Labour's poisoned chalice: fourth choice Curran to fight by-election -First candidate Ryan cites 'pressures' for withdrawal
-Glasgow leader Purcell and McAveety refuse
-Curran is 'deeply committed' to fighting by-election
-Rivals claim Labour campaign is shambles
By Paul Hutcheon, Scottish Political Editor SCOTTISH LABOUR'S attempt to win the Glasgow East Westminster by-election and save Gordon Brown's job has suffered a humiliation after it emerged the party was about to select its fourth-choice candidate.
Margaret Curran, already an MSP in the city, is likely to become Labour's pick to fight the crucial contest in Glasgow - but only after three others knocked back the job.
Councillor George Ryan walked away from the candidacy on Friday, while local authority leader Stephen Purcell and local MSP Frank McAveety both turned down appeals to stand.
Curran has also left herself open to accusations that she will be a part-time MP after it became clear she has no immediate plans to resign her MSP post.
The shambolic developments follow a chaotic week for Labour after the resignation of sitting Glasgow East MP David Marshall, prompting a by-election that could determine Brown's future as prime minister.
Curran, presently an MSP who represents a large chunk of Glasgow East at Holyrood, has agreed at the 11th hour to put her name forward as the Labour candidate ahead of the re-arranged selection meeting tomorrow.
However, this was only after the favourite to win the Labour nomination, local councillor George Ryan, shocked his party by declining to show up for the selection contest on Friday night.
His unexplained withdrawal prompted party bosses to plead with Glasgow City Council leader Purcell to stand, an overture that was rebuffed.
The Labour hierarchy then approached Glasgow Shettleston MSP Frank McAveety about a possible
candidacy, but he too declined the offer. It was only after Scottish Labour received at least three knockbacks - ex party general secretary Lesley Quinn is also said to have been approached - that Curran agreed to put her name forward.
The farce means that Labour has started its most crucial by-election in decades without a candidate in place.
Curran is expected to win the nomination and put up the fight against the SNP's attempt to overturn a 13,500 Labour majority when the poll is held on July 24.
The by-election has national significance as defeat for Labour would put pressure on Gordon Brown to stand down as prime minister.
A loss in Glasgow would be taken as a sign that Brown cannot even win seats in Labour's Scottish heartland.
But Curran, who was tipped as a contender to replace Wendy Alexander as Labour's Holyrood leader, is expected to be criticised for wanting to "double up" as an MP and an MSP.
It is expected that the former communities minister will not give up her Holyrood post immediately, which will lead to accusations that Curran will be a part-time MP.
Labour sources suggested, however, that she would only draw one salary and work from one office.
Curran said: "I am putting my name forward for the Labour nomination as Labour candidate for the by-election. I have decided to do this because I'm deeply committed to the communities of the east end of Glasgow."
Her last-minute bid to become a candidate followed Ryan pulling out of the race on Friday for family reasons.
In a statement released yesterday, he said: "It is with regret that I have today removed my name from the shortlist of potential candidates. In the last 24 hours, I have come to recognise the pressures that this campaign would put on my family life and I have taken the decision to put my family first."
Meanwhile, the race to succeed Wendy Alexander as Holyrood leader is set to include at least two candidates.It is understood East Lothian MSP Iain Gray and party deputy leader Cathy Jamieson are certain to stand, while East Kilbride MSP Andy Kerry has yet to declare his intentions.
Hamilton South MSP Tom McCabe, a former finance minister, is also being urged to stand by a number of councillors and colleagues at Holyrood.Glasgow Cathcart MSP Charlie Gordon is also in the frame, while Eastwood MSP Ken MacIntosh has taken soundings about a possible bid. First Minister ALex Salmond said: "The bizarre twists and turns in Labour's candidate selection shambles are chaos theory in action. They are scrabbling around trying to find someone - anyone - who is either able or willing to be their candidate. Labour are treating the people of Glasgow East with contempt - and the people will have their say on July 24."
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Posted by: Mrs I P Knightly on 11:33pm Sat 5 Jul 08
she wants a new kitchen - she heard about the John Lewis list
she wants a new kitchen - she heard about the John Lewis list
Posted by: Observer, Glasgow on 11:37pm Sat 5 Jul 08
Oh I'm glad it's true. I've been posting all over the place that the Valkyrie was swooping in talons at the ready based on a text message. A bit of risk there. But if Paul Hutcheon has got it then I haven't made a fool of myself just yet.
Oh I'm glad it's true. I've been posting all over the place that the Valkyrie was swooping in talons at the ready based on a text message. A bit of risk there. But if Paul Hutcheon has got it then I haven't made a fool of myself just yet.
Posted by: Scott on 11:37pm Sat 5 Jul 08
No-show Broon, nae leader, nae candidate, nae hope...
No-show Broon, nae leader, nae candidate, nae hope...
Posted by: Harry Shanks, Rutherglen on 11:41pm Sat 5 Jul 08
"...the race to succeed Wendy Alexander...Glasgow Cathcart MSP Charlie Gordon is also in the frame"
Quite right too!
The SNP need people like Charlie Gordon with his political nous, razor sharp intellect and fine political judgement!
Arf Arf
"...the race to succeed Wendy Alexander...Glasgow Cathcart MSP Charlie Gordon is also in the frame"
Quite right too!
The SNP need people like Charlie Gordon with his political nous, razor sharp intellect and fine political judgement!
Arf Arf
Posted by: Professor Hertz Van Rental on 11:41pm Sat 5 Jul 08
this cannot be true can it?
http://www.mailonsun
day.co.uk/news/artic
le-1032385/Labour-MP
-spent-500-000-taxpa
yers-money-running-o
ffice-home-staffed-w
ife.html
this cannot be true can it?
http://www.mailonsun
day.co.uk/news/artic
le-1032385/Labour-MP
-spent-500-000-taxpa
yers-money-running-o
ffice-home-staffed-w
ife.html
Posted by: Iain More, Moray on 11:43pm Sat 5 Jul 08
Looks like there could be a scramble for some new furnishings.However Ryan/Purcell etc dont plan any home redecorating in near future it seems.
Looks like there could be a scramble for some new furnishings.However Ryan/Purcell etc dont plan any home redecorating in near future it seems.
Posted by: Andy, Glasgow on 11:47pm Sat 5 Jul 08
If SNP win this then Scotland is truly on the road to independence. This is a part of Glasgow where a deid sheep with a Labour rosette should win by a landslide.
In fact Maybe they should get one to stand as their candidate. Then again they probably will.
If SNP win this then Scotland is truly on the road to independence. This is a part of Glasgow where a deid sheep with a Labour rosette should win by a landslide.
In fact Maybe they should get one to stand as their candidate. Then again they probably will.
Posted by: Bryan, Isle of Skye on 11:48pm Sat 5 Jul 08
Just for a moment will commentators, political parties start giving a thought for these poor constituents. Folk never given a TRUE thought by anyone.
An afterthought: if it goes well for liebour, Glasgow East residents will be patients on Maggie's Farm with her salary doubled- expenses quadroupled....
Just for a moment will commentators, political parties start giving a thought for these poor constituents. Folk never given a TRUE thought by anyone.
An afterthought: if it goes well for liebour, Glasgow East residents will be patients on Maggie's Farm with her salary doubled- expenses quadroupled....
Posted by: Harry Shanks, Rutherglen on 11:49pm Sat 5 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Professor Hertz Van Rental[/bold] wrote:
this cannot be true can it? http://www.mailonsun day.co.uk/news/artic le-1032385/Labour-MP -spent-500-000-taxpa yers-money-running-o ffice-home-staffed-w ife.html[/quote] What an indictment of the Scottish press that it takes an English tabloid to finally spill the beans on yet another Labour freeloader
Professor Hertz Van Rental wrote:
this cannot be true can it? http://www.mailonsun day.co.uk/news/artic le-1032385/Labour-MP -spent-500-000-taxpa yers-money-running-o ffice-home-staffed-w ife.html
What an indictment of the Scottish press that it takes an English tabloid to finally spill the beans on yet another Labour freeloader
Posted by: Ronald, Glasgow on 11:55pm Sat 5 Jul 08
And might this be the same Charlie Gordon who saught - and recieved, ilegal donations for Wee Bendy - vunerable two year olds - Alexander?
And might this be the same Charlie Gordon who saught - and recieved, ilegal donations for Wee Bendy - vunerable two year olds - Alexander?
Posted by: Copper, Falkirk on 11:57pm Sat 5 Jul 08
Wait till the Bo'ness Harbour Scandal hits the streets of East Glasgow
Chairman Pat Reid and Cooncilor Mahoney of Falkirk Cooncil will go down in history as the People who sank the Liebor Perty once and for all
This is a story of blatent SLab corruption which if the national press were doing its job would have been exposed years ago
But because it is Unionist Liebor it must be ignored
Support the folk of Bo'ness
Do not let a Multi National Dutch Company treat the Scots like Idiots and walk away with Millions leaving the folk of Bo'ness with nothing
Some of the folk in Bo'ness were stupid to trust and vote for Cooncillor Mahoney
The rumour now is he gets on the completion of contract £50,000
This because he is cheap and a first time Liebor Cooncillor
The Liebor Cooncillors who passed the Trading Estates in Bellshill and East Kilbride were given Holiday Homes in Italy and Spain
Wait till the Bo'ness Harbour Scandal hits the streets of East Glasgow
Chairman Pat Reid and Cooncilor Mahoney of Falkirk Cooncil will go down in history as the People who sank the Liebor Perty once and for all
This is a story of blatent SLab corruption which if the national press were doing its job would have been exposed years ago
But because it is Unionist Liebor it must be ignored
Support the folk of Bo'ness
Do not let a Multi National Dutch Company treat the Scots like Idiots and walk away with Millions leaving the folk of Bo'ness with nothing
Some of the folk in Bo'ness were stupid to trust and vote for Cooncillor Mahoney
The rumour now is he gets on the completion of contract £50,000
This because he is cheap and a first time Liebor Cooncillor
The Liebor Cooncillors who passed the Trading Estates in Bellshill and East Kilbride were given Holiday Homes in Italy and Spain
Posted by: OHO on 11:59pm Sat 5 Jul 08
You couldn't make this stuff up, could you?
Labour are hte party that must have known about David Marshall's intention to step down before anyone else did - and so, should have been ready to hit the ground running....instead of which they are left scrabbling around in the mud!
It's almost like - where were you when Kennedy was shot....where were you when Labour disintegrated before your very eyes!
You couldn't make this stuff up, could you?
Labour are hte party that must have known about David Marshall's intention to step down before anyone else did - and so, should have been ready to hit the ground running....instead of which they are left scrabbling around in the mud!
It's almost like - where were you when Kennedy was shot....where were you when Labour disintegrated before your very eyes!
Posted by: Oscar on 12:03am Sun 6 Jul 08
Astonishing news, it's as if they've given up. Seriously how can anyone at John Smith House honestly believe that Curran is the woman to reverse the national decline.
Colin Smyth, the relatively new General Secretary has boobed big time, I expect he'll be returning to Dumfries sooner rather than later.
Astonishing news, it's as if they've given up. Seriously how can anyone at John Smith House honestly believe that Curran is the woman to reverse the national decline.
Colin Smyth, the relatively new General Secretary has boobed big time, I expect he'll be returning to Dumfries sooner rather than later.
Posted by: tris, scotland on 12:05am Sun 6 Jul 08
Margaret must be really proud eh?
Forth choice?
Margaret must be really proud eh?
Forth choice?
Posted by: redc;liffe62, brisbane on hols. on 12:11am Sun 6 Jul 08
name recognition is worth 1 or 2 per cent. that may be the difference.
it worked for the snp/salmond in may07; people with little knowledge will vote on name recognition.
there should be evidence that the postal votes have by now been sent out in time for people to receive them and still go away on holiday.
assuming this can be achieved by alexander's rag time band. this aspect will perhaps decide the election.
name recognition is worth 1 or 2 per cent. that may be the difference.
it worked for the snp/salmond in may07; people with little knowledge will vote on name recognition.
there should be evidence that the postal votes have by now been sent out in time for people to receive them and still go away on holiday.
assuming this can be achieved by alexander's rag time band. this aspect will perhaps decide the election.
Posted by: Monty Furk, Republic of Scotland on 12:12am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote]11 Glasgow councillors under investigation:
http://tinyurl.com/5
n4uhj[/quote]
11 Glasgow councillors under investigation:
http://tinyurl.com/5
n4uhj
Posted by: Samoyed, Costa del Menie on 12:16am Sun 6 Jul 08
A Labour MP used almost £500,000 of taxpayers' money over six years to help run an office from his home which was staffed by his wife.
David Marshall, 67, who has quit to spark the Glasgow East by-election on July 24, used the expenses to pay for a constituency office and staff.
But Mr Marshall's office was in his semi-detached Glasgow home and he employed his wife Tina as his secretary. It is also believed he paid his daughter Christina to work from his home from the same pool of money.
A Commons spokesman said MPs can use their home as an office but only claim for additional costs like 'extra phone lines, heating and lighting'.
From 2001-2007, Mr Marshall claimed £91,000 incidental expenses provision, which is used to pay for constituency offices, plus £400,000 for staff and £11,000 for their travel expenses.
He listed only one member of staff on the Commons register - Christina Marshall. It was unclear if this was his wife Tina or daughter Christina.
Neighbours and political sources said his wife had worked for him - with Labour ex-Minister Brian Wilson saying that Mrs Marshall had worked for her husband as a constituency secretary.
Mr Marshall is said to be suffering clinical depression. Party sources said he felt 'under pressure' over the expenses allegations.
The family refuses to comment on why he spent so much on office expenses, why he ran an office from home and what family members were on his payroll.
A Labour MP used almost £500,000 of taxpayers' money over six years to help run an office from his home which was staffed by his wife.
David Marshall, 67, who has quit to spark the Glasgow East by-election on July 24, used the expenses to pay for a constituency office and staff.
But Mr Marshall's office was in his semi-detached Glasgow home and he employed his wife Tina as his secretary. It is also believed he paid his daughter Christina to work from his home from the same pool of money.
A Commons spokesman said MPs can use their home as an office but only claim for additional costs like 'extra phone lines, heating and lighting'.
From 2001-2007, Mr Marshall claimed £91,000 incidental expenses provision, which is used to pay for constituency offices, plus £400,000 for staff and £11,000 for their travel expenses.
He listed only one member of staff on the Commons register - Christina Marshall. It was unclear if this was his wife Tina or daughter Christina.
Neighbours and political sources said his wife had worked for him - with Labour ex-Minister Brian Wilson saying that Mrs Marshall had worked for her husband as a constituency secretary.
Mr Marshall is said to be suffering clinical depression. Party sources said he felt 'under pressure' over the expenses allegations.
The family refuses to comment on why he spent so much on office expenses, why he ran an office from home and what family members were on his payroll.
Posted by: Ken Marshall, Lower Greenwich NB on 12:17am Sun 6 Jul 08
Margaret WHO?
Posted by: Harry Shanks, Rutherglen on 12:17am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]redc;liffe62[/bold] wrote:
name recognition is worth 1 or 2 per cent. that may be the difference. it worked for the snp/salmond in may07; people with little knowledge will vote on name recognition. there should be evidence that the postal votes have by now been sent out in time for people to receive them and still go away on holiday. assuming this can be achieved by alexander's rag time band. this aspect will perhaps decide the election. [/quote] Redcliffe - in order for your theory to be true, surely the name recognition must have a [bold]POSITIVE[/bold] effect.
I think voter recognition of Curran's name could see a 1 or 2 per cent DROP in the Labour vote as they realise they are surely being taken for mugs.
redc;liffe62 wrote:
name recognition is worth 1 or 2 per cent. that may be the difference. it worked for the snp/salmond in may07; people with little knowledge will vote on name recognition. there should be evidence that the postal votes have by now been sent out in time for people to receive them and still go away on holiday. assuming this can be achieved by alexander's rag time band. this aspect will perhaps decide the election.
Redcliffe - in order for your theory to be true, surely the name recognition must have a
POSITIVE effect.
I think voter recognition of Curran's name could see a 1 or 2 per cent DROP in the Labour vote as they realise they are surely being taken for mugs.
Posted by: Samoyed, Costa del Menie on 12:21am Sun 6 Jul 08
Eleven Labour Glasgow City Councillors, including Councillor George Ryan, who last night suddenly pulled out of the contest to represent Labour in the crucial Glasgow East by-election, were reported to the Standards on 18 June 2008 in connection with a controversial land deal in the city centre.
The complaint surrounded their conduct in relation to the controversial attempt to close down the 150 year old Paddy’s Market in the city and obtain land on which the market is currently located.
The complaint which was submitted to the Standards Commission of Scotland by a representative of Paddy’s Market traders claimed that Councillor Ryan misled the council in a report he presented to the council’s Executive Committee which recommended the council purchase the head lease of the land where the market is situated and for the historic Paddy’s Market to be closed down.
The report which was presented by Councillor Ryan at a meeting on 20 March 2008, and subsequently led to the council’s endorsement of its recommendations, stated that the owners of the land had agreed to provide the lease at a reduced rate to the Council. However, the forty page complaint document submitted to the Standards Commission included information that clearly indicated that no such deal had been made with the council.
Councillor Ryan also faces investigation for other breaches of the Code of Conduct in relation to this matter along with ten other high profile Glasgow City Council Labour councillors including the Council leader, Steven Purcell.
Paddy’s Market representative, Brian Daly said:
“This market has been here for over 150 years, and my family has been trading here for three generations. The Labour councillors who are intent on closing us down have failed in their responsibilities as elected members to engage with us at any time in relation to this. They have, instead, chosen to make backroom decisions and bulldozer them through without any regard for the democratic process.
“The whole affair has been one of misrepresentation of the facts to the public, the media and to the council itself. We live in a democratic society yet, some of those who we trust to carry out duties on our behalf have chosen to make decisions and disregard the wishes of the electorate.
“Labour councillors refused to share vital information with other elected members from other political parties who also represent this area or include them in the vital stages of the decision making process. Instead there has been a sustained approach by some Labour councillors and council officials to make unsupported claims both in council and through the media locally in an attempt to gain public and council support for their project.
“Elected members who behave in such a way should and must be held fully accountable for their actions, and whilst it would be inappropriate for me to pre-empt the findings of the Standard Commission investigation, I believe the evidence against those Councillors involved is pretty damning. We won’t put up with the bully boy tactics of the council any longer. We very much look forward to the outcome of the investigation.”
The other councillors who have been reported are:
Councillor Steven Purcell – Council Leader
Councillor James Coleman – Deputy Leader of the Council
Councillor Aileen Colleran – Council Business Manager
Councillor Stephen Curran – City Treasurer
Bailie Gordon Matheson – local councillor for Paddy’s Market
Bailie Hanzala Malik
Councillor Stephen Doran
Councillor Archie Graham
Councillor Ruth Simpson
Councillor Shaukat Butt
Eleven Labour Glasgow City Councillors, including Councillor George Ryan, who last night suddenly pulled out of the contest to represent Labour in the crucial Glasgow East by-election, were reported to the Standards on 18 June 2008 in connection with a controversial land deal in the city centre.
The complaint surrounded their conduct in relation to the controversial attempt to close down the 150 year old Paddy’s Market in the city and obtain land on which the market is currently located.
The complaint which was submitted to the Standards Commission of Scotland by a representative of Paddy’s Market traders claimed that Councillor Ryan misled the council in a report he presented to the council’s Executive Committee which recommended the council purchase the head lease of the land where the market is situated and for the historic Paddy’s Market to be closed down.
The report which was presented by Councillor Ryan at a meeting on 20 March 2008, and subsequently led to the council’s endorsement of its recommendations, stated that the owners of the land had agreed to provide the lease at a reduced rate to the Council. However, the forty page complaint document submitted to the Standards Commission included information that clearly indicated that no such deal had been made with the council.
Councillor Ryan also faces investigation for other breaches of the Code of Conduct in relation to this matter along with ten other high profile Glasgow City Council Labour councillors including the Council leader, Steven Purcell.
Paddy’s Market representative, Brian Daly said:
“This market has been here for over 150 years, and my family has been trading here for three generations. The Labour councillors who are intent on closing us down have failed in their responsibilities as elected members to engage with us at any time in relation to this. They have, instead, chosen to make backroom decisions and bulldozer them through without any regard for the democratic process.
“The whole affair has been one of misrepresentation of the facts to the public, the media and to the council itself. We live in a democratic society yet, some of those who we trust to carry out duties on our behalf have chosen to make decisions and disregard the wishes of the electorate.
“Labour councillors refused to share vital information with other elected members from other political parties who also represent this area or include them in the vital stages of the decision making process. Instead there has been a sustained approach by some Labour councillors and council officials to make unsupported claims both in council and through the media locally in an attempt to gain public and council support for their project.
“Elected members who behave in such a way should and must be held fully accountable for their actions, and whilst it would be inappropriate for me to pre-empt the findings of the Standard Commission investigation, I believe the evidence against those Councillors involved is pretty damning. We won’t put up with the bully boy tactics of the council any longer. We very much look forward to the outcome of the investigation.”
The other councillors who have been reported are:
Councillor Steven Purcell – Council Leader
Councillor James Coleman – Deputy Leader of the Council
Councillor Aileen Colleran – Council Business Manager
Councillor Stephen Curran – City Treasurer
Bailie Gordon Matheson – local councillor for Paddy’s Market
Bailie Hanzala Malik
Councillor Stephen Doran
Councillor Archie Graham
Councillor Ruth Simpson
Councillor Shaukat Butt
Posted by: Brian Blessed, Glasgow on 12:25am Sun 6 Jul 08
As someone much more talented than I once said:
GOODBYE YOU LIZARD SCUM!
tinyurl.com/lizardsc
um
Incidentally, here's Big Mags for anyone who missed her last time around:
tinyurl.com/bigmags
A middle of the road appeal there, dontcha think?
As someone much more talented than I once said:
GOODBYE YOU LIZARD SCUM!
tinyurl.com/lizardsc
um
Incidentally, here's Big Mags for anyone who missed her last time around:
tinyurl.com/bigmags
A middle of the road appeal there, dontcha think?
Posted by: Samoyed, Costa del Menie on 12:26am Sun 6 Jul 08
Well, well, well....what can be said?
I'm so glad I took it at 5/6. the easiest £84 I've made in my whole life.
Lets brace ourselves for the spin onslaught.
Well, well, well....what can be said?
I'm so glad I took it at 5/6. the easiest £84 I've made in my whole life.
Lets brace ourselves for the spin onslaught.
Posted by: Oscar on 12:27am Sun 6 Jul 08
Margaret Who? Lest we forget...
http://tinyurl.com/5
ktk6z
Margaret Who? Lest we forget...
http://tinyurl.com/5
ktk6z
Posted by: Los Angeles, Edinburgh on 12:28am Sun 6 Jul 08
Samoyed Not Annoyed[quote]I'm so glad I took it at 5/6. the easiest £84 I've made in my whole life.[/quote] Well done. I'd have gambled Labour would play safe this time.
Samoyed Not Annoyed
I'm so glad I took it at 5/6. the easiest £84 I've made in my whole life.
Well done. I'd have gambled Labour would play safe this time.
Posted by: tris, scotland on 12:28am Sun 6 Jul 08
The incumbant is standing down because he's been fiddling, got caught and is now suffering from clinical depression and two of the possible candidates are under investigation by a standards committee.
Is there anyone in the Labour Party who is honest and decent?
The incumbant is standing down because he's been fiddling, got caught and is now suffering from clinical depression and two of the possible candidates are under investigation by a standards committee.
Is there anyone in the Labour Party who is honest and decent?
Posted by: Colin B, Bearsden on 12:28am Sun 6 Jul 08
Do the people of Glasgow East really want a screaming banshee who has never had a proper job and is only interested in wummins rights as their MP ( and MSP).
Trouble is their so thick and ill infored they'll sleepwalk in to the polling booths because their prematurely dead faither voted Labour and the Daily Record tells them to
Do the people of Glasgow East really want a screaming banshee who has never had a proper job and is only interested in wummins rights as their MP ( and MSP).
Trouble is their so thick and ill infored they'll sleepwalk in to the polling booths because their prematurely dead faither voted Labour and the Daily Record tells them to
Posted by: democrate, central Scotland on 12:30am Sun 6 Jul 08
How many column inches will the Daily Record give David Marshall's expenses?
How many column inches will the Daily Record give David Marshall's expenses?
Posted by: neil robertson, dundee on 12:44am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Mrs I P Knightly[/bold] wrote:
she wants a new kitchen - she heard about the John Lewis list[/quote] och she probably doesn't want to be cooking for herself .. but if Brown twisted her arm
to stand let's hope she set a very high price for the East End of Glasgow and a seat in his
Cabinet as a full-time Secretary of State for
Scotland instead of that part-time guy who's
running two wars in his spare time .........
Mrs I P Knightly wrote:
she wants a new kitchen - she heard about the John Lewis list
och she probably doesn't want to be cooking for herself .. but if Brown twisted her arm
to stand let's hope she set a very high price for the East End of Glasgow and a seat in his
Cabinet as a full-time Secretary of State for
Scotland instead of that part-time guy who's
running two wars in his spare time .........
Posted by: shug, rotterdam on 12:49am Sun 6 Jul 08
Democrate.. I expect a zil report from the Record.
Democrate.. I expect a zil report from the Record.
Posted by: ditchgazza on 12:51am Sun 6 Jul 08
David Marshall's theft of £500,000 of taxpayers money to line his and his family's pockets is only the tip of the iceberg.
When the rest of this lying, corrupt, greedy and nepotic liebour party politicians are investigated then the mass resignations which will be inevitable will mean the end of the party.
Good riddance
David Marshall's theft of £500,000 of taxpayers money to line his and his family's pockets is only the tip of the iceberg.
When the rest of this lying, corrupt, greedy and nepotic liebour party politicians are investigated then the mass resignations which will be inevitable will mean the end of the party.
Good riddance
Posted by: Harry shanks, Rutherglen on 12:54am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Colin B[/bold] wrote:
Do the people of Glasgow East really want a screaming banshee who has never had a proper job and is only interested in wummins rights as their MP ( and MSP). Trouble is their so thick and ill infored they'll sleepwalk in to the polling booths because their prematurely dead faither voted Labour and the Daily Record tells them to[/quote] The screaming banshee model of MP/MSP seems to be very popular with Labour voters - just take a look at some of the current incumbents - Curran Bun, Bendy Wendy, Jackie the Pie, Cathy (Jonathan Watson) Jamieson, Pauline MacNeil, Anne McGuire, Karen Whitefield, Johann Lamont,et al
There [bold]is[/bold] a bit of a pattern isn't there?
Colin B wrote:
Do the people of Glasgow East really want a screaming banshee who has never had a proper job and is only interested in wummins rights as their MP ( and MSP). Trouble is their so thick and ill infored they'll sleepwalk in to the polling booths because their prematurely dead faither voted Labour and the Daily Record tells them to
The screaming banshee model of MP/MSP seems to be very popular with Labour voters - just take a look at some of the current incumbents - Curran Bun, Bendy Wendy, Jackie the Pie, Cathy (Jonathan Watson) Jamieson, Pauline MacNeil, Anne McGuire, Karen Whitefield, Johann Lamont,et al
There
is a bit of a pattern isn't there?
Posted by: indyleith, Edinburgh on 12:54am Sun 6 Jul 08
Changed days in Scotland. Nobody wants to stand for new liebour in what has been a safe seat in Glasgow East for decades, now they are in disarray as as liebour dont know how to fight as all they usually prefer to do is scaremonger with their lies over the airwaves and in print abetted by their unionist press. They know they have gave nowt to voters in Glasgow East except failure and thats why they dont want to go there and defend their shameful record. I hope Glasgow East give theirselves hope and see theirselves vote for a party that will put money back in their pockets via ridding them off the disgraceful council tax and introducing a fair local income tax based on ability to pay, easing their burder (just like most others in Scotland). That party is the SNP who really are on the people's side and that is only one of the many things they shown to be doing rather than the neglect and treachery of new liebour. Liebour is done, the independence juggernaut is coming to a town near you. Hop on and leave the parasites to crawl in their gutters.
Changed days in Scotland. Nobody wants to stand for new liebour in what has been a safe seat in Glasgow East for decades, now they are in disarray as as liebour dont know how to fight as all they usually prefer to do is scaremonger with their lies over the airwaves and in print abetted by their unionist press. They know they have gave nowt to voters in Glasgow East except failure and thats why they dont want to go there and defend their shameful record. I hope Glasgow East give theirselves hope and see theirselves vote for a party that will put money back in their pockets via ridding them off the disgraceful council tax and introducing a fair local income tax based on ability to pay, easing their burder (just like most others in Scotland). That party is the SNP who really are on the people's side and that is only one of the many things they shown to be doing rather than the neglect and treachery of new liebour. Liebour is done, the independence juggernaut is coming to a town near you. Hop on and leave the parasites to crawl in their gutters.
Posted by: nostress, grangemouth on 12:55am Sun 6 Jul 08
David Marshall is said to be suffering from clinical depression - well yes I think I can understand that - if I'd been pauchlin half a million quid for the last six years and was about to be exposed, then I might just suffer a wee bout myself...
I do hope that this is not the start of a worrying trend amongst Labour's finest, as wasn't it reported that Anne Moffat of expenses fame and mugging claim might also be somewhat depressed? I trust the investigation into that sorry episode for the poor lady is still being vigorously pursued by Lothian & Borders finest and that the muggers will soon be brought to justice.
David Marshall is said to be suffering from clinical depression - well yes I think I can understand that - if I'd been pauchlin half a million quid for the last six years and was about to be exposed, then I might just suffer a wee bout myself...
I do hope that this is not the start of a worrying trend amongst Labour's finest, as wasn't it reported that Anne Moffat of expenses fame and mugging claim might also be somewhat depressed? I trust the investigation into that sorry episode for the poor lady is still being vigorously pursued by Lothian & Borders finest and that the muggers will soon be brought to justice.
Posted by: Monty Furk, Republic of Scotland on 12:57am Sun 6 Jul 08
*Breaking News - Scottish Labour have chosen a new leader*
tinyurl.com/6nbbw9
*Breaking News - Scottish Labour have chosen a new leader*
tinyurl.com/6nbbw9
Posted by: mt on 1:03am Sun 6 Jul 08
"Margaret Curran has left herself open to accusations that she will be a part-time MP after it became clear she has no immediate plans to resign her MSP post."
If she loses the election and doesn't become an MP, then she will still have a job as an M.S.P.
"Margaret Curran has left herself open to accusations that she will be a part-time MP after it became clear she has no immediate plans to resign her MSP post."
If she loses the election and doesn't become an MP, then she will still have a job as an M.S.P.
Posted by: Joe Miles on 1:04am Sun 6 Jul 08
Given the fact that the standards at Westminster are not as strict as those at Hollyrood. Would it not be a good opportunity for wee Bendy Wendy to remove herself from the lions den?
Given the fact that the standards at Westminster are not as strict as those at Hollyrood. Would it not be a good opportunity for wee Bendy Wendy to remove herself from the lions den?
Posted by: oscar on 1:16am Sun 6 Jul 08
That would be funny beyond compare, Joe.
[bold]Wendy of Westminster.[/bold]
That would be funny beyond compare, Joe.
Wendy of Westminster. Posted by: paco, parkheid on 1:29am Sun 6 Jul 08
redc;liffe62,brisban
e on hols.on12.11 to-day.
What does this **** of yours actually mean?
PS S.Herald should number its contributions.
PPS Come on Eastenders and do what you know is right - VOTE SNP!!!
redc;liffe62,brisban
e on hols.on12.11 to-day.
What does this **** of yours actually mean?
PS S.Herald should number its contributions.
PPS Come on Eastenders and do what you know is right - VOTE SNP!!!
Posted by: Monty Furk, Republic of Scotland on 1:31am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Labour accuse the BBC of pro-SNP bias
http://tinyurl.com/5
m8mpg[/bold][/quote]
ASTONISHING, THEY HAVE COMPLETELY LOST THE PLOT NOW...!!!
Meltdown has never been so much fun to watch!!
Labour accuse the BBC of pro-SNP bias
http://tinyurl.com/5
m8mpg
ASTONISHING, THEY HAVE COMPLETELY LOST THE PLOT NOW...!!!
Meltdown has never been so much fun to watch!!
Posted by: Joe Miles on 1:44am Sun 6 Jul 08
Yes Oscar She must be having cold sweats over the possibility of all that lovely money just for the taking and no questions asked. Not too far to travel for a family prayer meeting .either.
Yes Oscar She must be having cold sweats over the possibility of all that lovely money just for the taking and no questions asked. Not too far to travel for a family prayer meeting .either.
Posted by: Curley Bill, the southwest on 1:52am Sun 6 Jul 08
From Samoyed's - the man with the white coat post
[quote]The other councillors who have been reported are:
Councillor Steven Purcell – Council Leader
Councillor James Coleman – Deputy Leader of the Council
Councillor Aileen Colleran – Council Business Manager
[bold]Councillor Stephen Curran[/bold] – City Treasurer
Bailie Gordon Matheson – local councillor for Paddy’s Market
Bailie Hanzala Malik
Councillor Stephen Doran
Councillor Archie Graham
Councillor Ruth Simpson
Councillor Shaukat Butt[/quote]
[bold]Councillor Stephen Curran?[/bold]
Hmm, Curran, Curran? Now where have I heard that surname before?
From Samoyed's - the man with the white coat post
The other councillors who have been reported are:
Councillor Steven Purcell – Council Leader
Councillor James Coleman – Deputy Leader of the Council
Councillor Aileen Colleran – Council Business Manager
Councillor Stephen Curran – City Treasurer
Bailie Gordon Matheson – local councillor for Paddy’s Market
Bailie Hanzala Malik
Councillor Stephen Doran
Councillor Archie Graham
Councillor Ruth Simpson
Councillor Shaukat Butt
Councillor Stephen Curran?
Hmm, Curran, Curran? Now where have I heard that surname before?
Posted by: Alan, Ayr on 1:57am Sun 6 Jul 08
Speaking about bias, who made up the audience figures for QT on Thursday! There must be a lot of anti-nationalists in Musselburgh.
Speaking about bias, who made up the audience figures for QT on Thursday! There must be a lot of anti-nationalists in Musselburgh.
Posted by: Iainbroch, Moray on 2:05am Sun 6 Jul 08
Are there any other ill Scottish Labour MPs? I would not think that depression alone was sufficient to give up a cushy number?
Are there any other ill Scottish Labour MPs? I would not think that depression alone was sufficient to give up a cushy number?
Posted by: Steve A, Independence for Scotland! on 2:10am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Curley Bill[/bold] wrote:
From Samoyed's - the man with the white coat post [quote]The other councillors who have been reported are: Councillor Steven Purcell – Council Leader Councillor James Coleman – Deputy Leader of the Council Councillor Aileen Colleran – Council Business Manager [bold]Councillor Stephen Curran[/bold] – City Treasurer Bailie Gordon Matheson – local councillor for Paddy’s Market Bailie Hanzala Malik Councillor Stephen Doran Councillor Archie Graham Councillor Ruth Simpson Councillor Shaukat Butt[/quote] [bold]Councillor Stephen Curran?[/bold] Hmm, Curran, Curran? Now where have I heard that surname before? [/quote] That mob will be meeting tomorrow evening for a game of pass the purcell !!!!!
Curley Bill wrote:
From Samoyed's - the man with the white coat post The other councillors who have been reported are: Councillor Steven Purcell – Council Leader Councillor James Coleman – Deputy Leader of the Council Councillor Aileen Colleran – Council Business Manager Councillor Stephen Curran – City Treasurer Bailie Gordon Matheson – local councillor for Paddy’s Market Bailie Hanzala Malik Councillor Stephen Doran Councillor Archie Graham Councillor Ruth Simpson Councillor Shaukat Butt
Councillor Stephen Curran? Hmm, Curran, Curran? Now where have I heard that surname before?
That mob will be meeting tomorrow evening for a game of pass the purcell !!!!!
Posted by: Old Tam, Glasgow on 2:10am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Alan[/bold] wrote:
Speaking about bias, who made up the audience figures for QT on Thursday! There must be a lot of anti-nationalists in Musselburgh.[/quote] Apalling wasn't it, 'Bring it on' they all shouted together. The BBC are a disgrace, I heard Isobel Fraser give wee Dougie a couple of soft questions on The Gub's resignation, just so he could pour his bile on the SNP.
Wendy must be sick now, the thought of Charles Gordon looking for her job. Ho Ho Ho.
Alan wrote:
Speaking about bias, who made up the audience figures for QT on Thursday! There must be a lot of anti-nationalists in Musselburgh.
Apalling wasn't it, 'Bring it on' they all shouted together. The BBC are a disgrace, I heard Isobel Fraser give wee Dougie a couple of soft questions on The Gub's resignation, just so he could pour his bile on the SNP.
Wendy must be sick now, the thought of Charles Gordon looking for her job. Ho Ho Ho.
Posted by: In a Wendy Hoose...., MooMooland on 2:20am Sun 6 Jul 08
http://tinyurl.com/6
5gnuz
http://tinyurl.com/5
vstar
http://tinyurl.com/6
by2ug
Family resemblance?
The great big [italic]happy[/italic] (coughs) family that is Labour...
http://tinyurl.com/6
5gnuz
http://tinyurl.com/5
vstar
http://tinyurl.com/6
by2ug
Family resemblance?
The great big
happy (coughs) family that is Labour...
Posted by: Big Mags, Ayr on 2:20am Sun 6 Jul 08
Nobody in the Labour Party wants to stand for Westminster because they are not so sure now that it's a job for life.
Nobody in the Labour Party wants to stand for Westminster because they are not so sure now that it's a job for life.
Posted by: Frankie-boy, killydoon on 3:01am Sun 6 Jul 08
According to the Times Online some one called Margret Cullen is standing for Labour.
Who she? Or does the Times have their sub-editor in a far-east call centre?
According to the Times Online some one called Margret Cullen is standing for Labour.
Who she? Or does the Times have their sub-editor in a far-east call centre?
Posted by: Katty, Bannockburn on 3:22am Sun 6 Jul 08
So this is Maggie's son that has stayed home now in trouble, is her other son still in the States doing time for fraud? or am I mixing up Maggies.
So this is Maggie's son that has stayed home now in trouble, is her other son still in the States doing time for fraud? or am I mixing up Maggies.
Posted by: Traquir, Alba on 3:53am Sun 6 Jul 08
Now their are 500,000 new reasons why
Glasgow East should not vote Labour again.
From the Mail On Sunday we have a story on
the recently resigned for "ill health" Glasgow
East MP David Marshall. Interesting it is
not a top head line in the leading Scottish
newspapers :)
"Labour MP spent £500,000 of taxpayers' money running office from home staffed by wife"
"But Mr Marshall's office was in his semi-detached Glasgow home and he employed his wife Tina as his secretary"
"Party sources said he felt 'under pressure' over the expenses allegations. "
Yep - it is called guilt. Let's have
Margaret Curran start her campaign
by critizing this parastic
behaviour in the strongest terms.
see - tinyurl.com/6j7m48
Whilst Labour has spent 50 years turning
areas of Scotland into abject poverty and
life spans less that war zones like the
Gaza Strip, the Labour comrades have
fed fully from the
trough like pigs. Recently they had a chance to redeem themselves and cutoff some
of one their obscene
troughs, but no instead they vote against
a crackdown on their controversial London expenses so their John Lewis trough
remains open.
~45% of Scottish Labour MPS voted
to keep the trough,
0% of SNP MPs voted to keep it.
see - tinyurl.com/5eaofu
Sleaze and corruption are endemic in
the Labour party especially in Scotland
after decades in power.
They need to be wiped off the face of the Scottish political landscape for what
they have done and are still doing to Scotland. Perhaps like David
Marshall some more of them will start
feeling the guilt and shame- but I doubt it.
They simply need to be kicked out and Glasgow
East will be a good start.
Saor Alba
Now their are 500,000 new reasons why
Glasgow East should not vote Labour again.
From the Mail On Sunday we have a story on
the recently resigned for "ill health" Glasgow
East MP David Marshall. Interesting it is
not a top head line in the leading Scottish
newspapers :)
"Labour MP spent £500,000 of taxpayers' money running office from home staffed by wife"
"But Mr Marshall's office was in his semi-detached Glasgow home and he employed his wife Tina as his secretary"
"Party sources said he felt 'under pressure' over the expenses allegations. "
Yep - it is called guilt. Let's have
Margaret Curran start her campaign
by critizing this parastic
behaviour in the strongest terms.
see - tinyurl.com/6j7m48
Whilst Labour has spent 50 years turning
areas of Scotland into abject poverty and
life spans less that war zones like the
Gaza Strip, the Labour comrades have
fed fully from the
trough like pigs. Recently they had a chance to redeem themselves and cutoff some
of one their obscene
troughs, but no instead they vote against
a crackdown on their controversial London expenses so their John Lewis trough
remains open.
~45% of Scottish Labour MPS voted
to keep the trough,
0% of SNP MPs voted to keep it.
see - tinyurl.com/5eaofu
Sleaze and corruption are endemic in
the Labour party especially in Scotland
after decades in power.
They need to be wiped off the face of the Scottish political landscape for what
they have done and are still doing to Scotland. Perhaps like David
Marshall some more of them will start
feeling the guilt and shame- but I doubt it.
They simply need to be kicked out and Glasgow
East will be a good start.
Saor Alba
Posted by: Bill Knight, Strathpeffer on 4:21am Sun 6 Jul 08
There may be "500,000 reasons" (probably a lot more than that)... but Glasgow East will still vote for Labour with a reduced majority!
Sad, I know, but true... wait and see!
There may be "500,000 reasons" (probably a lot more than that)... but Glasgow East will still vote for Labour with a reduced majority!
Sad, I know, but true... wait and see!
Posted by: Eastender, Glasgow on 6:36am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]tris[/bold] wrote:
Margaret must be really proud eh?
Forth choice?
[/quote] I repute this my milkman and window cleaner were asked prior to Margaret. They declined cause they do jobs that actually serve the people
tris wrote:
Margaret must be really proud eh?
Forth choice?
I repute this my milkman and window cleaner were asked prior to Margaret. They declined cause they do jobs that actually serve the people
Posted by: Crieff resident, strathearn on 7:09am Sun 6 Jul 08
I can't believe this is for real. Why aren't Labour people scrambling to get their snouts in the Westminster trough? Why have three (possibly four) of them turned down the chance? Can it be that the Lanarkshire sleaze and corruption mentality is being exposed at long last? I can't believe Labour will be elected after this but sadly I'm afraid they will be.
I can't believe this is for real. Why aren't Labour people scrambling to get their snouts in the Westminster trough? Why have three (possibly four) of them turned down the chance? Can it be that the Lanarkshire sleaze and corruption mentality is being exposed at long last? I can't believe Labour will be elected after this but sadly I'm afraid they will be.
Posted by: Cnoc na nagers, Heilans on 7:45am Sun 6 Jul 08
For goodness sake show some symapthy. What we are witnesses to is the equivalent of a rabid dog in its last death throws. Feel pity. The labour party are now accusing the BBC of pro SNP bias. See Scotland on Sunday - a very pro SNP paper and I don't think. 98% of the questions on QT aimed at the SNP were obviously not enough for them.
These things always end in a slow painful end. Shame Gordie seems a nice guy at heart.
One final thought Wendy was described as possibly the best political brain in Scotland. If anyone believes that then I suggest they increase their medication and sit in a dark room for a long, long time. Doesn't say much for the rest of them.
For goodness sake show some symapthy. What we are witnesses to is the equivalent of a rabid dog in its last death throws. Feel pity. The labour party are now accusing the BBC of pro SNP bias. See Scotland on Sunday - a very pro SNP paper and I don't think. 98% of the questions on QT aimed at the SNP were obviously not enough for them.
These things always end in a slow painful end. Shame Gordie seems a nice guy at heart.
One final thought Wendy was described as possibly the best political brain in Scotland. If anyone believes that then I suggest they increase their medication and sit in a dark room for a long, long time. Doesn't say much for the rest of them.
Posted by: choc na nagers, Heilans on 7:49am Sun 6 Jul 08
One other final thought. When has Scottish politcis been so much fun. The blogs are brilliantly funny and perceptive. Even if you hate the SNP, even if you believe that every one of them is in it to get their snouts as far into teh trough as possible you still have to admit at least politics in Scotland is for the first time in many years interesting.
One other final thought. When has Scottish politcis been so much fun. The blogs are brilliantly funny and perceptive. Even if you hate the SNP, even if you believe that every one of them is in it to get their snouts as far into teh trough as possible you still have to admit at least politics in Scotland is for the first time in many years interesting.
Posted by: steve1511, larbet on 7:59am Sun 6 Jul 08
brown will not visit the east end and witness what labour has given the voters in the last fifty years,wendy runs away,the candidate for the east end runs away,the sitting mp runs away,the rspca will no longer allow red rosettes to be pinned on donkeys or monkeys,so they end up with the bottom of the barrel curran,this women must not be allowed to look in prams and terrify bairns
brown will not visit the east end and witness what labour has given the voters in the last fifty years,wendy runs away,the candidate for the east end runs away,the sitting mp runs away,the rspca will no longer allow red rosettes to be pinned on donkeys or monkeys,so they end up with the bottom of the barrel curran,this women must not be allowed to look in prams and terrify bairns
Posted by: max robespierre, Dundee on 8:08am Sun 6 Jul 08
Politicians don't fall out of the sky,they don't spring up out of the ground.They are elected by the public and if the people of Glasgow East vote for these selfish, ignorant, greedy, corrupt, lying, labour swine, then they desrve their poverty and deprivation
I'm sick to death of hearing how decent and dignified these people are.The eyes of the world will be on them in the next few weeks and they will have the chance to show how decent and brave they are by booting out the fascist traitors called labour, and hell mend them if they don't.It's their own fault, they are in the mess they are so obviously in,shame on them.I pray a large chunk of
Scotland breaks off into the sea and we are left with STIRLING BAY.
p.s. I am a socialist.
Politicians don't fall out of the sky,they don't spring up out of the ground.They are elected by the public and if the people of Glasgow East vote for these selfish, ignorant, greedy, corrupt, lying, labour swine, then they desrve their poverty and deprivation
I'm sick to death of hearing how decent and dignified these people are.The eyes of the world will be on them in the next few weeks and they will have the chance to show how decent and brave they are by booting out the fascist traitors called labour, and hell mend them if they don't.It's their own fault, they are in the mess they are so obviously in,shame on them.I pray a large chunk of
Scotland breaks off into the sea and we are left with STIRLING BAY.
p.s. I am a socialist.
Posted by: the munnster, Hamilton on 8:11am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]democrate[/bold] wrote:
How many column inches will the Daily Record give David Marshall's expenses?[/quote] Er, now let me see....er, no, wait.....
democrate wrote:
How many column inches will the Daily Record give David Marshall's expenses?
Er, now let me see....er, no, wait.....
Posted by: Tam on 8:27am Sun 6 Jul 08
I heard Curran was actually the fifth choice. The monkey wearing a red rosette was freed by the Animal Liberation Front! {8>)
I heard Curran was actually the fifth choice. The monkey wearing a red rosette was freed by the Animal Liberation Front! {8>)
Posted by: Jimmy the Pie on 8:32am Sun 6 Jul 08
I wonder if the 200 members of the New Labour Sleaze and Corruption in Glasgow East fully realise that when their beloved party goes bankrupt(which won't be long!), they will be held, individually, financially accountable for all debts.
As the Sleaze Party will have no assets, then the members will have to share the burden. All your possessions sold at auction!!!
Of course you could always ask David Marshall (ex mP) for a sub. He seems to have done very well from being an MP.
All union members should opt out of the political levy right away, and cut as much of New Labour Sleaze income as possible.
I'll have financial details of some MP's expense claims this week.
You'll all be the first to know!! ;-)
I wonder if the 200 members of the New Labour Sleaze and Corruption in Glasgow East fully realise that when their beloved party goes bankrupt(which won't be long!), they will be held, individually, financially accountable for all debts.
As the Sleaze Party will have no assets, then the members will have to share the burden. All your possessions sold at auction!!!
Of course you could always ask David Marshall (ex mP) for a sub. He seems to have done very well from being an MP.
All union members should opt out of the political levy right away, and cut as much of New Labour Sleaze income as possible.
I'll have financial details of some MP's expense claims this week.
You'll all be the first to know!! ;-)
Posted by: colin, falkirk on 8:32am Sun 6 Jul 08
The jails in Scotland should be busting at the seams with corrupt Labour crooks .Vote SNP and get rid of them.
The jails in Scotland should be busting at the seams with corrupt Labour crooks .Vote SNP and get rid of them.
Posted by: Oscar on 8:38am Sun 6 Jul 08
Poor Stephen Curran looks like he followed mum as a researcher for Mohammad Sarwar. Where next?
http://tinyurl.com/6
8j6cf
Poor Stephen Curran looks like he followed mum as a researcher for Mohammad Sarwar. Where next?
http://tinyurl.com/6
8j6cf
Posted by: Jimmy the Pie on 8:40am Sun 6 Jul 08
Does anyone know the details of the scandal involving Falkirk Council and a land fraud????
I remember Falkirk when Provest Marshall ran the show like it was his own toy.
Corrupt and self serving
Does anyone know the details of the scandal involving Falkirk Council and a land fraud????
I remember Falkirk when Provest Marshall ran the show like it was his own toy.
Corrupt and self serving
Posted by: Jimmy the Pie on 8:43am Sun 6 Jul 08
Will the New Labour Sleaze canvassers be reminding the electorate that Comrade Broon had their welfare at when he scrapped the 10p tax rate????
Vote SNP for a fairer society
Will the New Labour Sleaze canvassers be reminding the electorate that Comrade Broon had their welfare at when he scrapped the 10p tax rate????
Vote SNP for a fairer society
Posted by: An t-Amadan, Alba on 8:49am Sun 6 Jul 08
If reports elswhere are true, David Marhsall's real rerason for going was being caught in a half million pounds expenses fiddle, and George Ryan's reason for pulling out is that he (along with Purcell and others) is being investigated for corruption over the sale of the Paddy's Market land. Neither case, of course being reported by the Scottish Press.
If reports elswhere are true, David Marhsall's real rerason for going was being caught in a half million pounds expenses fiddle, and George Ryan's reason for pulling out is that he (along with Purcell and others) is being investigated for corruption over the sale of the Paddy's Market land. Neither case, of course being reported by the Scottish Press.
Posted by: COLIN, falkirk on 8:56am Sun 6 Jul 08
You mean Goldie was not the only Provost to please himself and do what he wanted.Dear me i am shocked that this could happen when Labour run Falkirk
You mean Goldie was not the only Provost to please himself and do what he wanted.Dear me i am shocked that this could happen when Labour run Falkirk
Posted by: Eastender, lasgow on 8:56am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Tam[/bold] wrote:
I heard Curran was actually the fifth choice. The monkey wearing a red rosette was freed by the Animal Liberation Front! {8>)[/quote] Any advances on 8th choice?
Tam wrote:
I heard Curran was actually the fifth choice. The monkey wearing a red rosette was freed by the Animal Liberation Front! {8>)
Any advances on 8th choice?
Posted by: BM, Glasgow on 9:10am Sun 6 Jul 08
[quote][bold]Eastender[/bold] wrote:
[quote][bold]Tam[/bold] wrote:
I heard Curran was actually the fifth choice. The monkey wearing a red rosette was freed by the Animal Liberation Front! {8>)[/quote] Any advances on 8th choice?[/quote] Wee Wendy? No, that would be too good to be true. Santa does not come this early!
Eastender wrote:
Tam wrote:
I heard Curran was actually the fifth choice. The monkey wearing a red rosette was freed by the Animal Liberation Front! {8>)
Any advances on 8th choice?
Wee Wendy? No, that would be too good to be true. Santa does not come this early!
Posted by: jazzguy on 9:21am Sun 6 Jul 08
Where is labours defence on this forum. They have went awfly quiet recently.
Where is labours defence on this forum. They have went awfly quiet recently.
Posted by: I.P.Daily, Renfrew on 9:36am Sun 6 Jul 08
I have just read the article referred to in Professor Van Rental's post, and must say that this has put me off supporting Labour for ever.
Any M.P who is guilty of such an obscenity must surely be at risk of "clinical depression".
If Gordon brown does not rigorously stamp down on these practices, he will deserve all he gets.
Mr. Marshall must account for his massive expenses claims. His clinical depression must not be an impediment to doing so. After all, it is our 500,000 pounds that has been paid to him.
I have just read the article referred to in Professor Van Rental's post, and must say that this has put me off supporting Labour for ever.
Any M.P who is guilty of such an obscenity must surely be at risk of "clinical depression".
If Gordon brown does not rigorously stamp down on these practices, he will deserve all he gets.
Mr. Marshall must account for his massive expenses claims. His clinical depression must not be an impediment to doing so. After all, it is our 500,000 pounds that has been paid to him.
Posted by: Vote for Scotlands Future, Vote for the SNP on 9:41am Sun 6 Jul 08
If she wins, does it mean she will be picking up two salaries?? Labour supporters will have to stop criticising Sir Ek then.
Part-time Labour MP - Well we have had a part-time Scottish Secretary. In fact all the Scots MP's who are scrambling after "English Gold" can only be considered part-time Scots - when they want your vote.
If she wins, does it mean she will be picking up two salaries?? Labour supporters will have to stop criticising Sir Ek then.
Part-time Labour MP - Well we have had a part-time Scottish Secretary. In fact all the Scots MP's who are scrambling after "English Gold" can only be considered part-time Scots - when they want your vote.
Posted by: Duns Scotus, Berwick on 9:56am Sun 6 Jul 08
The voters of Glasgow East should be made aware of this:
From The Times 4th July, 2008
[bold]Is your MP on the roll of shame?[/bold]
The vast majority of MPs - 146 of the 172 - who voted to keep the second home allowance, which allows MPs to buy items on the "John Lewis list", were Labour, including 33 ministers. The list of Scottish MPs (all Labour) is:
Gordon Banks (Ochil & Perthshire South)
Tom Clarke (Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill)
Michael Connarty (Linlithgow & Falkirk East)
Ian Davidson (Glasgow South West)
Brian Donohoe (Ayrshire Central)
David Hamilton (Midlothian)
Jimmy Hood (Lanark & Hamilton East)
Adam Ingram (East Kilbride, Strathaven & Lesmahagow)
Eric Joyce (Falkirk)
Tommy McAvoy (Rutherglen & Hamilton West)
James McGovern (Dundee West)
Anne McGuire (Stirling)
Rosemary McKenna (Cumbernauld, Kilsyth & Kirkintilloch East)
Sandra Osborne (Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock)
John Robertson (Glasgow North West)
Jimmy Sheridan (Paisley & Renfrewshire North)
Gavin Strang (Edinburgh East)
The voters of Glasgow East should be made aware of this:
From The Times 4th July, 2008
Is your MP on the roll of shame?
The vast majority of MPs - 146 of the 172 - who voted to keep the second home allowance, which allows MPs to buy items on the "John Lewis list", were Labour, including 33 ministers. The list of Scottish MPs (all Labour) is:
Gordon Banks (Ochil & Perthshire South)
Tom Clarke (Coatbridge, Chryston & Bellshill)
Michael Connarty (Linlithgow & Falkirk East)
Ian Davidson (Glasgow South West)
Brian Donohoe (Ayrshire Central)
David Hamilton (Midlothian)
Jimmy Hood (Lanark & Hamilton East)
Adam Ingram (East Kilbride, Strathaven & Lesmahagow)
Eric Joyce (Falkirk)
Tommy McAvoy (Rutherglen & Hamilton West)
James McGovern (Dundee West)
Anne McGuire (Stirling)
Rosemary McKenna (Cumbernauld, Kilsyth & Kirkintilloch East)
Sandra Osborne (Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock)
John Robertson (Glasgow North West)
Jimmy Sheridan (Paisley & Renfrewshire North)
Gavin Strang (Edinburgh East)
Posted by: I.P.Daily on 9:57am Sun 6 Jul 08
I understand that Margaret Curran had previously been accused of some malpractice relating to The National Council of Labour Students? (or something similar)
Can anyone throw some light on this?
I understand that Margaret Curran had previously been accused of some malpractice relating to The National Council of Labour Students? (or something similar)
Can anyone throw some light on this?
Posted by: Stuart Black, Glasgow on 9:59am Sun 6 Jul 08
The public perception of our elected representatives must now be at an all time low. The Scottish Government are to be applauded for their efforts on transparency and accountability, however there seems to be no political will in Westminster to take any action to right these abuses of the public’s trust and purse.
[italic]From 2001-2007, Mr Marshall claimed £91,000 incidental expenses provision, which is used to pay for constituency offices, plus £400,000 for staff and £11,000 for their travel expenses. He listed only one member of staff on the Commons register - Christina Marshall.[/italic][italic]It was unclear if this was his wife Tina or daughter Christina.[/italic]
Mr Marshall has resigned, citing depression as the cause, apparently brought on by the ongoing enquiries into MP’s expenses. Guilty conscience, Mr Marshall? His colleagues in the Labour Party were quoted last week as stating that ill health was the only motive for this resignation. Now, the tune has altered slightly. Mr Marshall is said to be suffering clinical depression. Party sources now say he felt 'under pressure' over the expenses allegations.
It is this, even more than the sleaze and corruption – and have no doubts, these practices are corrupt – that will deplete even further the scant respect that we retain for our politicians. The drawing ranks to protect their own, which is really uniting to protect themselves; who can say what practices a properly run investigation by impartial forces would uncover? It would not be pretty. But it needs to be exposed. The Augean Stables? A doddle compared to this.
[italic]The family refuses to comment on why he spent so much on office expenses, why he ran an office from home and what family members were on his payroll.[/italic]
Yes, the family refuses to comment. Why would that be? (Rhetorical question, we all know why!) What is more important is [bold]how can they be allowed to refuse to comment[/bold] ? Try that defence with the Inland Revenue next time you fill out a tax return.
Mr Marshall has resigned. I imagine he will be eligible for a full MP’s pension. I am going out on a limb here, and I am going to suggest that the £500,000 he claimed over the last 6 years for the use of a room in his semi-detached house, and the services of, let’s be charitable, his wife and his daughter (only one name listed on the MP’s register of employees), was not all above board.
If that is in fact the case, Mr Marshall has been lifting a reasonable salary, an unfeasible amount of expenses, and, having scented the hounds, has now gone to ground with the prospect of a highly attractive (to most of the country) pension. Is that it? Does this end here? Is resignation the line that we draw under these thieves and charlatans? I don’t particularly want to single out Marshall, as I believe this is widespread to a degree that would probably take our collective breath away, but we need more than a tearful goodbye to the trough.
Two points from this: Firstly, Westminster needs to be auditing these expense claims on an urgent basis, with Police involvement and criminal charges brought where appropriate. Secondly, the Scottish Government must be vigilant and not allow this situation to arise at Holyrood, unlike Westminster where it has been going on so long it is part of the infrastructure. It would be helpful if we were Independent.
One last thing, I hope the voters of Glasgow East have the imagination to see what a difference even a small fraction of Marshall’s “expenses” would make to, for instance, a pensioner struggling to save for a fuel bill.
I have supported, worked for, and been a member of, the Labour Party, never again will they receive a vote of mine.
[bold]It’s Time.[/bold]
The public perception of our elected representatives must now be at an all time low. The Scottish Government are to be applauded for their efforts on transparency and accountability, however there seems to be no political will in Westminster to take any action to right these abuses of the public’s trust and purse.
From 2001-2007, Mr Marshall claimed £91,000 incidental expenses provision, which is used to pay for constituency offices, plus £400,000 for staff and £11,000 for their travel expenses. He listed only one member of staff on the Commons register - Christina Marshall.It was unclear if this was his wife Tina or daughter Christina.
Mr Marshall has resigned, citing depression as the cause, apparently brought on by the ongoing enquiries into MP’s expenses. Guilty conscience, Mr Marshall? His colleagues in the Labour Party were quoted last week as stating that ill health was the only motive for this resignation. Now, the tune has altered slightly. Mr Marshall is said to be suffering clinical depression. Party sources now say he felt 'under pressure' over the expenses allegations.
It is this, even more than the sleaze and corruption – and have no doubts, these practices are corrupt – that will deplete even further the scant respect that we retain for our politicians. The drawing ranks to protect their own, which is really uniting to protect themselves; who can say what practices a properly run investigation by impartial forces would uncover? It would not be pretty. But it needs to be exposed. The Augean Stables? A doddle compared to this.
The family refuses to comment on why he spent so much on office expenses, why he ran an office from home and what family members were on his payroll.
Yes, the family refuses to comment. Why would that be? (Rhetorical question, we all know why!) What is more important is
how can they be allowed to refuse to comment ? Try that defence with the Inland Revenue next time you fill out a tax return.
Mr Marshall has resigned. I imagine he will be eligible for a full MP’s pension. I am going out on a limb here, and I am going to suggest that the £500,000 he claimed over the last 6 years for the use of a room in his semi-detached house, and the services of, let’s be charitable, his wife and his daughter (only one name listed on the MP’s register of employees), was not all above board.
If that is in fact the case, Mr Marshall has been lifting a reasonable salary, an unfeasible amount of expenses, and, having scented the hounds, has now gone to ground with the prospect of a highly attractive (to most of the country) pension. Is that it? Does this end here? Is resignation the line that we draw under these thieves and charlatans? I don’t particularly want to single out Marshall, as I believe this is widespread to a degree that would probably take our collective breath away, but we need more than a tearful goodbye to the trough.
Two points from this: Firstly, Westminster needs to be auditing these expense claims on an urgent basis, with Police involvement and criminal charges brought where appropriate. Secondly, the Scottish Government must be vigilant and not allow this situation to arise at Holyrood, unlike Westminster where it has been going on so long it is part of the infrastructure. It would be helpful if we were Independent.
One last thing, I hope the voters of Glasgow East have the imagination to see what a difference even a small fraction of Marshall’s “expenses” would make to, for instance, a pensioner struggling to save for a fuel bill.
I have supported, worked for, and been a member of, the Labour Party, never again will they receive a vote of mine.
It’s Time. Posted by: Los Angeles, Edinburgh on 10:02am Sun 6 Jul 08
Who would have thought it?
Representatives of the people afraid to represent them.
Who would have thought it?
Representatives of the people afraid to represent them.
Posted by: AL MAC, stornoway on 10:05am Sun 6 Jul 08
Why is anyone surprised at what Liebour do or don't do anymore. Margaret Curran just wants to jump on the gravy train with the rest of her Liebour cronies. After all the John Lewis list is something not to be passed up.
Why is anyone surprised at what Liebour do or don't do anymore. Margaret Curran just wants to jump on the gravy train with the rest of her Liebour cronies. After all the John Lewis list is something not to be passed up.
Posted by: Winters, Glasgow on 10:11am Sun 6 Jul 08
Jimmy the Pie et al.
From your type of comments today, I get the distinct impression that you are professional activists and not ordinary SNP supporters. No ordinary member could have anything like the details of the personal lives of political opponents. What worries me most is the filth that we find in your postings. Anyone who doesn't support you is subjected to sneers of hate, the likes of which you would expect in totalitarian states and I wonder how long it will be before opponents are subjected to physical violence.
Jimmy the Pie et al.
From your type of comments today, I get the distinct impression that you are professional activists and not ordinary SNP supporters. No ordinary member could have anything like the details of the personal lives of political opponents. What worries me most is the filth that we find in your postings. Anyone who doesn't support you is subjected to sneers of hate, the likes of which you would expect in totalitarian states and I wonder how long it will be before opponents are subjected to physical violence.
Posted by: Vote for Scotlands Future, Vote for the SNP on 10:12am Sun 6 Jul 08
I see that Labour are using the same election tactic they used before May 2007, of accusing the BBC of being pro-SNP. All because they use the term "London Government".
Any suggestions as to an alternative:
B*****D Westminster??
Blood-sucker Whitehall??
Anyway, it is good to know what annoys Labour. So we will all be referring to "London Government" where appropriate?
I see that Labour are using the same election tactic they used before May 2007, of accusing the BBC of being pro-SNP. All because they use the term "London Government".
Any suggestions as to an alternative:
B*****D Westminster??
Blood-sucker Whitehall??
Anyway, it is good to know what annoys Labour. So we will all be referring to "London Government" where appropriate?
Posted by: I.P. Daily, Erskine on 10:13am Sun 6 Jul 08
The list naming the MP's who voted to keep the John Lewis List etc. (Duns Scotus posting) makes interesting reading.
Lets hope that the MP's involved will be reminded of their action when they seek re-electionn and lets hope they are suitably rewarded.
My own MP - James Sheridan - is among them, so he can wave ta! ta! to my vote. I have had my fill of this Labour lot.
The list naming the MP's who voted to keep the John Lewis List etc. (Duns Scotus posting) makes interesting reading.
Lets hope that the MP's involved will be reminded of their action when they seek re-electionn and lets hope they are suitably rewarded.
My own MP - James Sheridan - is among them, so he can wave ta! ta! to my vote. I have had my fill of this Labour lot.
Posted by: iain matheson, 350-687 on 10:18am Sun 6 Jul 08
Labour had the chance to eradicate Toryism and they have blown it.As a republican rather than a nationalist , SNP is my only hope if they have the bottle.Independence or Cameron , with the Thatcherite reptiles that will emerge and pull that puppets strings?? ; you choose. GCC leader Purcell? - closing local schools , embracing privatisation with a zeal Micky Forsyth only dreamed of , Commonwealth games (that will bleed the people of Glasgow dry) as a monument to his ego (like that great white elephant of Scottish Labour , Mr Dewar and his lego confection in Holyrood) his councillors coming to local meetings in the douce suburb of Cathcart with a police bodyguard for goodness sake. Puffed up , third rate troughites with contempt for the will of the people and an agenda nakedly self- serving. The people of Glasgow and Scotland surely deserve better and these guys should hang their heads in shame ; a vote for Browns Labour is a vote for the ruin of Scotland by letting the Tories win the next UK election. Just keep this in mind ; Thatcher.
Don't even start me on Sister Wendy and the other troglodytes revving up for the big one
Labour had the chance to eradicate Toryism and they have blown it.As a republican rather than a nationalist , SNP is my only hope if they have the bottle.Independence or Cameron , with the Thatcherite reptiles that will emerge and pull that puppets strings?? ; you choose. GCC leader Purcell? - closing local schools , embracing privatisation with a zeal Micky Forsyth only dreamed of , Commonwealth games (that will bleed the people of Glasgow dry) as a monument to his ego (like that great white elephant of Scottish Labour , Mr Dewar and his lego confection in Holyrood) his councillors coming to local meetings in the douce suburb of Cathcart with a police bodyguard for goodness sake. Puffed up , third rate troughites with contempt for the will of the people and an agenda nakedly self- serving. The people of Glasgow and Scotland surely deserve better and these guys should hang their heads in shame ; a vote for Browns Labour is a vote for the ruin of Scotland by letting the Tories win the next UK election. Just keep this in mind ; Thatcher.
Don't even start me on Sister Wendy and the other troglodytes revving up for the big one
Posted by: pehman, sussex on 10:26am Sun 6 Jul 08
Hold on a minute, I thought the slab selection meeting was to take place on monday night ?
That being the case, Margaret Curran is still not the candidate, until the local party say so
Unless of course this is another presidental decree ?
Hold on a minute, I thought the slab selection meeting was to take place on monday night ?
That being the case, Margaret Curran is still not the candidate, until the local party say so
Unless of course this is another presidental decree ?
Posted by: Los Angeles, Edinburgh on 10:30am Sun 6 Jul 08
Al Mac[quote] Margaret Curran just wants to jump on the gravy train with the rest of her Liebour cronies.[/quote] Nevertheless, you have to fear for her career and her sanity.
The million already taken from the Scottish Lottery with more to be removed to finance the overblown, corrupt, London Olympics could have gone a long way to solving many of the material problems of the east end of Glasgow.
It's loss of spirituality, of place and purpose, is another matter - a maladay owning and running one's own country might help vaccinate against.
Al Mac
Margaret Curran just wants to jump on the gravy train with the rest of her Liebour cronies.
Nevertheless, you have to fear for her career and her sanity.
The million already taken from the Scottish Lottery with more to be removed to finance the overblown, corrupt, London Olympics could have gone a long way to solving many of the material problems of the east end of Glasgow.
It's loss of spirituality, of place and purpose, is another matter - a maladay owning and running one's own country might help vaccinate against.
Posted by: Stuart Black, Glasgow on 10:30am Sun 6 Jul 08
Winters wrote:
[quote]Jimmy the Pie et al.
From your type of comments today, I get the distinct impression that you are professional activists and not ordinary SNP supporters.[/quote]
Winters, I think the use of Google, and the multiplicity of websites, Government, Party, and personal, brings a host of facts to the fingertips of the computer literate. Most of the folk on here are politically aware and concerned, it is far from an "Activists only" site.
I had a look at Jimmy the Pie's posts to see what the "filth" you referred to consisted of, he seems angry about the Labour party's coruupt practices and financial incompetence, perfectly justified I thought.
Please expand on what you see as filth and I will do my best to answer you.
Winters wrote:
Jimmy the Pie et al.
From your type of comments today, I get the distinct impression that you are professional activists and not ordinary SNP supporters.
Winters, I think the use of Google, and the multiplicity of websites, Government, Party, and personal, brings a host of facts to the fingertips of the computer literate. Most of the folk on here are politically aware and concerned, it is far from an "Activists only" site.
I had a look at Jimmy the Pie's posts to see what the "filth" you referred to consisted of, he seems angry about the Labour party's coruupt practices and financial incompetence, perfectly justified I thought.
Please expand on what you see as filth and I will do my best to answer you.
Posted by: Probus, Scotland on 10:33am Sun 6 Jul 08
Half a million pounds!!! WOW!!! Surely a case for police investigation into possible criminality.
It would not be a bad idea if a Police committee were appointed to interrogate ALL expenses submitted by MP's before approval for payment.
The recent review of these expenses - John Lewis List etc. - appears to have been a fallacy.
I am certain that MP's of all parties are equally guilty of defrauding the taxpayers of this country. The honest - or reasonably honest ones - will be difficult to find.
Half a million pounds!!! WOW!!! Surely a case for police investigation into possible criminality.
It would not be a bad idea if a Police committee were appointed to interrogate ALL expenses submitted by MP's before approval for payment.
The recent review of these expenses - John Lewis List etc. - appears to have been a fallacy.
I am certain that MP's of all parties are equally guilty of defrauding the taxpayers of this country. The honest - or reasonably honest ones - will be difficult to find.
Posted by: Martin on 10:46am Sun 6 Jul 08
At a time when many are feeling the impact of higher fuel costs and food prices - this story exposes the worst of Westminster. The lie peddled over the years about European Corruption while "we" were just as good as
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