Author Archives: Alistair

What’s an MP worth?

Posted on 17 January 2008 by Alistair

I’ve been increasingly intrigued by the saga of MPs’ pay rises. Both Gordon Brown’s insistence that MPs must only get a rise in line with other areas of the public sector and Cameron’s willingness to row in behind him strikes … Continue reading →

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Nuclear: it’s time to get real

Posted on 10 January 2008 by Alistair

We are all concerned about energy security and the future of our planet. Why then, is the Conservative Party so concerned about coming out fully in favour of nuclear? We want and need to reduce dependency on coal and oil if … Continue reading →

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Can Europe prove it’s worth?

Posted on 13 December 2007 by Alistair

And so today the European constitution finally becomes a reality. Whilst the signing ceremony puts the cart before the horse in that national parliament’s still need to ratify the treaty before it comes into effect, today is a symbolic step … Continue reading →

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An undiginified retreat

Posted on 6 December 2007 by Alistair

Jacqui Smith’s latest proposals on extending detention without charge make a mockery of our attempts to “fight the war on terror” on the home front. Leaving aside comment on that invidious phrase itself, the question must arise is this anyway … Continue reading →

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Will nobody go?

Posted on 23 November 2007 by Alistair

This week has seen yet another demonstration of the dearth of accountability that this government has fostered. Alastair Darling, Ian Blair and now, to add to the horror, Steve McLaren have all failed to fall on their swords and take … Continue reading →

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