Difficult to argue

Brunstrom draws his critics but can any logical person really argue with this blog ?

"Driving on the phone.

It’s Tuesday. I’ve just caught the Jeremy Vine Show on Radio 2 - not something I normally do at lunchtime, but I was driving back from a visit (to the Toyota factory on Deeside; I’m going back - we’ve got things to learn from them) and switched the radio on.

By chance, today is the day the government have increased the penalty for using a hand held phone while driving. It’s now £60 and three points on your licence, as it always should have been. Credit where it’s due - three cheers for the government. This will save lives.

But I was appalled by many of the people phoning in to the show. Literally shocking. Caller after caller falling into the category of dangerous (male) idiot who believes that
a) they are the world’s best driver and
b) the law doesn’t apply to them, because they are the world’s best driver.

It is literally frightening to think about how many of these morons there are out there, sharing the roads with you and me. People who really have deluded themselves into thinking that they are invulnerable, incapable of error and therefore safe. People who can’t understand statistics, or are in denial of them. People who just refuse to accept the law, and the reason for it. As I have said before, this amounts to anti-social behaviour - and it’s serious, because the consequence is sometimes death (we still kill about 3000 [three thousand] people on our roads every year in the UK)

Driving a vehicle while using a hand held phone is illegal. It has been so for some time now. It’s literally criminal - and now the punishment better fits the crime.

In 2006 North Wales Police gave fixed penalty tickets to 3051 people caught using mobile phones while driving. So far this year we’ve caught 374 more. Please be warned - we will deal robustly with this offence, and you will lose your licence if you persist.

But I’d much rather that you stop doing it in the first place - it’s the responsible way to behave, and more of us will live to die of old age as a result".

Let us hope we can take note.

Don't cry - but modern campaigning gives timely reminder

Have a look at this youtube link

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YHRTLp960Cg

Cause for thought and the Rhodri factor

The BBC poll gives all candidates cause for thought, and leaves us as Labour candidates thankful for Rhodri Morgan !

Whilst there may be regional variations in awareness I have to admit that even in Arfon we do have to spend time on the door step and on the phone explaining that there is an election in May, before getting the chance to press Labour's case.

Significant day in history ?

I don't recall a previous day when China sneezed and many others caught a cold. I suspect this is a new chapter in our economic lives the significance of which is difficult to foresee - or I may simply be over reacting to inevitable variations in a stock market.

Its the promotion which counts !

Of course I can now say we never wanted to progress in the FA Cup and the promotion from the Championship is the main thing. (but a game with Man Utd would have been nice!). Pity about the red card.

So how would Plaid reconfigure health ?

Plaid have decided to announce they would stop the reconfigeration of hospitals - the same policy as the Tories ???? (somewhere over the rainbow!!)

Helen Mary Jones told the Western Mail :

“We are making a commitment to stopping the current reconfiguration process, full stop,” she said.

Okay. So what "reconfiguration" do PLaid intend to implement ? Surely we need to be told prior to the election ?

Being against things is easy, but what are they for ?

Useful round up of blogging views

Wales Elects 2007 is proving a useful summary of views and comments around the Welsh blogging world. It shows the mix of attack, defence and wacky views we try and present to the world.

Taking on the Aberdaron to Aberdyfi challenge

Nice to spend some more time with David Phillips who will now take on the challenge of the new Dwyfor-Meirionnydd seat for Labour. At conference we spent time discussing common issues like the the Welsh Highland Railway, the new community hospital at Tremadog (Labour investment in action) and local economic issues.

David was also busy talking to Andrew Davies and Rhodri Morgan about the loss of jobs in Bala.

Fair point over the rainbow

I have now caught up with a few blogs including this interesting point from Blamerbell Briefs based on Elfyn Llwyd's rant on Thursday about the rainbow coalition.

Vote for Plaid opens door for Tories

Rhodri is right. The big threat on May 3rd is the Tories. That is why a vote for Plaid would be dangerous in Arfon as it just opens doors for the Tories. Redwood, Hague, Thatcher - painful memories.

Da iawn Tec

Yn anisgwyl ddoeth Tecwyn Thomas i cadar Llafur Cymru y flwyddyn yma oherwydd salwch gwr y Cadeirydd.

Erbyn rwan mae o'n swyddogol yn Cadeirydd ar gyfer 2007-08. Cydnabyddiaeth gwych i gweithiwr fyddlon y Plaid Lafur yn Arfo, Cymru a tu hwnt.

Congratulations to Tecwyn Thomas of the Arfon Labour Party on his election as the chair of the Wales Labour Party for 2007-08. A worthy recognition for a fantastic servant of working people.

Leighton in happy days

Aren't football fans unbearable when their team is doing well. Leighton Andrews took time out from his fantastic campaign in defence of the Burberry workers to enjoy Cardiff's 4-1 win. However over this morning coffees at Welsh conference in Llandudno he was obvioulsy unbearable !

Baggies kept up their decent away run. Happy days all round.

Vegetarian kills Welsh language

Just back from a quick trip to Welshpool for the Welsh language equivalent of Question Time - "Pawb A'i Farn". I thought a rather strange selection of questions that did niot give the programme the political edge that might have been expected.

However it will stick in my memory for Rhys Mwyn anarchist, musician, promoter (and good comapny) being lambasted for the potential death of the Welsh language through his vegeterianism. It seems that his anarchist roots, punk musical background were okay but not being vegeterian in his home farming county.

In conversation I recalled Rhys doing a gig for Nicaragua solidarity in the Vic, Menai Bridge amongst various "roadie" stories.

Sorry Leighton ! (and Blamerbell )

It was all very predictable given my formula of home wins and away draws for success this year. Cardiff back down the M5 pointless. Apologies to Leighton Andrews AM and Blamerbell briefs.

Nice to see Ellington find the net. We need not only to hunt down but get well past Derby as games in hand look a potential problem.

Anyway Boro and then Man Utd so we can have promotion and an FA Cup. Nice !

Plotting for Wigley as Plaid leader

Dafydd Iwan's failed letter promoting Dafydd Wigley as the Plaid candidate for Arfon has got me in to a creative mood and I thought I would join those speculating about polling outcomes in May.

Here's a good scenario :

People have had enough of Ieuan on Ynys Mon so vote him down.

People like the idea of Wigley returning so they vote Labour in Arfon.

In Aberconwy they choose a non-Plaid candidiate (I firmly recommend Denise)

Hey presto Mr Wigley is suddenly a serious contender for, not only a return from number 2 on the North Wales list, but also leader of Plaid after Ieuan's demise on Ynys Mon.

Surely politics is not that Machiavelian ???

Remember you heard it here via the words of no less a figure than 'Suanders Lewis' -

Vote Eaglestone and get Wigley too
Two for the price of one
A real bargain


Perhaps Dafydd Wigley will write a short recommendation for my election address, and perhaps Iwan will second it, given his obvious affection for Mr Wigley.

Independence - A journey towards factionalism ?

Some of those now blogging for independence have pointed to the stresses between three factions in Plaid Cymru. This fact has been clear to many of us who watch and listen to them, as there is little in common between Plaid in "fortress Gwynedd" and Plaid in other places.

I think it was Ieuan WJ who admitted at the (last ?) election that Plaid have the benefit of being able to say different things to people in different parts of Wales.

However it is a very interesting analysis that sugggests one result of Plaid's work is/will be their their demise in to factions. I suppose it is interesting to speculate as to which faction would have the upper hand in any Rainbow coalition (back on Glyn Davies's agenda this week).

Accuracy of news

The BBC report on the funding of Healthy Living Centres and use the example of Maesgeirchen in Bangor where the HLC is making a difficult transition from lottery to mainstream funding. The centre is in Bangor.

However why this should be described by the BBC as near Caernarfon leads one to question how accurate reporting can sometimes be. Is it the case that everywhere will not to be mentioned directly, but simply by reference to being near somewhere else down the road ?.

In addition we do face some difficult questions over the coming years as a number of lottery and European funded projects that have been put in place will come to the end of their grant period, and we must all hope that funding viability has been acheived.

Blogger in blood pressure alert !

Blamerbell clearly had a relaxing afternoon with the football !! Heaven knows what Leighton Andrews AM will be reporting.

I recall several other reports of Leeds unwise tactics this year.

Meanwhile the Baggies held to my theory of away draws and home wins by holding Boro 2-2.

In the hat for the next round, even if the replay must be won as well.

"Saunders Lewis" twist to campaign slogan

Last Sunday's blog about Dafydd Iwan preferring Dafydd Wigley as Plaid's candidate for Arfon drew a number of reactions - the idea clearly upsets some of my Plaid blogging colleagues.

However amongst the comments you will see 'Saunders Lewis' has stepped forward to suggest that the slogan needs some fine tuning :

"Vote Eaglestone and get Wigley too.

Two for the price of one.
A real bargain"

I must keep working at this campaign, and more suggestions would be welcome.

Please keep , them clean - robust is fine and democratic, but I don't want to have to moderate.

Impartial press ?

I know it doesn't always help to pick an argument with the press, but with the weekly help we can all see being given to the Conservative candidate in Aberconwy I thought I would send off the following letter to the Daily Post :

Dear editor,

As a Labour Party candidate in the elections to our National Assembly on May 3rd can I possibly request that your paper provides me with the same facility as Dylan Jones Evans who seems to have been given a weekly permit to write material favourable to himself and his campaign. I have no objection to reading Dylan's views, as I beleive debate is the lifeblood of democracy, but I would hope as a regular purchaser of your paper that other candidates might get the same opportunity so that readers have a balanced view of the many issues they will vote upon this May.For example when writing about health issues I might like to report Labour's record investment in our NHS and to contrast Dylan's words with the record of his own party when last in power.

Yours sincerely
Martin Eaglestone
Labour Party candidate
Arfon constituency

I wait to see whether other voices are even allowed on to the letters page !

Cash incentive does not add up for me

I have an active interest in affordable housing issues as part of my work as a planning officer involves seeking solutions to this challenge. Knowing a little about the situation - but only one piece of a complex jigsaw - I cannot quite make sense of Plaid's announcement regarding grants (will these also be called "bribes" as Plaid recently described economic develolpment grants?) to first time buyers.

I fear these grants will only assist sellers of property, as the market will quickly adjust and absorb any additiional purchasing power, and estate agents if their business levels increase.
Furthermore it can only assist those who are in a situation near to purchase, and so the most vulnerable will loose out as public money for housing is diverted towards those who are on the verge of owning property, not those in most need.

It is being promoted, I assume, as it is eye catching for Plaid's middle class supporters - New Plaid Cymru - now where have we heard such policies criticised before ? Perhaps an increase in house building in areas like Gwynedd would help ease pressures ?

I am happy to be informed if my interpretation is wrong as Plaid's web site lacks detail of how this system will work.

UNICEF link

Given the coverage of this report and the significance of the issue please find the link to UNICEF here.

"Stunning win"

Another fine win for the Baggies at fortress Colchester. See posting on club site here. I think we need to chase down Derby as Brum have too many games in hand for comfort.

First Minister's latest speech

The Assembly provides a link to information on Rhodri Morgan's latest speech, you can also read the previous contributions. Full version of speech will follow.

Wales and employment

Andrew Davies AM has a letter in today's Western Mail

Monday, 12 February 2007
Feb 12 2007
Peter Morrell, Western Mail

For more Welsh jobs, only Labour will do

SIR - Alun Cairns, Conservative and Alun Ffred Jones, Plaid Cymru, have recently joined forces on your letters page to attack the achievements of Welsh companies in creating jobs. (Western Mail, Letters, February 2 and February 5). The independent Office for National Statistics' Labour Force Survey is the definitive account of public and private sector employment. This survey shows that since 1999 the percentage increase in private sector employment in Wales is over twice that for the UK as a whole. Furthermore, Wales is the only part of the UK to have seen a bigger percentage increase in private sector employment than public sector employment since 1999.

This record is a tribute to the skill and talents of Welsh employees. Working in partnership, the Assembly Government and UK Government have created an environment where companies can invest in confidence. Wales provides world-class business support and good transport links in a low inflation, low interest rate environment.

The Tories want to take us back to the bad old days of the 1980s. Plaid Cymru want to shut Wales off from the world economy. Only Labour is standing up for Wales and delivering jobs and prosperity across the country.

ANDREW DAVIES

Dafydd Iwan's choice for Arfon - Dafydd Wigley

This morning I return to the letter which Plaid President Dafydd Iwan issued to Lord Elis-Thomas about Plaid's candidates for May 2007. The letter reveals that the preferred choice of Plaid President Dafydd Iwan for the new seat of Arfon was Dafydd Wigley, not Alun Ffred Jones. Indeed Mr Iwan wanted Ffred to stand in Dwyfor-Meirionnydd and with Lord DET moving to Aberconwy to help this happen.

I know that some of my blogging colleagues will say this means nothing, and is part of the normal business of running a party in preparation for the elections. However in the small world that is Plaid Cymru in North West Wales I think it is more than a little significant that the pattern of candidiates this May is nothing like the President intended. It also suggests that the President has little influence in his own Party, as it would surely be sensible to sort out such thoughts in private not by written correspondence.

Seeing the future !

Lovely quote on page 2 of tody's Guardian

"If you are asking me for predictions when exactly it will open up again then it is hard to say"

Astrologer Jonathon Cainer on the closoure of his Psychic Museum in York.

That put a smile on my face.

Distaw ! Hush - the policy that dare not speak its name

Dragon's Eye provided great interest with a feature on "independence". It seems to me that if you are to feature on the media then don't stand around near the cameras being filmed taking advice and then not appearing. The fact that a blog and politics may differ is hardly news but at least stand up and explain your views.

We all know that "independence" is not to be spolen about in public but given the coverage in blog land Ieuan has come forward to offfer an article to those pushing for true independence.

Read the policy document

A somewhat standard non-story in the Western Mail from people who are not familiar with our pre conference policy documents. Politics is the art of the possible so let those campaigning for new measures identify practicalground for progress - rather than absolute stances.

Damaging "bribe" allegation must be withdrawn

I have read again the letter issued by Alun Ffred Jones and Dafydd Wigley claiming that companies receive a "bribe" to locate in Wales. I find this allegation in a letter to local business in Arfon both bizzare, and possibly damaging to our economic interests. As Andrew Davies told the Asembly :

"However, the other candidate was a present Assembly Member, who wrote to local businesses in the Arfon constituency stating that, over the past 30 successive years, Governments, Conservative and Labour alike, have placed far too much emphasis on paying grants to bribe—a word that I would like Members to note—large companies into Wales rather than nurturing our own business sector. I am sure that companies such as Inspired Broadcast Networks, at Technium CAST in Parc Menai, Bangor, and Brandsauce, which has created 30 jobs, and The Book People, both of which are also at Parc Menai, would be interested to hear that a Government is offering bribes and that such companies are willing to accept them. Plaid Cymru needs to consider whether it is in favour of developing a sustainable economy or whether, just as in its attitude to the defence industry and the Ministry of Defence, it wants to put up barriers around Wales".

This "bribe" allegation should be withdrawn. Plaid must put up or shut up based on evidence :

Which local companies got a "bribe" ?

How many jobs will be lost if such grant support is not offered - is it not part of the purpose of Ob jective One to offer grants in Arfon?

One weekend per year ?

I watched the speed boat go by this morning from my bedrrom window, and it made a fair noise as it passed by Y Felinheli. I don't think we want the Strait to be used for this type of high speed activity as it would conflict with other uses.

However one weekend per year - well supervised - might help diversify and extend the tourist season. But careful thought required.

Extraordinary posting

Blamerbell Briefs has made an extraordinary posting about the Electoral Commission and the BNP. I await the clarification mentioned.

Peter blogs Andrew

Peter Black blogged pretty fully on Andrew Davies's Assembly contribution this week saying :

"Perhaps it was the fact that we held Plenary on a Thursday, but as other bloggers have already pointed out there was definitely something in the air. I am not convinced like Glyn Davies that Andrew Davies' sustained assault on Plaid Cymru was a calculated leadership bid, but it certainly will do him no harm in the future. That after all was the intention when Leighton Andrews planted the question:

Leighton Andrews: I congratulate the Minister on his role, along with the First Minister and colleagues at Westminster, in helping to bring that development to south Wales. Does he agree that we would not want Wales to be seen as a place that is not welcoming of the British military? We believe that these investments have a considerable role to play in the Welsh economy and that Wales has not, in the past, enjoyed its fair share of such investments.

Andrew Davies: I very much agree. It has been a fantastic team effort, as you said; I pay tribute to your parliamentary colleague, Chris Bryant, who led a very effective lobbying campaign at Westminster. As well as a team effort, it was a Team Wales effort, and it was an attempt to change the perception of Wales. We have been successful in doing that. However, we have to bear in mind that some parties would not even have been bidding for the defence training academy.Plaid Cymru has made its position on this clear. Certainly, Elfyn Llwyd, one of its many leaders, signed a parliamentary motion in November 2006, opposing the entire defence training review programme. We would not even be in this position of celebrating success if we had followed Plaid Cymru. This matter has a long history in that party. Who will ever forget Saunders Lewis’s infamous arson attack on the Pwllheli military training camp on the eve of the second world war? Yet another of Plaid Cymru’s leaders, Dafydd Iwan, the president, has called for an end to all army activity, including training, in Wales. Who could forget the social justice spokeswoman, Leanne Wood—I am afraid that she is not here at the moment—demanding that representatives of the armed forces be banned from Welsh schools? If we had followed Plaid’s policy, we would not have been standing up for Wales; we would be hauling up the white flag for Wales. Where would we be on the north-south air service from Cardiff to RAF Valley, which the Government is introducing? Presumably, Plaid should not really support that, because it is based on a defence site. Where is Elin Jones on the issue of unmanned aerial vehicles?Elin Jones: I am here.Andrew Davies: Where are you now on the unmanned aerial vehicle aerospace park at Parc Aberporth? We have worked with the Ministry of Defence, as a Labour Government, to bring that to Wales. We could go on and on, about constituency after constituency, where Plaid Cymru would want to see the end of defence expenditure and an end to the creation of thousands of jobs in Wales.And it went on:Andrew Davies: I think that it is a bit rich of Owen John Thomas to ask about local jobs. We would not even be in this position, if we had followed the policy of Plaid Cymru’s leader of opposing the defence training academy. One of our key strengths in bidding for the defence academy, with our parliamentary colleagues in London, was that we were able to address the Ministry of Defence’s concerns about local skills and local sourcing. One of our major strengths was that we could demonstrate that we had the necessary skills in Wales and the capacity and expertise in our further and higher education institutions. We were standing up for Wales, creating wealth and jobs, unlike Plaid Cymru, the party that would put up barriers around Wales.

It was so good that Conservative AM, David Melding, could not resist congratulating the Minister on it:David Melding: Minister, I must congratulate you on your astonishing and utterly spontaneous replies; they put on record some hard political facts. [Laughter.]

Just when we thought it was over, the Labour AM for Islwyn, Irene James, planted another question:

Irene James: As you have already alluded to in your answer, inward investment is a key part of the economy of industrialised south Wales. Will you give an assurance that, as part of a Labour Welsh Assembly Government, you will not turn your back on the opportunities of inward investment, as advocated by nationalists fighting a nationalist agenda, whatever the cost to economic health and opportunities? Do you agree that indigenous business growth, inward investment, and economic diversity are all essential to a successful, thriving and prosperous Welsh economy?

Andrew Davies: I agree. You need a balanced approach in a modern economy. You need the public sector and Government leading and developing policies that encourage business, entrepreneurial activity and innovation, whether it is Welsh-based companies or inward investors.I was somewhat taken aback when someone brought to my attention a letter that was sent out by two parliamentary candidates from Plaid Cymru—[Assembly Members: ‘Oh.’]—one of whom was a former leader. The trouble is that there have been so many leaders, it is always difficult to remember their roles. However, the other candidate was a present Assembly Member, who wrote to local businesses in the Arfon constituency stating that, over the past 30 successive years, Governments, Conservative and Labour alike, have placed far too much emphasis on paying grants to bribe—a word that I would like Members to note—large companies into Wales rather than nurturing our own business sector. I am sure that companies such as Inspired Broadcast Networks, at Technium CAST in Parc Menai, Bangor, and Brandsauce, which has created 30 jobs, and The Book People, both of which are also at Parc Menai, would be interested to hear that a Government is offering bribes and that such companies are willing to accept them. Plaid Cymru needs to consider whether it is in favour of developing a sustainable economy or whether, just as in its attitude to the defence industry and the Ministry of Defence, it wants to put up barriers around Wales.So that is 'no' to a coalition with Plaid Cymru then? Or is it?

How did Andrew in far away Cardiff learn about that Plaid Cymru letter I wonder ????

Not in tune !

Blamerbell Briefs gets excited over claims that Plaid and Cymuned are mis using the start of the rugby season.

Where were you ?

An enjoyable few hours with Bangor NUS and catching up with the variety of student life in Bangor. As Assembly candidates we were invited to form a panel. I was the only candidate to attend so rather than being quizzed on current issues (potentially painful !) I spent time looking around the stalls/activities and enjoyed the whole event. (was my last visit to Time clubfor the great Robert Plant ? or a dance).

Congratulations to Storm Radio = 87.7 fm (Bangor's student sound/Sain Myfyrwyr Bangor) on 30K of renovation work, an official opening by Cllr Dorothy Bulled and best wishes for many years happy broadcasting to your University audience.

Also some happy memories of being parts of the Ents team at Birmigham Poly (Polytechnic - what that ??) back in early 1980's. But I'm sure today's studenst are more mature in outlook.

Plaid hypocrites ? Never .....

"But many electors feel threatened by vandalism, anti social behaviour and petty crime. Politicians have a duty to address this issue..."

"Ond mae llawer o etholwyr yn dal i deimlo dan fygythiad oherwydd fandaliaeth ,ymddwyn gwrth-gymdeithasol a man droseddu. Mae gan wleidyddion ddyletswydd i fynd i'r afael ar hyn ".

Fine words from Plaid Cymru candidate Alun Ffred Jones in his new leaflet now being delivered in Arfon.

He must therefore be really upset by the arrest of three people in Bangor for criminal damage. Exactly the type of mindless damage which absorbs Police resources and he has "a duty to address".

Yet when we visit the Cymdeithas yr Iaith web/Welsh Language Society web site what do we find ? Yes here are Plaid Cymru's elected representaives whipping up the crowd (???) before the criminal acts took place.

Clearly we can expect a press release from Alun Ffred condemning his colleagues and CYI? After all he has "a duty to address this issue".

Hypocrisy ?

Blamerbell Briefs has a Big Brother moment - apology please !

Blamerbell briefs has been posting some interestimng thoughts in recent weeks and I have linked several times to points of interest. However it seems to have been struck by a CH4 and S4C moment in this posting ! "Probably because the locals are always nicking stuff!!!"

The Indonesian may have been looked at, but Blamerbell goes for a full bloooded smear against the Cofis (perhaps with tongue in cheek). Anyway an apology may be necesary to help clarify any misunderstanding !

Politics Show ?

After a busy week of offering various political observations on BBC Cymru (Welsh language media) I hope to make an appearance on the Politics Show at lunchtime today. BBC have been taking a closer look at the role of Welsh Language Impact Assessments as part of the town planning process and the control of new development . I contributed to this debate and judging by the web site may get a few words in.

"Things are certainly moving in Town"

You can't deny progress when you see physical expressions of Labour's new investment. My old friends on Caernarfon Online have now identified a number of projects, many funded in full or part by Labour investment, which are now progressing around Caernarfon.

To this list we can add the work on Communities First projects in Maes Barcer, the new school for Ysgol Pendalar and in spite of current funding pressures extra Community Support Officers and Community Beat Officers in the town. We have the ongoing restoration of the Welsh Highland Light Railway and exciting events like Merlin's Magical Quest - son et luminere.

Lots more to do, but we can see the renewal of our town under Labour's proactive policies.

The benefits of blog land and the cost of indepedence

It may be an obvious point but the blogging world is once again showing its strength through the debate which is developing about "independence" and the associated costs. The issue may never be properly resolved, but I have always found it strange that on the simple fact that Wales is a net beneficiary of tax revenue, and nationalists seek independence, they call for an increase in the Barnett formula (tax benefits compared to England). Surely they should campaign for the end of the barnett formula to ensure we become more self sufficient ?

There are several interesting contributions some prompted by this posting on Blamerbell Briefs and noting some of the related postings : seren and ted jones.

There are several more out there. I have always felt Plaid get away with too much. For example when their Llwydd/President talks about removing UK military presence from Wales (RAF Valley, St Athen etc = loss revenue) and creating a new civil force (= more expenditure).

It's a small world

Wel the weather was dry in Arfon and who should end up in the same streets of Bangor but the Labour and Plaid Cymru teams. The people of Hirael may not have been in, but we were all out there trying to hunt them down !

Informative bit - climate change

I thought a link to the Assembly info on climate change might be of interest.

Bosib bod gwybodaeth o safle we y Cynuliad ar newid hinsawdd o diddordeb.

Olympic football team ?

A small contribution this lunchtime to Taro Post - Welsh language news discussion - on whether Britain might enter a football team in the 2012 Olympics. Apparently Gordon Brown said it as one of his "Britishness" debates.

As a football fan I find the idea attractive, and would look forward to Jason Koumas lifting the Olympic trophy for Wales and Britain.

However I know the reality of football politics may make this opportunity difficult to grasp - a pity given the interest in football in the UK.

Fuasai tim Olympaidd mor drwg a hnny ?. Yn goleuni ysbryd y Gemau, a diddordeb mor fywiog yn peldroed, fuasai tim yn peth diddorol yw dilyn. Os bosib gael dealltwriaeth am gemau Olymapidd hed effeithio'r Cymdeithasau unigol ? Ysbryd o deallwtriaeth sydd ei angen.

Postie is a kind person

Mae'r system post frenhinol wedi bod yn ffind iawn ac rwan mae gen i gyfle i ddarllen geiriau cynnes Dafydd Iwan wrth iddo trio symud Dafydd El i Aberconwy a Alun Ffred i etholaeth newydd Dwyfor-Meirion, nid Arfon. Gawn weld beth yw'r darnau gorau i trafod ar y blog dros y dyddiau nesaf.

Well having blogged about the Western Mail story on my Party of Wales opponent, Alun Ffred Jones, actually being recommended for theDwyfor Meirion seat, not Arfon, the postie has indeed been kind !

I am currently consuming the kind words of praise that "Llywydd" (President) Dafydd Iwan offered in his letter addressed to Lord Dafydd Elis Thomas at his Dolgellau office - before trying to push him on to the Aberconwy seat. No doubt we can blog about a few of the gems in this letter over the coming days. It reminds me of an old fashioned centre half who smiles as he brings his elbow in to the tackle.

Own goal ?

Nationalist funding hypocrisy exposed

Nationalists in Wales faced ridicule today after it was revealed that they were receiving the majority of its money for the Assembly campaign from England. The revelation came within minutes of Plaid Cymru calling on Welsh political parties to fight the Assembly campaign "using only finance, staff and resources from Wales". Plaid Cymru was left a legacy of £330,000 by Howel Vaughan Lewis, of south London, which it will use to bankroll its Assembly campaign.

Labour Mid and West Wales candidate ALUN DAVIES said: "Labour is proud to be a British party. We believe in the strength of the union and that Wales works best as part of the United Kingdom. "Plaid Cymru's hypocrisy has been exposed by this latest cheap publicity stunt. Before issuing press releases challenging political parties to use money directly from Wales, it should check the sources of its own funds. "The nationalists face ridicule for this stunt. It is dishonest behaviour from a party trying to pull the wool over the eyes of the people of Wales. "If Plaid Cymru feels so strongly about Welsh-raised finance then it should not have accepted the money it received from Mr Lewis."

Thinking of the Baggies

Well our third victory against Leeds puts us in very good shape for the closing phase of the season. Clearly we are amongst the most attractive, and high scoring, teams in this league but there will be much work to do should we be promoted.

As we can now expect to add some away wins to our home victories then automatic promotion must be the target. As February approaches the second automatic place is my hope. I fear to say Brum promoted as Champions.

Comments from the heart ?

Blammerbell briefs points to the growing number of nationalists who want to campaign for "independence". A fring voice ? I think not, but a reflection of those who remember what Plaid were created for and who must find the new "vision" disapointing.

Laptops for your kids (or some of them at least - who replaces those nicked or broken ?) but don't talk about independence.

Dafydd ar llwbyr ei hun ?

Oedd yn anodd cadw i fynny gyda'r nifer o weithiau oedd Dafydd Wigley ddim yn cefnogi nifer o prif polisiau Plaid Cymru ar 'Pawb ai Farn' heno. I ddechra oedd o'n amlwg o bliad ynni niwcler, a Ieuan druan yn rhedeg ar polisi gwrth niwclear. Yn ael cytunodd gyda J Chorlton bod angen amser cyn fydd Cymru yn barod am newid cyfansoddiadol - pam gael polisi am referendwm yn 2011 felly ? Rhyddfedd iawn !!

I had difficulty keeping up with Dafydd Wigley's attempts to disown Plaid policy on 'Pawb A'i Farn' (Welsh language Question Time). He was clearly in favour of nuclear power, with poor old Ieuan running on an anti nuclear stance. Secondly he agreed with J Chorlton that Wales needed time before being ready for constitutional change - so why have a policy for a referendum in 2011 ? Very strange !!

AFJ i Dwyfor ?

Mae'n sylw wedi ei tynnu at erthygl yn y Western Mail oedd yn awgrymu bod Llwydd Plaid wedi argymhell AFJ ar gyfer etholaeth newydd Dwyfor-Meirion, nid Arfon. os yw rhywun eisio gyrru copi o'r llythr ymlaen fuaswn help i egluo'r ffeithiau.

Alun Ffred for Dwyfor-Meirion

My attention has been drawn to this article in the Western Mail in which Plaid's President, who happens to be the brother of Mr Alun Ffred Jones, seemingly suggested that Ffred should contest the new Dwyfor-Meirion seat - not Arfon.

We must get to the bottom of this - a copy of the alleged letter would be greatly appreciated to help verify the facts. Then again the Western Mail was not challenged so I assume it must be true.

Glynrhonwy - let private sector unleash the potential

Today's Caernarfon Herald carries my story about the Glynrhonwy slate quarry near Llanberis (near the foot of Snowdon for those reading from afar). The site is owned by the local authority and has been marketed by the council for redevelopment. In spite of receiving ideas for multi million pound projects our Plaid Cymru lead council has decided not to pursue development opportunities.

I suggest that the council sell the quarry and let the private sector take on board any risks associated with the site. It will raise some much needed cash for the council and end the fruitless search for a specific, somewhat mystical formula that pleases the council - a search now dating back some 15 years ?

Plaid Cymru always tell us about a lack of investment in our area but given the chance turn their back. I believe Arfon has to be "open for business" to help generate the active communities people tak about, that requires a change of attitude in this council. As I recently said the council hold the aces but decided to lay a joker.

Banks big question as 'vision' is independence free

David banks in the Daily Post loves to stir us all with challenging views. Today his piece concludes :

"Plaid are not the bogey men Peter Hain would have you believe, but without that ethos of independence running through what they do, its hard to see what they are at all".

A commentators words on the very day that Plaid publish a vision that seems to have ignored their constitutional mission and rationale.

Poll "Newsnight"

Yw'r gwahanieth rhwng ymateb yn Yr Alban a Cymru yn dangos pam mae cefnogaeth i Plaid Cymru byth yn symud tu hwnt i'r lefelau rydym wedi gweld dros cyfnod hir ? Yw anibyniaeth yn rhyw term romantis, yw defynddio gan pobl fel Dafydd Iwan, i cadw'r cefnogwyr craidd yn hapus. Ond mewn realiti ('read the polls') yn mor bell o pobl ei bod heb cysylltiad ar byd go iawn ?.

Mae wedi taro fi erioed bod cyn gymaint o pobl yn symud rhwng Cymru a Lloegr bob diwrnod (e.e Sir Fflint/Wrecsam a caer neu De Cymru a Briste) fod y syniad o wahannu yn syniad gwallgo.

The poll in full

As well as the headlines (and rather childish debates like I saw on BBC Breakfast) I thought people might find the full findings on the bottom of the attached page of interest.

Limits to a journey ?

One of Labour's big acheivements is to recognise the diversity which exists within the UK and to introduce some elements of constitutional change that seem unrivalled in centuries. Peter Hain is suggesting that the journey has some limits and, if unchecked, some dnagers. I somehow think the Welsh media and Welsh language media will love this debate !

I pick up a few links to see what is said :

Western Mail

Wales Elects 2007

Blamerbell briefs - (a new regular read for me)

I await local correspondents reactions.

Rise up and claim your code of practise

I see Blamerbell briefs has posted on Nick Bourne's ideas for May and the overwhelming demand we hear from the people of Wales that we must rise up and deliver 'a code of practise'.

I never realised that life in a Tory lead Assembly Government could be that exciting -are Plaid prepared ?

Iaith-Language

Dwi wedi dal i fynny gyda blog Gwennu dan Fysiau sydd yn gwneud y pwnt, digon teg, am diffyg Cymraeg ar y blog (trwy cyferiad at posting gynnar a wnaethwyd ar aelod o staff o Cyngor Gwynedd a'r iaith Cymraeg). Ond mae'r ffaith bod 'Gwennu' yn pwysleisio yr angen am bod yn manwl gywir yn y iaith efallai'n esbonio pam mae rhywun yn defnyddio Saesneg. (I can't square that circle as blogs give quick - not officially translated responses).

Ar safon 'Gwennu' fuasai'n gwell i mi aros yn y Saesneg - yr union mater oedd aelod staff o Cyngor Gwynedd wedi ymdrechio i dod drosof.

Ond rwyf yn derbyn yn hollol bod hyn yn barn dysgwr, yn erbyn rhywun sydd yn disgwyl gwasanaeth diggonol.

Back to the Seasneg - although my typing and grammer can be c**p in that language as well.

(the above blog explains a criticism by 'Gwennu dan fysiau' that as the candidate in Arfon I make insufficient use of Welsh. Yet my original blog criticised Gwynedd for highlighting a member of staff who had written in Welsh, but not to a good enough standard. Well as a learner that is a problem for me as well, so should I onlyblog in English ?. I do point out that my English can be c**p as well while blogging).

Glyn's over the rainbow again

Glyn Davies AM follows up his piece in the Western Mail with additional comment on his blog. As someone who has enjoyed challenging Plaid over this "rainbow" speculation even I think we should all now focus on gathering the votes that will produce the actual result, rather than speculating about events after the poll.

Caernarfon's Institute - heart of political battle

A CLP meeting in the famous Institute Buildings tonight, adorned with splendid paitings and the trappings of the famour Caernarfon Royal Town Council.

However tonight, as the Assembly battle hots up, both Labour and Plaid Cymru were in residence - on first and second floors. The building survived - and our campaigns go on.

Practical actions reuired

The Daily Post today runs my response to Cymuned. I am really interested in hearing some practical ideas for helping tackle affordable housing problems. Not even during the recent Assembly budget impasse was money for affordable housing made a priority by Plaid, so the pot of money has expanded under Labour - but is set for the coming year.

Ideas please.

Wow !

I do not smoke, and often feel these type of stories are enlightened by the full facts. However the zealous approach taken by Gwynedd Council does lead one to the words - "say that again" ! However there may be good reason so I await further information.

Lib Dems bore themselves !

Lib Dem AM Peter Black uses his blog to admit that taking part in his own party's preparations for the Assembly election are a waste of time. He states :

"In the end I could not work out why I had travelled all the way to Llandrindod Wells yesterday for a party briefing session that effectively just reaffirmed everything I already know about our Assembly campaign. Normally, I would not mind but frankly it would have been much more enjoyable to have got a train to Sheffield instead".

The politics of protest and the real world

Cymuned have taken the chance to respond to my letter in the Daily Post. I don't recall pledging support for their campaigns, but I am very clear that many nationalsits have wrapped themselves in the 'homes for locals' flag as some symbol of nationhood. In reality there are many people of different political backgrounds working on potential and practical solutions.

Unfortunately I feel their response also reflects unrealistic expectations as I cannot see Wales, or even many people in "Y Fro Gymraeg" signing up wholesale to the 'locals only' approach as is being suggested. Yet, as pointed out in my letter, the national policies we have do now allow a recognition of local problems and the oportunity to take action as a result. In that way the needs of local communities can be addressed alongside wider market issues.

I will be the first to acknowledge that the politics of protest has a vital role in any democracy but those of us choosing to use electoral infleunce have to provide considered responses, and it is my judgement that the market will have a role to play in tackling some of our housing problems.

However this debate will be contiuned in the Post hopefully next week.

Minority parties vitriol

The bile surrounding the opposition groups over the Assembly budget negotiations continues to show through in New Year blogs such as that posted by P Black about Ieuan Wyn Jones.

The message is clear - vote Labour and avoid all this minority party hastle.

Gordon enters New year

The Guardian carries some New Year messages from Gordon Brown that may be of interest.

Ming and the cheeky girls !!

Clearly its all gone wrong for Ming since the Cheeky Girls hit the scene !

Housing - time for action not protest

The Western Mail reports on new housing figures from the Land Registry.

It coincides with a letter to the Daily Post published today which read as follows:

Dear editor,
In spite your reports about Cymuned entering a new phase of campaigning it seems that they are not keeping pace with policy emerging from the Welsh Assembly Government. Some months back the Assembly announced that based on local evidence councils could identify sites for 100% affordable housing, and that other housing sites should incorporate a mix and balance of housing size and types to reflect the needs of local communities. The need for affordable housing is a legitimate planning consideration that can influence decisions on new development. This builds upon the long standing commitment for councils to allow rural exception sites to meet a community's needs for affordable housing. It would seem that rather than being a problem national policy now provides a framework that allows many of the things that Cymuned desire. It does not however allow discrimination in planning decisions on language grounds. We should all be pushing our local councils for more innovative action using these policies. I hope it is not too great a shock to Aran Jones if we find some common cause in seeking to increase the supply of affordable homes, but we all need to accept the need for more housebuilding if that objective is to be met. In Gwynedd for example we know that in recent years the Plaid Cymru lead council has now failed to spend over six million pounds allocated to it for affordable housing schemes. What a difference that money would have made to many communities in "Y Fro Gymraeg".

I just have a feling that housing has become a game of protest, and lacks enough bold actions using existing powers. I told Glyn Davies AM something similar on his blog on Jan 2nd (see comments).

Postals given extra work

The Western mail reports on one peice of electoral legislation that means each party in wales faces extra organisational work to ensure postal voters use their rights this May. In essence every single postal voter will need to sign up again and make sure their signature and date of birth are provided.

In parts of the new Arfon there never seems to have been a major postal vote push by any party so any associated organisational pain may split between us all. We wait to see.

2007

Blwyddyn Newydd dda i chwi gyd.

A Happy New Year to you all.

Rhodri's words for May

Welsh party leaders have given the Western Mail some thoughts for next May. Rhodri's response included the following Q&A :

Q How do you hope to persuade the people of Wales to vote for you?

A 'The choice for people next May is between Labour, with a clear intent to implement a strong set of manifesto commitments, and a not-very rainbow coalition of the other three parties, to be cobbled together after the election and very likely led by the Tories.

'Not since the secret ballot was introduced 130 years ago have the Tories won a majority in a general election in Wales.

'Could they be leading a coalition government or will the very prospect that it might happen ensure that voters come out in their droves to make sure the nightmare doesn't come about?'

Iraq - a cross section of coverage

I did not support the invasion of Iraq, but have felt the UK has a responsibility to see matters to some from of close given the action taken. From a distance the hanging of Saddam, in some ways, now seems a relatively minor issue compared to the desperate need to restore some form of normality.

On the day of Saddam's demise I thought a cross section of coverage might be useful in exploring why the Iraq decision will remain part of Blair's legacy, whatever the final outcome.

Saddam's end - the death of a dictator

Archbishop Williams reflections on the decision to go to war

One Lib Dems view

What Bush is reported to have said.

"sent to hell" says Sun

"God is great" reports Independent

Al Jazeera reports his death

Reuters report

Each and every one of us will have a view on these events but there can be little doubting the effect of mass media coverage on modern life.

Crisis for the A470 ?

Users of the A470 and the delightful journey across Wales may fear this news in the Guardian. (but after a while you learn of the local cafes and pubs offering a more genuine product - hence the Chef's problems ?)

Glyn keeps flying flag for "Rainbow coalition"

Tory AM Glyn Davies continues to set out the case for the Rainbow coalition after May 2007 with the Tories as "power brokers":

"Rainbow Coalitions - The Case For.

I see that ThinkScotland, a right-of-centre 'thinktank' is being extensively reported in today's Herald as recommending the Scottish Tories to contemplate a 'rainbow coalition' with the SNP and the Green Party to form a Scottish Government after the Scottish Parliamentary elections next May. This seems to me to be sound thinking, which has more than a passing relevance to Wales.If democracy is to become at all meaningful in either Scotland or Wales, there must be some prospect of a non-Labour Government. Unless there is a seismic shift in voting patterns, this cannot occur unless there is some form of agreement between the SNP and the Tories in Scotland - and between Plaid Cymru and the Tories in Wales. It may suit the short-term electoral strategy of both the SNP and Plaid Cymru to paint the Tories as right-wing anti-devolutionists but the reality is that over the last 7 years, the Tories in both Scotland and Wales have changed beyond recognition from the anti-devolution Tories of 1997. Many of us see making a success of devolution as the best way to strenghthen the union. There is a lot more common ground than one might think.

The next 4 months are going to be an interesting period in Scottish and Welsh politics. Every party will be seeking to portray itself as distinctive, while striving to maximise the number of MSPs and AMs - while at the same time assessing how the arithmatic is going to work out. Things look particularly interesting in Scotland because current polls indicate that the ruling Labour/Lib Dem coalition will not have enough seats to carry on - and the Tories may finish up as power brokers.So what is going to happen in Wales. It seems likely that Labour is going to lose several seats and be unable to continue as a minority government. For political reasons, I cannot rule out the prospect of the Tories winning over half the seats but (and I hope that I will not be portrayed as unduly defeatist) I do concede the possibility that we might not quite make it this time. Surely, neither the Lib Dems nor Plaid Cymru will want to keep a defeated Rhodri Morgan in office. I just have this feeling that the Welsh Conservatives will be an important part of in the shake-up come next May".

This is serious - what if he sings like a Bee Gee !

The media are having a Christmas flare up over the Blair's holiday and I fear this could be serious.

What if her emerges from Miami singing like Robin Gibb and the Bee Gees !! I must only hope that the PM did not take his guitar on holiday.

Electoral Commission's early resolution

The Electoral Commission have issued an early resolution for us all to take on board as we approach 2007.

Enjoy Christmas

As it is time for a family Christmas I am signing off for a few days. Season's greetings to you all and let us see what news the Christmas/ New Year brings.

Cymad - more departures

I have from time to time blogged about the questions surrounding the enterprise company, limited by guarantee called Cymad, although with care given imminent court proceedings involving the Chief Executive.

Several investigations seem to be ongoing and with a company Board dominated by senior local members of Plaid Cymru, much falling out between these former comrades. This weeks local press carries stories about two more departures from the company Board (both prominent Plaid people again), and people starting to squeal about the way that the company carries out its business. One (former) Director confirms the recent DTI "raid".

How long can Plaid's 4 senior elected representatives : Alun Ffred Jones, Dafydd Elis Thomas, Hywel Willaims and Elfyn Llwyd remain quiet ? Oh and I suppose we had better include Dafydd Wigley as he is on Plaid's regional list for North Wales and must be concerned at developments on his home patch.

As`they say in the military - it is on your watch chaps !!

Unfair, misguided and unreasonable

It seems that at least one company who have spent significant resources developing proposals for a leisure complex near Llanberis has decided to give a public airing to their concerns over Gwynedd's decision about the Glynrhonwy quarry.

As I said previously we are tired of Plaid Cymru complaining about the local economy, jobs, the position regarding GVA in the Welsh economy but who fail to vote for jobs and economic improvement.

Vote Labour - Get Labour

I have had several interesting discussions this week in the wake of the Assembly budget vote. Labour delivering a budget for Wales, and Plaid sitting on their hands.

However one message is very clear - to avoid all this nonsense then vote Labour to get a Labour administration.

To vote any other way could give several (uncertain) combinations, but only Labour can deliver a programme based on manifesto commitments. That is the test on May 3rd 2007, and it is in seats like Arfon that the voters can help make the real differece.

One thing is for certain I will not sit on my hands come the important votes.

Politics goes on

We are in to the week before Christmas but the politics must go on. A meeting with Sue Essex the Assembly Finance Minister and local Labour councillors tonight. Wide ranging discussion over the Assembly budget discussions, council tax. Police precept, social housing grant, small business support and many other topics.

A great Minister who will be greatly missed as she steps down in May 2007.

Early Christmas

Christmas arrives early at the Hawthorns - thank you Coventry.

Meanwhile bubbles are bursting for Leighton Andrews AM and Cardiff City.

Gwynedd Council - months standing still

Wel its seems that having spent a lot of time, and retained costly consultants, and in spite of Plaid Cymru's constant compliants about a lack of job opportunities they can't quite make up thier minds whether to welcome a major new project at Glynrhonwy. Can someone please resuce us from this inactivity !

Why didn't they just sell the site months ago, and what cash might be offered to help the hard pressed local council tax payers ? - as the council keep reminding us.

More activity at Cymad

Some of you may be aware of previous activity involving the Cymad agency. Today's Daily Post runs a story about possible involvement by the DTI.

I have asked the 4 Plaid Cymru representatives (Alun Ffred Jones, Hywel Williams, Dafydd Elis Thomas and Elfyn Llwyd) to help sort this situation out, given that the company's Board has spent millions of pounds in public money and is dominated by members of Plaid's local hierarchy.

If some issues are not resolved voluntarily then Plaid must accept all the consequences.

Meanwhile....Press v Blog

On the national blogging scene it seems that the Tory Iain Dale is following some interesting stuff about the Information Commissioner and our press. This is information law being turned back on the papers, and an interesting example of the bloggers new influence.

"EXCLUSIVE: Press Stand Accused of Illegal Activity

Following up my story yesterday (HERE) on the scandalous conduct of many of our national newspapers and journalists I can now exclusively reveal the contents of a report to be submitted to Parliament tomorrow by the Information Commissioner, which outlines the extent to which our national newspapers - and their journalists - are breaking the law to obtain confidential information illegally.1. Daily Mail - 952 incidents by 58 different journalists2. Sunday People - 802 incidents by 50 different journalists3. Daily Mirror - 681 incidents by 45 different journalists4. Mail on Sunday - 266 incidents by 33 different journalists5. News of the World - 182 different incidents by 19 different journalistsYesterday on Lord Ashcroft.com it was revealed through a Freedom of Information request that 305 different journalists had been identified during Operation Motorman as using one particular agency to obtain confidential information like telephone records, bank account details and medical records.I can reveal that following this FOI request from Lord Ashcroft the Information Commissioner has decided that the disclosure of further information is in the public interest and will now be submitting a special report to Parliament tomorrow.From the 'league table' figures above it would seem that the Daily Mail and the Sunday People are the chief miscreants here. However, it's not quite so simple. Virtually all newspapers used the agency in Hampshire which was raided during Operation Motorman, but we all know there are other similar agencies. So this is clearly the one which was most used by the Mail, but there are no doubt others which its rivals use, possibly just as often.There are several questions arising from this. If the authorities know the details of which newspapers use these agencies to break the law on their behalf, and if the agencies know which journalists have engaged their services, why are they not all joining News of the World reporter Clive Goodman in the dock this week? Goodman was caught out (and has pleaded guilty) intercepting mobile phone calls of the rich and famous, in particular the Royal Family.So far as I am aware no charges have been laid against any newspaper or journalist. I am no lawyer and I do not know what the charges would be, but after the report is laid before Parliament tomorrow, do not be surprised if there are some fairly serious repercussions. After all, the Information Commissioner is pressing for a two year jail sentence for any journalist or editor caught soliciting illegal information of this sort.To me this is a huge story, but for obvious reasons I do not expect to read about it in our national newspapers tomorrow. It is therefore important that the Blogosphere does a viral marketing job on this story and transmits it as widely as possible. Go to it"

I did !

Labour budget carries

Well in spite of the fever and speculation it was practical politics that won the day and the people of Wales, their public and voluntary services now have the certainty of budgets required for sensible management of delivery in 2007-2008.

I did an interview with the BBC at tea time in which they tried to play the budget vote as some big Plaid/Labour issue in areas like Arfon where we go head to head. I just don't see it, a budget vote is simply practical politics.

However we are reminded yet again that people can vote for Labour on May 3rd 2007 and get a Labour administration in the Asembly. A vote for any other party leads to uncertainty and lack of direction.

We wait and see

Reports abound as to tomorrow's vote on the Assembly budget. We await the votes and I simply hope the vital funding required by our public services to plan for health, social care, voluntary services etc is not ruined by posturing in this pre election period.

Tory-Plaid coalition - chapter 559

Thanks to Leighton Andrews AM for picking up the words of Ieuan Wyn Jones on today's Politics Show (10.12.06). The people of Arfon have been warned yet again !

The main man joins campaign !

The campaign was recently supported by 'mini santa' - but today the main man was in town !

It was Saturday morning in Bethesda to join the Dyffryn Ogwen branch at their Christmas fayre.

Is is compulsory for all candiidates to wear the main man's suit ?

Here I am joined by local MP Betty Williams for a cuddle under the Christmas tree.

Sensible contribution

This is what was said in Dafydd Iwan's contribution :

Notes: Transcript of Dafydd Iwan interview, Richard Evans BBC Radio Wales phone-in, 29/11/06: RE:

They would have to get out would they, the British Military presence in Wales would have to leave?
DI: Well yes and mean I think there's a big issue here
RE: And what about the jobs involved with that
DI Well we have to rethink, I mean we'd obviously have to have a civil force here in Wales. Because you know I mean most of this land, a century ago people were forced out of their farmhouses in Trawsfynydd so that the army could blow their houses up and practice their military manoeuvres. We've had over a century of this, actually taking land in the Epynt by force for military purposes. Now that age is over. Obviously we do have to train our troops and we do have to have a civil force in Wales. But in the gradual development of Welsh autonomy we will have to come to an arrangement with the British state about these lands and much of it can be returned. But the jobs, I mean the jobs, Ireland is a prime example of how with very little resources they have created a vibrant economy because they can create the conducive conditions and we can do the same in Wales.

So what is this "civil force" and how will it be established ?. Will it have planes and boats etc. How big is it ?

No Defence !

No, not a reference to Leeds Utd but I have just been catching up with Plaid's comments about UK defence facilities in Wales and I am sure Dafydd iwan was calling for a closure/reduction of this presence in Wales.

What a great policy for North West Wales - RAF Valley, Capel Curig, Llanfairpwll, rehab facilities, Army bases and training centres etc etc what a great boost for the Welsh economy.

So Dafydd in removing/renegotiaiting defence work in Wales can I ask :

Will Plaid close RAF Valley ?
If not how many jobs are required at this defence base ?
Wil that number sustain a major air defence establishment ?
What investment is lost ?
What economic impact do your plans have in North West Wales?

When these are answered we'll try some more.

More insights

It is the wake of debates like the current Assembly budget that blogs give some useful insights.
Leighton Andrews AM added his thoughts. He also highlights what Tory AM Alun Cairns had to say. Aren't these Tories just desperate for some power in spite of their track record, and lack of suppoort in Wales.

Arfon

Today's Caernarfon Herald carries a letter about the Labour v Plaid campaign in Arfon and sets out my response to one of their councillors. The letter states:

"The voters in the new seat of Arfon will have a clear choice come the Welsh Assembly elections of May 2007 and it seems that Dyfed Edwards and I have common ground in realising the real choice lies between Labour and Plaid Cymru. In Labour's case the people of Arfon will know they have a candidate who wishes to represent them, while in Plaid Cymru's case, we have written evidence from Dafydd Iwan, that Alun Ffred Jones was being preferred for Dwyfor-Meirionnydd. It was Lord Elis-Thomas who spolit that plan !" (see link here)

"If they so wish the people of Arfon can have a committed candidate, who can help deliver a majority for Welsh Labour.

As one commentator suggested they also have the option of Vote Eaglestone-Get Wigley given that they will have two votes in May 2007. The idea that Plaid Cymru can win the constituencies and the regional list seat is not realistic as the voting system does not tend to work that way. Its all to play for Arfon"

Of course if Dafydd Iwan/Alun Ffred Jones wish to deny the article and letter quoted we will all look forward to their response.

Ken makes a interesting point

Ken Livingstone blogs in the Guardian and exposes some Tory contradictions. Watch out Welsh pensioners !!

Gordon's help on troubled waters ?

Some money from Gordon might sort out yesterday's debate ? But I hope Sue Essex and Rhodri remember Labour's priorities.

Other thoughts

Huw Lewis AM has his say.

Peter Black has his say from opposition groups.

Glyn Davies has his say and suggests Plaid will think twice !!

History shows - Plaid back the Tories

Well the media are getting excited over the Assembly budget discussions as the process approaches its closing phase. All I know is that when the crunch comes we see Plaid Cymru voting with the Tories to damage Labour. Will we see hstory repeat itself ?

Perceptive comment in Observer

Andrew Rawnsley has a piece in the Observer on David Cameron's initial 12 months and he concludes with the following paragrpah full of insight :

"In his first 12 months, David Cameron produced many more photo-opportunities than he did policies. By this time next year, he needs to have got the ratio the other way around. He has to start planting some trees as well as hugging them".

By the way, if policies are 12 months away, where does that leave the Welsh Tories for May's elections ?

Climate Change evidence

David Milibands blog at DEFRA has posted up some useful links about climate change. Sobering reading.

Phew!

When Sky Sports said that Kevin Philips had managed the "miss of his career" I feared the worst but a late goal from the Mighty Hartson puts the Baggies back in the mix in a very competetive Championship.

But what defines the opposition ?

So Rhodri has fleshed out what Welsh Labour will do should we retain the confidence of the people of Wales in the polls next May. The opposition always get excited at such moments which I feel really shows how important they know Labour's words are in defining the direction of travel for Wales.

However we might equally ask the oposition if they don't like, or agree, with Rhodri's broad canvas where is their coalition taking Wales ? In a series of speeches Rhodri is clearly setting a clear agenda, supported by a strong platform of policies passed at the recent special conference.

What are the Tory-Plaid coalition going to offer ?