bridge too far

sweeties

Then you presume wrong. I'll be voting Labour because it's the closest to my long-held beliefs than any other party that stands a chance of government. As I wrote earlier, I resigned after decades of active membership over Iraq. I also don't hold with ID cards. Cash for honours? I don't think ANY of the mainstream parties can claim innocence over that. Mandelson? I don't have to like or dislike a particular MP or Minister but I do recognise his ability (he's done a lot to our advantage in Europe) and his family history. As I've intimated - it's a pragmatic vote on my part. Anything has got to be better than the Eton Mess.

****ney that's c o c k ney

tiddly

hood

I've been a Labour supporter since way before Thatcher, and I therefore have the advantage of remembering what life was like before, during and after her reign. This recollection reinforces my long-held political views.

Although, ironically, the majority of rail travellers wish the railways were renationalised and the virtual renationalisation of the banks has proved to be a wise move that saved our collective bacon.

twisted

That's the argument used in support of the bankers, isn't it?

I thought they were all Masons?

Weak riposte if I might say so

lager

Given this: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1263511/Gas-fat-cat-pockets-28m-year-pensioners-struggle-pay-bills.html I rather think we'd be better off if 'we' did still own it! (shock horror this was in the Mail!)

acaba

I don't consider it a penalty, more of an obligation I'm happy to fulfil. In the same way as I pay car insurance even though I've never had to 'benefit' from it. In the same way as I'll happily pay for the Fire Brigade even though I've never ever had to call them out. Offering people the opportunity to fulfil their ambitions is hardly class-based. It's encouraging people to cross perceived boundaries. And as for sell-offs. I didn't realise we had that much 'family silver' left to sell after the Thatcher era. British Gas, British Telecom, school playing fields anyone?

I don't - that's why I said 'suspect'.

Well I rather think it's the authorities who should implement the law that's in place if they are aware of the transgressions. I suspect that many people who work for these employers are too scared to report them for fear of losing their jobs. Perhaps they should go on benefit instead?

Rather a culture that supports the weak to realise ambition and achievement. Therein lies the rub.

meld (bless Morph - I miss his posts on the Main Bored)

Does it not occur to you that, if some employers paid decent wages, some of the 'spongers' you refer to WOULD be better off and go back to work? I certainly couldn't live off benefits so why would I do so if there was an opportunity for me to earn a decent living and be better off? Why should my taxes go towards subsidising unscrupulous employers? Thank goodness we're working towards ensuring people get an honest and dignified reward for their labours although there's some way to go. And the Minimum Wage didn't cause a dramatic drop in jobs after all, did it? Something else the Tories got wrong.

kiss

ranger

I don't agree with your preamble but I absolutely agree with the above. And I vote according to 2. I blush to recall that, as a child, I leafleted for an aunt who was a Conservative councillor on Southampton City Council. Then I grew up and developed a conscience

cool

boxing