View Full Version : Return to Smallsville
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 10:39
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
Taunton Blue Genie
09-07-20, 11:31
The Promised Land here, innit?
The Lone Gunman
09-07-20, 11:36
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Are you saying everyone's not unemployed already?
I'm amazed.....
:hehe:
Eric the Half a Bee
09-07-20, 11:47
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
You could always move....
dembethewarrior
09-07-20, 11:57
Did you know driving 50mph up a dual carriageway for about 4 miles can single handedly save the environment? Or me.
Or that few mile stretch through Newport, that you still have to do 50 through even though there's not a single car on the road (they turn them off the other side in Bristol at night, I know as I've tutted too many times under my Breath now..)
splott parker
09-07-20, 12:15
Did you know driving 50mph up a dual carriageway for about 4 miles can single handedly save the environment? Or me.
Or that few mile stretch through Newport, that you still have to do 50 through even though there's not a single car on the road (they turn them off the other side in Bristol at night, I know as I've tutted too many times under my Breath now..)
Must have left one of them on over the border last year, I got done about 2am doing 60 on the M5 going past Bristol (the Bridge was closed) after picking someone up from Bristol airport, must have known I was Welsh!!
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 12:35
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
If you need help with the train fare I am happy to set up an appeal fund
dembethewarrior
09-07-20, 13:06
Must have left one of them on over the border last year, I got done about 2am doing 60 on the M5 going past Bristol (the Bridge was closed) after picking someone up from Bristol airport, must have known I was Welsh!!
That's some bad luck. They've always been off for me, although not often I'm lucky enough to pass at 2am.
I understand them through the Brynglass tunnels at peak times, but when the roads are dead they're pointless, unless it's an environmental reason? Then of so why just that part of the road?
Also, idiots on the a470 southbound into Cardiff.. the cameras stop just past upper boat and there's a glorious sign allowing you to drive 70mph. Saw a ****ing lorry pull out in front of someone today (limited to 56 aren't they?) through the 70 (60 for vans) part of the a470.. them cameras won't catch you there Karen..
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 14:08
The Promised Land here, innit?
Not for another 1500+ who have lost their jobs here today. Then again Wales has today been the 1st nation to introduce bike passing distance signs.
I appreciate the record in Wales is also very poor but I’m intrigued why in the middle of a global pandemic in a country with one of the most appalling records of excess avoidable deaths and with an unfit for purpose testing and tracing system and with a perilously high R rate that lots of people sitting together inside full pubs would be considered a good thing.
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 14:51
I appreciate the record in Wales is also very poor but I’m intrigued why in the middle of a global pandemic in a country with one of the most appalling records of excess avoidable deaths and with an unfit for purpose testing and tracing system and with a perilously high R rate that lots of people sitting together inside full pubs would be considered a good thing.
People aren't 'sitting together'. As I said they're mindful of others. It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
People aren't 'sitting together'. As I said they're mindful of others. It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
I'm not sure a town the size of Bridgend is representative of all of England
Jordi Culé
09-07-20, 15:17
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
I’ve just travelled back from visiting the kid I’d denied being his old man for years but had to pay the little sods mother her last CSA payment and curiosity got the better of me.
Anyway, I’ve digressed, back to my original point.
Leicester is about as vibrant as Abertillery is in November but hasn’t got the range of betting shops.
What’s happened in Leicester that’s it’s so different to Bishop Stortford?
The M4 Relief Road is mentioned in the earlier post. Has it really been cancelled? I travel to Cardiff on many Saturdays and find the traffic on the M4 westbound can back up as far as Magor. Surely the Welsh Government aren't that stupid not to deal with this bottleneck given the effect this must have on economic growth.
here we go vindec
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-48512697
cyril evans awaydays
09-07-20, 15:57
here we go vindec
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-48512697
He probably thought based on the OP that it had been cancelled in the last couple of days whilst he was away in England rather than 13 months ago.
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 16:03
He probably thought based on the OP that it had been cancelled in the last couple of days whilst he was away in England rather than 13 months ago.
PMQ's yesterday. Basically Johnson said he's happy to fund it, Plaid effectively told him to mind his own business. That was yesterday.
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 16:12
The M4 Relief Road is mentioned in the earlier post. Has it really been cancelled? I travel to Cardiff on many Saturdays and find the traffic on the M4 westbound can back up as far as Magor. Surely the Welsh Government aren't that stupid not to deal with this bottleneck given the effect this must have on economic growth.
During Wednesday's Prime Minister's Questions, he repeated his previous suggestion that the UK government would "unblock the Brynglas tunnels" with a "proper M4 bypass".
But with road building in Plaid Cymru's Liz Saville Roberts said Mr Johnson had shown "complete ignorance of how devolution works and for the environment too for that matter".
When asked about the prime minister's comments, Mr Hart acknowledged "it is a devolved matter, it is a matter for Welsh Government to do that".
"UK government has said it would provide the borrowing facilities, the ability to do that. But consistently Welsh Government have declined that offer and so we are at that rather stalemate period."Wales the responsibility of the Welsh Government in Cardiff, a spokesperson said Mr Johnson could not have a say on it.
The Lone Gunman
09-07-20, 16:17
It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
Does that include the good people of Leicester?
cyril evans awaydays
09-07-20, 16:19
During Wednesday's Prime Minister's Questions, he repeated his previous suggestion that the UK government would "unblock the Brynglas tunnels" with a "proper M4 bypass".
But with road building in Plaid Cymru's Liz Saville Roberts said Mr Johnson had shown "complete ignorance of how devolution works and for the environment too for that matter".
When asked about the prime minister's comments, Mr Hart acknowledged "it is a devolved matter, it is a matter for Welsh Government to do that".
"UK government has said it would provide the borrowing facilities, the ability to do that. But consistently Welsh Government have declined that offer and so we are at that rather stalemate period."Wales the responsibility of the Welsh Government in Cardiff, a spokesperson said Mr Johnson could not have a say on it.
It's almost like they knew it was a devolved issue before they fired off their free shot
tforturton
09-07-20, 16:36
I find it hard to understand why everyone can't see that the Assembly is holding this country back - and drastically. Wales has always lagged behind England in terms of infrastructure and investment, and this is getting worse, rather than better. You can see the difference almost as soon as you cross the bridge into England - it definitely looks wealthier and more prosperous.
The only conclusion I can come to, is that the Labour led Assembly wants nothing to do with the UK Parliament, and they will deliberately avoid any co-operation with Whitehall, even when it means they are effectively hurting themselves, and hurting Wales. A classic case of 'cutting off your nose to spite your face'. The M4 corridor is a classic example. The same ailment seems to afflict Scotland.
Now, whereas I agree that Wales (and Scotland) should have some manner of self-government, this current stance is starting to affect us all, here in Wales. It might change if we had a change of government (either here or in London), but that seems unlikely at the moment. I'm not a raving Tory, but I can't help but feel that if the 'red wall' had fallen in Wales, we might get something done at last.
here we go vindec
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-48512697
Thanks. Living in England I am completely out of date with Welsh current affairs. I do read Wales Online for football but hadn't realised this project had been cancelled. I heard the Prime Minister at PMQs on Wednesday and wondered what he was on about. All I can say is the decision to cancel is the most ludicrous decision because the economic prosperity of South Wales and not just Cardiff depends on good communication links and this particular section of the M4 is a shocker. The decision is even more ludicrous if the UK government has offered to provide the relevant borrowing consents.
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 16:58
I find it hard to understand why everyone can't see that the Assembly is holding this country back - and drastically. Wales has always lagged behind England in terms of infrastructure and investment, and this is getting worse, rather than better. You can see the difference almost as soon as you cross the bridge into England - it definitely looks wealthier and more prosperous.
The only conclusion I can come to, is that the Labour led Assembly wants nothing to do with the UK Parliament, and they will deliberately avoid any co-operation with Whitehall, even when it means they are effectively hurting themselves, and hurting Wales. A classic case of 'cutting off your nose to spite your face'. The M4 corridor is a classic example. The same ailment seems to afflict Scotland.
Now, whereas I agree that Wales (and Scotland) should have some manner of self-government, this current stance is starting to affect us all, here in Wales. It might change if we had a change of government (either here or in London), but that seems unlikely at the moment. I'm not a raving Tory, but I can't help but feel that if the 'red wall' had fallen in Wales, we might get something done at last.
It's doesn't end just at the Welsh Assembly unfortunately. IC Wales - the website of our national newspaper - has a long article today slagging off Sunak and Johnson for announcing measures that "don't include Wales" :
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/boris-johnson-rishi-sunak-politics-18568227
agree vindec and yet the government gives the green light to a project that costs around 108 billion quid and years behind schedule to make people get to Birmingham to London 20 minutes quicker !
Taunton Blue Genie
09-07-20, 17:13
Not for another 1500+ who have lost their jobs here today. Then again Wales has today been the 1st nation to introduce bike passing distance signs.
I was being less than serious, old fruit. It's too early to know if the more relaxed approach to opening up in England will end up in tears.
agree vindec and yet the government gives the green light to a project that costs around 108 billion quid and years behind schedule to make people get to Birmingham to London 20 minutes quicker !
I agree HS2 is likely to be a waste of money but the M4 Relief Road so clearly isn't. The fact the Johnson mentioned at PMQs that the money was available probably means the road will never be built as the Welsh government seemingly will want to demonstrate its independence to the detriment of South Wales.
If you mean Ineos not coming to Bridgend because of the cancellation of the M4 relief road, then check the dates. Ineos agreed to consider Bridgend about 3 months after the relief road was cancelled.
People aren't 'sitting together'. As I said they're mindful of others. It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
Celebrating the strategy of a country with such a disastrous record whose attitude is to place opening Wetherspoons ahead of opening schools doesn’t work for me.
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 18:33
Not for another 1500+ who have lost their jobs here today. Then again Wales has today been the 1st nation to introduce bike passing distance signs.
Can you account for the welsh assembly's role in the several thousand job losses announced in england today ?
splott parker
09-07-20, 18:33
Big mistake, in my opinion, opening a load of amenities at the same time, could be difficult to spot the source of an increase in cases. I’m glad I’m living in Wales watching how it pans out for our English guinea pigs, we’ve come so far it’d be a sickener to catch it now, it’d be like being shot at ten to eleven on Armistice Day.
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 18:37
People aren't 'sitting together'. As I said they're mindful of others. It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
What about the attitude of the estimated 500000 people who swamped bournemouth from all over England the other day ?
Do you think they were " mindful " of others ? Were they positive and getting on with things ?
It looked like a load of english people ignoring social distancing and putting others at risk to me
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 18:41
I find it hard to understand why everyone can't see that the Assembly is holding this country back - and drastically. Wales has always lagged behind England in terms of infrastructure and investment, and this is getting worse, rather than better. You can see the difference almost as soon as you cross the bridge into England - it definitely looks wealthier and more prosperous.
The only conclusion I can come to, is that the Labour led Assembly wants nothing to do with the UK Parliament, and they will deliberately avoid any co-operation with Whitehall, even when it means they are effectively hurting themselves, and hurting Wales. A classic case of 'cutting off your nose to spite your face'. The M4 corridor is a classic example. The same ailment seems to afflict Scotland.
Now, whereas I agree that Wales (and Scotland) should have some manner of self-government, this current stance is starting to affect us all, here in Wales. It might change if we had a change of government (either here or in London), but that seems unlikely at the moment. I'm not a raving Tory, but I can't help but feel that if the 'red wall' had fallen in Wales, we might get something done at last.
England looks more healthy , wealthy and prosperous because it is more wealthy and prosperous
You cant build 50 wealthy Hertfordshire towns in south wales overnight
splott parker
09-07-20, 18:56
You can see the difference almost as soon as you cross the bridge into England - it definitely looks wealthier and more prosperous.
What do you think when you drive through Ely (not in any way knocking Ely) up Cowbridge Rd, through Culverhouse Cross and then into the Vale? There’s massive differences all over the UK, England certainly can’t blow its own trumpet re. Eliteness, there are some horrendous places over the border, many areas are right scary and intimidating and are certainly lacking in wealth and prosperity.
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 19:07
What do you think when you drive through Ely (not in any way knocking Ely) up Cowbridge Rd, through Culverhouse Cross and then into the Vale? There’s massive differences all over the UK, England certainly can’t blow its own trumpet re. Eliteness, there are some horrendous places over the border, many areas are right scary and intimidating and are certainly lacking in wealth and prosperity.
Parts of the vale of glamorgan could be surrey stockbroker commuter belt , parts of the vale have high levels of poverty
Anyone who thinks england is all happiness and light should visit parts of easton in bristol , the swilley in plymouth , inner city birmingham , parts of hackney etc
splott parker
09-07-20, 19:19
Parts of the vale of glamorgan could be surrey stockbroker commuter belt , parts of the vale have high levels of poverty
Anyone who thinks england is all happiness and light should visit parts of easton in bristol , the swilley in plymouth , inner city birmingham , parts of hackney etc
Exactly, ‘it looks wealthier and more prosperous’, what a ridiculous, sweeping statement. Some parts of England are nigh on third world, which in this day and age is a bloody scandal.
life on mars
09-07-20, 19:25
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
I do think we need a more dynamic country ,however its not going to be easy as its never going to changer its political landscape.
we have control over business rates ,transport infrastructure a dynamic country woudl expose those so they become competitive and business friendly.
Parts of the vale of glamorgan could be surrey stockbroker commuter belt , parts of the vale have high levels of poverty
Anyone who thinks england is all happiness and light should visit parts of easton in bristol , the swilley in plymouth , inner city birmingham , parts of hackney etc
A quick tour of Nottingham would soon shatter their delusions
Taunton Blue Genie
09-07-20, 19:30
England looks more healthy , wealthy and prosperous because it is more wealthy and prosperous
You cant build 50 wealthy Hertfordshire towns in south wales overnight
Stereotyping all of England as being healthy, wealthy and prosperous is incredibly amusing.
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 19:46
What do you think when you drive through Ely (not in any way knocking Ely) up Cowbridge Rd, through Culverhouse Cross and then into the Vale? There’s massive differences all over the UK, England certainly can’t blow its own trumpet re. Eliteness, there are some horrendous places over the border, many areas are right scary and intimidating and are certainly lacking in wealth and prosperity.
I'm not sure where in my original post I alluded to wealth or prosperity. My post was about the difference in attitude - of people and more significantly in Wales - the Government.
splott parker
09-07-20, 19:54
I'm not sure where in my original post I alluded to wealth or prosperity. My post was about the difference in attitude - of people and more significantly in Wales - the Government.
Like all threads, this one evolved and if you read back through it I was replying to tforturton, who mentioned wealth and prosperity.
Like all threads, this one evolved and if you read back through it I was replying to tforturton, who mentioned wealth and prosperity.
England will be ‘buzzing’ with the virus again soon. I’m content to know that WG are putting health before Tory lobbyists.
A Quiet Monkfish
09-07-20, 20:05
Like all threads, this one evolved and if you read back through it I was replying to tforturton, who mentioned wealth and prosperity.
plus ca change
People aren't 'sitting together'. As I said they're mindful of others. It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
They're more positive in England because you're in Wales.
England will be ‘buzzing’ with the virus again soon. I’m content to know that WG are putting health before Tory lobbyists.
Do you really think that? The WG are reliant on the scientific information produced in London and then the Welsh put their own stamp on it. Wales will follow England but will put their own slant on it. It's probably more to do with the WG wanting to be seen to be independent that is the main driver.
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 20:16
Stereotyping all of England as being healthy, wealthy and prosperous is incredibly amusing.
Well it might be amusing but its a fact
England is on all social indicators more healthy , wealthy and prosperous than wales
I have alluded that it has pockets of deprivation if you care to read the post
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 20:19
A quick tour of Nottingham would soon shatter their delusions
Hyson green
The Lone Gunman
09-07-20, 20:41
It's a question of attitude. Yours is typical here in Wales. In England they're just more positive and getting on with things.
"How can you not permit people into a stadium because of social distancing guidelines/rules, whilst allowing 30 footballers, support staff etc. to be as close as physically possible?" (AQM, 17/04/20)
"If social distancing is still in place then how can footballers, staff, etc avoid contact - one rule for one, one rule for another isn't going to go down well. Secondly, by the end of the year there'll be no sponsorship in football. Even if my first point is overcome, no-one is going to pay to watch football played behind closed doors. I doubt any club could pay wages. The only people working will be those in the public sector, and who will be paying them? For those not working - prob 5-6 million, and those furloughed, paying a monthly fee to watch pampered players stroll around an empty ground isn't really going to happen either." (AQM, 23/04/20)
"You'd have to test anything up to 200 each game. If someone comes back positive after a game you would have to restrict both teams for more testing, and waiting, and teams they are going to play, and them, and so on. Having a few thousand people travelling everywhere throughout England and Wales every 3-4 days could probably be one of the worst options." (AQM, 23/04/20)
"The so-called Premier League start up behind closed doors is fraught with problems, and I suspect will draw objections from all areas of society." (AQM, 30/04/20)
"The 'new normal' - the government locks the people up whenever they consider it's in the public interest." (AQM, 28/05/20)
A Quiet Monkfish - unerringly positive throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
Eric the Half a Bee
09-07-20, 20:58
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I find it quite nauseating that Boris has said the UK government is going to intervene and get it build. Given the number of projects that would have benefitted Wales that the Tories have decided not to fund after all (electrification of the line to Swansea and beyond etc), for them to make political of this reeks of crass opportunism.
SLUDGE FACTORY
09-07-20, 21:02
"How can you not permit people into a stadium because of social distancing guidelines/rules, whilst allowing 30 footballers, support staff etc. to be as close as physically possible?" (AQM, 17/04/20)
"If social distancing is still in place then how can footballers, staff, etc avoid contact - one rule for one, one rule for another isn't going to go down well. Secondly, by the end of the year there'll be no sponsorship in football. Even if my first point is overcome, no-one is going to pay to watch football played behind closed doors. I doubt any club could pay wages. The only people working will be those in the public sector, and who will be paying them? For those not working - prob 5-6 million, and those furloughed, paying a monthly fee to watch pampered players stroll around an empty ground isn't really going to happen either." (AQM, 23/04/20)
"You'd have to test anything up to 200 each game. If someone comes back positive after a game you would have to restrict both teams for more testing, and waiting, and teams they are going to play, and them, and so on. Having a few thousand people travelling everywhere throughout England and Wales every 3-4 days could probably be one of the worst options." (AQM, 23/04/20)
"The so-called Premier League start up behind closed doors is fraught with problems, and I suspect will draw objections from all areas of society." (AQM, 30/04/20)
"The 'new normal' - the government locks the people up whenever they consider it's in the public interest." (AQM, 28/05/20)
A Quiet Monkfish - unerringly positive throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
I think this is what is commonly known as a bloody good leathering
Does that include the good people of Leicester?
On first minister's Questions this week someone asked Drakeford about the money offereed by the UK Government and could it be used to fund the alternative if one was found.
He said (quite rudely) 'I've pot no idea where the member gets this information from. the UK government hasn't offered any money, never has offered any money and will not offer any money. It's a figment of your imagination"
I find it hard to understand why everyone can't see that the Assembly is holding this country back - and drastically. Wales has always lagged behind England in terms of infrastructure and investment, and this is getting worse, rather than better. You can see the difference almost as soon as you cross the bridge into England - it definitely looks wealthier and more prosperous.
The only conclusion I can come to, is that the Labour led Assembly wants nothing to do with the UK Parliament, and they will deliberately avoid any co-operation with Whitehall, even when it means they are effectively hurting themselves, and hurting Wales. A classic case of 'cutting off your nose to spite your face'. The M4 corridor is a classic example. The same ailment seems to afflict Scotland.
Now, whereas I agree that Wales (and Scotland) should have some manner of self-government, this current stance is starting to affect us all, here in Wales. It might change if we had a change of government (either here or in London), but that seems unlikely at the moment. I'm not a raving Tory, but I can't help but feel that if the 'red wall' had fallen in Wales, we might get something done at last.
The other week someone said that Mark Drakeford view Wales like a large country park where everything is idyllic and there are no roads with cars driving around and no industry polluting the atmosphere. some of his decision would seem to back that up.
The Lone Gunman
09-07-20, 22:29
On first minister's Questions this week someone asked Drakeford about the money offereed by the UK Government and could it be used to fund the alternative if one was found.
He said (quite rudely) 'I've pot no idea where the member gets this information from. the UK government hasn't offered any money, never has offered any money and will not offer any money. It's a figment of your imagination"
I've got no idea what you're talking about. Neither do I care. I voted against the Welsh Assembly and I am opposed to devolution. I think Drakeford's a bellend. However, I also think Monkfish's comments about positive attitudes are laughable considering he's been veering between doom-monger and drama queen for much of the last three months.
I find it quite nauseating that Boris has said the UK government is going to intervene and get it build. Given the number of projects that would have benefitted Wales that the Tories have decided not to fund after all (electrification of the line to Swansea and beyond etc), for them to make political of this reeks of crass opportunism.
Quite right which is why the welsh Government will refuse the money!
I've got no idea what you're talking about. Neither do I care. I voted against the Welsh Assembly and I am opposed to devolution. I think Drakeford's a bellend. However, I also think Monkfish's comments about positive attitudes are laughable considering he's been veering between doom-monger and drama queen for much of the last three months.
not arguing with any of that. I was just commenting on the relief road thing. Drakeford saying there is no government money and there never was. I'm fairly sure i recall that there was an offer but only to be used for the road and the welsh government wanted the money and then they decide what to do with it. Which we all know would not have been the road.
Eric the Half a Bee
09-07-20, 22:39
I find it hard to understand why everyone can't see that the Assembly is holding this country back - and drastically. Wales has always lagged behind England in terms of infrastructure and investment, and this is getting worse, rather than better. You can see the difference almost as soon as you cross the bridge into England - it definitely looks wealthier and more prosperous.
The only conclusion I can come to, is that the Labour led Assembly wants nothing to do with the UK Parliament, and they will deliberately avoid any co-operation with Whitehall, even when it means they are effectively hurting themselves, and hurting Wales. A classic case of 'cutting off your nose to spite your face'. The M4 corridor is a classic example. The same ailment seems to afflict Scotland.
Now, whereas I agree that Wales (and Scotland) should have some manner of self-government, this current stance is starting to affect us all, here in Wales. It might change if we had a change of government (either here or in London), but that seems unlikely at the moment. I'm not a raving Tory, but I can't help but feel that if the 'red wall' had fallen in Wales, we might get something done at last.
Is this an attempt at satire?
The Welsh Government relies on funding from Westminster, which is insufficient. Wales has more social problems than England and that requires funding. Wales doesn't have the financial services that keep the UK afloat. Wales doesn't have much money.
Is it no surprise that there's a lack of infrastructure and investment when we have a UK government unwilling to invest in Wales? How many potential projects do we hear about that never come to fruition? It's a piss take by Boris Johnson to talk about funding ta new motorway to alleviate the problems at the Brynglas tunnels given the times his government have decided to withdraw funding for projects in Wales.
As for Scotland, it seems to be doing well for itself and pro-Scottish politics is rising to the point where another referendum is surely going to happen.
Answer me one question - how does playing second fiddle to England benefit Wales?
A Quiet Monkfish
10-07-20, 08:29
Is this an attempt at satire?
The Welsh Government relies on funding from Westminster, which is insufficient. Wales has more social problems than England and that requires funding. Wales doesn't have the financial services that keep the UK afloat. Wales doesn't have much money.
Is it no surprise that there's a lack of infrastructure and investment when we have a UK government unwilling to invest in Wales? How many potential projects do we hear about that never come to fruition? It's a piss take by Boris Johnson to talk about funding ta new motorway to alleviate the problems at the Brynglas tunnels given the times his government have decided to withdraw funding for projects in Wales.
As for Scotland, it seems to be doing well for itself and pro-Scottish politics is rising to the point where another referendum is surely going to happen.
Answer me one question - how does playing second fiddle to England benefit Wales?
really ? It can afford an additional 60 MP's [sort of MP's] .
A Quiet Monkfish
10-07-20, 08:59
not arguing with any of that. I was just commenting on the relief road thing. Drakeford saying there is no government money and there never was. I'm fairly sure i recall that there was an offer but only to be used for the road and the welsh government wanted the money and then they decide what to do with it. Which we all know would not have been the road.
There's a big difference between being pro-Welsh and anti -English. I think Drakeford & Co take pleasure in blurring the lines..
Jordi Culé
10-07-20, 09:05
There's a big difference between being pro-Welsh and anti -English. I think Drakeford & Co take pleasure in blurring the lines..
Do you, really? I don’t think there’s any anti English sentiment delivered nor insinuated.
I don’t think he blurs the lines at all when commenting when he thinks Boris & co are acting like a gaggle of twats.
SLUDGE FACTORY
10-07-20, 09:39
Drakeford is not my cup of tea, carwyn jones was much more savvy
But I would rather him pulling some of the strings in wales than that **** boris , racist goon
If the Welsh Government is looking for good examples of how governments internationally are leading their nations safely out of lockdown I think England would be the last country to follow. The country with one of the highest numbers of avoidable excess deaths, an unfit for purpose testing and tracing system and a R rate close to 1 is now telling it’s citizens it is their patriotic duty to get together in a pub on a Saturday night. What could possibly go wrong?
SLUDGE FACTORY
10-07-20, 10:25
If the Welsh Government is looking for good examples of how governments internationally are leading their nations safely out of lockdown I think England would be the last country to follow. The country with one of the highest numbers of avoidable excess deaths, an unfit for purpose testing and tracing system and a R rate close to 1 is now telling it’s citizens it is their patriotic duty to get together in a pub on a Saturday night. What could possibly go wrong?
Dont worry about that , just minor details
Jordi Culé
10-07-20, 11:25
If the Welsh Government is looking for good examples of how governments internationally are leading their nations safely out of lockdown I think England would be the last country to follow. The country with one of the highest numbers of avoidable excess deaths, an unfit for purpose testing and tracing system and a R rate close to 1 is now telling it’s citizens it is their patriotic duty to get together in a pub on a Saturday night. What could possibly go wrong?
Don’t be such a misery guts.
It’s lovely in Bishop Stortford, the birds are singing there and everyone is deliriously happy playing naked twister in the streets.
splott parker
10-07-20, 12:21
Don’t be such a misery guts.
It’s lovely in Bishop Stortford, the birds are singing there and everyone is deliriously happy playing naked twister in the streets.
Bishop Stortford, the Sodom & Gomorrah of the modern world, it’ll all end in tears y’know.
Eric the Half a Bee
10-07-20, 14:24
really ? It can afford an additional 60 MP's [sort of MP's] .
Don't you like people in Wales making decisions about Wales or would you rather a predominantly English parliament decide for us?
A Quiet Monkfish
16-07-20, 18:00
Don't you like people in Wales making decisions about Wales or would you rather a predominantly English parliament decide for us?
Well,
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/m4-congestion-commission-traffic-charging-18607120
Can you just imagine the effect on business, tourism. This is the solution - after the Govt.said it would fund the by pass. Apparently we're going to build a couple of train stations between Cardiff and the Bridge, so that'll be all right.
SLUDGE FACTORY
16-07-20, 18:59
Well,
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/m4-congestion-commission-traffic-charging-18607120
Can you just imagine the effect on business, tourism. This is the solution - after the Govt.said it would fund the by pass. Apparently we're going to build a couple of train stations between Cardiff and the Bridge, so that'll be all right.
South east wales accounts for the vast majority of the population , economic activity and traffic flow in this country
The travel by train is between cardiff , newport and bristol and the south wales valleys
Road travel is between swansea and bristol
The M4 is often blocked , the M50 often empty
We have geological issues that prevent us miraculously dealing with this traffic flow
Either we start charging people to use the roads as they do in the midlands or we build more roads or we improve the train service
You dont honestly think the tory government was serious about funding a new road do you ?
the midland congestion charges are coming into effect next year sludge
you are correct about the M50 the only motorway I enjoy driving on !
South east wales accounts for the vast majority of the population , economic activity and traffic flow in this country
The travel by train is between cardiff , newport and bristol and the south wales valleys
Road travel is between swansea and bristol
The M4 is often blocked , the M50 often empty
We have geological issues that prevent us miraculously dealing with this traffic flow
Either we start charging people to use the roads as they do in the midlands or we build more roads or we improve the train service
You dont honestly think the tory government was serious about funding a new road do you ?
Why wouldn't they be serious. It fulfills the pledge to build out of the effects of the virus, shows the new Conservative voters they were serious about improving infrastructure outside the South east and it would give several years good employment to a lot of local people.
I'd think the Conservative party would want to do all those things.
If this commission has been thinking this long and the only idea they can come up with is charging the motorist again they might as well not have bothered. There is no way the welsh government will put the necessary public transport in place before they start charging. The charges will start, the money will roll in and there will be excuse after excuse why nothing is being done.
And better public transport won't do anything for the businesses that send heavy lorries down the motorway. Why would any company put its business in Wales knowing it has to pay the charges that I won't have to pay in Gloucestershire or Somerset? It's ridiculous.
SLUDGE FACTORY
16-07-20, 22:51
Why wouldn't they be serious. It fulfills the pledge to build out of the effects of the virus, shows the new Conservative voters they were serious about improving infrastructure outside the South east and it would give several years good employment to a lot of local people.
I'd think the Conservative party would want to do all those things.
If this commission has been thinking this long and the only idea they can come up with is charging the motorist again they might as well not have bothered. There is no way the welsh government will put the necessary public transport in place before they start charging. The charges will start, the money will roll in and there will be excuse after excuse why nothing is being done.
And better public transport won't do anything for the businesses that send heavy lorries down the motorway. Why would any company put its business in Wales knowing it has to pay the charges that I won't have to pay in Gloucestershire or Somerset? It's ridiculous.
I wouldnt trust the conservatives when it comes to pledges as far as I could kick them
That crap written about extra money for the NHS on the side of the bus ?
Bunch of ****ing chancers
A Quiet Monkfish
17-07-20, 07:45
Why wouldn't they be serious. It fulfills the pledge to build out of the effects of the virus, shows the new Conservative voters they were serious about improving infrastructure outside the South east and it would give several years good employment to a lot of local people.
I'd think the Conservative party would want to do all those things.
If this commission has been thinking this long and the only idea they can come up with is charging the motorist again they might as well not have bothered. There is no way the welsh government will put the necessary public transport in place before they start charging. The charges will start, the money will roll in and there will be excuse after excuse why nothing is being done.
And better public transport won't do anything for the businesses that send heavy lorries down the motorway. Why would any company put its business in Wales knowing it has to pay the charges that I won't have to pay in Gloucestershire or Somerset? It's ridiculous.
Exactly what I thought. Even if they did build a couple of train stations do they seriously think 'public transport' is going to be a substitute for a motorway that delivers people, business people, tourists, goods and materials, directly to where they want to go. Comparisons to the midlands are superfluous - there are many alternative routes that can be used. The M4 is the gateway to probably 75% of business in Wales and 50% of tourism..
I wouldnt trust the conservatives when it comes to pledges as far as I could kick them
That crap written about extra money for the NHS on the side of the bus ?
Bunch of ****ing chancers
I think you'll find, what ever your biased opinion, that the NHS 'quote' wasn't the Conservative party.
SLUDGE FACTORY
17-07-20, 08:59
I think you'll find, what ever your biased opinion, that the NHS 'quote' wasn't the Conservative party.
It was boris , leader of the tory party
That will do for me
It was boris , leader of the tory party
That will do for me
Wasn't Jeremy part of the pro-bexit alliance too? So we can blame them both.
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
Why does your son live with your fiance?
Why does your son live with your fiance?
:hehe:
Wasn't Jeremy part of the pro-bexit alliance too? So we can blame them both.
I think you will find that, whatever your biased opinion, Corbyn didn't really commit to being pro-Brexit or anti-Brexit.
SLUDGE FACTORY
17-07-20, 10:41
Wasn't Jeremy part of the pro-bexit alliance too? So we can blame them both.
No
A Quiet Monkfish
17-07-20, 17:51
:hehe:
It's complicated:biggrin:
You could always move....
He can't - He's 10 years older than you have to be to consider it.
No
I think he was. He was definitely in the pro-brexit lobby, although he never said much.
I think he was. He was definitely in the pro-brexit lobby, although he never said much.
No he wasn't. He was a reluctant ('reform the EU') but consistent Remainer. He wasn't prominent in the official Remain campaign but I think that was more to do with the Lab-Lib campaign leaders edging him out than him avoiding the spotlight. He was clear in the few TV interviews he was given that he supported Remain - but (to the annoyance of his uncritical colleagues) continued to say the EU must be changed. He did well over 100 trade union meetings around the country where he argued for Remain - but very few of them got any national media coverage.
No he wasn't. He was a reluctant ('reform the EU') but consistent Remainer. He wasn't prominent in the official Remain campaign but I think that was more to do with the Lab-Lib campaign leaders edging him out than him avoiding the spotlight. He was clear in the few TV interviews he was given that he supported Remain - but (to the annoyance of his uncritical colleagues) continued to say the EU must be changed. He did well over 100 trade union meetings around the country where he argued for Remain - but very few of them got any national media coverage.
Fair enough. I would expect that the lack of coverage may have been because the were trade union meetings and not public. almost preaching to the converted isn't it?
SLUDGE FACTORY
18-07-20, 11:46
Fair enough. I would expect that the lack of coverage may have been because the were trade union meetings and not public. almost preaching to the converted isn't it?
The tory press basically
The Government said they’d build the road? Anything that follows ‘the government said‘ can be dismissed as pure crap.
No he wasn't. He was a reluctant ('reform the EU') but consistent Remainer. He wasn't prominent in the official Remain campaign but I think that was more to do with the Lab-Lib campaign leaders edging him out than him avoiding the spotlight. He was clear in the few TV interviews he was given that he supported Remain - but (to the annoyance of his uncritical colleagues) continued to say the EU must be changed. He did well over 100 trade union meetings around the country where he argued for Remain - but very few of them got any national media coverage.
Exactly right. I was and still am a massive Jeremy Corbyn fan.
Two types of people voted against him - Greedy bastards and the ill-informed.
Exactly right. I was and still am a massive Jeremy Corbyn fan.
Two types of people voted against him - Greedy bastards and the ill-informed.
Well done Bill, I salute your perspicacity and I agree 100%! How some people unfavourably compare him to the buffoon presently in charge is mind boggling.
LeningradCowboy
18-07-20, 16:16
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/talking-eating-drinking-reading-newspapers-18611996
People told not to talk loudly, eat, drink or read newspapers on buses and trains
SLUDGE FACTORY
18-07-20, 16:46
Well done Bill, I salute your perspicacity and I agree 100%! How some people unfavourably compare him to the buffoon presently in charge is mind boggling.
I think corbyn and this crew were too far left for the middle ground voters who were easily swayed by the ammo corbyn gave them and by the filthy scummy right wing media we have in this country
Corbyn was a man of principle but I am glad we have starmer now , hes electable , corbyn wasnt
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/talking-eating-drinking-reading-newspapers-18611996
People told not to talk loudly, eat, drink or read newspapers on buses and trains
I can see clearly how reading a newspaper on a bus could cause further infections.
and of course all bus drivers will check all around and see if there is anyone walking towards the bus who may just want to get on, before they drive away. They do it all the time.
What planet are these people on?
They want to control every aspect of peoples lives and although this pandemic is a serious business they still use it to seek to tell people what to do. It's ingrained!
Just back after visiting my son & fiance in Bishops Stortford for a few days. It's difficult to convey in words just how life and attitudes are there , [ or 'over the border' as it's now referred to.].
The place was bustling. cafes open, restaurants busy, shops busy, pubs open and full, everyone happy - but mindful of respecting other people's space. People I met and spoke to are looking for every opportunity to get moving as quickly as possible.
Then back here. M4 relief road cancelled for 'environmental reasons'. Firms not bringing jobs because of it. An administration doing everything in it's power to differentiate from England and UK. Almost rejoicing in their grim, depressing, relentless droning about how they'll do it 'our way'. And what's more, pretty much everyone in Wales backing them.
I'm Welsh, but were I 10yrs younger would seriously consider moving 'over the border'..
This aged well.
Allez Allez Allez
02-11-20, 17:09
This aged well.
:hehe:
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