I have to say that the Green Party opposing HS2 for years, then u-turning once it was cancelled and their members immediately attacking others (whose party literally initiated the damn thing) for not backing it.... is the most Green Party thing ever, isn't it? The very definition of brass balls.
It is very difficult to read the Darzi review and be anything other than extremely angry at the utterly irresponsible way the Conservative Governments have allowed the NHS to collapse. And yes, the prime responsibility is political and so it's impossible not to be political on this.
Compared to other benefits (PIP, ESA), it isn't "ridiculously awkward" though. Can be done on the phone. Most questions are simple "No" and someone can ring on your behalf as long as claimant is there. Think the "It's really difficult" narrative from the media isn't helping with encouraging take up.
The idea that pensioners have suffered over the last 14 years is risible. Every year their pensions have benefitted from the triple lock, rising in years when other benefits or public sector wages did not.
I watched a focus group of undecideds in his constituency during the campaign and "we like Grant Shapps" wasn't a big theme tbh.
Time for me to dig out my inevitable quote, from Jim Callaghan: 'They tell me you really care about Europe. That's okay, as long as you remember I really care about the Labour party.'
Murphy: "Government finances aren't like a household budget! This is bad" Also Murphy: "Rachel Reeves isn't treating Government finances like a household budget, this is bad!"
I know there are actually relatively few restrictions. The SNP can adjust income tax, it can create new taxes. Plus, the effect of the additional spending (eg on NHS pay) means extra money is coming to Scotland - the grant hasn't been cut.
Will be easier to change them in the next parliament. Because at the next election he wont be constantly asked about rejoining.
They were not.