Wednesday 22 December 2010

Another Lib Dem policy in action

Excellent news from the Liberal Democrats:
"The abolition of identity cards was confirmed yesterday, when the Identity Documents Bill was granted Royal Assent.

Liberal Democrats have consistently campaigned against ID cards, a scheme introduced by the previous Labour Government.

All existing ID cards will be cancelled within one month, and the National Identity Register, the database which contains the biographic and biometric fingerprint data of card holders, will be destroyed within two months.

The Identity Card Scheme and other biometrics work has already cost the taxpayer £292 million. The Act has saved £835 million in planned future investment."

Tuesday 21 December 2010

Vince Cable shock horror probe

Pushing even the weather and transport chaos into second place on the radio news this morning was the scoop from the Daily Telegraph that Vince Cable admits relationships in the coalition aren't always harmonious and that he could quit his role as business secretary if pushed too far.

My first reaction to this was astonishment that a newspaper like the Telegraph would think it appropriate to use a 'sting' operation like this against a senior politician in a case that didn't involve crime or wrongdoing.

My second was that disagreement, perhaps even strong disagreement, in the coalition is hardly news. For two such opposed political parties to work together is always going to be difficult and create pressures and tensions. If that weren't the case I'd be very worried, frankly. What on earth did these 'journalists' unearth that wasn't already commonplace?

My third was anger at the 'journalists' concerned who used Vince's constituency surgery to pose as constituents and conduct this charade. I've been an elected politician who has held surgeries for the people who elected me to come with any problems and concerns. It's a service I'd hope all elected politicians would offer, and one that shouldn't be abused. Our members of parliament shouldn't always have to be thinking 'is this a real constituent in front of me with a real problem, or just someone pretending in order to get a story?'.

This shouldn't be an embarrassment for Vince. But it sure as hell should be for the Telegraph.

Thursday 16 December 2010

Not before time

Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg has announced an end to child detention for immigration purposes. He has confirmed that the family wing of Yarls Wood detention centre will close immediately, and that no child will be held in detention for immigration reasons over Christmas.

The incarceration of children who had done no wrong was an appalling act by the last Labour government, and one of the many reasons I am truly glad to have seen Labour defeated at the last General Election.

Tidings of comfort and joy indeed, and something for liberals to be truly proud of today.

Wednesday 1 December 2010

Snow clearance

Thanks to Mark Pack for his very helpful (not to mention seasonal) observations on whether or not it's OK to clear snow from outside your home. Another tabloid myth busted.

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