There’s a wistfulness in the air. We’re no longer marvelling at clear skies above China and translucent blue canals in Venice. We’re watching from behind the sofa as death rates continue to rise around the globe, and fluctuations occur, leading to second, or even third wave and Lockdown periods, such as in Hong Kong and […]
Brexit
What is Happening to the The 45G%?
I think it is a dangerous sign of our times that conspiracy theory is becoming increasingly prevalent on our Scottish social media, than actual, solid material fact. Ungagged asked me for my opinion on the state of Scottish politics. I am really not that qualified to do so. I am old, I suppose and I […]
Queer Spaces: Opportunities & Threats by Luke Campbell
We may have been in various phases of lockdown across Europe over recent months, yet queer politics remains an ever present issue for we L.Q.B.T.Q.+ folk, but seemingly also for those who police and legislate our lives. Advancing the Gender Recognition Act in Scotland to protect and safeguard the lives of trans folk has been […]
The Blame Train
“It’s time to stop the Tutting and the eye-rolling at our neighbours. Let’s be vigilant about where we lay our blame” There’s a muckle great steam train thundering down the track and it’s aflame with blame for all the health, environmental and economic ills, caused by the Pandemic, Lockdown and Lockdown breaches. Simmering under that, […]
A Plague on All Your Houses
Dominic Cumming’s epic confessional puts a new spin on the term “A plague on all your houses.” Well, quite a few of them anyway. Not to mention a few fuel station pumps, public toilets and benches. Correct. He did not mention them. Oh my eyes! The sight of blustering, near sobbing, begging “Svengali” Cummings was […]
The Tories, Jingoism and The NHS
“Over the next three years, we must look at that NHS and what is left of our welfare state , and ensure it comes out of this nightmare stronger.” I loathe the propaganda around WW2. It really should be a subject of study. When did it start? I remember the 50th Anniversary. It was at […]
Victory for Hypocrisy
Remembered as youthful and active. Dismissed by a brutally dishonest and cynical Tory regime as collateral damage. This is a short piece to recognise the sacrifice of a generation. It cannot be done without reference to the hypocrisy of a government, with the consent of media and state broadcasting, in its failure to recognise that […]
What will the Post-Covid Independence Movement Look Like?
“Scottish independence is a progressive movement, not an apology nor a distraction” Movements don’t stand still. It’s in the name. It will undoubtedly be some time before we see massive shoulder to shoulder AOUB marches and rallies, saltires flying in the wind, or even drooping in the rain. Many will rejoice at that thought, but […]
Covid-19, Toilet Paper and American Hegemony
These days it feels like every app on my phone has some Covid-19 related content. One of them has a list of all the rich and famous who’ve fallen victim to the virus – movie stars, sports people, politicians. I’ve seen the related conversations on social media, where people debate who the most famous victim […]
Open Letter to an Undecided Voter
UNDECIDED ABOUT SCOTTISH INDEPENDENCE? Here is a summary of issues, and references about the prospect of an independent Scotland. This applies to anyone who accepts that people living in Scotland have the democratic right to self-determination. Broadly speaking, areas of concern tend to centre around Identity, Politics and Economy. IDENTITY If you are undecided, maybe […]