This morning I saw 3 truly beautiful deer browsing on a hedge - and the most beautiful thing about them was that they were several miles away from our garden. Regular readers will know of the angst caused to me and Mrs D when these voracious Bambis took a liking to our exotic bamboos and special oaks, earlier in the year. Well, since I found the best way to deal with this growing problem - and feel that I have a duty to share it with you.
As the angst dominated every social discussion I was involved in a few weeks back, I was inundated with possible solutions, which usually included Colditz like fences. Most innovative of all was a proposal, delivered with the viciousness which only a fellow sufferer could generate, was that I should deposit small heaps of Tiger S**t at strategic points around the boundary. Since this commodity is in short supply in Montgomeryshire, I was forced to come up with an alternative. In last weekend's Telegraph, Sue Hancock from Sussex suggested Wright's Coal Tar Soap hung in pop socks. Jennifer Bell from Lostwithiel suggested rags dipped in creosote hanging from the fence. Glyn Leaman from Bristol had success with a mains operated ultrasonic 'animal chaser' on a frequently varied time switch. Most common suggestions were a variety of barbed wire fence formats, or aluminium ammonia sulphate, which causes such a stink that no living creature would be willing to set foot in the garden.
Well, all I did was put a transistor radio out in the garden overnight - and problem gone. The deer couldn't stand the sound of the BBC. So John Humphrys (and Rhun ap Iorwerth if I try to fool them by switching to Radio Cymru) are more off putting than Tiger S**t. And thats empirically proven.
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Monday, July 30, 2007
Dakshina and Bhakti
Regrettably, the bovine Tb problems at the Hindu temple at Skanda Vale look set to continue. Today's Telegraph reports that an 8 month old water buffalo named Dakshini and a friesian bull named Bhakti have tested positive. Same problem as Shambo. It will have to be the same result. I hope the responsible Minister, Elin Jones is contactable on her 4 week holiday in New Zealand so that she can be kept in touch with the developing situation. The decisions are straightforward - but highly sensitive as well.
The integrity of reporting by the BBC has been much in the news recently. I just make this comparison. When Shambo was taken from his temple, it was reported that he was being taken to a 'slaughter wagon'. In fact, he was being taken to an Ivor Williams landrover trailer, which then transferred Shambo to an abattoir, where he was put down. When a whale which had lost its way and became beached on the East coast of England, and had to be put down, it was reported that it was 'put to sleep'. Prejudicial use of words or what.
The integrity of reporting by the BBC has been much in the news recently. I just make this comparison. When Shambo was taken from his temple, it was reported that he was being taken to a 'slaughter wagon'. In fact, he was being taken to an Ivor Williams landrover trailer, which then transferred Shambo to an abattoir, where he was put down. When a whale which had lost its way and became beached on the East coast of England, and had to be put down, it was reported that it was 'put to sleep'. Prejudicial use of words or what.
Ali Miraj - Poor Show
I see that tonight's headline on BBC online centres on comments made by Ali Miraj, a Conservative who's looking for a seat to fight at the next General Election criticising David Cameron. This is a really poor show by Ali, who should know better. I find it a touch disappointing because Ali once contested a seat in the Welsh Valleys, and I felt that I sort of knew him. To me, he seemed to be a thoroughly sound man.
Its not that the points he makes are unreasonable. Its the way he's said them - and to whom. I've heard others make the same points about the trip to Rwanda in particular, as well as the selection of Tony Lit to fight Ealing Southall for us. I've answered a few questions about the Rwanda trip myself. Of course it was a tough call. He was twixt a rock and a hard place. But withdrawal from such a carefully prepared visit to the Rwandan Parliament, at the very same time as the an important Conservative Policy Group was publishing its report on Global Poverty would have given a very poor message to the world. David Cameron was in a no-win position. The last thing we need is one of our own making the position worse. Thank goodness David Cameron has got Janet Daley giving him her full backing in today's Telegraph. I shouldn't think that Ali has done much for his chances of selection with these comments.
Its not that the points he makes are unreasonable. Its the way he's said them - and to whom. I've heard others make the same points about the trip to Rwanda in particular, as well as the selection of Tony Lit to fight Ealing Southall for us. I've answered a few questions about the Rwanda trip myself. Of course it was a tough call. He was twixt a rock and a hard place. But withdrawal from such a carefully prepared visit to the Rwandan Parliament, at the very same time as the an important Conservative Policy Group was publishing its report on Global Poverty would have given a very poor message to the world. David Cameron was in a no-win position. The last thing we need is one of our own making the position worse. Thank goodness David Cameron has got Janet Daley giving him her full backing in today's Telegraph. I shouldn't think that Ali has done much for his chances of selection with these comments.
Sunday, July 29, 2007
EU Referendum Please Mr Brown
Gordon Brown is on a high - at the top of a prolonged 'bounce'. His popularity is soaring and he must feel invulnerable and all powerful. He probably thinks that he could get away with the most outrageous 'con' of the British people - which is why he's trying to do just that. This could be the pin that will prick his bubble. The British people will get very cross when they realise that the Prime Minister has deliberately misled them.
We were promised a referendum on a new EU 'constitution' by Labour. No 'ifs', no 'buts'. It was a cast iron promise - with no wriggle room. As it happened we were never offered the promised referendum because it was rejected by other European countries first - and dropped. We are being told by Gordon Brown that the EU constitution treaty is defunct, dead and buried, gone - even though 240 of its 250 proposals are included in what is now called the European Union Reform Treaty. All that's happened is that its been given a new name. The Prime Minister's attempt to hoodwink the British people is a disgrace.
This treaty goes a long way towards creating a 'United States of Europe' - with its own President, its own Foreign Minister and its own Bill of Rights. It will greatly reduce the ability of the British Government to rule itself. There are arguments to be put for and against this Treaty - and I would be happy to accept the decision of the British people. But it must be put to the British people - something Mr Brown has no intention of doing. Tony Blair found out that we don't like being lied to on a great national issue of importance to us (like going to war or handing our ability to govern ourselves to the EU). Mr Brown will pay the same price as Blair - for also believing that he can get away with anything.
We were promised a referendum on a new EU 'constitution' by Labour. No 'ifs', no 'buts'. It was a cast iron promise - with no wriggle room. As it happened we were never offered the promised referendum because it was rejected by other European countries first - and dropped. We are being told by Gordon Brown that the EU constitution treaty is defunct, dead and buried, gone - even though 240 of its 250 proposals are included in what is now called the European Union Reform Treaty. All that's happened is that its been given a new name. The Prime Minister's attempt to hoodwink the British people is a disgrace.
This treaty goes a long way towards creating a 'United States of Europe' - with its own President, its own Foreign Minister and its own Bill of Rights. It will greatly reduce the ability of the British Government to rule itself. There are arguments to be put for and against this Treaty - and I would be happy to accept the decision of the British people. But it must be put to the British people - something Mr Brown has no intention of doing. Tony Blair found out that we don't like being lied to on a great national issue of importance to us (like going to war or handing our ability to govern ourselves to the EU). Mr Brown will pay the same price as Blair - for also believing that he can get away with anything.
Oscar concern
Shock, horror. I cannot believe it. Me, right of centre yes - but surely not agreeing with Simon Heffer. I admit that I still read his column, as much to chunter to myself something like "Its no wonder British voters stopped supporting the Tory Party if these sort of people fronted it". But I suppose it is Simon's job to be provocative. At least, he's nothing like as bad as Peter Hitchens whose column in the Mail on Sunday I can no longer read - makes me too cross.
Anyway, there it was in Simon Heffer's weekend column - my little joke in Friday's post about hoping that Oscar the cat, whose arrival to cuddle up close presages one's instant demise, would not turn up on the doorstep of Conservative Central Office. What chance have I got of winning preferment if party bosses link me with Simon Heffer. I cross my heart and swear that I thought of it myself - and on reflection, don't find it funny at all. And in passing, I agree with Simon's hard line on cannabis. And I agree that Gordon's best chance is to go to the country in October. I think I will carry on reading him.
Anyway, there it was in Simon Heffer's weekend column - my little joke in Friday's post about hoping that Oscar the cat, whose arrival to cuddle up close presages one's instant demise, would not turn up on the doorstep of Conservative Central Office. What chance have I got of winning preferment if party bosses link me with Simon Heffer. I cross my heart and swear that I thought of it myself - and on reflection, don't find it funny at all. And in passing, I agree with Simon's hard line on cannabis. And I agree that Gordon's best chance is to go to the country in October. I think I will carry on reading him.
Cats and Dogs.
I wasn't going to blog today, but then I visited Welsh Blog Index only to find that I was 'Blog of the Week'. This is my first ever 'blog award' and puts me under pressure to speak. But about what? What does a prizewinner blog about? After all this rain, I can only think of cats and dogs. And I did Oscar the cat yesterday. So it should be dogs today.
You might remember that Oscar was the moggy, all over last week's papers, which stalked an old people's home in the US, and on the last 25 time he'd sidled up to one of the residents, death had followed within 4 hours. Amazingly, the manager of the home adopted a policy of calling in the relatives to say their goodbyes, rather than simply getting rid of the cat. Today, I've been reading about Portuguese water dogs (and Labradors) which can detect lung and breast cancer more effectively than the best up-to-the-minute screening equipment.
It seems that there are chemical 'markers' in the breath of cancer sufferers which Portuguese water dogs can identify - and its a more effective diagnosis than mammograms and CT scans. I would never have believed this if I hadn't seen a Spaniel sniffing out Semtex at a demonstration put on by the Police last year. At the time, the Police were trying to persuade the National Assembly Government not to introduce legislation banning the tail docking of such. And to think of the NHS budget squillions that has gone into developing all this scanning equipment - when all we needed to do was let Portuguese water dogs breed and produce an endless supply of cancer spotters at almost no cost at all.
You might remember that Oscar was the moggy, all over last week's papers, which stalked an old people's home in the US, and on the last 25 time he'd sidled up to one of the residents, death had followed within 4 hours. Amazingly, the manager of the home adopted a policy of calling in the relatives to say their goodbyes, rather than simply getting rid of the cat. Today, I've been reading about Portuguese water dogs (and Labradors) which can detect lung and breast cancer more effectively than the best up-to-the-minute screening equipment.
It seems that there are chemical 'markers' in the breath of cancer sufferers which Portuguese water dogs can identify - and its a more effective diagnosis than mammograms and CT scans. I would never have believed this if I hadn't seen a Spaniel sniffing out Semtex at a demonstration put on by the Police last year. At the time, the Police were trying to persuade the National Assembly Government not to introduce legislation banning the tail docking of such. And to think of the NHS budget squillions that has gone into developing all this scanning equipment - when all we needed to do was let Portuguese water dogs breed and produce an endless supply of cancer spotters at almost no cost at all.
Friday, July 27, 2007
Maybe October after all.
I have been totally unconvinced thus far, that there is the slightest chance of Gordon Brown calling a General Election in October. I have been convinced that he plans to go in Spring 2009, with the outside possibility of it being Spring 2008. But today's Telegraph is shaking my certainty - big time. A Yougov poll has Labour 9 points clear of us - and there are other unfavourable percentages as well. If this sort of thing carries on until September, the Prime Minister will inevitably be tempted. I would. It may be his best chance of winning an election in his own right.
In the meantime, I just hope that Oscar, the cat which can sense when patients at a nursing home are about to die, doesn't think about moving into Tory Party HQ. Oscar has been winning rave headlines today. So far he has cuddled up to 25 residents in a residential home - and they all died within 4 hours. This sounds very sinister to me. I think that Oscar should be put under surveillance.
In fact, I believe (without evidence I grant) that by September, we will be back on level terms with Labour - and pull away next year. The question in my mind is whether we can pull away enough to win a good working majority. But just in case, I will be planning my election campaign strategy over the next few weeks. It could just be October after all.
In the meantime, I just hope that Oscar, the cat which can sense when patients at a nursing home are about to die, doesn't think about moving into Tory Party HQ. Oscar has been winning rave headlines today. So far he has cuddled up to 25 residents in a residential home - and they all died within 4 hours. This sounds very sinister to me. I think that Oscar should be put under surveillance.
In fact, I believe (without evidence I grant) that by September, we will be back on level terms with Labour - and pull away next year. The question in my mind is whether we can pull away enough to win a good working majority. But just in case, I will be planning my election campaign strategy over the next few weeks. It could just be October after all.
What if his name was just 'Bullock'.
Thank goodness that Shambo, the most celebrated friesian bullock in the world, was infected with bovine Tb, following tests on his carcase after he was slaughtered yesterday. Can you just imagine the fallout if he hadn't been infected - something that often happens when animals are taken from farmers after 'positive' tests. The Assembly Government would have been vilified across the entire world. I cannot believe the reach that this story has achieved. Huge picture on the front page of today's Telegraph for instance. Question is, would all this publicity have happened if the name of this rather poor quality, six year old bullock was something as prosaic as 'Bullock' or 'B8'. The monks of Skanda Vale Hindu community would have protested just the same, but the story might have remained no more than of local interest.
One point that does interest me is that if Shambo had not been slaughtered, the disease would have spread and caused other animals to contract bovine Tb - and thus have to die. How does a commitment to the sanctity of life solve this little consequence. One animal lives, but an unspecified number of other animals die as a result. Doesn't sound very humane to me.
And another question is where were Shambo's ear tags when he made his debut on TV. Every bovine in Britain is supposed to have two ear tags, one in each year. Shambo's ears were as free from adornment as the hands of a real man are free from jewelry. A few days later, two big yellow tags appeared. I wonder whether the same action will be taken that would be taken against every other farmer for similar 'offences'.
I'm really glad its all over. I know that some farmers think that the case has raised the profile of the curse of Bovine TB. Personally, I think that public sympathy has moved in favour of the monks. And I hope that there won't be anything like the same publicity when other animals are taken - as they surely will be. I daresay they are all being given cute little names as we speak.
One point that does interest me is that if Shambo had not been slaughtered, the disease would have spread and caused other animals to contract bovine Tb - and thus have to die. How does a commitment to the sanctity of life solve this little consequence. One animal lives, but an unspecified number of other animals die as a result. Doesn't sound very humane to me.
And another question is where were Shambo's ear tags when he made his debut on TV. Every bovine in Britain is supposed to have two ear tags, one in each year. Shambo's ears were as free from adornment as the hands of a real man are free from jewelry. A few days later, two big yellow tags appeared. I wonder whether the same action will be taken that would be taken against every other farmer for similar 'offences'.
I'm really glad its all over. I know that some farmers think that the case has raised the profile of the curse of Bovine TB. Personally, I think that public sympathy has moved in favour of the monks. And I hope that there won't be anything like the same publicity when other animals are taken - as they surely will be. I daresay they are all being given cute little names as we speak.
Disappointing Result.
Deeply disappointing result for my party in a Powys County Council by-election last night - at the Oldford Ward in Welshpool. Congratulations to the Lib Dem candidate, Francesca Jump who won around 230 votes. Independent, Delwyn Williams was second with around 140 votes, Another Independent, Charles Jones was third with 98 votes, and our candidate, Association Chair, Nick Bardsley came fourth with 95 votes. Mrs D and I had been out for an enjoyable supper on our wedding anniversary to the splendid Lake Vyrnwy Hotel - but this result put a bit of a damper on things.
The Lib Dem victory was no real surprise. They run their by-election campaigns very well - and the late Merv Kinsey won the ward three years ago with over 400 votes. And crucially, the Lib Dems have accepted today's reality that party politics are a part of local government. Montgomeryshire voters of the centre/right persuasion still take the view that party politics has no place in local government - and share the votes out amongst independents and us. The same is true of much of rural Wales.
May seem odd to say, but this was the best local election campaign that the Conservatives have ever fought in Montgomeryshire (at least that I can remember). I wasn't able to play much part in the planning because we were going through the process of selecting our parliamentary candidate at the same time - and I was involved personally. I'd hoped that we would have come second (if we didn't win that is) but it wasn't to be. Largely because an old friend of mine, the former Member of Parliament for Montgomeryshire, Delwyn Williams stood as an independent. I suspect he bagged quite a lot of our votes.
Delwyn's been a bit down on his luck since losing his seat to Alex Carlile in 1983, but remains a popular man locally. I'm told that he's been going around telling people that he intends to stand at the next General Election as well - which would make my task of winning the seat that much more difficult. Like Bruce Lawson, another popular local man, who intends to stand as Ukip's candidate in Montgomeryshire, he will see the potential Tory vote as his most fruitful territory. Across the UK, the Lib Dems are in a mess, but they will be smiling in Montgomeryshire after last night's result.
The Lib Dem victory was no real surprise. They run their by-election campaigns very well - and the late Merv Kinsey won the ward three years ago with over 400 votes. And crucially, the Lib Dems have accepted today's reality that party politics are a part of local government. Montgomeryshire voters of the centre/right persuasion still take the view that party politics has no place in local government - and share the votes out amongst independents and us. The same is true of much of rural Wales.
May seem odd to say, but this was the best local election campaign that the Conservatives have ever fought in Montgomeryshire (at least that I can remember). I wasn't able to play much part in the planning because we were going through the process of selecting our parliamentary candidate at the same time - and I was involved personally. I'd hoped that we would have come second (if we didn't win that is) but it wasn't to be. Largely because an old friend of mine, the former Member of Parliament for Montgomeryshire, Delwyn Williams stood as an independent. I suspect he bagged quite a lot of our votes.
Delwyn's been a bit down on his luck since losing his seat to Alex Carlile in 1983, but remains a popular man locally. I'm told that he's been going around telling people that he intends to stand at the next General Election as well - which would make my task of winning the seat that much more difficult. Like Bruce Lawson, another popular local man, who intends to stand as Ukip's candidate in Montgomeryshire, he will see the potential Tory vote as his most fruitful territory. Across the UK, the Lib Dems are in a mess, but they will be smiling in Montgomeryshire after last night's result.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Royal Welsh 2007
For me, the Royal Welsh Show is over for another year. Greatly diminished in size and enjoyment this year by the wet weather. Absolute nightmare for the organisers - and well done them for keeping the Show going for the full four days.
Shambo, the bullock at the centre of the TB storm was the top talking point. This has turned out to be a nightmare problem for the Government. Shambo might be a scrawny 6 year old freisian bullock who would never have been given shed room, let alone temple room on most Welsh farms - but his cute face on our TV screens won over millions of supporters across the world, including my own family. It became a really tough call. I always thought that there was no option but death for Shambo, and I was staggered by the High Court reprieve - which was overturned on appeal. Lucky Elin Jones, not having to don the 'black cap' herself. Elin has just gone to New Zealand for four weeks holiday. Very lucky for her that she hasn't gone to India.
Best Shambo joke of the Show was by David Fursden, President of the CLA, which put on a very grand anniversary 'do' on Tuesday. In his speech, David said that he was pleased that the High Court ruling had been overturned "because it saved the CLA from going to the trouble if becoming registered as a religion." And funniest line for me was when I pointed out to a friend of mine that his trouser zip was undone. Edward Hamer, another friend told him not to worry "because a dead bird never falls out of the nest". I'm sure its an old line, but I'd never heard it.
But as always, the Show was a fantastic event. Lets hope for better weather next year.
Shambo, the bullock at the centre of the TB storm was the top talking point. This has turned out to be a nightmare problem for the Government. Shambo might be a scrawny 6 year old freisian bullock who would never have been given shed room, let alone temple room on most Welsh farms - but his cute face on our TV screens won over millions of supporters across the world, including my own family. It became a really tough call. I always thought that there was no option but death for Shambo, and I was staggered by the High Court reprieve - which was overturned on appeal. Lucky Elin Jones, not having to don the 'black cap' herself. Elin has just gone to New Zealand for four weeks holiday. Very lucky for her that she hasn't gone to India.
Best Shambo joke of the Show was by David Fursden, President of the CLA, which put on a very grand anniversary 'do' on Tuesday. In his speech, David said that he was pleased that the High Court ruling had been overturned "because it saved the CLA from going to the trouble if becoming registered as a religion." And funniest line for me was when I pointed out to a friend of mine that his trouser zip was undone. Edward Hamer, another friend told him not to worry "because a dead bird never falls out of the nest". I'm sure its an old line, but I'd never heard it.
But as always, the Show was a fantastic event. Lets hope for better weather next year.
Alun Cairns MP ?
I was pleased to see that my very good friend, Alun Cairns was fast-tracked by the Vale of Glamorgan Conservatives last night to be their General Election candidate. I worked closely with Alun during my eight years as an Assembly Member - and always reckoned he was one of the sharpest, hardest working and inventive AMs, across all parties. He really knew how to 'hold the Government to account'. Like a dog with a bone. Although he's been an excellent and commited AM, he has always had a yen for Westminster. And I've always fully approved of this. Personally, I was a bit disappointed when Jonathon Morgan, the other highly talented Tory 'youngster' didn't go for Westminster as well. They both have Cabinet potential.
Its not that I see Westminster in any way more significant than Cardiff Bay. Its not, and in some ways its less significant. Its just that I like to see politicians moving between the different levels of Government - and I think that the House of Commons/London lifestyle is well suited to ambitious, energetic, young men and women. They can come back to the Assembly later on in life, bringing the sort of experience that came with Ron Davies, Rhodri Morgan, the two Dafydds and John Marek. Its because of my support for this fluidity that I so approve of Jonathon Evans, currently Tory MEP for Wales trying his luck in Cardiff North for the General Election. Jonathon is Wales outstanding Tory politician. I really hope he makes it.
I too am trying to move from the National Assembly to Westminster - but this has not really been a long standing ambition. I truly loved being a member of the National Assembly - and only considered Westminster after losing my seat on the great roulette wheel that is PR a few weeks ago. But I do recognise that there is an exciting job to do in Westminster, not least helping devolution be successful - and a wonderful history that must inspire anyone who steps foot into the Palace as a public representative. It would be a truly momentous day for me if Alun Cairns, Jonathon Evans and I walked into the House of Commons together. And I think that it's just about possible.
Its not that I see Westminster in any way more significant than Cardiff Bay. Its not, and in some ways its less significant. Its just that I like to see politicians moving between the different levels of Government - and I think that the House of Commons/London lifestyle is well suited to ambitious, energetic, young men and women. They can come back to the Assembly later on in life, bringing the sort of experience that came with Ron Davies, Rhodri Morgan, the two Dafydds and John Marek. Its because of my support for this fluidity that I so approve of Jonathon Evans, currently Tory MEP for Wales trying his luck in Cardiff North for the General Election. Jonathon is Wales outstanding Tory politician. I really hope he makes it.
I too am trying to move from the National Assembly to Westminster - but this has not really been a long standing ambition. I truly loved being a member of the National Assembly - and only considered Westminster after losing my seat on the great roulette wheel that is PR a few weeks ago. But I do recognise that there is an exciting job to do in Westminster, not least helping devolution be successful - and a wonderful history that must inspire anyone who steps foot into the Palace as a public representative. It would be a truly momentous day for me if Alun Cairns, Jonathon Evans and I walked into the House of Commons together. And I think that it's just about possible.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Brown Rain.
A few weeks days, a bishop (I think) in the North-East of England informed his congregation that the current spell of inclement weather was down to the sinful way by which we live our lives. Most people thought it was another 'Bishop of Southwark' incident - or that he was completely barking. I don't think he was any more so that those who think its all the result of climate change. Its just been a very wet summer. Personally, I do think the reason could possibly be some thing to do with Gordon Brown. Every day since he was 'installed' as our Prime Minister, its rained. Now, that's a very clear message from on high. So 'if you want to see the sun, ditch Brown'.
Despite the deluge, I went to the Royal Welsh Show yesterday. Not everyone who set off actually made it. Quite a few turned around as soon as they hit the queues and went home. My good fortune - because it elevated me, alongside current MEPs and fellow Westminster hopefuls, Jonathon Evans and Neil Parrish into the 'touring' Conservative representation. Just like old times.
There was a pork barrel of politicians there. Ministers everywhere. Elin Jones, smiling because she has been spared the responsibility for passing final sentence on Shambo - which the Court of Appeal did for her. She was wearing a bright orange mac. To begin with, I thought she was a traffic marshall who'd had enough abuse out on the roads and come onto the show for relief. And then there was Rhodri Glyn Thomas, in full strut - looking every inch an important person. I sympathise with the civil servant charged with keeping an eye on him. Possibly the most testing job in Welsh politics. Must say 'the duchess' really looked the part of the 'countrywoman'. You could tell she used to work on a farm. I think she's going to do ok. And Jane Hutt, who reminded me that she's now education'. Its a job to keep up. And I spotted the Deputy First Minister around and about as well, just keeping an eye on things.
All in all, it was the 'Farmer's Glastonbury' - so much rain and mud everywhere. I'm back to the show today - mainly because I have invited all CPRW members to a 'Meet the President' event. As I set off the sun has come out. Must check if Gordon Brown is still the Prime Minister.
Despite the deluge, I went to the Royal Welsh Show yesterday. Not everyone who set off actually made it. Quite a few turned around as soon as they hit the queues and went home. My good fortune - because it elevated me, alongside current MEPs and fellow Westminster hopefuls, Jonathon Evans and Neil Parrish into the 'touring' Conservative representation. Just like old times.
There was a pork barrel of politicians there. Ministers everywhere. Elin Jones, smiling because she has been spared the responsibility for passing final sentence on Shambo - which the Court of Appeal did for her. She was wearing a bright orange mac. To begin with, I thought she was a traffic marshall who'd had enough abuse out on the roads and come onto the show for relief. And then there was Rhodri Glyn Thomas, in full strut - looking every inch an important person. I sympathise with the civil servant charged with keeping an eye on him. Possibly the most testing job in Welsh politics. Must say 'the duchess' really looked the part of the 'countrywoman'. You could tell she used to work on a farm. I think she's going to do ok. And Jane Hutt, who reminded me that she's now education'. Its a job to keep up. And I spotted the Deputy First Minister around and about as well, just keeping an eye on things.
All in all, it was the 'Farmer's Glastonbury' - so much rain and mud everywhere. I'm back to the show today - mainly because I have invited all CPRW members to a 'Meet the President' event. As I set off the sun has come out. Must check if Gordon Brown is still the Prime Minister.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Don't Panic. Don't Panic.
No sooner do I get myself selected as a Tory candidate than I start to see headlines screaming "Conservative Meltdown". I was especially worried when I read commentators opining that "the Tories chose the wrong candidate" the day after I was selected. But it seems it was Tony Lit, our man in Ealing Southall rather than me who was in the frame. Some sort of relief. In any case, all this stuff about 'meltdown' is way over the top. Its wishful thinking by those who would like it to be so - like fellow blogger, Peter Black AM and Paul Flynn MP, both men clutching at silver linings.
But I do concede that it hasn't been the greatest few weeks for us. It began with the grammar schools 'row-over-nothing', followed by a very poor opinion poll for us in Wales (albeit commissioned by Plaid Cymru), followed by disappointing third places in Ealing Southall and Sedgefield, followed by two more polls today showing Labour ahead of us by 6%/7%. But for some reason, I don't feel depressed at all. Probably because I expected a Brown 'bounce' and a bit of internal turbulance (didn't except the Welsh poll though). Only thing that has rattled me a touch are the reports that some Tory MPs are trying to destabilise David Cameron's leadership. They must have been spending too much time in the Stranger's, or they are seriously lacking in the cerebral department.
Much more of this though, and Gordon Brown might be tempted by the idea of an October election. Fellow blogger, Nadine Dorries MP is already convinced the our new PM will go for it. But I don't buy it myself. He just doesn't have the courage. However, I do think he might be tempted if we don't succeed in changing the polls in our favour by next March. If I was putting any money on it, I would go for June, 2009, on the same date as the European Parliament Election. And I'd bet the farm on David Cameron still being our leader.
But I do concede that it hasn't been the greatest few weeks for us. It began with the grammar schools 'row-over-nothing', followed by a very poor opinion poll for us in Wales (albeit commissioned by Plaid Cymru), followed by disappointing third places in Ealing Southall and Sedgefield, followed by two more polls today showing Labour ahead of us by 6%/7%. But for some reason, I don't feel depressed at all. Probably because I expected a Brown 'bounce' and a bit of internal turbulance (didn't except the Welsh poll though). Only thing that has rattled me a touch are the reports that some Tory MPs are trying to destabilise David Cameron's leadership. They must have been spending too much time in the Stranger's, or they are seriously lacking in the cerebral department.
Much more of this though, and Gordon Brown might be tempted by the idea of an October election. Fellow blogger, Nadine Dorries MP is already convinced the our new PM will go for it. But I don't buy it myself. He just doesn't have the courage. However, I do think he might be tempted if we don't succeed in changing the polls in our favour by next March. If I was putting any money on it, I would go for June, 2009, on the same date as the European Parliament Election. And I'd bet the farm on David Cameron still being our leader.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Liberation
I won't go as far as to compare my situation with that of the free world in 1945. But I do feel liberated. After 11 weeks of frustration, I have broadband installed at home, and I can blog without having to go to Welshpool or an Internet cafe. I've experienced this wonderful sense of liberation before. I remember Jan. 1st. '03, when I came home from hospital after an 11 day stay and some serious body restructuring. I'd been told not to drive for 'x' no of weeks. But the car was there - and as soon as Mrs D turned her back, I struggled into the driving seat and away I went. Gwynneth and Wyn thought a ghost had arrived when I turned in and said I'd have a cup of coffee. Such a sense of liberation it was. Mind you, it didn't last long. A few weeks later, the local magistrates banned me from driving for 6 months under the totting-up procedure. But another burst of liberation when I had my licence back.
But back to my broadband. It has taken from May 3rd, when I lost my position as an AM, until today for me to sort it out. And if it hadn't been for Edward and Sally, two of our offspring who are IT whizzers, we would have just given up. I do ask myself whether BT is the worst company in the Western world (there could be something worse in the deepest African jungle I suppose). I recall Mrs D once being reduced to tears of frustration by Sky when the television had gone awry - but nothing like BT. In a class of its own. When I was an Assembly Member, BT used to ask me what I thought of the company and its service. I wish they would ask me now!.
Anyway, I will now be able to blog properly. Not as much as Iain Dale or Ordovicios of course - but when I feel like it, not when I can. Such liberation.
But back to my broadband. It has taken from May 3rd, when I lost my position as an AM, until today for me to sort it out. And if it hadn't been for Edward and Sally, two of our offspring who are IT whizzers, we would have just given up. I do ask myself whether BT is the worst company in the Western world (there could be something worse in the deepest African jungle I suppose). I recall Mrs D once being reduced to tears of frustration by Sky when the television had gone awry - but nothing like BT. In a class of its own. When I was an Assembly Member, BT used to ask me what I thought of the company and its service. I wish they would ask me now!.
Anyway, I will now be able to blog properly. Not as much as Iain Dale or Ordovicios of course - but when I feel like it, not when I can. Such liberation.
Friday, July 20, 2007
Burying Body Parts.
Read in today's Telegraph that Glamorgan batsman, Mike Powell has had one of his ribs buried at the Sophia Gardens cricket ground in Cardiff. This may seem a drastic way of developing a closer relationship with his home pitch - but it seems that he happened to have a spare rib to hand, after an operation to remove a blood clot last month. Heard of sportsmen putting their 'heart and soul' into the game - but this is the first time I've heard about a rib. All seems a bit macabre to me but Glamorgan's form has been so dire over recent seasons that it can't do any harm.
Come to think of it, I'm sorry that I didn't ask for Mrs D's old knee, when Stephen White, her consultant cut it off a few weeks ago, before fitting her up with a prosthetic. I know that some people look to this blog as a way of checking on Mrs D's progress, so I should add, in passing, that she is as good as new now that the replacement has settled in. But it would have been nice to plant the old knee in the garden somewhere, with some sort of plaque to mark the spot. Apart from the odd tooth, the only part of my body that has been surgically removed (when I was treated for colorectal cancer) wouldn't add much appeal to any garden.
Burying body parts, or even bodies in the garden can prove to be a problem though. I was once approached by a constituent who had buried the ashes of her husband on a site overlooking the house where they had spent many years together - but she wanted to move them because she always felt that he was watching over everything she did. And then I had another case where a widow had buried her deceased husband a few feet in front of the neighbour's sitting room window - on a piece of land, the ownership of which had been in dispute for 20 years and had led to them not speaking except through solicitors. The neighbours reckoned they could here him laughing when the night was very still. There are a lot of very odd folk around.
Come to think of it, I'm sorry that I didn't ask for Mrs D's old knee, when Stephen White, her consultant cut it off a few weeks ago, before fitting her up with a prosthetic. I know that some people look to this blog as a way of checking on Mrs D's progress, so I should add, in passing, that she is as good as new now that the replacement has settled in. But it would have been nice to plant the old knee in the garden somewhere, with some sort of plaque to mark the spot. Apart from the odd tooth, the only part of my body that has been surgically removed (when I was treated for colorectal cancer) wouldn't add much appeal to any garden.
Burying body parts, or even bodies in the garden can prove to be a problem though. I was once approached by a constituent who had buried the ashes of her husband on a site overlooking the house where they had spent many years together - but she wanted to move them because she always felt that he was watching over everything she did. And then I had another case where a widow had buried her deceased husband a few feet in front of the neighbour's sitting room window - on a piece of land, the ownership of which had been in dispute for 20 years and had led to them not speaking except through solicitors. The neighbours reckoned they could here him laughing when the night was very still. There are a lot of very odd folk around.
What's a Milf
I read today that the BBC's over-paid Jonathon Ross has been cleared by a committee of his own BBC bosses for calling Nigella Lawson a 'Milf' on his show. What can this mean. My spellchecker doesn't recognise it. 'Member of the Institute of Low-fat Food perhaps. He was cleared of saying a few other things as well, which I could understand all too well - language I thought more appropriate to a porn channel. What really struck me though was the reason that this committee gave when proclaiming the 'not guilty' verdict. It seems that seriously foul language is ok because Jonathon Ross "has a well established reputation for robust humour and language". What can Lord Reith be thinking?
Perhaps the BBC, now that she has decided to send all of her staff on 'honesty courses' will ask that an additional module be slipped in on 'appropriate language'. But this brings me back to the word 'Milf'. Its a word with a rather nice ring to it. Don't think I'll use it in a public speech until I know exactly what it means.
Perhaps the BBC, now that she has decided to send all of her staff on 'honesty courses' will ask that an additional module be slipped in on 'appropriate language'. But this brings me back to the word 'Milf'. Its a word with a rather nice ring to it. Don't think I'll use it in a public speech until I know exactly what it means.
Thursday, July 19, 2007
Checking out my new office.
Hope I'm not being a bit previous - but after being selected as a parliamentary candidate last night, I thought I'd pop down to the Palace of Westminster today to sus out a new office. With all this talk of an October election I thought I'd best not hang around. After all, I hear that Alun Cairns might be having a crack at Westminster as well - and if there is only one office available, he'll have his name on the door before they finish counting the votes. The boy's got form on this.
Actually, I've been in London for other reasons. Mainly to meet the top brass at the Campaign to Protect Rural England. I thing that CPRW may be able to learn from (and perhaps teach) the CPRE something useful. The CPRE office is along the river from Westminster - and I thought that I would like to walk along the embankment. And called for a coffee in the Atrium at Millbank. Sort of reminder of what I used to do a few years ago. And just to add a touch of authenticity, I tempted the BBC's David Cornock down from the top of the building to share a cappuccino and a gossip. He always did give me stick but my masochistic nature leads me to quite enjoy his company. Truth is, while I do not particularly like London, I have always experienced a great sense of awe around the Palace of Westminster. Its just a matter of overturning that majority of 7173 in Montgomeryshire. Think I'll go out canvassing at the Gungrog By-election in Welshpool tomorrow. Have to start some where and could bring the target down below 7170.
Actually, I've been in London for other reasons. Mainly to meet the top brass at the Campaign to Protect Rural England. I thing that CPRW may be able to learn from (and perhaps teach) the CPRE something useful. The CPRE office is along the river from Westminster - and I thought that I would like to walk along the embankment. And called for a coffee in the Atrium at Millbank. Sort of reminder of what I used to do a few years ago. And just to add a touch of authenticity, I tempted the BBC's David Cornock down from the top of the building to share a cappuccino and a gossip. He always did give me stick but my masochistic nature leads me to quite enjoy his company. Truth is, while I do not particularly like London, I have always experienced a great sense of awe around the Palace of Westminster. Its just a matter of overturning that majority of 7173 in Montgomeryshire. Think I'll go out canvassing at the Gungrog By-election in Welshpool tomorrow. Have to start some where and could bring the target down below 7170.
Victory for Victoria.
Victoria Otley is my heroine today. She's struck a blow for bowel cancer sufferers. Not everyone is keen to talk about this disease. Last year, I was outraged by the seemingly casual way that NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) issued guidance that the drug, Avastin was not value for money because it only extended the life of the terminal sufferer by 5 months (on average). Well, when you are dying, an extra 5 months is a very long time indeed.
Anyway, Victoria took them on. When Barking and Dagenham NHS Trust refused to provide her with the drug, she went to the High Court. And today, Mr Justice Mitting found in her favour. I don't suppose NICE will change its guidance though. Its just the way it is. After all, its only another 5 months life for someone dying from bowel cancer disease. Well Done Victoria. Some day, NICE will cure itself.
Anyway, Victoria took them on. When Barking and Dagenham NHS Trust refused to provide her with the drug, she went to the High Court. And today, Mr Justice Mitting found in her favour. I don't suppose NICE will change its guidance though. Its just the way it is. After all, its only another 5 months life for someone dying from bowel cancer disease. Well Done Victoria. Some day, NICE will cure itself.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Made it through.
"I can confirm that one of you has secured over 50% of the votes". It was the Chairman of the Montgomeryshire Association opening up the formal bit after the count had been completed at tonight's Open Primary to choose the Conservative candidate for the next General Election. Matthew Groves, my opponent was on the edge of his seat, wondering which of us this 'one' was. I just said, "Of course one of us has won over 50%of the votes. There are only two of us." Which makes me ask myself what would have happened if it had been a dead heat. I'll make enquiries tomorrow.
Anyway the Chairman and the 'enforcer' from Central Office, otherwise known as Vince looked at me with blank expressions and carried on "and that person is Glyn Davies". Great news for me and disappointing news for Mathew. In passing, I thought he was a really terrific bloke. I hope he gets a winnable seat. Now its Lembit Opik's 7173 majority that's in my sights. Good night all round - so Mrs D opened (and we finished) a bottle of 'champers' as Dame Jennifer Smith, ex-Prime Minister of Bermuda calls it. Feeling great and off to bed - have to be up at 4.00 and in London for 9.00 tomorrow. That is hellish - but I refuse to be deflated. Westminster, here we come.
Anyway the Chairman and the 'enforcer' from Central Office, otherwise known as Vince looked at me with blank expressions and carried on "and that person is Glyn Davies". Great news for me and disappointing news for Mathew. In passing, I thought he was a really terrific bloke. I hope he gets a winnable seat. Now its Lembit Opik's 7173 majority that's in my sights. Good night all round - so Mrs D opened (and we finished) a bottle of 'champers' as Dame Jennifer Smith, ex-Prime Minister of Bermuda calls it. Feeling great and off to bed - have to be up at 4.00 and in London for 9.00 tomorrow. That is hellish - but I refuse to be deflated. Westminster, here we come.
Saved by Patricia
I did it again last night. Will I never learn? I joined the seriously attractive Heledd Cynwal as her guest on Wedi Saith - wearing a dark blue shirt! No tie and the casual look, a la Cameron - except for the sweaty armpits. Not sure why it happens. The heat emanating from the camera lights perhaps. Or the pressure of live Welsh Language TV interviews. Or perhaps it was Heledd's mini skirt! Anyway, sweaty armpits don't show on a white shirt. That's tip No 1 for today.
But Patricia, who does all the making up for Wedi Saith was there - and she was armed with a hair dryer. So that's No 2 tip for the day. If you are of the 'sweaty armpits' tendency - always take along a hair dryer if you are doing a TV interview.
Anyway, I'm off to Llansantffraid now for the first 'Open Primary' ever to be held in wales to choose a parliamentary candidate. Tories setting the pace again. Mathew and I are up for selection at 4.30 this afternoon - and then its on to Carno for the second half, which begins at 7.30. I'll let you know how I got on when I'm home - probably about 10.00ish, unless I stop off for at the Aleppo Merchant for a drink on the way home. To celebrate or drown sorrows. I really hope that I am successful tonight. I would love to have a crack at reversing Lembit Opik's 7173 majority. I've just reminded myself to put on one of my white shirts. Thanks Patricia.
But Patricia, who does all the making up for Wedi Saith was there - and she was armed with a hair dryer. So that's No 2 tip for the day. If you are of the 'sweaty armpits' tendency - always take along a hair dryer if you are doing a TV interview.
Anyway, I'm off to Llansantffraid now for the first 'Open Primary' ever to be held in wales to choose a parliamentary candidate. Tories setting the pace again. Mathew and I are up for selection at 4.30 this afternoon - and then its on to Carno for the second half, which begins at 7.30. I'll let you know how I got on when I'm home - probably about 10.00ish, unless I stop off for at the Aleppo Merchant for a drink on the way home. To celebrate or drown sorrows. I really hope that I am successful tonight. I would love to have a crack at reversing Lembit Opik's 7173 majority. I've just reminded myself to put on one of my white shirts. Thanks Patricia.
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