Link: Rival parties unite to fight for a bill of rights | Politics | The Observer.
This is the most encouraging story of what has been a dreadful year for those who care about civil liberties. Let's hope it sets the tone for a splendid 2007. I wish all of you a happy, free and prosperous New Year.
An Irish judge in the 19th century, Sir James Mathew (1830-1908) is supposed to have said
"In England, justice is open to all - like the Ritz Hotel."Learning from our mistakes, the French have done their best to improve their own access to justice, as these pictures demonstrate.
Link: Telegraph | News | German politician tells heckler to shave .
To me, the interesting aspect of this story is that a left-wing German politician could say what would be politically-unthinkable in Britain, where "the most vulnerable members of society" are, in truth, those who work for a living - only to be taxed viciously to support the idle.
Dave Cameron may (finally) be on to something with his notion that the Conservatives should be seen as the party of the working man. Labour, after all, has positioned itself firmly as the party that passes the taxes paid by honest workers to the workshy and those in non-jobs.
Link: Burning our money: Honouring Failure.
I am off to enjoy Paris with my family. I can do no better than recommend you to Wat Tyler's post about the New Year's Honours List. Nothing could tell you more about our Government's warped view of the world.
Link: Saddam Hussein executed | Iraq | Guardian Unlimited.
Most of the world's tyrants die in their beds; their lives an encouragement to others to try their wicked path to wealth and power. Saddam Hussein did no good in his life. Perhaps, by the manner of his death, he may turn some would-be tyrant from his path? Let's hope so.
Link: Cabinet minister joins protest over hospital | Special Reports | Guardian Unlimited Politics.
Among the many things the chipmunk doesn't understand, apparently, is Cabinet responsibility. Who will rid us of these idiots?
| The Keys to Your Heart |
 In love, you feel the most alive when things are straight-forward, and you're told that you're loved. You'd like to your lover to think you are stylish and alluring. You would be forced to break up with someone who was emotional, moody, and difficult to please. Your ideal relationship is open. Both of you can talk about everything... no secrets. Your risk of cheating is zero. You care about society and morality. You would never break a commitment. You think of marriage as something precious. You'll treasure marriage and treat it as sacred. In this moment, you think of love as something you thirst for. You'll do anything for love, but you won't fall for it easily. |
Hat tip: Bel is Thinking. Like her, I have my doubts about the methodology, but at least it's a break from whingeing about the state of the nation!
Link: An Englishman's Castle: Tory Top Twelve.
The Englishman has posted the "Tory Top Twelve" of heroes, commenting critically on the selections and inviting other nominations. What fun for Boxing Day! He has been kind enough not to tag his fellow-bloggers with it so, on a purely voluntary basis, why not wander over to the Castle and post your own top twelve list?
| You Belong in the UK |
 A little proper, a little saucy. You're so witty and charming... No one notices your curry breath |
A jaunty tip of the Christmas titfer to Colin Campell