm hearing. I'm told that these banks have been offering attractive terms for the temporary deposit of spare funds, and that some Welsh councils have several million invested with Iceland's beleaguered banks. Yesterday, this money was cast iron safe. It doesn't look so safe today. It really would be interesting to know just how much money is involved. There is also very good salmon fishing in Iceland. And the Icelandic Horse is a popular export. It has a unique gait. But it will take a lot of fishermen and horse buyers to put the Icelandic economy back together.
Edna wants a ticket.
Regular visitors will know that a part-time agency cleaner named Edna Mopbucket has taken to telephoning me with bits of gossip. Its not always coincidence that she happens to be in the right place at the right time. Occasionally, I suggest where she might hear something of note, and she has a word with her boss to arrange it.
Yesterday, at my suggestion, she arranged to be cleaning somewhere near the room where the Conservative Assembly Group will be holding their 'annual meeting'. According to David Williamson in the Western Mail, there could be an attempt to oust William Graham from his position as Chair of the Group. David seems to think there is a split in the Group - and William is a bit miffed that we all know that this little set-to is taking place at all. He doesn't seem to realise that this is just the sort of gossipy thing that generates some public interest in Assembly politics. A bit of division never did any harm. Disagreement and democracy are healthy, if they can be managed without blood on the carpet. I still think the leadership contest between David Davis and David Cameron brought great benefit to the Conservative Party - not that I would put the bout between William and Paul Davies quite in this bracket.
Problem for Edna will be the high levels of security being deployed to stop her listening in. She tells me that the Group's 'bouncer', Paul Morris is being put on guard, and that keyholes are going to be taped over. Wouldn't surprise me if the venue is changed at the last minute, or the vote is deferred to a time when there is no danger of Edna listening in. As I said immediately before my cataract operation three years ago "We shall see".
UPDATE - Its clear that there was so much concern about Edna listening in that a compromise was reached beforehand to avoid and discussion leaking out.
Yesterday, at my suggestion, she arranged to be cleaning somewhere near the room where the Conservative Assembly Group will be holding their 'annual meeting'. According to David Williamson in the Western Mail, there could be an attempt to oust William Graham from his position as Chair of the Group. David seems to think there is a split in the Group - and William is a bit miffed that we all know that this little set-to is taking place at all. He doesn't seem to realise that this is just the sort of gossipy thing that generates some public interest in Assembly politics. A bit of division never did any harm. Disagreement and democracy are healthy, if they can be managed without blood on the carpet. I still think the leadership contest between David Davis and David Cameron brought great benefit to the Conservative Party - not that I would put the bout between William and Paul Davies quite in this bracket.
Problem for Edna will be the high levels of security being deployed to stop her listening in. She tells me that the Group's 'bouncer', Paul Morris is being put on guard, and that keyholes are going to be taped over. Wouldn't surprise me if the venue is changed at the last minute, or the vote is deferred to a time when there is no danger of Edna listening in. As I said immediately before my cataract operation three years ago "We shall see".
UPDATE - Its clear that there was so much concern about Edna listening in that a compromise was reached beforehand to avoid and discussion leaking out.
Monday, October 06, 2008
Tasers and teasers.
The Western Mail and the BBC have reported on how the police have turned their heavy artillery on a runaway ram in North Wales. At first the headline led me to think that a rugby playing bank manager I used to know from Colwyn Bay had finally been caught - this time fleeing the bed of an armed policeman's wife. But No. It seems that North Wales Police have come up with an alternative past-time to paint-balling - shooting sheep with taser guns. Unlike David Davies MP and North Wales Chief Constable, Richard Brunstom, I have never been tasered, so I don't know how cruel it is. But I do recall sheep handlers being banned from using little electrified 'encouragement sticks' some years ago. So I suspect sheep-tasering won't catch on in a big way.
And that's good news for the lady sheep of North Wales. There would be terrible confusion on the hills if there were both 'taser rams' and 'teaser rams' running around. I should explain for the benefit of the non-shepherds that visit this blog what a 'teaser ram' is. Its a sort of vasectomised ram, which is introduced to the ladies in the run-up to what we sheep farmers know as the 'tupping season' - to 'get them in the mood'. On the appointed day (on my farm it was October 12th), when the ladies have reached the zenith of their preparedness, the real men take over. The non-countryman would be shocked by such promiscuity. A fully charged up (especially if tasered) healthy young Welsh ram can account for dozens of ladies in a single day. Its amazing. The purpose of this practice is to shorten the lambing season in 5 months time, saving the shepherd both time and money.
And that's good news for the lady sheep of North Wales. There would be terrible confusion on the hills if there were both 'taser rams' and 'teaser rams' running around. I should explain for the benefit of the non-shepherds that visit this blog what a 'teaser ram' is. Its a sort of vasectomised ram, which is introduced to the ladies in the run-up to what we sheep farmers know as the 'tupping season' - to 'get them in the mood'. On the appointed day (on my farm it was October 12th), when the ladies have reached the zenith of their preparedness, the real men take over. The non-countryman would be shocked by such promiscuity. A fully charged up (especially if tasered) healthy young Welsh ram can account for dozens of ladies in a single day. Its amazing. The purpose of this practice is to shorten the lambing season in 5 months time, saving the shepherd both time and money.
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