Alarm bells over school reforms
Published: 13 November 2008 02:30
Author: John Merry (Lab) Leader, Salford City Council
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Last Updated: 12 November 2008 16:05
John Merry
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A clear and an alarming picture is emerging of Conservative policy on school reforms.
Since David Cameron was elected as leader of the Conservative Party, we've seen a steady stream of headline-grabbing announcements as they set out their stall ahead of a likely election in 2010.
In their schools green paper earlier this year, they proposed allowing "educational charities, philanthropists, livery companies, existing school federations, not for profit trusts, co-operatives and groups of parents to set up new schools in the state sector".
Shadow children's secretary Michael Gove said in his speech to Conservative Party Conference a Tory government would allow just about anyone to provide new schools. This is on top of announcing plans to establish new academies with the same freedoms that grant maintained schools used to have.
My argument here is that these plans will splinter the family of schools within a local authority area to an unacceptable degree. There are good reasons why groups of parents, voluntary groups, churches and charities are not allowed to set up schools based on their own particular whim or preference. When Labour introduced trust schools we were clear they were part of the family of schools in a local area, and subject to the same accountability and funding regimes, curriculum and admissions procedures.
The Tories are providing a recipe for any group of parents dissatisfied with current provision to go ahead and pursue their own options, devising schools that appeal to them. At its most extreme, the Tory vision of parent power could risk controversial choices, where parents opt for exclusive or divisive schools, on the basis of religion or even social class.
In contrast, Labour has been setting out an ambitious programme for change in our Children's Plan . Partnership with parents is a crucial aspect of this. We want to involve parents more in their children's education — not by fostering the conditions where they can opt out of the system — but instead bringing them in more closely, with greater support in the transition from primary to secondary, information sessions at new schools, and every child having a personal tutor who is the main contact for parents.
We have also been clear about the role of local authorities in taking action to improve schools — stepping in decisively where they might be failing, and challenging them where performance is not improving. Through my work in Salford, my own authority, and on the Children & Young People Board at the Local Government Association , I have seen how important it is for local government to play this key role in school improvement, as well as bringing together services in schools that meet the needs of young people.
Setting education free from local political influence will not help to raise standards. Indeed the evidence in Salford is that a partnership of all schools — whatever their background — can achieve huge gains in improving standards and delivering good schools.
Mr Gove explained that his plans were based on giving every parent the right to take the money currently allocated to their child's education and then deploy it in accordance with their priorities, not the government's. It is hard to see how this translates into anything other than a dangerous free-for-all. The LGA Conservative Group should use their influence with their front bench colleagues in Parliament to explain what role local government plays in education, and put a halt to these latest plans.
Author: John Merry (Lab) Leader, Salford City Council.
Monday 17 November 2008
Friday 7 November 2008
GLENROTHES VICTORY
Despite all the negative news coverage and negative campaigning by opposition parties, Labours candidate Lindsay Roy pulled off a stunning victory in the Glenrothes by-election.
He coasted to victory with a majority of 6,737.
This is proof that people trust Gordon Brown and his handling of the economy. With Gordon Brown Britain will stay strong in the world and be stable at home.
The last thing this country needs is Cameron and his right wing cronies helping the rich get richer and the poor and vulnerable forgotten!
He coasted to victory with a majority of 6,737.
This is proof that people trust Gordon Brown and his handling of the economy. With Gordon Brown Britain will stay strong in the world and be stable at home.
The last thing this country needs is Cameron and his right wing cronies helping the rich get richer and the poor and vulnerable forgotten!
Thursday 2 October 2008
The man with no plan
David Cameron says he’s a man with a plan. But all we got today was warm words and easy populism. In the last few weeks the world has changed. For all his talk of change David Cameron shows no sign of keeping up with events, and still offers nothing to meet the serious economic and financial challenges we face.He made judgement the test today, but on the major issues he’s called it wrong - Northern Rock, Bradford and Bingley and voting against emergency powers to save banks.
It's no good just talking about responsibility if you won't back difficult responsible decisions to support financial stability. It's no good talking about reining in borrowing, then promising high speed rail links and tax cuts.
And it's no good claiming society is broken then offering nothing but warm words.
Thanks to Labour's tough targets 99.9 per cent of suspected cancer patients are seen by a specialist within two weeks of GP referral.The Tories would scrap this guarantee. In fact, they would scrap all of Labour’s tough targets and patient guarantees which have delivered the shortest waiting times in NHS history.(Source: Conservative Party Health Policy document, 29 September 2007)
David Cameron needs to come clean with patients and explain that he plans to:
SCRAP Labour's guarantee that all suspected cancer patients are seen within two weeks of GP referral
SCRAP Labour's guarantee that all patients begin hospital treatment within 18 weeks of GP referral
SCRAP Labour's guarantee that all patients in A&E are seen within four hours.
The Conservative’s flagship tax policy in recent months is to give tax cuts to millionaires."I am happy to confirm that our inheritance tax proposal will introduce a threshold of £1m per person (not per couple). This means that it would be possible for a married couple to enjoy a threshold of £2m."(Source: Shadow Leader of the Commons, Theresa May, Letter on Conservative Party inheritance tax policy, Daily Telegraph, 2 September 2008)
David Cameron needs to explain why, instead of helping people on modest and middle incomes, he would divert £1 billion to the 3,000 richest estates in the country.Labour’s mission is to build a Britain of prosperity and fairness. This year we are giving 22 million basic rate taxpayers a £120 tax cut and lifting 600,000 pensioners out of tax altogether.
Labour has negotiated a deal with GPs which means that by next year, half of GP surgeries will provide at least one three hour evening or weekend session each week.The Tories would scrap this deal(Source: Andrew Lansley MP, Shadow Health Secretary, interview with Pulse magazine, 29 April 2008)
David Cameron needs to come clean and tell you which GPs around here would stop offering weekend and evening opening under his plans.Labour is extending GP opening hours, opening over 100 new GP surgeries in the areas that need them most, and opening 150 new GP-led health centres across the country, to be open 8am-8pm, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
The Conservatives have said they will fund their school plans by making £4.5 billion of cuts to Labour's fund to rebuild or refurbish every secondary school in England.(Source: Conservative Opportunity Agenda, Policy Green Paper; Raising the bar, closing the gap: our action plan to raise school standards No. 1, 20 November 2007)
That would mean hundreds of school building projects would have to be cancelled. David Cameron needs to come clean and tell you where these cuts would fall.Labour is transforming the schools in which our young people learn after years of neglect. We are committed to rebuilding or refurbishing every secondary school and half of all primary schools over the coming years to provide the ideal learning environment for all of our children.
The Conservatives want to cut £200 million a year from Sure Start centres, taking £79 million from health outreach workers and another £121 million from core Sure Start budgets.The only way these cuts could be achieved would be by cutting the Children’s Centres that families rely on.
David Cameron must come clean and tell you which children's centres in this area would face the axe because of his cuts.Labour has already created almost 3,000 Sure Start Children's Centres and a free nursery place for every three and four year old and by 2010 there will be a children’s centre in every community providing support for hardworking families and allowing every child to fulfil their potential.
It's no good just talking about responsibility if you won't back difficult responsible decisions to support financial stability. It's no good talking about reining in borrowing, then promising high speed rail links and tax cuts.
And it's no good claiming society is broken then offering nothing but warm words.
Thanks to Labour's tough targets 99.9 per cent of suspected cancer patients are seen by a specialist within two weeks of GP referral.The Tories would scrap this guarantee. In fact, they would scrap all of Labour’s tough targets and patient guarantees which have delivered the shortest waiting times in NHS history.(Source: Conservative Party Health Policy document, 29 September 2007)
David Cameron needs to come clean with patients and explain that he plans to:
SCRAP Labour's guarantee that all suspected cancer patients are seen within two weeks of GP referral
SCRAP Labour's guarantee that all patients begin hospital treatment within 18 weeks of GP referral
SCRAP Labour's guarantee that all patients in A&E are seen within four hours.
The Conservative’s flagship tax policy in recent months is to give tax cuts to millionaires."I am happy to confirm that our inheritance tax proposal will introduce a threshold of £1m per person (not per couple). This means that it would be possible for a married couple to enjoy a threshold of £2m."(Source: Shadow Leader of the Commons, Theresa May, Letter on Conservative Party inheritance tax policy, Daily Telegraph, 2 September 2008)
David Cameron needs to explain why, instead of helping people on modest and middle incomes, he would divert £1 billion to the 3,000 richest estates in the country.Labour’s mission is to build a Britain of prosperity and fairness. This year we are giving 22 million basic rate taxpayers a £120 tax cut and lifting 600,000 pensioners out of tax altogether.
Labour has negotiated a deal with GPs which means that by next year, half of GP surgeries will provide at least one three hour evening or weekend session each week.The Tories would scrap this deal(Source: Andrew Lansley MP, Shadow Health Secretary, interview with Pulse magazine, 29 April 2008)
David Cameron needs to come clean and tell you which GPs around here would stop offering weekend and evening opening under his plans.Labour is extending GP opening hours, opening over 100 new GP surgeries in the areas that need them most, and opening 150 new GP-led health centres across the country, to be open 8am-8pm, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
The Conservatives have said they will fund their school plans by making £4.5 billion of cuts to Labour's fund to rebuild or refurbish every secondary school in England.(Source: Conservative Opportunity Agenda, Policy Green Paper; Raising the bar, closing the gap: our action plan to raise school standards No. 1, 20 November 2007)
That would mean hundreds of school building projects would have to be cancelled. David Cameron needs to come clean and tell you where these cuts would fall.Labour is transforming the schools in which our young people learn after years of neglect. We are committed to rebuilding or refurbishing every secondary school and half of all primary schools over the coming years to provide the ideal learning environment for all of our children.
The Conservatives want to cut £200 million a year from Sure Start centres, taking £79 million from health outreach workers and another £121 million from core Sure Start budgets.The only way these cuts could be achieved would be by cutting the Children’s Centres that families rely on.
David Cameron must come clean and tell you which children's centres in this area would face the axe because of his cuts.Labour has already created almost 3,000 Sure Start Children's Centres and a free nursery place for every three and four year old and by 2010 there will be a children’s centre in every community providing support for hardworking families and allowing every child to fulfil their potential.
Wednesday 1 October 2008
Blue rinsed love in
Here’s your update from the blue-rinsed love-in in Birmingham. Speaking as a school governor - of an inner city secondary depending on Building Schools for the Future money - it looks like Michael Gove has committed a schoolboy error by announcing 5,000 schools without costing them properly. The schools - based on the Swedish model - would be completely experimental and cost billions of pounds, probably taken from Labour's ongoing Building Schools for the Future programme to rebuild or refurbish every school in England. Schools Minister Andrew Adonis has said: "Michael Gove calls for 'straight talk' but it's time the Tories came clean about the true cost of their Swedish model. He needs to tell us what he would cut to pay for these 5,000 schools. Until he can answer this question, their 'free' schools are just fantasy schools compared to our 1,200 real academies and new or rebuilt schools nationwide."Labour has set up more than 130 new academies, built or rebuilt more than 1,200 schools, and employed 40,000 extra teachers, raising standards nationwide. "Nearly 300 extra academies are also planned and funded, and we are supporting parents who want to set up their own schools, creating a new generation of co-operative trust schools [like Elm Green, the first parent-promoted school, which happens to be in Lambeth]."When the Tories first proposed a few hundred new "Swedish style" schools they conceded they would have to cut £4.5 billion from our school building programme to pay for the capital costs. But the 5,000 schools the Tories are now talking about would cost many billions more. "Where is this money going to come from and how are they going to deal with the impact on existing schools?" Finally, we had to smile when we heard that Cameron was thinking about calling for a 'National Government' to help Gordon through this global crisis.Cameron is a man who has no business experience beyond (a) being a PR man for a TV company – a man the respected City journalist Jeff Randall said he "wouldn’t trust my daughter’s pocket money with” – and (b) advising Norman Lamont during the Black Wednesday debacle when interest rates went from 10% to 15% IN A DAY and £27 BILLION was flushed down the Treasury toilets trying to prop up the pound to keep it in the ERM. Thousands of decent, hard-working people ended up being plunged into negative equity and having their homes - their HOMES - repossessed. Thanks Dave, but I think we’ll pass.So let's get out there and turf these Tories off what we know must remain a Labour government's territory - providing better, fairer education and safeguarding the economy through the current turbulence.Please don't forget to register your email at www.gofourth.co.ukAnd take a look at www.labour.org.uk if you want more on some of the other reality-lite, cost-heavy Tory policy announcements from Birmingham.
Tuesday 30 September 2008
Don't bank on Osborne
I find it very difficult to watch the Tory conference, to be honest it makes me want to vomit. So I will make comment if I pick something up that is worth commenting on. Otherwise I will use Labour Party communiques etc which are relevant.
Looks like George Osborne has highlighted why he and his mate Cameron shouldn't be trusted with the economy.Yvette Cooper MP, Labour's Chief Secretary to the Treasury, has said in response to his proposals on banking bailouts:"George Osborne has proved that he doesn't understand how Britain's banking system works. "If we had done what he suggests Bradford & Bingley would havegone under, with significant risks for depositors, confidence and the stability of the banking system. "This is an incoherent and irresponsible approach, with no answers to the current problems in the financial system."Clearly in their inexperience, they do not understand what is at stake."The Tories have called for new powers to deal with the problem - in fact they were introduced in the spring and the Tories voted against them."That's what happens when you pick a Shadow Chancellor with a second class degree in Modern History and no financial experience - apart from a short spell working in Selfridges.And on the Tories' two year Council Tax freeze (forget for a moment that his sums don't make sense to anyone with a basic knowledge of local government finance), ponder this - it's the wealthiest who would benefit most from these Tory proposals, as with Osbourne's million pound inheritance tax threshold last year. In short, the Tories are looking after 'mansion man'.The Times says: "The instant reaction both in the hall and the media was a good deal less positive than in Blackpool as questions over how the policy will work and who will benefit went unanswered. Mr Osborne’s central message is that he intends to protect the poorest while reducing both debt and – over time – the share of national wealth given to public spending. Promising what is in effect a tax cut that will benefit the most wealthy homes could undermine that claim."
Looks like George Osborne has highlighted why he and his mate Cameron shouldn't be trusted with the economy.Yvette Cooper MP, Labour's Chief Secretary to the Treasury, has said in response to his proposals on banking bailouts:"George Osborne has proved that he doesn't understand how Britain's banking system works. "If we had done what he suggests Bradford & Bingley would havegone under, with significant risks for depositors, confidence and the stability of the banking system. "This is an incoherent and irresponsible approach, with no answers to the current problems in the financial system."Clearly in their inexperience, they do not understand what is at stake."The Tories have called for new powers to deal with the problem - in fact they were introduced in the spring and the Tories voted against them."That's what happens when you pick a Shadow Chancellor with a second class degree in Modern History and no financial experience - apart from a short spell working in Selfridges.And on the Tories' two year Council Tax freeze (forget for a moment that his sums don't make sense to anyone with a basic knowledge of local government finance), ponder this - it's the wealthiest who would benefit most from these Tory proposals, as with Osbourne's million pound inheritance tax threshold last year. In short, the Tories are looking after 'mansion man'.The Times says: "The instant reaction both in the hall and the media was a good deal less positive than in Blackpool as questions over how the policy will work and who will benefit went unanswered. Mr Osborne’s central message is that he intends to protect the poorest while reducing both debt and – over time – the share of national wealth given to public spending. Promising what is in effect a tax cut that will benefit the most wealthy homes could undermine that claim."
Monday 29 September 2008
TORY U-TURN
First day of the Tory conference and already Cameron is spinning like a top. From the headline grabbing "Britain's a Broken Society" to, "well maybe some bits are broken or maybe they're not very nice". In the words of Boris Johnson PIFFLE!
It's amazing or not as the case maybe that where Boris goes Chameleon Dave is sure to follow.
It'd be laughable, but people must always remember behind every Tory bleeding heart is an evil, which will decimate this country if they are elected to government. It's so cynical to say that they are now the party of the poor.
Never forget the Thatcher years (these modern day Tories would love it to be removed from history). The party is still the right wing horror party of the past who will only help the rich get richer and not give a toss about anyone else.
The sleeze is still with the Tories. A £10 discount voucher in their conference pack for a lap dancing club. Typical.
It's amazing or not as the case maybe that where Boris goes Chameleon Dave is sure to follow.
It'd be laughable, but people must always remember behind every Tory bleeding heart is an evil, which will decimate this country if they are elected to government. It's so cynical to say that they are now the party of the poor.
Never forget the Thatcher years (these modern day Tories would love it to be removed from history). The party is still the right wing horror party of the past who will only help the rich get richer and not give a toss about anyone else.
The sleeze is still with the Tories. A £10 discount voucher in their conference pack for a lap dancing club. Typical.
Thursday 25 September 2008
CONFERENCE DAY 5
The final day of conference and the topics are Transport, Health and Education, but everything has been overshadowed by the sinister leak of Ruth Kelly's resignation from Cabinet.
It seems there are people putting themselves first over and above the party. It disgusts me to think back on how and why the party was formed. To see it being pulled apart by a bunch of quasi upper middle class tossers who are wannabe's.
I WANT MY PARTY BACK!!
Alan Johnson MP Health Secretary came over very professional and as a safe pair of hands.
John Denham MP & Ed Balls MP not the greatest of speakers but got their message over well and showcased just how much the party are investing in Education and Training, plus continuing to raise aspirations.
There was also an NHS 60th birthday presentation, where NHS workers spoke. My son had been invited as he works at Salford Royal, but sad to say he couldn't get the time off.
The conference finished with Deputy Leader Harriet Harman MP(groan) giving the final speech.
Whatever you thought about John Prescott as Deputy Leader his closing speech was always a rallying call and very, very entertaining.
Overall I've enjoyed conference. Manchester is an ideal place for it. Politically it has been overshadowed with the leadership issue, but overall a message was put out there, THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE TO A LABOUR GOVERNMENT. It may get it wrong at times but heaven help this country if it ever elects a Conservative government again, the working man and women, plus the most vulnerable in society don't know what suffering is until you've lived under Tory control.
Next week I will comment on the Tory conference.
Footnote: I'm not laughing at BIG CLUB City getting knocked out of the Carling Cup By Brighton, honest!!
It seems there are people putting themselves first over and above the party. It disgusts me to think back on how and why the party was formed. To see it being pulled apart by a bunch of quasi upper middle class tossers who are wannabe's.
I WANT MY PARTY BACK!!
Alan Johnson MP Health Secretary came over very professional and as a safe pair of hands.
John Denham MP & Ed Balls MP not the greatest of speakers but got their message over well and showcased just how much the party are investing in Education and Training, plus continuing to raise aspirations.
There was also an NHS 60th birthday presentation, where NHS workers spoke. My son had been invited as he works at Salford Royal, but sad to say he couldn't get the time off.
The conference finished with Deputy Leader Harriet Harman MP(groan) giving the final speech.
Whatever you thought about John Prescott as Deputy Leader his closing speech was always a rallying call and very, very entertaining.
Overall I've enjoyed conference. Manchester is an ideal place for it. Politically it has been overshadowed with the leadership issue, but overall a message was put out there, THERE IS NO ALTERNATIVE TO A LABOUR GOVERNMENT. It may get it wrong at times but heaven help this country if it ever elects a Conservative government again, the working man and women, plus the most vulnerable in society don't know what suffering is until you've lived under Tory control.
Next week I will comment on the Tory conference.
Footnote: I'm not laughing at BIG CLUB City getting knocked out of the Carling Cup By Brighton, honest!!
Wednesday 24 September 2008
CONFERENCE DAY 4
So we don't need a congestion charge. Try getting down Bury New Road into Manchester during rush hour, a nightmare. A trip that usually takes 10-15 minutes took me nearly an hour this morning, crazy!!
Managed to catch Andy Burnham MP(who is a rising star and seems to get better each time I see him) and his announcement for free theatre tickets for young people. It may seem a gimick but I see in Salford how young people react and participate in drama, it is very positive. So if this scheme works and sparks something within a young person to get involved, it's got to be a good idea. It will also be a cultural experience for many young people.
Hazel Blears MP closed the debate with the usual passion and payed tribute to her dad, which was a nice moment.
I had to miss the Prime Ministers speech as I had the great pleasure of attending the official opening of Oasis academy media city. Dave Terry, the principal has done a fantastic job of turning the school round and it can only go from strength to strength. Steve Chalke the head of Oasis is very passionate and has a real ethos of every person matters.
I watched Gordon Brown's speech when I got in and was impressed at a speech that was aimed at the party. Below are headlines of the speech from the Labour party website:
In his speech, he gave the British people an unconditional assurance of his commitment to dealing with challenging economic circumstances, and investing in the future to build Labour's enduring aim: the fair society, defined by social mobility, where everyone has a fair chance to succeed.
Of David Cameron's Conservatives he said
"Just think where our country would be if we'd listened to them. No paternity leave, no New Deal, no Bank of England independence, no Sure Start, no devolution, no civil partnerships, no minimum wage, no new investment in the NHS, no new nurses, no new police, no new schools.
"So let's hear no more from the Conservatives - we did fix the roof while the sun was shining."
Measures announced in his speech included a new commitment to put in legislation our commitment to eradicate child poverty by 2020; a new goal of free nursery places for 2 year olds; a new entitlement for primary school pupils to one-to-one tuition if they are behind expectations and are making slow progress in English and/or maths in Key Stage 2; a commitment to get 1 million more families on broadband by 2012 and a commitment to end prescription charges for cancer patients.
I very much liked his "this is no time for a novice" quip which could be aimed at Cameron or young pretenders in the party!!
I then took the evening off to go and see my beloved United beat Middlesborough 3-1 in the Carling Cup.
Managed to catch Andy Burnham MP(who is a rising star and seems to get better each time I see him) and his announcement for free theatre tickets for young people. It may seem a gimick but I see in Salford how young people react and participate in drama, it is very positive. So if this scheme works and sparks something within a young person to get involved, it's got to be a good idea. It will also be a cultural experience for many young people.
Hazel Blears MP closed the debate with the usual passion and payed tribute to her dad, which was a nice moment.
I had to miss the Prime Ministers speech as I had the great pleasure of attending the official opening of Oasis academy media city. Dave Terry, the principal has done a fantastic job of turning the school round and it can only go from strength to strength. Steve Chalke the head of Oasis is very passionate and has a real ethos of every person matters.
I watched Gordon Brown's speech when I got in and was impressed at a speech that was aimed at the party. Below are headlines of the speech from the Labour party website:
In his speech, he gave the British people an unconditional assurance of his commitment to dealing with challenging economic circumstances, and investing in the future to build Labour's enduring aim: the fair society, defined by social mobility, where everyone has a fair chance to succeed.
Of David Cameron's Conservatives he said
"Just think where our country would be if we'd listened to them. No paternity leave, no New Deal, no Bank of England independence, no Sure Start, no devolution, no civil partnerships, no minimum wage, no new investment in the NHS, no new nurses, no new police, no new schools.
"So let's hear no more from the Conservatives - we did fix the roof while the sun was shining."
Measures announced in his speech included a new commitment to put in legislation our commitment to eradicate child poverty by 2020; a new goal of free nursery places for 2 year olds; a new entitlement for primary school pupils to one-to-one tuition if they are behind expectations and are making slow progress in English and/or maths in Key Stage 2; a commitment to get 1 million more families on broadband by 2012 and a commitment to end prescription charges for cancer patients.
I very much liked his "this is no time for a novice" quip which could be aimed at Cameron or young pretenders in the party!!
I then took the evening off to go and see my beloved United beat Middlesborough 3-1 in the Carling Cup.
Tuesday 23 September 2008
CONFERENCE DAY 3
Late nights and early mornings, roll on Wednesday I hear my body cry!! Went in for the "Building a Britain of lasting prosperity and fairness". I was not impressed by John Hutton MP Energy Minister. The star of the debate was Tony Woodley of Unite talking about tackling fuel poverty and the missed opportunities the government had had to win back some of its core vote.
Alistair Darling was OK, the Chancellor set out to explain the nature of the financial turmoil here and abroad and spoke of a twin shock to the global economy which has hit every country in the world and "has left families concerned about their jobs, their houses, and how they are going to meet their household bills". The Chancellor said "it's causing real difficulties for families - which is why I am so determined to make sure inflation does not become entrenched here in our economy.""It’s clear we have to put in place measures to stop problems being repeated. It is clearer than ever that markets can’t do this on their own. Nor can individual Governments. In the past it was sufficient to ensure effective domestic regulation. That’s not enough today. And we need to strengthen global supervision. We believe there is a role for government."
Highlight of my conference so far(apart from meeting Robbo) was the fringe meeting Standing at the Cultural Crossroads: Is the digital environment supporting or subverting the rights of creative individuals?
The panelists were Andy Burnham MP, Jazzie B, Mal Peet, Emily Bell and Fergal Sharkey. It was focused on the argument of crative people not getting money for their work as most things are now downloaded(illegaly) from the internet. The arguments for and against were all valid. For me it's the old Salford saying "out for nout". If people can hack into the Pentagon computers, they will always break into encryptions and file share. What needs to happen is that downloads need to be a lot cheaper.
David Milliband(the young pretender) gave a very good speech on Britain in the World. Overheard in a lift though saying he didn't want this to be his Hesiltine moment. Sad to say you can feel it outside the main hall that the party is at odds with itself and the factions are appearing.
Attended a meeting looking transport strategy for the city region. It was great to see Roger Jones there. He looked really well.
The TIF bid was touched upon obviously, but the biggest debate was attacking how bad the bus service in the area was. I actually felt sorry for the First bus rep as she got all the stick. Graham Stringer MP was his usual rebelious self.
Managed to take some time out and catch up with John Merry to discuss some Salford issues and just have a quiet drink before John went to speak at a Media City reception. The speech he gave promoting Salford and the vision for Salford was outstanding. All the Salford delegation agreed.
Alistair Darling was OK, the Chancellor set out to explain the nature of the financial turmoil here and abroad and spoke of a twin shock to the global economy which has hit every country in the world and "has left families concerned about their jobs, their houses, and how they are going to meet their household bills". The Chancellor said "it's causing real difficulties for families - which is why I am so determined to make sure inflation does not become entrenched here in our economy.""It’s clear we have to put in place measures to stop problems being repeated. It is clearer than ever that markets can’t do this on their own. Nor can individual Governments. In the past it was sufficient to ensure effective domestic regulation. That’s not enough today. And we need to strengthen global supervision. We believe there is a role for government."
Highlight of my conference so far(apart from meeting Robbo) was the fringe meeting Standing at the Cultural Crossroads: Is the digital environment supporting or subverting the rights of creative individuals?
The panelists were Andy Burnham MP, Jazzie B, Mal Peet, Emily Bell and Fergal Sharkey. It was focused on the argument of crative people not getting money for their work as most things are now downloaded(illegaly) from the internet. The arguments for and against were all valid. For me it's the old Salford saying "out for nout". If people can hack into the Pentagon computers, they will always break into encryptions and file share. What needs to happen is that downloads need to be a lot cheaper.
David Milliband(the young pretender) gave a very good speech on Britain in the World. Overheard in a lift though saying he didn't want this to be his Hesiltine moment. Sad to say you can feel it outside the main hall that the party is at odds with itself and the factions are appearing.
Attended a meeting looking transport strategy for the city region. It was great to see Roger Jones there. He looked really well.
The TIF bid was touched upon obviously, but the biggest debate was attacking how bad the bus service in the area was. I actually felt sorry for the First bus rep as she got all the stick. Graham Stringer MP was his usual rebelious self.
Managed to take some time out and catch up with John Merry to discuss some Salford issues and just have a quiet drink before John went to speak at a Media City reception. The speech he gave promoting Salford and the vision for Salford was outstanding. All the Salford delegation agreed.
Monday 22 September 2008
CONFERENCE DAY 2
The sooner we get the money for the TIF bid the better! I'm using public transport this week and I have to say I'm not impressed. Yesterday morning I stood on Bury New Road for nearly an hour waiting for a bus, ridiculous. I then decided to nip home between fringe meetings, again waiting over half an hour in a massive queue, standing up all the way home, squashed in like a sardine. This was Sunday, heaven knows what it's like in the rush hour. Public transport needs massive investment.
I've always had an interest in Irish politics since school, so today I decided to attend the plenary to hear Shaun Woodward MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. He outlined the current position and the difficulties to be faced, but was determined that politics will win out and that the assembly will succeed.
Next I went to a fringe meeting "Towards a United Ireland" organised by Sinn Fein. Raymond McCartney MLA, addressed the meeting and outlined how Sinn Fein would continue to fight for a united Ireland and the political means it would use. A real change from the Armalite politics of yesteryear.
I ended the evening by going to the fringe meeting organised by the Agreed Ireland Forum to discuss Civil Rights in Northern Ireland.
I think as a Labour Party we need to keep Northern Ireland at the forefront of our minds and continue to work to keep the Good Friday and St Andrews agreements moving forward. I fear if the Tories ever get into power the whole thing would collapse due to their Unionist stance.
The leadership issue was still buzzing yesterday, two jabs Prescott was great the way he savaged Charles Clarke as leader of the "Bitterites".
It was also interesting that at the North West reception organised by NWDA a number of NW MP's sidled out before Gordon Brown turned up to speak to us.
I've always had an interest in Irish politics since school, so today I decided to attend the plenary to hear Shaun Woodward MP, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. He outlined the current position and the difficulties to be faced, but was determined that politics will win out and that the assembly will succeed.
Next I went to a fringe meeting "Towards a United Ireland" organised by Sinn Fein. Raymond McCartney MLA, addressed the meeting and outlined how Sinn Fein would continue to fight for a united Ireland and the political means it would use. A real change from the Armalite politics of yesteryear.
I ended the evening by going to the fringe meeting organised by the Agreed Ireland Forum to discuss Civil Rights in Northern Ireland.
I think as a Labour Party we need to keep Northern Ireland at the forefront of our minds and continue to work to keep the Good Friday and St Andrews agreements moving forward. I fear if the Tories ever get into power the whole thing would collapse due to their Unionist stance.
The leadership issue was still buzzing yesterday, two jabs Prescott was great the way he savaged Charles Clarke as leader of the "Bitterites".
It was also interesting that at the North West reception organised by NWDA a number of NW MP's sidled out before Gordon Brown turned up to speak to us.
Sunday 21 September 2008
CONFERENCE DAY 1
I had a nice stroll through Manchester to get to the Town Hall for my first fringe event. If there's a credit crunch on, it didn't seem to be affecting the shops in the city centre they were very busy.
The meeting was organised by the Fabian Society "Can we give the white working class what they want" The speakers were Hazel Blears MP, Brendan Barber of the TUC, John Cruddas MP, John Denham MP, Sunny Hundal, Blog Journalist, John Trickett MP.
It was a very frank and open discussion with the panel and delegates, and proved the party has to address the needs of D and E core voters. I hope this has set the scene for the week.
Then it was the ring of steel!! You can unserstand the high security, especially when you see what happened later in the day with the car bomb in Pakistan. Horrible.
I spent a couple of hours wandering around the exhibition stalls and catching up with people you usally only see at confernce and of course lots of collegues from Salford. The Salford stand was very good and promotes the city well.
My usual partner in crime at conference for the last few years has been Steve Coen, and I have to admit we do gatecrash a few of the better receptions. Tonight was no exception! We managed to get into the London Party reception. David Milliband, Harriet Harman and Gordon Brown were the guest speakers. A very united front.
Nice to be invited to the Young Labour meeting. This happened as I was Salford's youth officer till I was 45!!
The highlight of the day though was the The Co-operative Street Games launch, where I got to meet one of my all time heroes Brian Robson, one of United's greats.
The last meeting of the night was in Canal Street which was really alive and buzzing. It was to support the Labour Party's LGBT Group.
A good first day.
The meeting was organised by the Fabian Society "Can we give the white working class what they want" The speakers were Hazel Blears MP, Brendan Barber of the TUC, John Cruddas MP, John Denham MP, Sunny Hundal, Blog Journalist, John Trickett MP.
It was a very frank and open discussion with the panel and delegates, and proved the party has to address the needs of D and E core voters. I hope this has set the scene for the week.
Then it was the ring of steel!! You can unserstand the high security, especially when you see what happened later in the day with the car bomb in Pakistan. Horrible.
I spent a couple of hours wandering around the exhibition stalls and catching up with people you usally only see at confernce and of course lots of collegues from Salford. The Salford stand was very good and promotes the city well.
My usual partner in crime at conference for the last few years has been Steve Coen, and I have to admit we do gatecrash a few of the better receptions. Tonight was no exception! We managed to get into the London Party reception. David Milliband, Harriet Harman and Gordon Brown were the guest speakers. A very united front.
Nice to be invited to the Young Labour meeting. This happened as I was Salford's youth officer till I was 45!!
The highlight of the day though was the The Co-operative Street Games launch, where I got to meet one of my all time heroes Brian Robson, one of United's greats.
The last meeting of the night was in Canal Street which was really alive and buzzing. It was to support the Labour Party's LGBT Group.
A good first day.
Saturday 20 September 2008
MAGIC
Nice to wake up on this first day of conference to hear that JK Rowling has donated £1million to the party. In her statement as to why she sais this:
"I believe that poor and vulnerable families will fare much better under the Labour Party than they would under a Cameron-led Conservative Party.
"Gordon Brown has consistently prioritised and introduced measures that will save as many children as possible from a life lacking in opportunity or choice.
"The Labour government has reversed the long-term trend in child poverty, and is one of the leading EU countries in combating child poverty.
"David Cameron's promise of tax perks for the married, on the other hand, is reminiscent of the Conservative government I experienced as a lone parent.
"It sends the message that the Conservatives still believe a childless, dual-income, but married couple is more deserving of a financial pat on the head than those struggling, as I once was, to keep their families afloat in difficult times."
How right she is. The Tories for all their talk of social justice are still a right wing Thatcherite party, who if elected to government would bring real suffering to this country, especially to the most vulnerable.
"I believe that poor and vulnerable families will fare much better under the Labour Party than they would under a Cameron-led Conservative Party.
"Gordon Brown has consistently prioritised and introduced measures that will save as many children as possible from a life lacking in opportunity or choice.
"The Labour government has reversed the long-term trend in child poverty, and is one of the leading EU countries in combating child poverty.
"David Cameron's promise of tax perks for the married, on the other hand, is reminiscent of the Conservative government I experienced as a lone parent.
"It sends the message that the Conservatives still believe a childless, dual-income, but married couple is more deserving of a financial pat on the head than those struggling, as I once was, to keep their families afloat in difficult times."
How right she is. The Tories for all their talk of social justice are still a right wing Thatcherite party, who if elected to government would bring real suffering to this country, especially to the most vulnerable.
Thursday 18 September 2008
TIF DEBATE AT COUNCIL
Yesterday we had a marathon Council meeting, 8hrs. Most of it was hot air and nonsense from the Tory and Fib Dem opposition.
The thing that really annoyed me though was the fact that we had a very important debate about the TIF bid and the Community Action Party member Rick Houlton, the now councillor for Irlam failed to turn up.Yet he had campaigned against sitting Councillor Roger Jones on that exact issue.
I find it apalling that the people of Irlam lost such a good hard working person in Roger Jones to this ineffective man who rarely contributes or turns up to meetings to represnt their views. It seems typical of the so called Community Action Party who are a sham.
The thing that really annoyed me though was the fact that we had a very important debate about the TIF bid and the Community Action Party member Rick Houlton, the now councillor for Irlam failed to turn up.Yet he had campaigned against sitting Councillor Roger Jones on that exact issue.
I find it apalling that the people of Irlam lost such a good hard working person in Roger Jones to this ineffective man who rarely contributes or turns up to meetings to represnt their views. It seems typical of the so called Community Action Party who are a sham.
Monday 15 September 2008
The Peace Centre
One of the Mayor's charities this year is The Peace Centre which was set up after Tim Parry and Johnathon Ball were killed in a bomb blast in Warrington.
The Centre today invited me to have a look round and explain the type of work that they are doing(some of it with Salford schools).
They work with young people aged 5 -25, dealing with all sorts of conflict issues. I was very impressed and will look to see what further work we can do with them in Salford. For further information go to www.foundation4peace.org
The Centre today invited me to have a look round and explain the type of work that they are doing(some of it with Salford schools).
They work with young people aged 5 -25, dealing with all sorts of conflict issues. I was very impressed and will look to see what further work we can do with them in Salford. For further information go to www.foundation4peace.org
Sunday 14 September 2008
Welcome
Hi, I thought I'd set up a blog as it's the Labour Party Conference in Manchester next week and I'm attending.
It's a very interesting time for the party at the moment to say the least!
The Blog posts will be PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS and not those of Salford City Council Labour Group, Salford Local Government Committee, Langworthy Ward Labour Party, Kersal Ward Labour Party or Broughton and Blackley CLP.
I make this quite clear from the outset as I have landed myself in trouble on more than one occaison!
Some of the entries will be after the event as conference tends to go on to the wee small hours with fringe meetings etc.
I'm looking forward to it as it's an opportunity to catch up with friends and colleagues from around the country, plus some excellent speeches, workshops and fringe meetings.
It's a very interesting time for the party at the moment to say the least!
The Blog posts will be PERSONAL OBSERVATIONS and not those of Salford City Council Labour Group, Salford Local Government Committee, Langworthy Ward Labour Party, Kersal Ward Labour Party or Broughton and Blackley CLP.
I make this quite clear from the outset as I have landed myself in trouble on more than one occaison!
Some of the entries will be after the event as conference tends to go on to the wee small hours with fringe meetings etc.
I'm looking forward to it as it's an opportunity to catch up with friends and colleagues from around the country, plus some excellent speeches, workshops and fringe meetings.
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