Violence begets more violence in the Middle East

The appalling tragedy that is occurring in the Middle East has dominated headlines over past weeks. The horrendous attack on Israeli citizens by Hamas, resulting in the deaths of more than 1400. Many more have been injured and some taken hostage. Now, the death toll is mounting in Gaza, as the Israeli military offensive intensifies. The Israeli government has mobilised it's army, calling up reservists in readiness for a mass military action against Gaza. Palestinians have been told to leave likely conflict zones. The approach of Israel has echoes of the US response to the attacks of 9/11, which led to wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The anger and desire for revenge on the part of Israel is understandable but it must act, proportionately, within international law. The early rhetoric in this conflict did not seem to distinguish between the actions of Hamas and the Palestinians living on the Gaza strip. The crude categorisation was a bit like making all Irish people responsible for the actions of the IRA during the war. History teaches that an all out assault based on vengeance does not in the long term solve anything - in fact it makes things worse. In Ireland, the demands of civil rights protesters in the North were denied, lethal force was deployed and decades of violence followed. Violence begets violence. Order and the rule of law get subsumed in conflict. Innocent lives are lost. It is important in such situations that the voices of reason and restraint are heard and listened to. Internationally, there have been worrying precedents set regarding the breaking of international law, over recent years. The Americans going into Iraq in 2003, without a supporting UN resolution. Most recently, Russia's illegal assault on Ukraine. The move to violent reprisal seems much quicker these days - international law being too easily set aside. Going back to the days of the Cuban missile crisis in 1962, when the world was brought to the brink of nuclear war, it is interesting to read counts of the whole process. The ongoing analysis and weighing up of options, the measured and statesmanlike approach of President Kennedy. Also, a wise decision to relegate the opinions of the military, who it seems always want outright war. Why do we hear so many soldiers giving their opinions on the Middle East situation in the mass media? Also, the crucial brokering role of the UN. In the end, nuclear Armageddon was avoided over Cuba because of effective diplomacy, cool heads, international pressure and a wise president. Unfortunately, there are no President Kennedys around today. Nor is the UN the force it was for peace. Today, too many world leaders rush to take sides, setting a background context that justifies and legitimates revenge based actions. The lack of calls for restraint result in a narrative of inevitable conflict. Rather than opprobrium being directed towards those who may kill in vengeance there is an urge to act, ever more violently. The previous experiences of such an approach really should counsel caution. Violence is proven to beget violence, whether it be in Afghanistan, Iraq, Ukraine or the north of Ireland. The violent actions of western powers in the Middle East 20 years ago led to the emergence of Isis and all that followed. What is needed now are cool heads counselling caution. The voices of peace, not the militarists preaching war, need to be heard. International leaders need to lead, not join in a one sided dash toward oblivion What is needed now is more jaw jaw, not war war. Maybe then the Middle East can be pulled back from the brink of escalating conflict. Then, genuine negotiation can eventually lead to a peaceful settlement for all who live in those lands. Published - Irish Post - 28/10/2023

Dysfunctional political system must change

Journalist, Ian Dunt, offers a withering analysis of the dysfunctional British political system. "One of the core features of the British system, at every level, is that no one knows what they're talking about," says Dunt."And if by accident someone who does know what they're talking about finds themselves in a senior position they're quickly moved on." In his book, How Westminster works...and why it doesn't, Dunt chronicles the problems, from a selection system for MPs that ensures many inappropriate people end up in Parliament to the country being run out of a 17th century terraced house (10 Downing Street). Ministers and civil servants are all moved rapidly on before they have a chance to get to grips with their portfolios This results in crazy ideas being implemented, which by the time the true impact is realised the minister has long since moved on. Dunt illustrates the point, using the example of Chris Grayling's career as Justice minister, privatising ( destroying) the probation system. The House of Commons has been effectively gutted as a place where government business is scrutinised.The brutal whips system ensures for the most part MPs don't step out of line. Most are lobby fodder, with little capacity for independent thought - this ofcourse also goes back to selection process. The select committees in the House of Commons and the House of Lords are the only bodies exercising a proper scrutiny function on government business. Some, will have been lucky enough to attend the session with Ian Dunt during the Wanstead Fringe. He enlarged on the themes in the book, including highlighting how things could change. He suggests a public primaries system for MP selection and the introduction of PR. The Prime Ministerial function needs to move from the terraced house to a more appropriate premises. Scrutiny powers need strengthening, with greater specialism amongst MPs and civil servants. His ideas are a start. There certainly needs to be fundamental change. It was striking attending the Fringe session and reading the book how many of the issues highlighted resonate at local government level. Too much of what goes on at all levels is about marginalising people with important skills, reducing important functions to political posturing, rather than playing effective roles in governance. Reform is desperately needed at all levels to revive our fading democracy. More people genuinely representing communities across the land need to be persuaded to come forward. Then, once elected, supported and encouraged to take an active part in governance. It will take a huge effort to effect such change but things cannot continue in the present regressive state for much longer.

Cars need to slow down

The implementation of 20 mph speed limits across these islands appears to be gathering pace. Ireland has become the latest to move to restrict speed, following a rise in deaths on the roads. Wales recently brought in such a limit across the country. In England, as with many things car related, the approach has been slow and piecemeal. Many different areas have brought in 20mph limits. This limit is becoming the norm in London, with Transport For London seeking to persuade many of the boroughs to comply. More of Redbridge is coming under 20 mph restrictions, with expansion ongoing. Pedestrianisation of areas, as has happened in neighbouring areas like Walthamstow, would be a welcome next step. How about some of Wanstead High Street? There has been opposition from some in the motor lobby to 20 mph restrictions. In Wales, there have been claims of economic loss - how that works is a mystery. The oppositional stance adopted by many in the media to such developments is a wonder to behold. So out come the routine lazy vox pop interviews flashed up on the screen, with Joe Blogs saying he's going to lose thousands because he can't drive fast anymore. Similar vox pop interviews have been used regarding the Ultra Low Emissions Zone in London. Maybe, some of these claims need checking out. In Britain, it has become impossible to have a rational conversation about the car. There are a vociferous group of drivers, who see any restriction, as some sort of infringement of their human rights. Never mind those being mown down by reckless drivers or the poisoning the air breathed by children, causing them to get asthma. The London Mayor has a target of 80% of journeys being by foot, cycle or public transport by 2041. In order to achieve such a goal, ways of getting about have to radically change. Moving forward the car driver has to be prepared to give a little. Reduce speed, stop polluting and recognise the right of others to safely use the road space. The measures taken in Ireland, Wales, Scotland and parts of England to make the roads safer for all should be applauded and supported- they are to the benefit of everyone. They are also the future.

Farmers and Environmentalists must work together

There has been a recent focus on the cost of agriculture in terms of greenhouse gas generation. The agricultural sector accounts for 11% of greenhouse gas emissions in Britain, with methane from the livestock and nitrous oxide due to the use of nitrogen fertilizer and manure management being the main causes. The problem is bigger in a country like Ireland, where agriculture accounts for 38.4% of emissions. In Ireland, radical moves like mass cattle culls are under consideration by government. What the call for a cull highlights is the often blunt instrument approach to the emissions issue. There is a divide between farmers and environmentalists. Recently, attending a talk in Rye, Sussex, about wildlife and biodiversity in the area, the division between farmers and environmentalists became immediately obvious. The talk was being given by a National Trust representative. He was explaining what was happening, with a rewilding plan, putting back hedges, returning to nature to restore biodiversity - so enhance carbon capture. It was all good stuff. A couple of farmers in the audience, though, were less impressed, criticising certain elements of the plan. The speaker was unwilling to dialogue, so the farmers were shut out. Speaking to one afterwards, he was just keen to work with the program in order that it worked better for everyone. The farmers, though, had not been taken into the equation. This type of polarisation of opinion is not uncommon. The farmers in one camp, environmentalists in the other, and never the twain shall meet. Writer and Cumbrian hill farmer James Rebanks has explored some of these dilemmas. In his excellent book, English Pastoral, he describes a journey, which results in him totally changing his farming methods. So the farm still deals with livestock, only much more sustainably produced. He also does all that is possible to promote biodiversity, so reduce emissions. He has also been an advocate for this approach, working in co-operation, with his farming neighbours. The two things can work well together - producing food and enhancing the environment. Nations need feeding but the livestock must be dealt with sustainably. The consequence of a Rebanks style approach is the products like meat will cost the consumer more. Whether the consumer will accept such developments, especially at a time of a cost of living crisis, remains to be seen. Though, government subsidy for this form of sustainable farming can soften the blow. What is for sure is that this more co-operative approach must be the way forward. Farmers and farming cannot just be slashed to meet an emissions target. Working together in the way Rebanks and others suggest must be the way forward. Another project that shows real initiative in this area is the Our Food 1200 in Monmouthshire and the Breacon Beacons. The local bodies there are trying to bring new farmers in to take on small holdings. There are 1200 acres of plots to be handed out - the amount needed to feed the region. The plots vary between 3 and 10 acres. The new farmers then produce the food required in the area. It becomes a virtuous circle. No more transporting food around the country, generating emissions, it is being produced sustainably and consumed locally. This type of imaginative project must be spread across these islands and beyond. In areas like Redbridge, this locally produced food can be further enhanced by expanding allotments and community gardens, as well as promoting food production in private gardens. What the moves being taken to address greenhouse emissions to reach net zero underline is the need for change. The world has been slow to address the crisis. The warnings of scientists were at first ignored, then only given secondary status.Even today, many governments still believe climate issues can be put on the back burner until affordable. Though, an increasing number of governments realise delay, means an even greater cost down the line. People's lives do need to radically change, the deniability bubble is no answer. At least in Ireland there is a will to embrace the challenges, the UK government seems determined to promote the most damaging ways of living, aka fossil fuel extraction, in a populist desire for electoral success. There is a recognition in Ireland and Britain that less use of petrol cars and planes plus a better diet all have parts to play. It will mean a different way of living, maybe a step back in some ways to a simpler way of life. But the benefits are manifold, not just saving the planet from climate and biodiversity disasters but also bringing about a healthier more fulfilled way of living, embracing the land in a more holistic way. The future can be bright.

The Wanstead Beer Festival is nearly upon us

So if you haven't got a ticket get one now. Tickets are going fast and it's cheaper in advance than on the day. There has certainly been a lot of keen interest, since the idea of the Wanstead Beer Festival was launched earlier in the year. A small group of devoted beer drinkers have come together to make the event happen at Christchurch Halls on Saturday 14th October. The event will bring together a whole variety of beers, ciders and some wine from around the country There has been great support from a number of brewers, including, Brentwood, East London, Exale, Beerblefish, Pretty Decent and Redemption. But there are beers from across the country from the Vale of Glamorgan to Burton on Trent and Harvey's in Sussex. Hopefully, all tastes will be catered for. There will also be a selection of ciders - a drink that is increasingly popular with youngsters. Not forgetting the commemorative glass, which is included in the ticket. The heron themed Wanstead touch gives it that real cache feel. This year has been an important and challenging one for the beer industry. Clear of COVID at last but then along came the cost of living crisis. It has been a struggle, especially for our pubs, trying to keep their heads above water. This year, has seen a full program of beer festivals across the country, with the punters flocking in. Many locals will have attended the Epping and Ongar Beer festival in July. Not only was the beer great but there was the opportunity to travel on the trains between North Wield, Epping and Ongar. Great work in organising the festival from the local Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) branches. The East London & City Camra branch really does punch above its weight, partnering in Epping & Ongar as well as running the hugely successful Pigs Ear beer festival in Hackney at the end of November. The event attracted 3,000 ale drinkers last year. So anyone whose appetite is wetted in Wanstead, why not go onto the Pigs Ear event in the run up to Christmas (. ). The Wanstead Beer Festival is a not for profit event, with any money made being divided between three local charities. After the successful Wanstead Fringe and Wanstead Festival it is hope that the Wanstead Beer Festival will also become a regular fixture in the calender of events in the area. Hopefully it will bring in people from beyond Wanstead for a first taste of life here. Then they might come back to visit our pubs and restaurants and go to the shops.

Pygmalion at the Old Vic

The timing of this excellent production of Bernard Shaw's play could not be more prescient. The two month run coinciding with sex scandals in the news - the play is recast for the modern era. The rubbing up together of gender and class in a play written in 1913, then later adapted for film in the 1930s, could not be clearer. The play has bred a number of variations over the years from the My Fair Lady musical, starring Audrey Hepburn and Rex Harrison, to later offshoots like Educating Rita and Pretty Woman. But director Richard Jones production brings the whole thing bang up to date. The timeless nature of the content is testimony to Shaw's vision and the slowness of society to change. Bertie Carvel is brilliant as the mercurial, eccentric Professor Henry Higgins. Those who last saw him tread the boards of the Old Vic, as Donald Trump in the 47th have to pinch themselves. Rushing around with a constant nervous energy, the Higgins character is reminiscent at times of John Cleese as Basil Fawlty. Though, in terms of appearance with stoop and red cardigan, images of Monty Don and Richard Briers as Tom Good in 1970s comedy the Good Life, merge in the imagination. Patsy Ferran is equally good, brilliantly dramatising the metamorphosis from working class flower girl to middle class ornament. Her comic timing is superb. There is another excellent performance from John Marquez as Eliza's dustman father, Alfred. A man satisfied in his world as immoral working class rogue, who betters himself materially but also loses himself to middle class morality. It is the working class who come out on top in this production, with Eliza turning the tables on Higgins and her father triumphing in material terms at least. There are many currents running through this play, from misogyny and discrimination to outright exploitation. Jones production brings the play right up to date in a very contemporary way. But as ever one is left to wonder at the perceptive insight of Shaw on society. It also poses the question as to how much has really changed in society relating to class and gender over the last century? To 28th October - oldvictheatre.com

Triple lock is the least pensioners deserve

There has been much talk recently as to whether the government will be keeping the triple lock on pensions going forward. The triple lock was introduced by the Coalition Government in 2010 to counter pensioner poverty. It ensures that the state pension rises each year by the greater of average wage growth, inflation or 2.5%. The rise was over 10% last year, with 8.5% predicted this year in line with wage growth. The triple lock was created to counter pensioner poverty, that had risen to 28% at turn of the century. The level is now 15% - still, well above countries, like France (4.4%) and Germany (9.2%). These other countries devote more of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to pensions. In France, 11.7% of GDP goes to the state pension. 11.5% in Italy. In the UK, just 4.7% of GDP goes on the state pension. The cry has been that the triple lock can no longer be afforded. The debate is very unhelpfully framed in the context of intergenerational conflict. The debate being that if the elderly get a decent pension, the young suffer. This is totally wrong. The elderly are entitled to a decent state pension. They have contributed for 35 years plus in order to receive a secure, decent pension. It is a right, not a privilege. The argument should be about how things can be improved for all generations. How the overall cake can be split more fairly. Inter-generational solidarity. How can the appalling inequalities in this country be countered? Maybe the rich, old and young, need to pay more. What of the companies that use the educated workforce, then take their profits offshore. Could they not pay more tax? The debate should be about how the overall pot can be increased, not how the present diminishing take is split. If the pensioners are doing relatively better, then look to move others up to that level, not drag everyone down to the lowest common denominator. Maybe a Universal Basic Income for everyone should be considered to level things up. What is certain is that the triple lock must remain. It is not excessively expensive but the least a civilised society can do for its population. Let's also remember that life expectancy in the UK is in decline, in marked contrast to other European countries Politicians will be loathed to cut pensions, not least because older people are more likely to vote. Nor does it look good, given the gold plated pensions that MPs award themselves. What is needed is to build on the triple lock to ensure pensioner security. Promote intergenerational solidarity, making sure that everyone gets a fairer deal.