General
Wednesday, 25 April 2012 05:01
124 Comments
By a Newsnet reporter 
First Minister Alex Salmond has described the latest claims of impropriety made against him by Unionist politicians as “total nonsense”.
The SNP leader was responding to accusations by the Unionist parties at Holyrood that he had offered to lobby the UK Government over News Corp’s plans to take control of BskyB.
The accusations follow publication of an internal News Corp email that claimed an aide to Mr Salmond had promised he would contact UK Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt, “whenever we need him to”.
The email emerged as News Corp chief James Murdoch gave evidence at the Leveson enquiry.
Asked if the First Minister had sought a deal that involved favourable press coverage, Mr Murdoch said: "If the insinuation is there was any quid pro quo with editorial coverage versus a commercial agenda I can tell you categorically that it is false."
However Johann Lamont, Willie Rennie and David McLetchie joined together to accuse the First Minister variously of supporting Murdoch in return for support; of an “an outrageous exchange” and of hawking himself for “political favours”.
"It seems all that mattered to Salmond was that he would support Murdoch in return for Murdoch's papers supporting Salmond - this stinks." said Scottish Labour leader Johann Lamont.
Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie called for an investigation and said: "When the troubled media mogul said jump, it is clear that Alex Salmond was quick to say 'how high?'
"We need an immediate investigation into the circumstances which led to such an outrageous exchange taking place."
Conservative MSP David McLetchie said: "What has emerged today is that Alex Salmond was happy to hawk himself around as a lobbyist on behalf of the Murdoch empire in return for political favours.
"It is conduct unbecoming of a first minister, which has become all too familiar."
However in a statement, a spokesman for the First Minister said: "These references, in a handful out of hundreds of emails, represent internal chatter from within News International.
"It is total nonsense to suggest there was ever any quid pro quo offered by the Scottish government over the BSkyB bid, and nor could there possibly have been, because the Scottish government had absolutely no determination over BSkyB's ownership.
"Indeed, James Murdoch categorically rejected such claims in his evidence to the inquiry, and the proof of that lies in the fact that the first minister has never spoken to or corresponded with Jeremy Hunt on this issue."
The spokesman added that Mr Salmond was invited "some time ago" to give evidence to the Leveson Inquiry and was looking forward to do so.
"The First Minister has certainly discussed News Corp's operations in Scotland with James Murdoch, and it would be extraordinary if they had not done so given the fact the company employs many thousands of people here,"
Other emails not yet revealed by the Scottish media appear to call into question accusations that Mr Salmond was acting in anything other than Scotland’s economic best interests.
In one email dated 1st November 2010, it states: “His [Alex Salmond] team will also brief the Scottish press on the economic importance of News Corp for Scotland”.
News Corp currently employ 6000 people in Scotland and it is known that the First Minister recently held talks with Rupert Murdoch over his organisations plans for Scotland.
The Murdoch Empire turned against the Labour party shortly before the 2010 General election after years of strong support.
Update - 23:10
Scottish Labour MSP Jackie Baillie appeared to blunder on STV current affairs show Scotland Tonight when she claimed that the email showed a link between the Sun's support for the SNP and the First Minister's support for the BskyB bid.
"I think the problem is the linkage in the email between the question of his support for the BskyB bid and the question of the Sun's support for the SNP prior to the last elections." she said.
The published email in fact makes no mention of any newspaper support whatsoever. Ms Baillie was immediately challenged by fellow guest, Colin Mackay, who insisted there was "no evidence" that the two things were connected.
Newsnet Scotland has also discovered suggestions that the Scottish Lib Dems were also supportive of the BskyB bid. In another communication a segment reads:
"He was very much taken by our commitment to Scotland and Alex Salmond’s desire to support us. He thought it was a strong ally to put forward, very contrarian/unexpected. Same for Scottish lib-dems."
Speaking last night on Newsnight Scotland, Tavish Scott who was leader of the Scottish Lib Dems at the time, denied any knowledge of the email claim.
Read the emails here: http://www.levesoninquiry.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Exhibit-KRM-18.pdf
Comments
#
2012-04-24 21:38
Alex Salmond has every right to speak with a company who employs 6000 people in Scotland.Also,while I do believe he has done no wrong it has to be also taken in context that yes, I am sure he would want to encourage THE SUN to help the SNP where it could. Consider all the Unionist Media and manipulation that is going on, why would he not want some help.
After all, what about T.Blair, Gordon Brown, and others who were speaking to News International behind closed doors in Downing Street, even through the back door. Cameron and his cosy dinners. Alex Salmond has little to fear and Labour should be swiftly reminded of their more intimate relationship with News International bosses. Back in the day.
They have a nerve, but there are laws for some and none for others!
After all, what about T.Blair, Gordon Brown, and others who were speaking to News International behind closed doors in Downing Street, even through the back door. Cameron and his cosy dinners. Alex Salmond has little to fear and Labour should be swiftly reminded of their more intimate relationship with News International bosses. Back in the day.
They have a nerve, but there are laws for some and none for others!
#
2012-04-24 21:39
Just laughable hearing comments from McLetchie - isn't Jeremy Hunt a member of his party ?
Isn't Vince Cable, incapable of handling the BSkyB bid outside his personal hatred for Murdoch that he had to be removed - a member of Rennie's party ?
And as for lamont - well where do we start with her and he corrupt labourites that have bed-hopped with every single newspaper in the land, and paid them handsomely for it. How much have labour in Scotland spent on advertising in the Daily Record ?
Get ready for FMQ's on Thursday Alex, it's going to be a belter.
Isn't Vince Cable, incapable of handling the BSkyB bid outside his personal hatred for Murdoch that he had to be removed - a member of Rennie's party ?
And as for lamont - well where do we start with her and he corrupt labourites that have bed-hopped with every single newspaper in the land, and paid them handsomely for it. How much have labour in Scotland spent on advertising in the Daily Record ?
Get ready for FMQ's on Thursday Alex, it's going to be a belter.
#
2012-04-24 21:39
Scottish unionists will make the most of this non-story.Hopefully the Scottish electorate will note the difference between fact and fiction.
But how will BBC "Scotland" deal with it?
But how will BBC "Scotland" deal with it?
#
2012-04-24 22:06
The Biased BBC have made it their top Scottish story, lending credibility to what is otherwise the most ludicrous of accusations.
Does anybody seriously believe Alex Salmond would pick up the phone to talk to the Tories in London and somehow 'persuade' them to listen to his views on BsysB.
The Tories despise Alex Salmond, for heavens sake.
I keep trying to wake up, because I am sure this is just a mad dream.
Does anybody seriously believe Alex Salmond would pick up the phone to talk to the Tories in London and somehow 'persuade' them to listen to his views on BsysB.
The Tories despise Alex Salmond, for heavens sake.
I keep trying to wake up, because I am sure this is just a mad dream.
#
2012-04-24 21:57
bbc headline at it again claiming somehow alex salmond made an offer!
bbc.co.uk/.../...
on the home page it says bskyb 'offer' then when you click on the it link it changes to call 'offer' example of bbc making it look like alex salmond is corrupt when its far from it when you look at all the news international internal emails!
bbc.co.uk/.../...
on the home page it says bskyb 'offer' then when you click on the it link it changes to call 'offer' example of bbc making it look like alex salmond is corrupt when its far from it when you look at all the news international internal emails!
#
2012-04-24 21:59
Of course this is just another attempt at a character assassination with scraps of nothing. All this blown up rhetoric so the MSM can report on the 'fury' and 'anger' against the pretendy guilt of the First Minister.
Blair, Broon, Cameron, Clegg, Millipede... all media whores with the MSM when they need to be, with back door deals and champaign parties that McLetchie, Lamont and Rennie would like to think never existed with the Murdochs or anybody else.
Disgusting hypocrisy!
Blair, Broon, Cameron, Clegg, Millipede... all media whores with the MSM when they need to be, with back door deals and champaign parties that McLetchie, Lamont and Rennie would like to think never existed with the Murdochs or anybody else.
Disgusting hypocrisy!
#
2012-04-25 10:53
Yes. They tried it with the Bute house story, which was just a storm in a teacup. Now this. They are DESPERATE for even the slightest whiff of something fishy at the SNP. The problem is, they can't smell anything that stinks at the SNP, partly because there's nothing fishy going on there and partly because thier noses are being assaulted by the stench of thier own politics! Bring it on unionists, the SNP have nothing to fear.
Oh, and by the way, where's wee Ruthie been this week? A big story like this and she's nowhere???
Oh, and by the way, where's wee Ruthie been this week? A big story like this and she's nowhere???
#
2012-04-24 22:01
For heaven's sake, are Willie Rennie, Johan Lamont and the other one, collectively losing their sanity???
Salmond and David Cameron bestest mates?????? Jeeeez.
Seriously, are they suggesting Alex Salmond was in contact with the Tories in order to influence the BSYB bid. I mean, honestly, it is so freaking stupid, it beggars belief.
This is just mad. Yet our beloved biased BBC makes it the number 1 story. You really, really, really could not make this up.
Mr. Salmond shouldn't even give any credibility to this guff by responding. Utter, utter nonsense.
Salmond and David Cameron bestest mates?????? Jeeeez.
Seriously, are they suggesting Alex Salmond was in contact with the Tories in order to influence the BSYB bid. I mean, honestly, it is so freaking stupid, it beggars belief.
This is just mad. Yet our beloved biased BBC makes it the number 1 story. You really, really, really could not make this up.
Mr. Salmond shouldn't even give any credibility to this guff by responding. Utter, utter nonsense.
#
2012-04-25 09:05
"You really, really, really could not make this up." No, but they could, unfortunately.
#
2012-04-24 22:04
Can I post this here also, this topic just been discussed, thanks'
The BBC are really pushing the union, heard a bit on Jeremy (by the way Jeremy your brother is not in the least bit funny) Vine show about loving where you live which is really just trying to justify the money spent on London 2012.
Radio Scotland pushing the team GB, wow we are getting the Spanish junior team playing some other major football nation reserve teams, haud me back!!
Then tonight following the Leveson thing BBC Scotland tried to smear Alex Salmond by asking the tame employee if he thought some email could give the perception of etc etc, in other words does a BBC employee think that something written could make someone else think something!! Give me strength!!!!!!!
The BBC are really pushing the union, heard a bit on Jeremy (by the way Jeremy your brother is not in the least bit funny) Vine show about loving where you live which is really just trying to justify the money spent on London 2012.
Radio Scotland pushing the team GB, wow we are getting the Spanish junior team playing some other major football nation reserve teams, haud me back!!
Then tonight following the Leveson thing BBC Scotland tried to smear Alex Salmond by asking the tame employee if he thought some email could give the perception of etc etc, in other words does a BBC employee think that something written could make someone else think something!! Give me strength!!!!!!!
#
2012-04-24 22:07
Lest we forget........some politicians seem to have short memories......
guardian.co.uk/.../...
There were more Labour figures at the party than Conservative ministers, a reflection, perhaps, of Labour's continuing obsession with winning over Murdoch when they can, and trying to neutralise his title's most venomous attacks when they fail. As well as Miliband and two of his closest advisers, Tom Baldwin and Stewart Wood, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper and shadow foreign secretary Douglas Alexander also partied.
guardian.co.uk/.../...
There were more Labour figures at the party than Conservative ministers, a reflection, perhaps, of Labour's continuing obsession with winning over Murdoch when they can, and trying to neutralise his title's most venomous attacks when they fail. As well as Miliband and two of his closest advisers, Tom Baldwin and Stewart Wood, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper and shadow foreign secretary Douglas Alexander also partied.
#
2012-04-24 22:10
Quoting balbeggie:
A very, very good link, worth remembering, and sending to Lamont.
Lest we forget........some politicians seem to have short memories......
guardian.co.uk/.../...
There were more Labour figures at the party than Conservative ministers, a reflection, perhaps, of Labour's continuing obsession with winning over Murdoch when they can, and trying to neutralise his title's most venomous attacks when they fail. As well as Miliband and two of his closest advisers, Tom Baldwin and Stewart Wood, shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper and shadow foreign secretary Douglas Alexander also partied.
A very, very good link, worth remembering, and sending to Lamont.
#
2012-04-25 11:28
In the article, is that George Foulkes out of focus (I mean the photo) on the right?
He of twitter fame: "CyberNats strangely silent on Salmond trading support for SNP from the Sun for lobbying for his mate Murdoch's takeover of Sky."
He of twitter fame: "CyberNats strangely silent on Salmond trading support for SNP from the Sun for lobbying for his mate Murdoch's takeover of Sky."
#
2012-04-24 22:11
Fight ' slab ' and their unionist cohorts on the ' streets ' they have the ' biased unionist msn solidly behind them ' we the nationalist's are for the Scottish people with no help from any news media , we talk to the Scottish people and it is the Scottish electorate that will decide our future , we will always abide by their decision , Alba Gu Brath.
#
2012-04-24 22:39
The First Minister is right - this is TOTAL NONSENSE. How can the unionist parties in their right mind believe any of this stuff and, even worse, waste taxpayers money by demanding an emergency statement? Rennie, McLetchie and Lamont don't even deserve to be in opposition.
#
2012-04-25 11:02
I take issue with that statement,
"Rennie, McLetchie and Lamont don't even deserve to be in opposition."
Lamont was duly voted in by the electorate when she won her constituency. Rennie and Davidson are in on list seats. They most certainly do not deserve to be in opposition, or in government at all, never mind leaders of thir parties. Lamont, lamentable as she may be, has the right to be there by dint of gaining the backing of her constituents. I do however think that many of them will have changed thier minds by the next election.
"Rennie, McLetchie and Lamont don't even deserve to be in opposition."
Lamont was duly voted in by the electorate when she won her constituency. Rennie and Davidson are in on list seats. They most certainly do not deserve to be in opposition, or in government at all, never mind leaders of thir parties. Lamont, lamentable as she may be, has the right to be there by dint of gaining the backing of her constituents. I do however think that many of them will have changed thier minds by the next election.
#
2012-04-24 22:43
Jackie Baillie mithering on Scotland Tonight. She tried to put forward the point that AS claimed to have released all info to do contact with Murdoch, so why was this not included.
Because Jackie, the emails are internal News International communications. AS and the SG would've had no access to them.
Trump on now talking nonsense. He loves Scatland, everyone wanted him to come here... Except the people who got turfed out their homes and the people who complained vehemenently about the destruction of our natural coastline.
Its a double wammy.
Because Jackie, the emails are internal News International communications. AS and the SG would've had no access to them.
Trump on now talking nonsense. He loves Scatland, everyone wanted him to come here... Except the people who got turfed out their homes and the people who complained vehemenently about the destruction of our natural coastline.
Its a double wammy.
#
2012-04-24 23:28
Quote:
She doesn't do facts.
Because Jackie, the emails are internal News International communications. AS and the SG would've had no access to them.
She doesn't do facts.
#
2012-04-24 22:51
By way of contrast it was interesting to compare how Channel 4 news covered this story this evening.
The Leveson Inquiry was indeed their top story and they spent a full 15 minutes covering the political fallout from James Murdoch's testimony.
Strangely not once was Alex Salmond mentioned, rather it was the calls for the resignation of Tory minister Jeremy Hunt and the damage to the Coalition that was the focus.
This is just more guff from Paific Quay.
The Leveson Inquiry was indeed their top story and they spent a full 15 minutes covering the political fallout from James Murdoch's testimony.
Strangely not once was Alex Salmond mentioned, rather it was the calls for the resignation of Tory minister Jeremy Hunt and the damage to the Coalition that was the focus.
This is just more guff from Paific Quay.
#
2012-04-24 23:18
Yes I noticed that even on BBC UK news. It would appear the Labour Party has again used its influence on BBC Scotland to set an agenda. It was simply a headline with no substance.
#
2012-04-24 22:52
The following paragraph from the above article says it all really:-
"Other emails not yet revealed by the Scottish media appear to call into question accusations that Mr Salmond was acting in anything other than Scotland’s economic best interests."
So once again we have the MSM trying to smear Alex Salmond.
The unionist establishment strategy is clear:-
(1) frighten the undecided voters into voting for the status quo by bombarding them daily with scare stories;
(2) deny the SNP the oxygen of publicity by controlling the political output of the BBC and MSM so that voters cannot get the truth;
(3) vilify the leadership of the SNP and turn them into bogey men that voters fear.
(4) tell lies about the SNP and independence as much as possible without being caught put.
"Other emails not yet revealed by the Scottish media appear to call into question accusations that Mr Salmond was acting in anything other than Scotland’s economic best interests."
So once again we have the MSM trying to smear Alex Salmond.
The unionist establishment strategy is clear:-
(1) frighten the undecided voters into voting for the status quo by bombarding them daily with scare stories;
(2) deny the SNP the oxygen of publicity by controlling the political output of the BBC and MSM so that voters cannot get the truth;
(3) vilify the leadership of the SNP and turn them into bogey men that voters fear.
(4) tell lies about the SNP and independence as much as possible without being caught put.
#
2012-04-24 23:02
I posted some thing like this earlier but it vanished when the post I replied to vanished into the ether.
What the SG should do is set up an independent Scottish Press and Media Enquiry so that the public can see for themselves what links there are between the political parties and the print and broadcast media. I think we should strive for a 100% transparent press and political system.
What the SG should do is set up an independent Scottish Press and Media Enquiry so that the public can see for themselves what links there are between the political parties and the print and broadcast media. I think we should strive for a 100% transparent press and political system.
#
2012-04-24 23:06
OT - on the subject of the MSM or should I call it the Corporate Media
asairfecht.blogspot.co.uk/.../...
asairfecht.blogspot.co.uk/.../...
#
2012-04-25 05:26
Even more amazing is the fact that The Scotsman is not screaming its head off in banner headlines with a leading story about the alleged 'Salmond/Murdoch Scandal'
#
2012-04-25 08:29
Quoting Saltire Groppenslosh:
Along with the recent boss change, could this have something to do with the £140,000,000 loss they just announced this morning?
It seems to me there is a very large opportunity to make a killing (not literal)for the first printed press establishment that is prepared to offer a balanced view of Scottish life with up-to-date, accurate and relevant journalistic input.
Just maybe this is the start of the swing away from regurgitated PA output and wholesale SLab press release exposure.
Entirely O/T, but have you seen this????????
scotsman.com/.../...
I'm shocked and amazed.
Along with the recent boss change, could this have something to do with the £140,000,000 loss they just announced this morning?
It seems to me there is a very large opportunity to make a killing (not literal)for the first printed press establishment that is prepared to offer a balanced view of Scottish life with up-to-date, accurate and relevant journalistic input.
Just maybe this is the start of the swing away from regurgitated PA output and wholesale SLab press release exposure.
#
2012-04-25 09:05
I wholly agree with what you say. It beggars belief that none of the mainstream media have realised the huge potential there is, in the Scottish market, to be the first to provide a balanced view of Scottish politics, and move away from the pro Britannia hubris which the laughingly titled' Scotsman' specialises in.
We can but live in hope, that maybe, just maybe the new boss of Johnstone press will wake up to the political reality of Scotland 2012, instead of living in a pre 2007 political bubble.
We can but hope. I'll believe it when they stop running any of the following;
'Salmond accused'
'SNP accused'
'Salmond failed'
and so on, without a legitimate reason to do so.
We can but live in hope, that maybe, just maybe the new boss of Johnstone press will wake up to the political reality of Scotland 2012, instead of living in a pre 2007 political bubble.
We can but hope. I'll believe it when they stop running any of the following;
'Salmond accused'
'SNP accused'
'Salmond failed'
and so on, without a legitimate reason to do so.
#
2012-04-25 16:44
RL"It beggars belief that none of the mainstream media have realised the huge potential there is, in the Scottish market".
An open goal here for STV,but they're no budgin !
An open goal here for STV,but they're no budgin !
#
2012-04-25 10:44
Gobsmacked!
I had to go and check the sky (not Rupert's) had not fallen in!
I seem to be seeing a bit of a sea change going on out there, and not just with the Scotsman.
I had to go and check the sky (not Rupert's) had not fallen in!
I seem to be seeing a bit of a sea change going on out there, and not just with the Scotsman.
#
2012-04-24 23:26
The potential link between Hunt and Murdoch, given Hunt's Cabinet role, is an issue. That Murdoch may have asked other senior politicians not associated with the bid to lobby on his behalf is neither surprising nor illegal. That Murdoch may have been more disposed to the SNP because they were supportive of his not inconsiderable business interests in Scotland is also not surprising.
The BSB bid fell by the wayside when all the flak over the News of the World broke last summer. Prior to that everybody from Gordon Brown to Cameron wined and dined the Murdochs...far more than Alex Salmond ever has and for a lot longer. The support from the new Sun on Sunday is recent and clearly has nothing to do with the BSB bid...probably has more to do with Murdoch's annoyance with his former fair weather friends.
I can't say I am a fan of the Murdochs but if I was McLetchie or Baillie I wouldn't crow too much. The Murdoch shadow is very long.
The BSB bid fell by the wayside when all the flak over the News of the World broke last summer. Prior to that everybody from Gordon Brown to Cameron wined and dined the Murdochs...far more than Alex Salmond ever has and for a lot longer. The support from the new Sun on Sunday is recent and clearly has nothing to do with the BSB bid...probably has more to do with Murdoch's annoyance with his former fair weather friends.
I can't say I am a fan of the Murdochs but if I was McLetchie or Baillie I wouldn't crow too much. The Murdoch shadow is very long.
#
2012-04-24 23:31
Tavish Scott has denied any knowledge of the LibDems supporting the BSkyB bid which tends to suggest that Murdoch's PR bloke was just making it all up as he went along.
#
2012-04-25 09:11
Or could it be that Tavish is a stranger to the truth, and they don't come much stranger.....
#
2012-04-24 23:54
The nub of it really - the opposition don't have anything of political substance and so resort to nonsense like this (well not so much resort but rather grasp like a drowning man grasps a straw)
#
2012-04-24 23:53
Dcanmore sums the unionist position up in two words: Disgusting hypocrisy!
All of the unionist parties have drooled over Murdoch's every syllable at one time or another and all were willing to jump as high and as often as it took......such is the power of the Murdoch media Empire (rightly or wrongly).
What's freaking them out in Scotland is that the SNP now have a powerful media ally in Scotland which could help propel us into Independence.
That's the reality, the rest is unionist bull.
VOTE YES in 2014
All of the unionist parties have drooled over Murdoch's every syllable at one time or another and all were willing to jump as high and as often as it took......such is the power of the Murdoch media Empire (rightly or wrongly).
What's freaking them out in Scotland is that the SNP now have a powerful media ally in Scotland which could help propel us into Independence.
That's the reality, the rest is unionist bull.
VOTE YES in 2014
#
2012-04-24 23:57
The usual suspects out tonight. What you might call the night crawlers.
Jackie Bailie insists that Salmond goes to the Leveson enquiry and gives evidence under oath yet she is not prepared to accept the word of James Murdoch which was also given under oath. Just a little bit of inconsistency methinks.
Jackie Bailie insists that Salmond goes to the Leveson enquiry and gives evidence under oath yet she is not prepared to accept the word of James Murdoch which was also given under oath. Just a little bit of inconsistency methinks.
#
2012-04-25 09:16
Alex Salmond was invited to speak to the Leveson enquiry quite some time ago, and happily agreed.
No doubt however, the Labour party will seek to suggest that Alex Salmond is going, only because of Jackie Baillie's comment.
No doubt however, the Labour party will seek to suggest that Alex Salmond is going, only because of Jackie Baillie's comment.
#
2012-04-25 00:14
Just read through the emails with reference to the FM. Seems the Labour party will try literally anything to smear the FM. And the BBC should be called on their selective reporting of the content of the Leveson evidence. Once again trying to set fire to a pile of wet wood. Although, I suppose Baillie must finally be glad to be talking lying about something other than blankets.
#
2012-04-25 00:40
All this does is reinforce my belief that they are thrashing about like a child that has been told no in the hope that they get noticed.
Mahatma Gandhi "First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win." So which stage would this be classed as to me it seems to be the third stage but I'm tired so brain not functioning right now and if it is fight stage they seem to be flying through very quickly which suits me
Mahatma Gandhi "First they ignore you, then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you win." So which stage would this be classed as to me it seems to be the third stage but I'm tired so brain not functioning right now and if it is fight stage they seem to be flying through very quickly which suits me
#
2012-04-25 06:40
Glad to see you quoting this ByeByeUnion
It is a great thought to have in your mind whenever you hear,read or see anything related to the road to independence now.
I have been thinking it since about a year or so before last years SNP win. It helps me keep calm and not get riled by the things that the Unionists and their media friends make up against the SNP and Alex Salmond in particular.
It is a great thought to have in your mind whenever you hear,read or see anything related to the road to independence now.
I have been thinking it since about a year or so before last years SNP win. It helps me keep calm and not get riled by the things that the Unionists and their media friends make up against the SNP and Alex Salmond in particular.
#
2012-04-25 07:35
Near as I can tell A.S. is guilty of trying to find a newspaper that will publish pro independence stories and trying to secure 6000 jobs in Scotland. OOOOHHHHHHHHHHH the shame of it.
#
2012-04-25 07:55
Quoting Macart:
Perhaps he might meet with Johnson Press and seek Scotsman support for Independence as Johnson Press just announced £144 million loss for past 12 months.
Near as I can tell A.S. is guilty of trying to find a newspaper that will publish pro independence stories and trying to secure 6000 jobs in Scotland. OOOOHHHHHHHHHHH the shame of it.
Perhaps he might meet with Johnson Press and seek Scotsman support for Independence as Johnson Press just announced £144 million loss for past 12 months.
#
2012-04-25 08:35
Hah! Anything's possible - scotsman.com/.../...
I've said it before RS, the FMs done nothing that any politician on the planet wouldn't do in terms of press relations and nothing any good businessman wouldn't do to keep the bread on the table. This is being sold as guilt by association at the end of the day.
You deal with Murdoch therefore you must be condemned and your party and movements must pack their collective bags forthwith. On that basis the only parties that should inhabit both Westminster and Holyrood are the Greens and those the pollsters graphs describe as other.
The real question is has A.S. or the Scottish Government broken any law here and as far as anyone can tell, the answer is no.
I've said it before RS, the FMs done nothing that any politician on the planet wouldn't do in terms of press relations and nothing any good businessman wouldn't do to keep the bread on the table. This is being sold as guilt by association at the end of the day.
You deal with Murdoch therefore you must be condemned and your party and movements must pack their collective bags forthwith. On that basis the only parties that should inhabit both Westminster and Holyrood are the Greens and those the pollsters graphs describe as other.
The real question is has A.S. or the Scottish Government broken any law here and as far as anyone can tell, the answer is no.
#
2012-04-25 07:37
These claims are based on an internal email from an over exciting News International PR man who also claimed that Lib Dems were very supportive of the BSkyB bid.
Jackie Baillie also lied on two TV channels last night when she claimed Alex Salmond failed to release details of this Email. Because Jackie it was an internal News International Email…. Doh!
There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that Alex Salmond wrote or phoned Jeremy Hunt. End of story and total nonsense from pygmy politicians.
In sticking up for 6000 jobs in
Scotland, Alex Salmond’s meetings seem perfectly normal and not very different from what might have been expected from any First Minister of any party.
Everybody leading politician from Tony Blair to Gordon Brown to Ed Miliband plus all the Tories have wined and dined the Murdochs...far more than Alex Salmond ever has and for a lot longer.
Miliband has met Murdochs or News International Executives 11 times recently and David Cameron's 25 meetings with News International editors or executives.
Jackie Baillie also lied on two TV channels last night when she claimed Alex Salmond failed to release details of this Email. Because Jackie it was an internal News International Email…. Doh!
There is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that Alex Salmond wrote or phoned Jeremy Hunt. End of story and total nonsense from pygmy politicians.
In sticking up for 6000 jobs in
Scotland, Alex Salmond’s meetings seem perfectly normal and not very different from what might have been expected from any First Minister of any party.
Everybody leading politician from Tony Blair to Gordon Brown to Ed Miliband plus all the Tories have wined and dined the Murdochs...far more than Alex Salmond ever has and for a lot longer.
Miliband has met Murdochs or News International Executives 11 times recently and David Cameron's 25 meetings with News International editors or executives.
#
2012-04-25 08:01
Up in Scotland, the MSM, the blatantly biased BBC and the opposition 'leaders' run around talking bilge about an internal SKY E-mail, which was not addressed to the First Minister, and was not from the First Minister. In addition, they try to suggest that somehow the First Minister had some say in the BSkyB bid, and could pick up the phone to the Tories in London to advise them. The whole thing is utter, utter nonsense.
Meanwhile, our First Minister is quite rightly getting on with his job. He will be in London at the Institute of Directors, where he will be speaking, promoting Scotland, Scottish industry, and trying to further increase investment in Scotland.
annualconvention2012.iod.com/.../
Meanwhile, our First Minister is quite rightly getting on with his job. He will be in London at the Institute of Directors, where he will be speaking, promoting Scotland, Scottish industry, and trying to further increase investment in Scotland.
annualconvention2012.iod.com/.../
#
2012-04-25 08:24
The STUC are holding their conference in Inverness this week.
Lamentable Lamont addressed the conference and this was reported in the MSM.
Salmond attended the conference and I understand he too addressed it. In fact an interview with him at the conference was shown in news bulletins.
However, no report on his address to the conference has appeared in the MSM and of more interest to most people no report of what sort of reception he received from the delegates.
It will be interesting to see what sort of coverage his address to the IoD conference receives or will The BBC and the MSM continue to make the most of and distort the alleged 'Salmond/BSkyB/ Murdoch Scandal'.
Lamentable Lamont addressed the conference and this was reported in the MSM.
Salmond attended the conference and I understand he too addressed it. In fact an interview with him at the conference was shown in news bulletins.
However, no report on his address to the conference has appeared in the MSM and of more interest to most people no report of what sort of reception he received from the delegates.
It will be interesting to see what sort of coverage his address to the IoD conference receives or will The BBC and the MSM continue to make the most of and distort the alleged 'Salmond/BSkyB/ Murdoch Scandal'.
#
2012-04-25 09:00
The speech by the First Minister to the STUC is here;
snp.org/.../...
As you would expect its all about creating jobs and creating a better future for Scotland. He also talked about the record number of Scottish modern apprenticeships , which incidentally the Labour party in Holyrood voted against.
snp.org/.../...
As you would expect its all about creating jobs and creating a better future for Scotland. He also talked about the record number of Scottish modern apprenticeships , which incidentally the Labour party in Holyrood voted against.
#
2012-04-25 08:03
Has it ever occurred to anyone that these are internal e-mails from a PR lieutenant of the Murdoch organisation who has talked with an advisor to AS.
Anyone who has worked in a large family based organisation, and the News International Organisation is just that but even bigger, knows that the way to keep your job is to do what you are told, stroke the egos of the appropriate family member and tell them what they want to know or something that approaches this.
Never tell the truth to them if it is not what they want to hear.
So we have a professional liar coming north and talking with someone who has no power of decision about political things but can advise.
Two things, the professional liar, nuancer of the truth, spin doctor, is going to make sure he gets his visit and achievement over to the Emperor in the best possible light.
and the advisor is going to tease all possible information from the gift portal to the MSM. He is certainly not going to tell him bugger aff.
Result, Liar/Spin Doctor/ Truth Nuancer goes back and says, the SNP will support us with telephone calls, but spins it a bit higher.
The Holyrood unionist numpties are naifs in this matter but their masters down Sarf are 52nd Dan practitioners of these black arts.
Result a wholly made up and spun story, probably with absolutely hee haw substance
Anyone who has worked in a large family based organisation, and the News International Organisation is just that but even bigger, knows that the way to keep your job is to do what you are told, stroke the egos of the appropriate family member and tell them what they want to know or something that approaches this.
Never tell the truth to them if it is not what they want to hear.
So we have a professional liar coming north and talking with someone who has no power of decision about political things but can advise.
Two things, the professional liar, nuancer of the truth, spin doctor, is going to make sure he gets his visit and achievement over to the Emperor in the best possible light.
and the advisor is going to tease all possible information from the gift portal to the MSM. He is certainly not going to tell him bugger aff.
Result, Liar/Spin Doctor/ Truth Nuancer goes back and says, the SNP will support us with telephone calls, but spins it a bit higher.
The Holyrood unionist numpties are naifs in this matter but their masters down Sarf are 52nd Dan practitioners of these black arts.
Result a wholly made up and spun story, probably with absolutely hee haw substance
#
2012-04-25 08:33
Mr Salmond has not denied the fact that he or KP offered to put the influence of the Office of First Minister at the disposal of the Murdochs.
#
2012-04-25 08:56
Do explain the extent of the influence which the SNP or indeed Alex Salmond have over the London Tory Government.
Are you seriously suggesting Jeremy Hunt of the London Tories would seek or even listen to advice regarding BskyB from Alex Salmond????
Very, very silly.
Are you seriously suggesting Jeremy Hunt of the London Tories would seek or even listen to advice regarding BskyB from Alex Salmond????
Very, very silly.
#
2012-04-25 11:30
Hunt like Salmond is a fan of Murdoch, however influence was offered, whether or not it was any use is not relevant. Hunt's special adviser has just resigned maybe we will see Kevin Pringle next to get Salmond off the hook.
#
2012-04-25 12:26
I think it is relevant. The accusation is that Mr Salmond did a deal with NI, that he would use his influence (?) in exchange for NI's support?
If Salmond has no influence what did NI gain from the deal?
More to this than meets the eye.
If Salmond has no influence what did NI gain from the deal?
More to this than meets the eye.
#
2012-04-25 13:01
No, support was offered - what influence does the SNP have over the Coalition?
It is OK for politcians to support businesses you know, especially ones that employ thousands of people in one's country. This is a rather pathetic attempt to create an issue where there is none. As for not revealling emails that he didn't have and couldn't know existed...one can only assume Baillie opens her mouth and lets her brain catch up a day or two later.
Hunt had a conflict of interest. The matter is qute different. Whether Hunt breached that conflict of interest I do not know. That is for Leveson to decide.
It is OK for politcians to support businesses you know, especially ones that employ thousands of people in one's country. This is a rather pathetic attempt to create an issue where there is none. As for not revealling emails that he didn't have and couldn't know existed...one can only assume Baillie opens her mouth and lets her brain catch up a day or two later.
Hunt had a conflict of interest. The matter is qute different. Whether Hunt breached that conflict of interest I do not know. That is for Leveson to decide.
#
2012-04-25 17:58
Salmond I might suggest is not as much as a fan as Tony Bliar (flew half way round the world to kiss a**e), Gordon 'Incapability' Brown (was so shocked when NI withdrew support, threatened war), David Cameron (where to start) or Ed Milliband (loved the canapes at the parties apparently). Influence over what exactly? Remind me who has power over broadcast media? Trying to secure Scottish jobs is not any use? Try again that ranks as a massive fail.
#
2012-04-25 08:30
I recall Gordon Wilson (former MP for Dundee East) talking about one of his election campaigns.He asked voters in a Dundee housing estate whether they wanted to talk about the issues that concerned them,or talk about politics.The ovewheming response was lets talk about the issues and leave the politics aside.In those days,Dundee East was a difficult seat to hold onto.However,by focusing on the issues of concern,Gordon managed to keep that seat for several elections untill he lost it by a small majority for labour of around 1,000 votes.The moral of that anecdote is that voters are more interested in issues that concern them than party politics or character assasinations.Sadly Lamont,Rennie and McLetchie have not yet learned that lesson.
It will be interesting to observe the consequences after the May council elections.The opposition are wasting a lot of energy on things that are not very relevant to voters,By contrast the SNP have spent a lot of time listening to voters about issues that are a priority for them.That is the source of the SNP manifesto.
It will be interesting to observe the consequences after the May council elections.The opposition are wasting a lot of energy on things that are not very relevant to voters,By contrast the SNP have spent a lot of time listening to voters about issues that are a priority for them.That is the source of the SNP manifesto.
#
2012-04-25 08:30
The Leveson enquiry. Anyone remember it? Oh aye, that was all about the Scottish Government and their First Minister, imagine, being named in one of the Murdoch emails!
Then who remembers Lockerbie, wasn't that the same Scottish Government who were involved with that tragedy?............................... If My memory serves me well, I think that their was local council elections back in May 2012......
Then who remembers Lockerbie, wasn't that the same Scottish Government who were involved with that tragedy?............................... If My memory serves me well, I think that their was local council elections back in May 2012......
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2012-04-25 08:53
Indeed, and with Megrahi, one accusation was that the Scottish Government did a deal with Brown's Labour Governemnt. That of course being Gordon brown who refused to speak to Alex Salmond.
Then the Scottish Government were accused of doing a deal with oil companies - an industry which the Scottish Government have no control of.
Now, in the run up to elections, we see yet again 'SNP accused' suggesting Alex Salmond arranged to phone the Tory Government in London to lobby them on behalf of BskyB. I hardly think the London Tories would pick up the phone, never mind listen, considering the animosity they have for the SNP.
It is all rubbish, and it is ALL designed to gerrymander the elections.
Then the Scottish Government were accused of doing a deal with oil companies - an industry which the Scottish Government have no control of.
Now, in the run up to elections, we see yet again 'SNP accused' suggesting Alex Salmond arranged to phone the Tory Government in London to lobby them on behalf of BskyB. I hardly think the London Tories would pick up the phone, never mind listen, considering the animosity they have for the SNP.
It is all rubbish, and it is ALL designed to gerrymander the elections.
#
2012-04-25 08:30
All political parties seek the medias support and up until the hacking affair all were courting Murdoch. They are a bunch of hypocrits. What Alex wants Dave gives..... aye right.
#
2012-04-25 08:31
Interesting to note that this has not made the 'main' BBC news, Channel 4 news or Radio 4's Today programme. As if it is either an insubstantial claim/of no consequence?
#
2012-04-25 09:07
As soon as this non-story 'broke' it was rushed out there by the pro-unionist MSM at breakneck-speed. Probably pasted and copied without any scrutiny from an AP release.
The chance of a "Salmond Accused" headline is like a bone to a starving dog - irresistible. Too good to refuse.
The MSM 'attack dogs' are doing the bidding of their unionist masters, with the strategy being to attack first and ask questions later. Any possible signs of a chink in the pro-independence armour is leapt upon by these ravenous, drooling sycophants to the unionist cause.
Over at the Guardian there is a "Salmond looked for Sun's support" headline. Written by their "Scotland correspondent" Severin Carrell. In it we have: "revelations...Salmond secretly offered to help...by trading his political influence...the first minister volunteered to lobby...they (emails) suggest that... Salmon appeared to support..."
Then stating "accused"s from the Lib Dems ('Make an urgent statement to parliament' "shaming Scotland", besmirching the office of the first minister), Lamont ("This stinks. No one should make any mistake. Salmond wasn't acting in the interests of Scotland. He was making a deal with one of the most discredited companies in the world entirely in Alex Salmond's interests.") and McLetchie ("Alex Salmond was happy to hawk himself around as a lobbyist on behalf of the Murdoch empire in return for political favours.") And on it goes. Smear, accuse, allege, etc. blah, blah.
So, now it's Wednesday - and behold! Another article by Carrell titled, "Alex Salmond ties to Murdoch revealed" (They're coming thick and fast!)
The first paragraph lends no doubts as what is to come in the 'article':
"The burgeoning friendship between Alex Salmond and Rupert Murdoch has been likened to a bromance. The men have exchanged admiring letters, held private dinner dates and received offers to sporting events."
Yes, more smear, accuse, allege, etc. blah, blah, blah...
But wait. He saves the best for last in the final paragraph:
"But according to two of Murdoch's most famous British ex-editors, Kelvin McKenzie, once editor of the Sun, and Andrew Neil, formerly in charge of the Sunday Times, there was another topic under discussion. Both men had been led to believe that Murdoch and Salmond floated the possibility that if Salmond won the independence referendum and introduced a cut-rate corporation tax, then Murdoch could relocate BskyB's headquarters to Scotland. It is a claim that Salmond's office has denied."
Yup, there you have it! Giving credence to an "according to" from Kelvin McKenzie and Andrew Neil as support for your smear article!
No actual quotes from said "according to"s and full of conditionals without substance; "led to believe", "the possibility", "that if", "could".
And finally covers himself of any legal pursuits with the final sentence "It is a claim that Salmond's office has denied." Classic journalistic behaviour. Unscrupulous.
Thanks be to the internet and Scottish people's ever increasing awareness of the bias and lies that they are, and have been force-fed by the shit-scared pro-unionist MBM the real truth is getting out slowly but surely. The truth will eventually flush out the garbage and poison from our system. The truth will out and we will be a better and healthier nation for it.
The chance of a "Salmond Accused" headline is like a bone to a starving dog - irresistible. Too good to refuse.
The MSM 'attack dogs' are doing the bidding of their unionist masters, with the strategy being to attack first and ask questions later. Any possible signs of a chink in the pro-independence armour is leapt upon by these ravenous, drooling sycophants to the unionist cause.
Over at the Guardian there is a "Salmond looked for Sun's support" headline. Written by their "Scotland correspondent" Severin Carrell. In it we have: "revelations...Salmond secretly offered to help...by trading his political influence...the first minister volunteered to lobby...they (emails) suggest that... Salmon appeared to support..."
Then stating "accused"s from the Lib Dems ('Make an urgent statement to parliament' "shaming Scotland", besmirching the office of the first minister), Lamont ("This stinks. No one should make any mistake. Salmond wasn't acting in the interests of Scotland. He was making a deal with one of the most discredited companies in the world entirely in Alex Salmond's interests.") and McLetchie ("Alex Salmond was happy to hawk himself around as a lobbyist on behalf of the Murdoch empire in return for political favours.") And on it goes. Smear, accuse, allege, etc. blah, blah.
So, now it's Wednesday - and behold! Another article by Carrell titled, "Alex Salmond ties to Murdoch revealed" (They're coming thick and fast!)
The first paragraph lends no doubts as what is to come in the 'article':
"The burgeoning friendship between Alex Salmond and Rupert Murdoch has been likened to a bromance. The men have exchanged admiring letters, held private dinner dates and received offers to sporting events."
Yes, more smear, accuse, allege, etc. blah, blah, blah...
But wait. He saves the best for last in the final paragraph:
"But according to two of Murdoch's most famous British ex-editors, Kelvin McKenzie, once editor of the Sun, and Andrew Neil, formerly in charge of the Sunday Times, there was another topic under discussion. Both men had been led to believe that Murdoch and Salmond floated the possibility that if Salmond won the independence referendum and introduced a cut-rate corporation tax, then Murdoch could relocate BskyB's headquarters to Scotland. It is a claim that Salmond's office has denied."
Yup, there you have it! Giving credence to an "according to" from Kelvin McKenzie and Andrew Neil as support for your smear article!
No actual quotes from said "according to"s and full of conditionals without substance; "led to believe", "the possibility", "that if", "could".
And finally covers himself of any legal pursuits with the final sentence "It is a claim that Salmond's office has denied." Classic journalistic behaviour. Unscrupulous.
Thanks be to the internet and Scottish people's ever increasing awareness of the bias and lies that they are, and have been force-fed by the shit-scared pro-unionist MBM the real truth is getting out slowly but surely. The truth will eventually flush out the garbage and poison from our system. The truth will out and we will be a better and healthier nation for it.
#
2012-04-25 09:30
Last night on Newsnight Scotland there was live footage of a Labour story writer editing the news for the morning with Tavish Scott and Gordon Brewer, near the end of the live meeting Mr Brewer made a reference to the Libdems in Scotland also being mentioned in Murdoch emails, when asked about such email content he (Tavish ) knew nothing about it. Then to complete the live meeting the Labour Bard and Tavish gave a big smirk!
#
2012-04-25 09:38
The Herald producing multiple pro-unionist anti-Salmond stories today.
Salmond Accused of Secret Murdoch deal
Separation risk to Scots credit rating
Salmond's date with Leveson as pressure grows over links to Murdoch
For a minute I thought I was reading The Scotsman!
Salmond Accused of Secret Murdoch deal
Separation risk to Scots credit rating
Salmond's date with Leveson as pressure grows over links to Murdoch
For a minute I thought I was reading The Scotsman!
#
2012-04-25 10:01
I remember Hunt in his public face of being entirely above board in his roll of considering the case for BSkyB being handed to the Murdochs. He went to the lengths of consulting OFcom and all the relevant bodies, all paraded for public consumption. At the time I thought it was just too pat and that Hunt's real role was to let Murdoch have his way and close up any possible criticism against the government. There was a quid pro quo, but it was entirely for the benefit of the Tories in getting Murdoch's support.
Vince Cable made a gross error in parading his views about Murdoch and handed the intitiative to the Tories.
Vince Cable made a gross error in parading his views about Murdoch and handed the intitiative to the Tories.
#
2012-04-25 10:19
Joseph Goebbles. "If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it, people will eventually come to believe it". As I have warned before, they, the State, will use every dirty trick in the book between now and 2014 to smear our cause. Beware!
#
2012-04-25 12:38
I was reading on some blog recently that Goebbels was in actual fact talking about the 'British' when he made the remarks.
'That is of course rather painful for those involved. One should not as a rule reveal one's secrets, since one does not know if and when one may need them again. The essential English leadership secret does not depend on particular intelligence. Rather, it depends on a remarkably stupid thick-headedness. The English follow the principle that when one lies, one should lie big, and stick to it. They keep up their lies, even at the risk of looking ridiculous.'
'That is of course rather painful for those involved. One should not as a rule reveal one's secrets, since one does not know if and when one may need them again. The essential English leadership secret does not depend on particular intelligence. Rather, it depends on a remarkably stupid thick-headedness. The English follow the principle that when one lies, one should lie big, and stick to it. They keep up their lies, even at the risk of looking ridiculous.'
#
2012-04-25 12:09
I doubt this nonsense would have been given any air time if it weren't for the fact that we have council elections next week and the unionist parties have no positive story to tell the electorate.
Going forward,unfortu nately,they do not have to put forward a positive narrative with regard to Scotland's future.
They are fully aware that people are generally wary of change and that it is up to the independence minded camp to convince the voters of the benefits.
All they have to do (as far as they think) is to create a negative view of this future in people's minds in order to defeat the arguments and will use any tool which furthers this aim.
I hope AS is correct in that a positive campaign will always win out over a negative one because negativity is all we are going to hear from the London centric vested interests over the next two years.
Going forward,unfortu nately,they do not have to put forward a positive narrative with regard to Scotland's future.
They are fully aware that people are generally wary of change and that it is up to the independence minded camp to convince the voters of the benefits.
All they have to do (as far as they think) is to create a negative view of this future in people's minds in order to defeat the arguments and will use any tool which furthers this aim.
I hope AS is correct in that a positive campaign will always win out over a negative one because negativity is all we are going to hear from the London centric vested interests over the next two years.
#
2012-04-25 12:17
On the topic of the press and lack of impartiality...
bbc.co.uk/.../...
Newspaper group, Johnston Press, reports big loss
Any support the Sun shows for Salmond/the SNP is simply about trying to avoid the above happening to it...
Rupert backs winners - he can't be influenced. If he thinks you are on a winning streak he'll back you to sell more papers. Simple as that.
bbc.co.uk/.../...
Newspaper group, Johnston Press, reports big loss
Any support the Sun shows for Salmond/the SNP is simply about trying to avoid the above happening to it...
Rupert backs winners - he can't be influenced. If he thinks you are on a winning streak he'll back you to sell more papers. Simple as that.
#
2012-04-25 12:18
"News Corp currently employ 6000 people in Scotland and it is known that the First Minister recently held talks with Rupert Murdoch over his organisations plans for Scotland.
The Murdoch Empire turned against the Labour party shortly before the 2010 General election after years of strong support."
Says it all really.
Lamont ain't too happy,and she forgets about her party's previously strong relationship at Westminster with Brown,Blair et al.
For the moment I won't mention more names,but some were prominent Secretaries of State/Ministers from constiuencies in Scotland.
These are the last people I'd entrust with guiding me through the benefits of the Union.
Power and Patronage--that's the New Labour party for the past 25 years.Good riddance to them.
The Murdoch Empire turned against the Labour party shortly before the 2010 General election after years of strong support."
Says it all really.
Lamont ain't too happy,and she forgets about her party's previously strong relationship at Westminster with Brown,Blair et al.
For the moment I won't mention more names,but some were prominent Secretaries of State/Ministers from constiuencies in Scotland.
These are the last people I'd entrust with guiding me through the benefits of the Union.
Power and Patronage--that's the New Labour party for the past 25 years.Good riddance to them.
#
2012-04-25 12:25
www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-17836469
...Robert Peston Business editor Rupert Murdoch admits he ordered Sun to support Labour in 97 election after Blair wrote his famous & uncharacteristi c eurosceptic column
1219: Mr Murdoch says the decision of the Sun to back Mr Blair would have been made with his - Mr Murdoch's - approval. He agrees he extracted as much as he could in terms of policy promises from Mr Blair before he endorsed him.
Johann should really not push this topic methinks...
...Robert Peston Business editor Rupert Murdoch admits he ordered Sun to support Labour in 97 election after Blair wrote his famous & uncharacteristi c eurosceptic column
1219: Mr Murdoch says the decision of the Sun to back Mr Blair would have been made with his - Mr Murdoch's - approval. He agrees he extracted as much as he could in terms of policy promises from Mr Blair before he endorsed him.
Johann should really not push this topic methinks...
#
2012-04-25 15:36
I said the same thing about the referendum consultation, Lamont and others went on about how the Scottish Government consultation was flawed only for their own to be found even more so.
This will come back on them all.
This will come back on them all.
#
2012-04-25 12:40
Disgusting spectacle of a Scottish labour MP trying to implicate Alex Salmond in Hunt's mess at today's PMQs.
Scottish unionists like her are a disgrace to Scotland.
Scottish unionists like her are a disgrace to Scotland.
#
2012-04-25 12:45
I see no signs that the SNP have lost anything in polls - still riding high going into the council elections....
#
2012-04-25 12:51
Exactly.
Labour MP for East Lothian, Fiona o' Donnell asked the Prime minister;
"When Alex Salmond agreed to act as a lobbyist for Newscorp., was he acting in self interests or the interests of Scotland"
To his credit, David Cameron refused to play ball with this sleazy smearing tactic from Scottish Labour, and said clearly, Alex Salmond can answer for himself.
Of course the whole question is based upon fakery. Who in their right mind could imagine David Cameron in London taking lobbying advice from Alex Salmond regarding BskyB. It is utterly absurd. What makes me angry, is people like this Fiona O'Donnel personage from lying Labour, know it is absurd.
What gives with people in Labour?? Seriously, they are such an ill informed twisted manipulative bunch. Yet they think voters cannot see what they get up to.
Labour do not deserve anybodies vote. Such a tawdry, sleazy, dishonest bunch.
Labour MP for East Lothian, Fiona o' Donnell asked the Prime minister;
"When Alex Salmond agreed to act as a lobbyist for Newscorp., was he acting in self interests or the interests of Scotland"
To his credit, David Cameron refused to play ball with this sleazy smearing tactic from Scottish Labour, and said clearly, Alex Salmond can answer for himself.
Of course the whole question is based upon fakery. Who in their right mind could imagine David Cameron in London taking lobbying advice from Alex Salmond regarding BskyB. It is utterly absurd. What makes me angry, is people like this Fiona O'Donnel personage from lying Labour, know it is absurd.
What gives with people in Labour?? Seriously, they are such an ill informed twisted manipulative bunch. Yet they think voters cannot see what they get up to.
Labour do not deserve anybodies vote. Such a tawdry, sleazy, dishonest bunch.
#
2012-04-25 12:55
I see Scottish Labour's practice of asking the wrong question to the right people, or the right question to the wrong people, has now been taken up at Westminster. And they wonder why their vote is collapsing.
#
2012-04-25 13:05
They aren't answerable to the electorate.
On polling evening their votes are weighed,not counted.
The voters in Scotland,keep voting them in.
"My Dad did it----so why change?"
Gave us the Health Service in 1948.
Gave us handouts to stop our old folks freezing to death in the winter.
We think Labour's the only offer on the table.
Silly us.
On polling evening their votes are weighed,not counted.
The voters in Scotland,keep voting them in.
"My Dad did it----so why change?"
Gave us the Health Service in 1948.
Gave us handouts to stop our old folks freezing to death in the winter.
We think Labour's the only offer on the table.
Silly us.
#
2012-04-25 13:08
Quoting neoloon:
Agree, could not believe that during such an important debate where Labour for once the "high ground" against the Tories that they blew and had to scrape the barrel and come up with an absurd and irrelevant question as this woman did. It only indicates to me how frightened Labour are of the upcoming events! Roll on 2014
Disgusting spectacle of a Scottish labour MP trying to implicate Alex Salmond in Hunt's mess at today's PMQs.
Scottish unionists like her are a disgrace to Scotland.
Agree, could not believe that during such an important debate where Labour for once the "high ground" against the Tories that they blew and had to scrape the barrel and come up with an absurd and irrelevant question as this woman did. It only indicates to me how frightened Labour are of the upcoming events! Roll on 2014
#
2012-04-25 13:30
Furthermore I would have thought our *******East Lothian MP would have had more important local issues in mind rather than to raise these questions when giving the chance to forward a question at PMQ's. Such as the local unemployment, child benefit reductions, OAP pension reductions....you know, what the Labour party stand for and are elected for...aye right and roll on 2014
Edited to remove comment about the MP's national origin which is not relevant to the discussion - NNS Mod Team
Edited to remove comment about the MP's national origin which is not relevant to the discussion - NNS Mod Team
#
2012-04-25 13:51
Labour have carried on using questions to jeremy Hunt's statement to the house, to smear Alex Salmond. I think four of the questions from Labour involved smearing Alex Salmond.
Ahhh.... The folly that is Labour.
I'm sure they will try again in FMQ's tomorrow, thinking they are giving Alex Salmond a hard time. In reality, because it is such a lot of absurd nonsense, the First Minister will have a field day, reciting the many, many instances of Labour cosying up to Murdoch and other media owners. It should be a joy to watch.
I'll have my popcorn ready.
Ahhh.... The folly that is Labour.
I'm sure they will try again in FMQ's tomorrow, thinking they are giving Alex Salmond a hard time. In reality, because it is such a lot of absurd nonsense, the First Minister will have a field day, reciting the many, many instances of Labour cosying up to Murdoch and other media owners. It should be a joy to watch.
I'll have my popcorn ready.
#
2012-04-25 13:56
Lamont must swallow the key to that skeleton cupboard before entering the Chamber tomorrow.
It's OK though,big cupboard,small key.
It's OK though,big cupboard,small key.
#
2012-04-25 14:30
This will not hurt the SNP one little bit - if anything, it will give them a boost ahead of May 3rd. There is really nothing in it. Labour just look desperate - do they consider the Scots electorate that stupid? What do they think this sort of guff will achieve? Will people suddenly forget devo max/independence and instead go for tuition fees, PFI, wars over oil, nuclear power, WMDs, nepotism & corruption, massive financial mismanagement, privatisation of the NHS, 'Westminster is all that matters', with Johann Lamont as FM. Erm, naw.
BTW something is happening in England too. The Tory support is utterly collapsing. UKIP are picking up the hard Tories and Labour grabbing the soft. All three party leaders are massively unpopular with support for the coalition really low. Scotland is already on its journey but I see signs the English electorate are increasingly thinking its time to start their own....
BTW something is happening in England too. The Tory support is utterly collapsing. UKIP are picking up the hard Tories and Labour grabbing the soft. All three party leaders are massively unpopular with support for the coalition really low. Scotland is already on its journey but I see signs the English electorate are increasingly thinking its time to start their own....
#
2012-04-25 15:15
Same thing in France. The big parties are all being eroded - look out for an interesting time at the next elections.
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2012-04-25 14:49
Have to hope the FM goes for it tomorrow.There have been times when he and other senior SNP figures seem to have pulled back in debates, that can't happen tomorrow.Its a smear campaign and he has enough dirt on new labour to throw it back in shovel fulls at them.
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2012-04-25 16:38
Marga.GALLOWAY wis one o the're ane,and he's predicting a YES !
Luv to see him in the Visitors' Gallery tomorrow !
thecourier.co.uk/.../...
Luv to see him in the Visitors' Gallery tomorrow !
thecourier.co.uk/.../...
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2012-04-25 15:11
For those who are not watching the Leveson enquiry, Rupert Murdoch at the end of today's session was referring to his support for the SNP, and the support of the Scottish Sun.
He said with reference to the Scottish Sun;
"I can only tell you as a matter of interest, that erm, if we didn't continue to support Mr. Salmond, I really would have an insurrection up there."
He said with reference to the Scottish Sun;
"I can only tell you as a matter of interest, that erm, if we didn't continue to support Mr. Salmond, I really would have an insurrection up there."
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2012-04-25 15:24
I guess he means an insurrection similar to the one London is trying to deal with. Damn rebellious Scots...
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2012-04-25 17:17
So RL the Scottish Sun is revolting, what's new? Rupe also said his support for the SNP in 2011 was emotional,an emotion that did not surface in 20007 when he supported Labour. Now it seems the offer to use the FM.s influence was made by some SPAD called Geoff Aberdein who has broken the Code of Conduct for Special Advisers.
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2012-04-25 19:08
So, your point is? Or more correctly your non point is? Face the incontrivertabl e fact, the Sun and NI do not, and never have influenced the voting public, much as your own party's liebour, (admit I'm guessing, but you fit the profile) mythology would suggest. What is a SPAD? are you one? If so please explain fully 1) your employer and 2)the code you operate under?
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2012-04-25 19:46
I am certainly no supporter of the Labour Party. A SPAD for your edification is newsspeak for a Minister's "Special Adviser" such as Mr Pringle or Mr Aberdein.
I am afraid I am unable to fully comprehend your numbered questions but I will try to answer, 1) I am retired with no gainful employment. 2) My only code is a deep distrust of politicians and their apologists.
I am afraid I am unable to fully comprehend your numbered questions but I will try to answer, 1) I am retired with no gainful employment. 2) My only code is a deep distrust of politicians and their apologists.
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2012-04-25 21:58
Ituna,
As usual you twist facts and a direct quote from Rupert Murdoch.
Not really sure what your point was, with your spads and all.
As usual you twist facts and a direct quote from Rupert Murdoch.
Not really sure what your point was, with your spads and all.
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2012-04-26 19:51
Aaaah, then you are a member of a generation that for selfishness has surpassed all others, a generation that by and large allowed yourselves to be seduced by the weasal words of unionist politicians, 'there is limited oil, the oil is of poor quality, too poor, too stupid, too wee, we know what we're doing you people don't'. I thank you for your new found distrust of politicians, shame you weren't on the ball in the first place, but then you did alright out of it.
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2012-04-25 15:22
Any leverage SLAB politicians attempt to gain on this issue is hypocrisy matched only by the jealousy that Murdoch supported the SNP and is currently leaning towards a Yes vote. Johann will get torn to shreds in the chamber if she leads with this one. Here's hoping!
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2012-04-25 15:42
Just over a week to go and still no sign of a Scottish Opinion Poll of voting intentions.
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2012-04-25 15:46
Yougov were polling the other day (I completed a survey). Take care with them as they have dodgy weighting but they usually do ok very close to elections. In between they produce guff I suspect because they are dependent on people responding (they don't telephone out of the blue, you need to be registered and complete surveys online if asked) which they only tend to do close to elections.
EDIT. And no signs of any need to worry, SNP are running at the same support level as May last year if not better. The last polls had them consistently at ~50%. Would be good to have a MORI Scotland one ahead of May 3rd.
EDIT. And no signs of any need to worry, SNP are running at the same support level as May last year if not better. The last polls had them consistently at ~50%. Would be good to have a MORI Scotland one ahead of May 3rd.
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2012-04-25 17:57
Back at the Guardian, Severin Carrell just cannot let this opportunity go to smear Scotland's First Minister as much as he possibly can, with his third article in two days.
I can't be bothered picking through it to repudiate it as just reading it has pissed me off immensely and I don't wish to sour my eyes by looking at it again.
For any one who wishes to, it's here at:
guardian.co.uk/.../...
This member of the MSM, the Guardian, very rarely allows comments to made after one of Carrell's regular anti-independence articles. They don't like for their contributors to be shown up as being agenda-led, biased and 'creative' with the facts.
Remember, Carrell has used his Twitter account to call it a "budding bromance" between Salmond and Murdoch (25th April), and on 21st Feb said, " The #salmond #murdoch love-in grows:..."
Just another example of the "Free and fair" MSM at work, then.
I can't be bothered picking through it to repudiate it as just reading it has pissed me off immensely and I don't wish to sour my eyes by looking at it again.
For any one who wishes to, it's here at:
guardian.co.uk/.../...
This member of the MSM, the Guardian, very rarely allows comments to made after one of Carrell's regular anti-independence articles. They don't like for their contributors to be shown up as being agenda-led, biased and 'creative' with the facts.
Remember, Carrell has used his Twitter account to call it a "budding bromance" between Salmond and Murdoch (25th April), and on 21st Feb said, " The #salmond #murdoch love-in grows:..."
Just another example of the "Free and fair" MSM at work, then.
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2012-04-25 18:52
Liked the bit where he said he intends to remind all the opposition parties their links to NI at tomorrow's FMQ.
#
2012-04-25 19:25
Leveson Inquiry: Rupert Murdoch says Scottish Sun had to back SNP
Media mogul Rupert Murdoch has said that if the Scots edition of the Sun had not supported the SNP then he would have faced a revolt in Scotland.
bbc.co.uk/.../...
Yes, I imagine he would have had; from both the editorial team and the readers. While all other paper sales were collapsing at twice the rate in Scotland compared to the UK (due to political bias I assume), the Sun bucked the trend until that infamous head in noose front page ahead of the 2007 elections. That sent the Sun sales into collapse too. I imagine the Sun staff told Rupert they needed to support the SNP or they would go the way of the Record, Scotsman etc...
Media mogul Rupert Murdoch has said that if the Scots edition of the Sun had not supported the SNP then he would have faced a revolt in Scotland.
bbc.co.uk/.../...
Yes, I imagine he would have had; from both the editorial team and the readers. While all other paper sales were collapsing at twice the rate in Scotland compared to the UK (due to political bias I assume), the Sun bucked the trend until that infamous head in noose front page ahead of the 2007 elections. That sent the Sun sales into collapse too. I imagine the Sun staff told Rupert they needed to support the SNP or they would go the way of the Record, Scotsman etc...
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2012-04-25 20:38
I think Hunt is being set up as the fall guy to at least damage Salmond and possibly drag him down.
I've never liked the idea of the SNP courting Murdoch and I have always said they should have stayed clear. The party has increased their support without Murdoch's influence. The SNP cannot escape from his clutches and he knows that.
This won't affect the council elections, but in the longer term it will be more damaging.
I've never liked the idea of the SNP courting Murdoch and I have always said they should have stayed clear. The party has increased their support without Murdoch's influence. The SNP cannot escape from his clutches and he knows that.
This won't affect the council elections, but in the longer term it will be more damaging.
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2012-04-25 21:48
It depends what you mean by 'courting Murdoch'.
If you mean fawning after him in order that he might support you in an election, then of course it would be bad. Such behaviour is what the Tories Libdems and Labour did. There is not one shred of evidence that this is what Alex Salmond did.
If however, you mean holding talks and discussing investment in Scotland, when a major SKY call centre is facing job cuts, then I cannot see anything wrong. Murdoch is the owner of a very, very large employer in Scotland, and as such the First Minister would not be fulfilling his duties if he didn't talk to him.
You can fall for this unionist hysteria if you wish enneffess, I prefer to rely on facts.
If you mean fawning after him in order that he might support you in an election, then of course it would be bad. Such behaviour is what the Tories Libdems and Labour did. There is not one shred of evidence that this is what Alex Salmond did.
If however, you mean holding talks and discussing investment in Scotland, when a major SKY call centre is facing job cuts, then I cannot see anything wrong. Murdoch is the owner of a very, very large employer in Scotland, and as such the First Minister would not be fulfilling his duties if he didn't talk to him.
You can fall for this unionist hysteria if you wish enneffess, I prefer to rely on facts.
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2012-04-25 20:43
Did anyone else see Jackie Baillie sailing very close to the wind on Newsnight last night?
Some of her remarks about Mr Salmond sounded actionable to me - and although Gordon Brewer didn't challenge her, I think he was a little afraid of what was going to come out of her mouth!
She is an odious woman at the best of times, but she excelled last night.
Some of her remarks about Mr Salmond sounded actionable to me - and although Gordon Brewer didn't challenge her, I think he was a little afraid of what was going to come out of her mouth!
She is an odious woman at the best of times, but she excelled last night.
#
2012-04-25 21:24
I wonder how many Unionist MSPs have BSkyB subscriptions? I mean, they're putting money into Murdoch's own hand for goodnessake! Damn hypocrites! lol!
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