Many commentators have expressed surprise that the government’s Freedom of Information Commission has proposed no significant changes to the Freedom of Information Act, the law that allows any member of the public to request information from the government or a public body, thereby ensuring openness and transparency. Also a surprise is that the government have […]
A government report this week found that there is no link between tough penalties and drug use. This has prompted calls from various politicians for a review of drugs laws. While it’s clearly a complex issue, it’s hard to argue with a rigorous report or with scientific research into addiction. Perhaps there is a case […]
It will come as little surprise to regular readers that I am delighted with the result of yesterday’s referendum in Scotland. Although I had remained optimistic that the people of Scotland would vote “No” to independence, I had thought the result might be closer. Historically, support for independence has hovered at around a third of […]
Yesterday, all three of the main UK political parties came together in a rare show of consensus to indicate that Scotland would not be able to enter a formal currency union with the rest of the UK in the event of Scottish voters choosing independence in September’s referendum. That means if Scotland continued to use […]
Over 700 health experts have urged MPs to vote in favour of a ban on smoking in cars where children are present. The debate is notable for the fact that everyone agrees that smoking in a car when accompanied by a child is wrong, and shouldn’t be done under any circumstances. Yet some people still […]
There is nothing like the comment section of a news site to demonstrate public ignorance of the facts behind a particular story. However, the situation isn’t helped when the news outlets themselves use confusing or inaccurate terms in their articles, or are simply sloppy with their reporting. A good example this week is the discussion […]
Margaret Thatcher, her policies and legacy, are highly divisive. Let me be clear: I believe people absolutely have the right to criticise her, to point out where she went wrong, to discuss and debate the way she changed the country for better or for worse. As she was such a major public figure, I do […]
Since early December there have been violent protests and criminal acts taking place in Northern Ireland as a result of Belfast City Council’s decision to change their policy on the flying of the Union Flag over Belfast City Hall. Previously, the flag was flown every day, but the new policy is for it to be […]
Finally, some common sense when it comes to taxing foreign lorries. They are a common sight on British roads, yet do not have to pay UK Vehicle Excise Duty (VED). British-registered trucks have to pay up to or over £1000 per year, which puts them at a competitive disadvantage, leading to claims that foreign drivers […]
David Cameron has announced that competitive teams sports will be made compulsory for all primary school children. Apart from the fact that it allows the government to claim a “legacy” from the London Olympics, I can’t see what this move will achieve at all. There is clearly a big problem in the UK with obesity […]
