Monday, 04 June 2012 06:34
90 Comments
By G.A.Ponsonby 
A large ornament was unveiled in Glasgow last week. A metal structure fashioned in the shape of the Olympic logo appeared in George Square opposite the council building.
The city is hosting eight Olympic football matches and the purpose of this giant knuckle duster appears to be to ‘bash’ Glaswegians into Olympic submission.
The Games have beguiled Labour’s Gordon Matheson who is currently running around telling anyone who will listen just how 'precious' the Olympic Rings are to Glasgow.
According to Labour’s Glasgow Council leader, excitement in the city is building. Unfortunately for Mr Matheson that excitement doesn’t appear to have transmitted into ticket sales.
In truth there is no excitement. The football matches are manifestly not recognisable Olympic sports and unlike ‘Gollum’ Matheson, the Glasgow public are not so easily fooled.
It doesn’t help that the football matches being held at Hampden consist of five ladies’ games and three men’s junior games, not exactly top drawer attractions and the public relations disaster over the banning of the Scottish flag merely served to compound antipathy.
If organisers really wanted to attract Scottish football fans then a game involving ‘Team GB’ would have guaranteed a sell-out, and several thousand Scottish fans would have given Stuart Pierce’s team plenty of vocal ‘encouragement’.
The unveiling of the steel logo in George Square meant a few TV and radio appearances from the ever excited leader of Glasgow Labour. Mr Matheson’s appearance on our screens looking like Gomez Addams in a pinstripe suit and yapping manically about filling Hampden was bizarre.
Equally bizarre was the blue and white double decker bus parked in the middle of Buchanan Street beneath banners advertising London’s Olympics.
The truth is of course that these Games are nothing to do with Scotland or Glasgow – it’s a con, and not a very good one at that. The claim that Glasgow is in the grip of Olympic football excitement is risible.
Indeed half of Glasgow’s eight football matches will already have taken place before the official opening ceremony is held on Friday 27th July.
If organisers really wanted Glasgow to feel part of the Games then they could have built a swimming complex in the city and held the swimming events here. The pool could have then doubled up for the Commonwealth Games two years later.
The Games are not even about England, there are plenty of English good causes that have suffered as money is once again syphoned off into the UK’s biggest charity case, London.
Matheson knows that Scotland has suffered financially as lottery funding that would have come north of the border has instead been diverted to the rich south east of England. Around half a billion pounds that was promised in the form of contracts for Scottish businesses also never materialised.
It says something about Scottish Labour these days that Unionism is now the party's strongest characteristic. Socialism and the redistribution of wealth is now a very distant second.
The Olympic torch will arrive in Glasgow on Friday June 8th and will be “visible to the public” at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery. On Saturday it turns up at the Glasgow Riverside Museum and the Tall Ship, and people will of course flock to see it.
Some very worthy people will carry the flame, but don’t be fooled by those media people who will claim that the Olympics are coming to Scotland – they aren’t.
Scotland and Glasgow can no more be said to be part of the London Olympics by dint of holding a few football matches than Edinburgh can be said to be part of the Oscars because it is showing the European premier of the animated movie Brave on June 30th.
Scots are excited by the London Olympics in the same way we were excited by the Barcelona Olympics and the Sydney Olympics - it’s an Olympic thing.
But let’s not pretend these Games are anything other than London’s Games.
And some honesty from our broadcasters and journalists would be welcome, given many deserving causes in Scotland lost out when their lottery funding ended up partly funding this expensive jamboree.
Comments
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2012-06-04 00:02
"It says something about Scottish Labour these days that Unionism is now the parties strongest characteristic. Socialism and the redistribution of wealth is now a very distant second."
Sums the Scottish Labour party narrow outlook very well. I was in Asda Blantyre today and there was no bunting - who are they trying to connect with?
Sums the Scottish Labour party narrow outlook very well. I was in Asda Blantyre today and there was no bunting - who are they trying to connect with?
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2012-06-04 00:02
I have just googled the cost of London Olympics and the following is what I got:
the House of Commons' public accounts committee revealed costs were "heading for around £11bn". Meanwhile, Olympics critic Julian Cheyne of Games Monitor calculates costs at £13bn. A Sky Sports investigation included public transport upgrade costs, catapulting the five-ring price tag to £24bn.
I also googled the cost of Carbon Capture Project at Longannet power station and the following is what I got:
Cost was the only reason for cancellation of the £1bn carbon capture project at Longannet power station, according to Scottish Power.
Now the cost of a project in Scotland was £1bn and the London government grudged this to Scotland, this £1bn is nothing compared to the cost of the Olympics in London.
I hope Mr Matheson can undrestand why us in Sotland can't get too excited about the Olympic games in London.
the House of Commons' public accounts committee revealed costs were "heading for around £11bn". Meanwhile, Olympics critic Julian Cheyne of Games Monitor calculates costs at £13bn. A Sky Sports investigation included public transport upgrade costs, catapulting the five-ring price tag to £24bn.
I also googled the cost of Carbon Capture Project at Longannet power station and the following is what I got:
Cost was the only reason for cancellation of the £1bn carbon capture project at Longannet power station, according to Scottish Power.
Now the cost of a project in Scotland was £1bn and the London government grudged this to Scotland, this £1bn is nothing compared to the cost of the Olympics in London.
I hope Mr Matheson can undrestand why us in Sotland can't get too excited about the Olympic games in London.
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2012-06-05 12:08
OT slightly... but from "Physics World"
"Norway takes the lead in carbon-capture technology"
"The world's largest centre for testing and developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies opened last month at Mongstad on Norway's west coast"
Looks like we are well on the way to missing another renewables boat. This plant cost a billion dollars
John
"Norway takes the lead in carbon-capture technology"
"The world's largest centre for testing and developing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies opened last month at Mongstad on Norway's west coast"
Looks like we are well on the way to missing another renewables boat. This plant cost a billion dollars
John
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2012-06-04 00:23
This is the second article I have read about Britain being ruled by boys. Alex Salmon is 58 and the experience he has helped make him the best politician in Britain. I don't think we are emphasising this strength and we should be in these uncertain times.
guardian.co.uk/.../...
guardian.co.uk/.../...
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2012-06-04 00:36
Scottish Labour is singular - as in one and only. Party is singular. If more than one party then parties. If it is 'of or belonging to the party' as in 'characteristic of the party' then it is 'party's strongest characteristic'.
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2012-06-04 01:24
You would have thought that Mathieson would have taken issue with the lottery funding being diverted to the money sponge that is London, with his Westminster chiefs, but no!
Scots do not feel part of the Olympics , and certainly not the down to earth Glaswegians, who will hardly be on fire to buy tickets for low key games.
Maybe Glasgow voters will see him in his true light now as he really does live in his own little world.
Scots do not feel part of the Olympics , and certainly not the down to earth Glaswegians, who will hardly be on fire to buy tickets for low key games.
Maybe Glasgow voters will see him in his true light now as he really does live in his own little world.
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2012-06-04 01:39
Don't miss Leslie Riddoch's "Question time for the BBC in Scotland" article in the Scostman:
scotsman.com/.../...
"Is all in Aunty’s Scottish garden rosy?
Not in the view of Nationalists who staged a protest against BBC “bias” outside the “unionist pravdaesque mouthpiece” HQ in Glasgow and complained that independence debate audience members were allowed to make near-libellous allegations about Alex Salmond"
scotsman.com/.../...
"Is all in Aunty’s Scottish garden rosy?
Not in the view of Nationalists who staged a protest against BBC “bias” outside the “unionist pravdaesque mouthpiece” HQ in Glasgow and complained that independence debate audience members were allowed to make near-libellous allegations about Alex Salmond"
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2012-06-04 09:10
Quoting Vincent McDee:
Is it a coincidence that this excellent article does not feature on the front pages of Scotsman politics or comment sections?
Don't miss Leslie Riddoch's "Question time for the BBC in Scotland" article in the Scostman:
scotsman.com/.../...
"Is all in Aunty’s Scottish garden rosy?
Not in the view of Nationalists who staged a protest against BBC “bias” outside the “unionist pravdaesque mouthpiece” HQ in Glasgow and complained that independence debate audience members were allowed to make near-libellous allegations about Alex Salmond"
Is it a coincidence that this excellent article does not feature on the front pages of Scotsman politics or comment sections?
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2012-06-04 02:51
I'm not a socialist. Living in corrupt, despotic Glasgow most of my life can cure anyone of such an impractical belief but I do know that the redistribution of wealth and fairness for all is nowhere in the current mentality of Liebore in Scotland and hasn't been for a very long time. As for the Olympics, Gladiators and bread for the masses to keep us quiet while the masters suck us dry and destroy our world. The Olympics are a distraction, smoke and mirrors to stop us from waking up and asking all the right questions to all the wrong people.
Time to wake up!
Time to wake up!
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2012-06-04 09:47
Neither is labour socialist. Like Hitler did with 'socialism', they pervert the good of the idea to their own ends.
Same with religion. Most of what is written sounds good but the manifestation of it, throughout the world can be dangerous and life threatening to many
Same with religion. Most of what is written sounds good but the manifestation of it, throughout the world can be dangerous and life threatening to many
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2012-06-04 02:59
PS. the comparison with Gomez Addams, (the wonderful John Astin) is only apposite re the suit. Astin was suave, debonair and cool. Matheson looks like a sack o' tatties tied in the middle with string.
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2012-06-04 10:44
The comparison with John Astin is even more apt when one considers that when it came to doing insincerity he was the master.
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2012-06-04 07:21
I think we should all be concerned that the media is attempting to direct our world instead of reporting on it. The events in London yesterday being a good example - few were interested yet we had the BBC and Sky doing their best to convince us how exciting it was.
The state broadcaster has one objective - maintain the status quo.
If we put a bunch of row boats on the Thames we can claim to still have an Empire. The uniformed royals dressed in full military atire to salute punts was a farce.
Why do we need to connect leadership to military rank and atire - what is the message here?
The state broadcaster has one objective - maintain the status quo.
If we put a bunch of row boats on the Thames we can claim to still have an Empire. The uniformed royals dressed in full military atire to salute punts was a farce.
Why do we need to connect leadership to military rank and atire - what is the message here?
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2012-06-04 09:11
""Why do we need to connect leadership to military rank and atire - what is the message here""-Clootie
'Do as we say and not as as we do?'
'Do as we say and not as as we do?'
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2012-06-04 09:50
"Clootie" - I looked in occasionally (hard to miss it sadly) and did you not think they looked like some comic version of themselves. Particularly when they were bobbing up and down to some tune or other. I thought it was hilarious.
Particularly the rain. In Moray we were basking in warm termeratures and lovely sunshine. should have brought their show up to the Moray Firth. they could have had the dolphins for company
Particularly the rain. In Moray we were basking in warm termeratures and lovely sunshine. should have brought their show up to the Moray Firth. they could have had the dolphins for company
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2012-06-04 10:41
That is exactly it, clootie. Have a look at this article about Newsnight's interview manipulation: leninology.com/.../...
Tl;dr quote from article:
Quote:
Tl;dr quote from article:
Quote:
So, this is the 'window-on-the-world' view of the media. In real life, the actual 'message' of the media passes through a complex series of apparatuses, each with its own logic and hierarchies, before it is received and implemented by the viewer. (I use the word 'implemented' very deliberately - it is intended to have an effect, to be put into practice, otherwise it would have no purpose). And in this chain of apparatuses, the media is usually articulated with several others which supply it with a product - the administration, the courts, the MoD, think-tanks, etc. The extent of this articulation is such that, for example, it makes no sense to think of the BBC as merely reporting on government policy. Like all media outlets, it is part of policymaking, a factor in its formulation, an vector for its promulgation, a condition for its success.
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2012-06-04 07:49
I haven't seen any royal stuff this weekend.
I had a three speed hub to mend yesterday so I was doing that in the garage while listening to the Drifters. Missed the whole river event. I suspect I'll find some non royal activity this evening too.
Lovely day out there.
I had a three speed hub to mend yesterday so I was doing that in the garage while listening to the Drifters. Missed the whole river event. I suspect I'll find some non royal activity this evening too.
Lovely day out there.
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2012-06-04 08:06
My daughter's school is having a red white and blue non-uniform day today. Why is all the jubilee stuff red white and blue? If the Queen is queen of Scots, should it not be a blue and white theme in Scotland? saltires instead of UJs?
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2012-06-04 10:16
Quoting Alibi:
There was a Canadian boat in the pageant yesterday which was completely covered in Canadian flags, not a Union flag in site, unfortunately many in Scotland seem to be trying to turn the Jubilee into a celebration of the Union and the Union flag.
My daughter's school is having a red white and blue non-uniform day today. Why is all the jubilee stuff red white and blue? If the Queen is queen of Scots, should it not be a blue and white theme in Scotland? saltires instead of UJs?
There was a Canadian boat in the pageant yesterday which was completely covered in Canadian flags, not a Union flag in site, unfortunately many in Scotland seem to be trying to turn the Jubilee into a celebration of the Union and the Union flag.
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2012-06-04 16:06
Just as well my kids are grown up as I would have refused to allow them to participate in this brainwashing. This is not what schools are for and idiot head-teachers need to be put back in their box.
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2012-06-04 08:21
Call me an old curmudgeon but Sky news is even talking to some guy whose wine the queen was seen sipping!
According to the Sunday post Scotland was engulfed in jubilee celebrations, not where I am it was not!!
According to the Sunday post Scotland was engulfed in jubilee celebrations, not where I am it was not!!
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2012-06-04 08:26
Not a single bit of bunting or union flags in my street of over 200 residents and not much press coverage of those "rebels" who removed the Union Flag from top of old Bank of Scotland HQ at the Mound in Edinburgh.
More importantly..BBC TV’s Question Time programme from Inverness this Thursday is all set up to embarrass the SNP / Independence movement. It is so loaded with no SNP politician on the panel that Labour feel confident enough to let Johan Lamont to appear. In addition to Lord Forsyth we have the right wing journalist Melanie Phillips billed to take part along with Danny Alexander to attack Alan Cumming who although an articulate advocate of independence is not a street wise politician. Why is BBC allowed to get away with this unrepresentativ e distortion with two right wing Tories on the panel in Scotland but no SNP representative.
More importantly..BBC TV’s Question Time programme from Inverness this Thursday is all set up to embarrass the SNP / Independence movement. It is so loaded with no SNP politician on the panel that Labour feel confident enough to let Johan Lamont to appear. In addition to Lord Forsyth we have the right wing journalist Melanie Phillips billed to take part along with Danny Alexander to attack Alan Cumming who although an articulate advocate of independence is not a street wise politician. Why is BBC allowed to get away with this unrepresentativ e distortion with two right wing Tories on the panel in Scotland but no SNP representative.
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2012-06-04 09:20
I think Alan Cumming should pull out on the grounds that sitting with 4 people to deride independence was clearly biased and he wanted to be a part of a debate not a stitch up.
The fact Forsyth is on and not the SNP when there are 2 other pollies on is farcical. He is the reason the Tories lost the 1990's.
If Cumming goes on he needs to ask why the bBBC did not report its bias when there was a demonstration on the lack of coverage on the SNP, and this show was no differet with the 3 English parties on yet no SNP representative.
The more I think abot it, the more he has to pull out on the grounds of there not being an SNP pollie on to balance the numbers from 4-1 to 3-2.
The fact Forsyth is on and not the SNP when there are 2 other pollies on is farcical. He is the reason the Tories lost the 1990's.
If Cumming goes on he needs to ask why the bBBC did not report its bias when there was a demonstration on the lack of coverage on the SNP, and this show was no differet with the 3 English parties on yet no SNP representative.
The more I think abot it, the more he has to pull out on the grounds of there not being an SNP pollie on to balance the numbers from 4-1 to 3-2.
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2012-06-04 12:42
If this is the line up it is a disgrace. There are bound to be referendum/independence related questions and there should be professional pro independence politicians there. Johann Lamont will probably get a nose bleed travelling that far north.
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2012-06-04 13:05
OK, some 'blue sky' thinking.
If Alan can keep his cool, and not become argumentative, then he should try to answer questions, and if interrupted or talked over, should simply stop talking. Not to argue with the interrupter (even if it is Dimbleby) and ask that he be allowed to finish.
He should also keep referring back to the questione and the audience, by repeatedly stating that the audience want to hear his answer, and not the 'noise' from the other panelists, they will get their turn.
Not sure if this is a doable strategy, but the contrast on viewers of a thoughtful, polite, and non-argumentative Independence supporter, with the loud mouthed, rude, aggressive pro-dependency speakers could be a 'win'.
(ps Not sure I could do it, by the way)
If Alan can keep his cool, and not become argumentative, then he should try to answer questions, and if interrupted or talked over, should simply stop talking. Not to argue with the interrupter (even if it is Dimbleby) and ask that he be allowed to finish.
He should also keep referring back to the questione and the audience, by repeatedly stating that the audience want to hear his answer, and not the 'noise' from the other panelists, they will get their turn.
Not sure if this is a doable strategy, but the contrast on viewers of a thoughtful, polite, and non-argumentative Independence supporter, with the loud mouthed, rude, aggressive pro-dependency speakers could be a 'win'.
(ps Not sure I could do it, by the way)
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2012-06-04 13:15
They can't discuss independence because it's not a 'national' subject. Dimbleby himself said so when he censored Niccola Sturgeon so he certainly won't allow any of the panel to comment, will he?
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2012-06-04 10:24
Wikipedia:
"In 2004 former Scottish Orange Order member Adam Ingram sued MP George Galloway for saying in his autobiography that Ingram had "played the flute in a sectarian, anti-Catholic, Protestant-supremacist Orange Order band". Judge Lord Kingarth ruled that the phrase was 'fair comment' on the Orange Order and that Ingram had been a member, although he had not played the flute.[135]
The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland has spoken out against Scottish independence, and on 24 March 2007, a parade of 12,000 Orangemen and women paraded along Edinburgh's Royal Mile to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Act of Union."
Politics in Glasgow seems to have many alternative channels, probably more than one favoured with public money unbeknown to most of the public.
"In 2004 former Scottish Orange Order member Adam Ingram sued MP George Galloway for saying in his autobiography that Ingram had "played the flute in a sectarian, anti-Catholic, Protestant-supremacist Orange Order band". Judge Lord Kingarth ruled that the phrase was 'fair comment' on the Orange Order and that Ingram had been a member, although he had not played the flute.[135]
The Grand Orange Lodge of Scotland has spoken out against Scottish independence, and on 24 March 2007, a parade of 12,000 Orangemen and women paraded along Edinburgh's Royal Mile to celebrate the 300th anniversary of the Act of Union."
Politics in Glasgow seems to have many alternative channels, probably more than one favoured with public money unbeknown to most of the public.
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2012-06-04 08:58
O/T , if you want to see a major sporting occasion then bear in mind that next weeken Fort William hosts the World Cup downhill biking (it's the F1 of cycling) - fort william is well recognised to the best on the circuit and the only world cup course in the world that's open afterwards for anyone to have a go on... They're expecting another 10,000 + spectators again...
(i'm not associated with the event, just a keen spectator & rider)
(i'm not associated with the event, just a keen spectator & rider)
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2012-06-04 09:05
I wonder if we will see a coronation in 2014? An excuse to ram their union flag down our throat and have it on every product in every shop and on every TV show.
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2012-06-04 11:20
Quoting Islegard:
I don't know about a coronation - but note that William is already thinking about starting a family.
You've been warned...
And once his grandmama goes, we'll have to gear ourselves up for him being invested as our prince, Gawd bless 'im!
We're on our guard too...
Shoulder to shoulder time, fellow nationalists.
I wonder if we will see a coronation in 2014? An excuse to ram their union flag down our throat and have it on every product in every shop and on every TV show.
I don't know about a coronation - but note that William is already thinking about starting a family.
You've been warned...
And once his grandmama goes, we'll have to gear ourselves up for him being invested as our prince, Gawd bless 'im!
We're on our guard too...
Shoulder to shoulder time, fellow nationalists.
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2012-06-04 09:46
Quoting Ready to Start:
Letters to the Herald will embarrass Pathetic Quay
More importantly..BBC TV’s Question Time programme from Inverness this Thursday is all set up to embarrass the SNP / Independence movement. It is so loaded with no SNP politician on the panel that Labour feel confident enough to let Johan Lamont to appear. In addition to Lord Forsyth we have the right wing journalist Melanie Phillips billed to take part along with Danny Alexander to attack Alan Cumming who although an articulate advocate of independence is not a street wise politician. Why is BBC allowed to get away with this unrepresentativ e distortion with two right wing Tories on the panel in Scotland but no SNP representative.
Letters to the Herald will embarrass Pathetic Quay
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2012-06-04 11:32
Alan Cumming should realise that he is being set up by the BBC in being a lone nationalist who as a naturalised US citizen cannot vote in a Scottish referendum.
Mr Cumming should withdraw from Question Time because he will be made to look stupid and could easily do more harm than good.
Mr Cumming should withdraw from Question Time because he will be made to look stupid and could easily do more harm than good.
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2012-06-04 13:32
Unless he has renounced his UK citizenship he will still be able to vote as long as he is resident and on the electoral register.
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2012-06-04 15:38
I read last week that Alan Cumming intends to change his place of residence in order to qualify for the Electoral Register,and vote YES in 2014.
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2012-06-04 09:50
O/T
referendum
UK NEWS
BBC TOLD NOT TO OFFEND SNP IN REPORTING OF REFERENDUM
Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond
Monday June 4,2012
express.co.uk/.../...
referendum
UK NEWS
BBC TOLD NOT TO OFFEND SNP IN REPORTING OF REFERENDUM
Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond
Monday June 4,2012
express.co.uk/.../...
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2012-06-04 12:07
It is good to see that the bias that exists within BBC Scotland is being exposed to the wider public.
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2012-06-04 12:14
From the SUN with acknowledgments to xyz:
The broadcaster has also faced criticism from Labour politicians north of the border who claim on-air references to the “Westminster Government” suggest the parliament is remote from Scots rather than a UK-wide institution.
But that's what it is, innit - the Westminster Government?
If it looks like a Government, acts like a Government and is based in Westminster, then it must be the Westminster Government.
And IT IS 'remote' from us, both as Scots and Welsh - spatially and metaphorically.
Pssst - d'you thing ScotLab would prefer for it to be called 'the English Government'?
The broadcaster has also faced criticism from Labour politicians north of the border who claim on-air references to the “Westminster Government” suggest the parliament is remote from Scots rather than a UK-wide institution.
But that's what it is, innit - the Westminster Government?
If it looks like a Government, acts like a Government and is based in Westminster, then it must be the Westminster Government.
And IT IS 'remote' from us, both as Scots and Welsh - spatially and metaphorically.
Pssst - d'you thing ScotLab would prefer for it to be called 'the English Government'?
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2012-06-04 10:27
I noticed the bunting outside Glasgow Central Station advertising 'London Olympics 2012'. I though what has this got to do with Glasgow? No mention of the the city [Glasgow]. Glasgow City Council might as well as put posters on the Broomielaw advertising the Royal Floatilla of Jubilee Boats on the Thames? Glasgow City Council : The last bastion of Unionism in Scotland and it all makes sense now, that the BBC, MSM, insured every piece of energy was directed into making sure it remained Labour.
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2012-06-04 11:04
On topic "Giant knuckleduster" A great description. It also describes the MSM at the moment and the way they are trying to punch us to death.
Off topic now! I see the local shops open and no bunting, even the local G.P surgery is working and not a sign of bunting or UJs in sight. No holiday for the school kiddies either! Lots of rebellious Scots to crush here by the looks of it!
Off topic now! I see the local shops open and no bunting, even the local G.P surgery is working and not a sign of bunting or UJs in sight. No holiday for the school kiddies either! Lots of rebellious Scots to crush here by the looks of it!
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2012-06-04 12:14
We're open as normal today. One of our GPs did try to spark up some jubilee enthusiasm in the office, but got a row of blank faces.
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2012-06-04 12:53
Gordon Mathieson is fast turning into Scotlands answer to Comical Ali with his bizzare utterances about the Olympics. He is surely talking about his own excitement and multiplying it by 1000!
Why not go the whole hog Labour and on coming into Glasgows train stations and airport visitors and locals alike can be greeted by billboards with the slogan 'Welcome to Glasgow proudly supporting the London Olympics'. Stop! That may give them ideas!
The message is clear though. Unionism and their (Labour) preferred London rule d British nationalsim is blinding them to the reality that they are there to serve their own citizens first last and always.
Regards Alan Cumming and question time. I am still waiting on a response from a few SNP ministers from my email to them yesterday where i have asked them to clarify if they were approached by the EBC to appear on thursdays show from Inverness on the panel.
This is a Unionist set up on actor Alan Cumming and i also beleive he should wait until the very last second and then pull out which would leave them high and dry and exposed to having no independence supporting represenation on the panel thus exposing their Unionist bias for all to see. Time to get dirty with them.
I mean arent the EBC just wonderful and love democracy for everyone round the world except that is on their own doorstep. Freedom of speech for everyone who agrees with them. Time to expose the EBC for the frauds and hypocrites they are.
Why not go the whole hog Labour and on coming into Glasgows train stations and airport visitors and locals alike can be greeted by billboards with the slogan 'Welcome to Glasgow proudly supporting the London Olympics'. Stop! That may give them ideas!
The message is clear though. Unionism and their (Labour) preferred London rule d British nationalsim is blinding them to the reality that they are there to serve their own citizens first last and always.
Regards Alan Cumming and question time. I am still waiting on a response from a few SNP ministers from my email to them yesterday where i have asked them to clarify if they were approached by the EBC to appear on thursdays show from Inverness on the panel.
This is a Unionist set up on actor Alan Cumming and i also beleive he should wait until the very last second and then pull out which would leave them high and dry and exposed to having no independence supporting represenation on the panel thus exposing their Unionist bias for all to see. Time to get dirty with them.
I mean arent the EBC just wonderful and love democracy for everyone round the world except that is on their own doorstep. Freedom of speech for everyone who agrees with them. Time to expose the EBC for the frauds and hypocrites they are.
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2012-06-04 13:07
Maybe a demonstration within the QT venue during recording might be more effective than a demo outside the Pacific Quay HQ. I know they would edit it out but it would disrupt the recording. Ridiculous that they should record a show in Inverness and attempt to have no representative of the party of government on the panel. Especially to the benefit of the Tories who are irrelevant in Scotland.
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2012-06-04 13:22
Thats the kind of idea that had struck me Alibi with some of us who are local to that part of the world. It would let the panellists and show producers know that the natives arent happy and give each panellist et al the rough ride they richly deserve if indeed us here are correct and this is a stitch up by the usual suspects aided and abetted by 'auntie'.
Further, where Michael Forstyh has relevance as a panellist and in todays Scottish political scene is a mystery to me. He was Thatchers bogeyman of yesteryear.
Further, where Michael Forstyh has relevance as a panellist and in todays Scottish political scene is a mystery to me. He was Thatchers bogeyman of yesteryear.
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2012-06-05 09:05
What SHOULD happen, is that when these types of discussions are set up in terms of attendance, there should be EQUAL representation ie 3 No and 3 YES campaigners. Not taken as each party line as then it can be rigged just as Inverness is rigged in it's present form.
How else can you get a balanced debate, currently it is anything but.
The BBC and others must address this NOW and the YES campaigners MUST insist on it, so everyone can see a balanced approach prior to any debate.
This is what we must endeavour for, but what are the chances?
How else can you get a balanced debate, currently it is anything but.
The BBC and others must address this NOW and the YES campaigners MUST insist on it, so everyone can see a balanced approach prior to any debate.
This is what we must endeavour for, but what are the chances?
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2012-06-04 13:18
As long as they are not made from brass or stainless, if they are then there gone, in the scoof pile, well at least someone in Scotland will get a wage from the London Olympics .
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2012-06-04 13:21
Are these the same rings that weren't fixed onto the rockface at edinburgh castle?
#
2012-06-04 13:28
I have no interest in the Olympics, the Jubilee, the European Championships ( although that one a wee bit sadly ). This all appears to have little to do with Scotland with the BBC coverage being both awful propoganda and poor at best. They couldn't find a street party in Scotland so just filmed anything and the Sunday Post are a joke. If you asked my two teens what they thought they would tell you they just don't care about any of it.
#
2012-06-05 09:10
Sunday Post used to be a real Scottish paper but now with Johnstone Press owning most regional and others like the Scotsman, Sunday Post etc there is no longer a Scottish paper of worth they just tow the unionist line of their directors in England, and we are meant to swallow the guff!
#
2012-06-04 13:40
Apart from 20 odd Orange Order marches in Glasgow was there anything? I saw a couple of bits of bunting in shop windows and that has been the absolute sum total of it. There was far, far more when the local team made it to a Junior's final.
The weather has been too nice to watch TV. Off out on the bike now to get a bit fresh air. I'm enjoying the day off of course :)
The weather has been too nice to watch TV. Off out on the bike now to get a bit fresh air. I'm enjoying the day off of course :)
#
2012-06-04 13:49
The truth is out. Labour were just using Glasgow Council elections as a stepping stone to save the union!
#
2012-06-04 14:18
It sounds like the panel lined up for QT should do wonders for the independence cause.
Lets hope they really get stuck into Alan Cumming. I would imagine he knows what he's in for and shall quietly enjoy letting them do our job for us.
Lets hope they really get stuck into Alan Cumming. I would imagine he knows what he's in for and shall quietly enjoy letting them do our job for us.
#
2012-06-04 15:57
I have to admit, at first Ithought this was a disgrace. However on reflection, I actually think this may be a massive own goal from the bbc.
Let me explain. The strength of feeling of the AUDIENCE may be underestimated when a jumped up tory lordy comes North to put the unruly Jocks in thier place. Secondly, the lamentable one is hardly reknown for thinking on her feet is she? A couple of testy questions will shut her up, whilst the sense of fair play will kick in with the audience if Mr. Cumming gets a hard time from three points of attack. In fact, because he is NOT affiliated with the SNP, I dont think this attack will happen.
Let me explain. The strength of feeling of the AUDIENCE may be underestimated when a jumped up tory lordy comes North to put the unruly Jocks in thier place. Secondly, the lamentable one is hardly reknown for thinking on her feet is she? A couple of testy questions will shut her up, whilst the sense of fair play will kick in with the audience if Mr. Cumming gets a hard time from three points of attack. In fact, because he is NOT affiliated with the SNP, I dont think this attack will happen.
#
2012-06-04 16:50
And the questions and the option to edit out anything that doesn't comply with their Unionist bias.
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2012-06-05 10:57
Quoting Holebender:
As was very evident when viewing the recent televised debate, hosted by Isabel Fraser, when Nicola Sturgeon was disgracefully heckled and even verbally attacked and called a liar, by a very partisan, pro-union audience.
You are forgetting that the BBC chooses its audience after extensive vetting...
As was very evident when viewing the recent televised debate, hosted by Isabel Fraser, when Nicola Sturgeon was disgracefully heckled and even verbally attacked and called a liar, by a very partisan, pro-union audience.
#
2012-06-04 16:13
A few weeks ago my daughter's school in Perth was offered 8 free tickets for Hampden. Last week the school was offered 35 free tickets. Desperation setting in.
#
2012-06-04 16:18
Its all fine and well filling hampden up with free fickets for schools, but that doesnt make money, does it?
#
2012-06-04 16:28
OT.SNP's Angus Robertson off to Vienna:--
thecourier.co.uk/.../...
In the Courier,a staunch Unionist newspaper.
'Reporting Scotland' tonight?
thecourier.co.uk/.../...
In the Courier,a staunch Unionist newspaper.
'Reporting Scotland' tonight?
#
2012-06-04 19:05
Great article, Dundonian. Nice to see something happening in the press.
By the way, OT but on international affairs: Paxo's "idiot from Europe", the Catalan Altafaj-Tardio (EU economic spokesman) who had the common sense to quietly walk off the set when Osborne insulted him, has been promoted!
Lesson somewhere for someone?
By the way, OT but on international affairs: Paxo's "idiot from Europe", the Catalan Altafaj-Tardio (EU economic spokesman) who had the common sense to quietly walk off the set when Osborne insulted him, has been promoted!
Lesson somewhere for someone?
#
2012-06-04 16:39
After all the attempts to make the torch relay seem exciting, I think "bored of the rings" is probably the appropriate description.
#
2012-06-04 17:40
Hi all,
O/T but an good read on the Independance debate from a Canadian angle ....... sort of.
diplomatonline.com/mag/2012/04/the-case-for-scottish-independence
O/T but an good read on the Independance debate from a Canadian angle ....... sort of.
diplomatonline.com/mag/2012/04/the-case-for-scottish-independence
#
2012-06-04 18:03
Might I suggest putting down some bark chips around them and then let the kids loose? Would make a decent climbing frame.
#
2012-06-04 19:06
This is disgusting and biased - why are there no panelist panda bears on QT in Inverness. They are far in the majority of tory msps so why this discrimmination ....!
#
2012-06-04 19:06
I agree with those suggesting Alan Cumming should pull out of Thursday's Question Time and if there any of the SNP hierarchy reading these comments then I suggest you take note of them.
#
2012-06-05 00:43
Are we to believe the BBC is so stupid as to not invite an SNP spokesperson onto QT in Inverness?
If so, just how much contempt for the Scots does this BBC crowd need to show before it registers on the "beyond the pale" meter?
It could, and should backfire spectacularly, if any sense of proprietary fair play is felt to be amiss.
The BBC's wheelers and dealers are inordinately insensitive - bordering on crass, if they push this "unionist despite Scottish resolve" line much further.
If so, just how much contempt for the Scots does this BBC crowd need to show before it registers on the "beyond the pale" meter?
It could, and should backfire spectacularly, if any sense of proprietary fair play is felt to be amiss.
The BBC's wheelers and dealers are inordinately insensitive - bordering on crass, if they push this "unionist despite Scottish resolve" line much further.
#
2012-06-05 08:11
Just to add a caveat here. As far as I am aware, the BBC do not control the production of QT, they just commission it. It is actually made by a private company (I do not know if Dimbleby is connected with them, or just the presenter). Their 'brief' from the BBC is that the panels should reflect the politics "of the UK". The panel could be 'excused' on that basis, and that will be the defense of the production company for no SNP representative. [I am open to correction on this]
Of course, it might well be that no SNP politician was "available" for the recording of the programme! A Machiavellian plot to allow the enemy to continue to shoot itself in the foot.
I am sure Alan knows exactly what he is getting into, and is smart enough to run rings around Lamont and the other panelists. He must keep his cool, though!
Of course, it might well be that no SNP politician was "available" for the recording of the programme! A Machiavellian plot to allow the enemy to continue to shoot itself in the foot.
I am sure Alan knows exactly what he is getting into, and is smart enough to run rings around Lamont and the other panelists. He must keep his cool, though!
#
2012-06-05 08:28
Indeed, in order for the Independance campaign to appeal to others who do not agree with SNP pollicies, Alan Cumming may well have been chisen over rank and file SNP politicians.
Remember. It is NOT the SNP's referendum, but the People of Scotland's referendum!!!
Remember. It is NOT the SNP's referendum, but the People of Scotland's referendum!!!
#
2012-06-05 11:31
Correct me if I am wrong but as far as I can see / read the SNP have made no statement regarding whether they were even invited to participate. I have asked four prominent SNP mp's and msp's about this but have recieved no response.
Why don't the SNP clarify this question about question time.
I am a little suspicious of the reason for continued silence.
Just tell us (me anyway)
Were the SNP invited to participate or not?
Why don't the SNP clarify this question about question time.
I am a little suspicious of the reason for continued silence.
Just tell us (me anyway)
Were the SNP invited to participate or not?
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