UK attitudes on immigration symptomatic of an increasingly insular country on retreat into international isolation

The present febrile atmosphere surrounding the immigration debate has led some to refer to the return of the no blacks, no Irish, no dogs era. This was the time when boarding houses would put up such notices in their windows to warn off immigrants, whilst displaying blatant racism. Irish and Black people have been on the receiving end of British racism for centuries. The treatment of dogs has probably improved! Most recently there were the Irish, who came to build Britain's roads, work in the NHS, teach in schools and a wide range of other occupations. Famously, there was then the Windrush generation, recruited from the Caribbean to work on the likes of London Transport. They were, in turn, vilified and abused. The most recent discriminatory acts came with the return to the Caribbean of many of these hard working people, who had made a home here, at the behest of an ungrateful British state. The Irish ofcourse suffered a further wave of discrimination throughout the conflict in the North of Ireland. Generally, the Irish were regarded as a suspect community. So what has brought the country to the present impasse, where a Home Secretary seems determined to treat all migrants as suspect, with the most desperate (asylum seekers) seemingly labelled criminals? Are even the Irish, born outside Britain safe? There have always been racist tendencies in Britain, towards incoming migrants, as alluded to earlier. But the genie was really taken out of the bottle, with the Brexit vote. This was largely achieved on anti-migrant, anti-European sentiments. The likes of Reform leader Nigel Farage and Tory leader in waiting Boris Johnson helped convince the population that their problems were largely caused, not by austerity policies pursued by Coalition and Tory governments, but Europe and particularly migrants. This myth was also fostered by a right wing media, whose ownership were also keen for the UK to leave the EU. The leave vote was seen as vindication for the take back control of our borders and sovereignty crowd. It was though also seen as beginning of open season on migrants, as the indigenous population turned everywhere more inward on itself. Fast forward a few years and the cheerleaders for Brexit are once again banging the anti-migrant drum. This has led to the absurd position where many in the population consider immigration one of the top issues effecting their lives. Not, poisoned waterways, a crumbling NHS, a fifth of children living in poverty and an under- resourced education system but a few people coming in on boats seeking refuge. The 38,000 who have arrived on British shores via the boats this year represent less than a full Premier League football stadium. It is not an invasion, neither is everyone coming a criminal set to prey on the innocent. What is required is safe routes and a speeding up of processing claims. The ludicrous efforts of Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to stop people coming are bound to fail. She talks of push and pull factors. Never mentioned are the push factors of war and climate change.These are not being countered, indeed, British arms companies contribute more than their fair share to fuelling conflict around the globe. Other countries like Germany and France, let alone Turkey take far more refugees than the UK. Then their are those who come to work, filling skills shortages amid an ageing and increasingly sick population. And the overseas students who over recent years have increasingly funded the further education system. They apparently are also to be targeted by this government. So, TFL workers doing vital jobs on the transport system are to be thrown out because they don't earn enough to meet the latest arbitrary threshold introduced by government. Visit any hospital or care home and see who does the work. It is mainly migrants. The present obsession with creating an even more hostile environment for migrants will backfire. Eventually, many of those with the vital skills needed in the UK will not come here. They will go to more welcoming places, like Canada or Germany. Indeed, little is made in the immigration debate of the thousands actually leaving the UK. Recent figures show this phenomena rising. More widely, the British obsession with immigration shows an increasingly insecure, inward looking country. One seemingly happy to move ever further into isolation in an increasingly interconnected world. So having left the EU, the febrile right also want to withdraw from the European Convention on Human Rights and Refugee Conventions Such moves will have international implications. If undertaken they mean more isolation A reminder to the flag wavers: Britain does not and has not had for sometime an empire, nor does it have the power of somewhere like the US to go it alone. As Britain moves further in to isolation, Ireland moves in the opposite direction, putting itself at the heart of the EU and other international bodies. Yes, there are concerns about immigration in Ireland but nothing of the order of Britain. The Home Secretary faces substantial opposition, from both inside and outside Parliament, for her latest package of draconian measures. Irish born Labour MP Damien Egan put it well, when he said: "Controlling our borders and knowing who comes here is essential, not least to integration. "What can the Prime Minster say to my constituents that will give them an assurance that the reforms that he and the Home Secretary are proposing - which I support- will be firm, but also fair?" What needs to happen is for the case to be made for immigration, rather than follow down the Reform UK direction of travel. A more balanced debate could in the longer term take some of the heat out of the discussions and just maybe focus on dare I say it more pressing issues. Ofcourse, there needs to be a functional system for coming and going from the UK, securing borders, but not the frankly racist constructs now being contemplated. Meantime, where is that Irish passport?

Fascinating insight into the UN's forgotten Secretary General - U-Thant

Peacemaker by Thant Myint-U Published by Atlantic Books £22 An important book about an almost forgotten former UN Secretary General who did so much during the 1960s to promote peace around the world. Written by Thant Myint-U, the grandson of former UN Secretary General U-Thant, this book reveals the key role played by the UN in helping resolve the Cuban missile crisis, war in the Congo and the India/Pakistan clash over Kashmir in 1965. U-Thant had less success in trying to stop the six day war in 1967, when Israel backed by the US invaded Egypt and beyond. More than a bit of a sense of deja vu relating to what has happened in Gaza over the past two years. Notably, U-Thant endeavoured to bring resolution and peace to Vietnam from the outset in the early 1960s. He was ignored and vilified for his efforts by the Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon administrations. Though, it was U-Thant who was finally vindicated by history. A one time Burmese headmaster, U-Thant became acting UN General Secretary in 1961. He was made permanent later that year, going on to serve two terms. The UN was then a fledgling organisation, whose power and influence U-Thant did much to advance. He managed to forge important relationships with the John Kennedy Whitehouse and the Soviet Union. These links proving crucial during the Cuban missile crisis. In fact overall, whilst putting much effort into trying to cultivate relationships with successive US administrations, the Soviets probably proved more consistently supportive. Relations were never good with Johnson due to differences over Vietnam, whilst Nixon had no time for the UN or its Secretary General The role seemed to be one of getting the blame for much and the credit for little. But U-Thant did make an immense impact with his use of soft power. An interesting read, that goes some way to righting the historical record, with regards to the role played by the UN and one of its outstanding Secretary Generals in creating and maintaining world peace in particularly turbulent times.

Without migrants the country would grind to a halt

The staff at Whipps Cross hospital are a fantastic body of people. Overworked, often under stress, but striving for the betterment of us all. I was recently a patient at Whipps Cross, witnessing the selfless work of so many people. The conditions are not easy, pressure to deal with often life threatening conditions. All this, as well as working on what is now, in part, a construction site. Another thing that struck me on my visit was the number of migrants keeping the whole show on the road. Whipps Cross is a microcosm of the NHS, a fantastic operation, that serves us all, staffed to a large degree by people coming from other countries. The same applies to a large number of other sectors from care, education and transport to hospitality and construction. If migrants went on strike the whole British economy would grind to a halt. Britain has an ageing population, with a falling birth rate - the economy desperately needs migrants. So why is it that parties like Reform UK, who base their whole appeal on an anti- migrant agenda, seem to be growing in popularity? Reform UK are the party of the elites, posing as the party of the people, scapegoating minorities in order to attain political office. For those with eyes to see where they have attained office, mayhem has ensued. Kent is one example. These people are not serious but peddle division to win office. They have no time time for an NHS free at point of delivery. That said, the Labour Party could do better -it is seemingly fixated with aping Reform. Take the small boats agenda. Some 37,000 people come desperately seeking refuge, but are stereotyped as criminals. A distortion and distraction. Meanwhile, in the fifth richest country in the world, some five million children live under the poverty line. Over 150 billionaires live in Britain, while millions go to food banks. Rather than stand up for our multicultural society, the government seems keen to follow the Reform UK's lead. Legal migrants it seems are not welcome. There are restrictions, according to earning levels. And proposals to insist on language competency to A - level English level - how many indigenous British have this qualification? How many need it? It is almost as if the pro-growth government wants to stop those migrants, who come to fill the skills shortages, that are hampering British businesses efforts to progress. Higher education is one of the few UK growth sectors, so why penalise the overseas students whose fees largely keep it going? The anti- migrants agenda promoted by Reform UK and mirrored by many other parties is madness. On one level it is immoral, driving division throughout the country. On another, it is economic suicide for a country with an ageing population and falling birth rates. Migrants are net contributors to the economy. So next time your in A&E or visiting relations in a care home, look around you to see what is going on. Then, maybe, smile and say thank you to all those fantastic migrant staff for all that they do.

Quiet Ear

The Quiet Ear by Raymond Antrobus Publisher: Weidenfeld & Nicolson Price £16.99 This fascinating account of living with deafness, will resonate with everyone who has hearing issues. It should also be a wake up call to those who don't. Internationally renowned poet Raymond Antrobus takes the reader through his different life experiences, showing how these have been shaped by deafness The struggle, in a society that, at best, has a tick box mentality to deafness. The battle to be like everyone else (those without deafness). The stigma encountered by wearing hearing aids. Antrobus takes the reader through his life, growing up, a young mixed race man, in the Hackney of the 1990s. Difficult times at school ensue, only improving when he goes to the deaf school, Blanche Nevile. Different individuals, like teachers Penny and Renata, listen and really help the young Antrobus. Swimming teacher Mark becomes a heroic figure to him. These individuals really make a difference. All the time he is learning, trying to make sense of the world. There are times when he feels isolated and lonely. Others though do not overcome such problems. Tyrone Givens was confident, doing well at Blanche Nevile but thing's fell apart, when he left. He ended up in prison, denied his hearing aids, he hung himself. Poetry becomes Antrobus salvation. Always fascinated by words and literature he progresses, with help from some along the way. A lot of the journey is about coming to terms with and accepting deafness as a way of life. This applies to those who are deaf but also the rest of society. The need to be genuinely inclusive. People need to speak clearly and visibly with people who are deaf or have hearing difficulties, not let them become isolated and cut off in a cocooned world. Signing is important. Neither is the there there pat on the head attitude of so many in society helpful. That said, Antrobus comes to not see deafness as a disability but just another way of living. He refers to deafness as "an experience rather than a trauma." He recalls on a trip to the Caribbean, realising you could live deaf in Jamaica. The experience ofcourse will be different for those born deaf to others who have lost hearing for whatever reason. UK society is certainly failing deaf people. There is a lack of recognition of the enormity of the issue. Antrobus points out that there are more deaf people now than in 2003, yet fewer deaf schools and support systems. The Quiet Ear is an excellent read, the story of one man's battle to get through life, how he struggles to deal with and come to terms with deafness. However, his journey results in a recognition of deafness as part of who he is, something almost to celebrate, rather than hide or get depressed about. An uplifting read, with so many lessons for the whole of society.

Looking back and forward - eight years on Redbridge Council

So what has been good, bad or indifferent in the past eight years of serving as Redbridge councillor. On the plus side, has been the efforts to tackle climate and biodiversity crises. Councillor Jo Blackman and myself brought the Climate Emergency Motion to the council in 2019.This was duly passed leading to a new climate policy to address the crisis. On biodiversity, we were both on a Nature and Environment task force, that set out a number of measures to address that crisis. Slowly, things have advanced on the environmental agenda but advance they have. Things like the tree pit adoption, grow zones areas and work around the river Roding have been encouraging. Transport has been a thorny area. The extension of the Ultra Low Emissions Zone and School Streets schemes have improved air quality for everyone. Controlled Parking Zones have handed streets back to the residents. Electric car charging provision has improved. The extension of cycle lanes has been encouraging. However, it has been frustrating looking back at how slow progress has been on transport. Redbridge lags behind neighbouring boroughs on things like cycle networks. We have not been bold enough with schemes like Low Emissions Neighbourhoods, restricting car movements and improving daily life. The rapid withdrawal of the few schemes deployed during the COVID crisis has to be a regret. It would be good to see more pedestrianisation of shopping areas, as has been seen with the mini- Holland schemes in Waltham Forest. Redbridge does now have an active travel policy but it has been slow to arrive. Things have not been made easier by TFL's reordering of bus provision in the area. Running local councils though is not easy, especially in these cash strapped times. Redbridge has had more than £100 million taken away by national government over the past decade. It is one of the worse funded authorities per head in terms of the demands that now exist. Statutory duties like adult and children's care swallow up 75% plus of the budget. Dealing with homelessness is another growing statutory demand. So life is not easy, constantly trying to deliver more for less. It is something that there could be a little more public understanding of, when the council is looking to find innovative ways to address the shortfalls. There is a growing frustration amongst the public regarding services. A frustration shared by councillors trying to improve things. Mostly people become councillors for the right reasons to serve the community. They should not be expected to just become lightening rods for people's frustrations and anger. Yes, things go wrong and could be done better. People have the right to protest. But increasingly you feel in this social media age, people just need someone or something to get angry about. The rapidity with which a sort of lynch mob mentality can develop via social media is alarming. So, yes it has been great to serve the people of Redbridge for the past eight years. But it is a concern looking to the future, as to how things will be afforded under the present funding arrangements. Much has been achieved but much more can be done, given the resources.Above all though, moving forward, let's be nicer to each other. published - Wanstead Directory- November 2025

Revitalised West Ham best Newcastle 3-1

West Ham battled all the way to secure a vital three points against Newcastle United at the London Stadium Often, it wasn't pretty but a backs to the wall effort saw West Ham fight all the way. Something the fans have been waiting to see all season. Things didn't start well. A quick turn of events saw West Ham go behind in the fourth minute. The home side had just seen Jarrod Bowen hit the post but play switched immediately to the other end, where Jacob Murphy found space to slot home from the right side of the penalty area. Then, it looked like another one of those afternoons, as VAR denied a penalty shout for Bowen, brought down by Malik Thiaw. A Lucas Paqueta free kick was then pushed wide by Nick Hope. The resulting corner, saw the keeper in action again, pushing over a Max Kilman header. Eventually the pressure did tell, as Pope punched out for Mateus Fernandez to lay the ball off for Paqueta to rifle home from 20 yards out. Newcastle, then, turned up the heat, with Anthony Gordon and Joe Linton forcing saves out of Alphonse Areola. Deep into first half injury time, though, Aaron Wan Bissaka on the overlap saw his cross diverted into his own net by Sven Botman. After the break, Hope was in action again, pushing a Kilman header over the bar. The impressive Freddie Potts then had the ball in the net but it was ruled out for offside. At the death, West Ham made sure, when a Bowen breakaway saw the resulting shot squirm under Hope for incoming Tomas Soucek to force home. This time VAR confirmed the goal. West Ham head coach Nuno Espirito Santo was pleased with how the team reacted to going one down. He explained how in training they had focused on individual improvement."The players will now be more confident and happy to return to the London Stadium next week," said Espirito Santo, who paid tribute to the fans for how they got behind the team. "We want to transform the London Stadium into a difficult place for our opponents to come to. We can't thank the fans enough," said Espirito Santo. Newcastle head coach Eddie Howe was disappointed with "a poor performance. However, he felt his team lacked "physicality and energy." He felt, after taking an early lead Newcastle should have grabbed hold of the game but didn't. "We were better in the second half but not particularly great,"said a subdued Howe.

Wanstead Beer Festival proves a great success but the industry is under pressure

The recent Wanstead Beer Festival (WBF) was a great success. Around 950 attended, enjoying the different beers,ciders, gins and wine. Brentwood Breweries, Mango Unchained, was the most popular beer selling out quickly and getting voted beer of the festival. Devon based Farmer Jim's Rhubarb Bob cider won cider of the festival. So the event, goes from strength to strength. Many thanks go to the tireless team of organisers and support from local business sponsors and breweries. But though the WBF seems to be booming, the industry generally is having a hard time. Pubs have been shutting regularly across the country for many years. After, the surge in new breweries opening, following the tax breaks provided by the Labour Government at the start of the noughties, some of these are beginning to struggle. Locally, Walthamstow based Beerblefish and Wildcard recently ceased trading. Fortunately, some new ones like Libertalia in Leyton have also appeared. The difficulties began with COVID, which hit the hospitality sector harder than most. Then, inflation and the rising costs, such as employers national insurance. So life is difficult. Pubs are one of the things that bring people together it community - it is an important function. People may go in groups to pubs or just sit alone having a drink and/or something to eat. They want to be with others. This need is likely to grow, as society becomes increasingly atomised. The Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has played an important role over the years advocating for the industry. They have also helped keep pubs alive. The local East London branch have been very supportive of the WBF. But even CAMRA are struggling. The trademark Great British Beer Festival (GBBF), held annually at Olympia, attracting many thousands, will not happen next year. This year the event was held in Birmingham, which proved less successful. Promoting and supporting beer festivals is a crucial role that CAMRA play and must continue. It must be hoped that the GBBF resumes in 2027. The other smaller beer festivals, though, need ongoing support Things are not easy. The success of the WBF and many other festivals shows that there is a real appetite for such events. Pubs in Wanstead are up against it but doing well It was excellent earlier this year to see Urban Pubs and Bars take over the George, when Wetherspoons pulled out. The move came after a strong local campaign to save the pub, attracting some 3500 signatures on a petition. The George and Dragon provides a different offer but has proved popular with locals. It also means we kept our landmark pub. Micropubs have proved a successful innovation in many parts of the country. These are humbler affairs, stocking a number of beers, ciders, wines and gins. There is food but usually basic stuff, like scotch eggs. There are less overheads on these usually smaller premises. So the micropub can offer a way forward. But all in all, it is a case of use them or lose them, when it comes to pubs. The WBF and other festivals prove how popular getting together to have a drink and celebrate with friends remains. The need for community has never been more important. So, support the pubs and festivals, as well as getting involved with groups like CAMRA and others seeking to support and protect our pubs and breweries. Cheers.

West Ham suffer fourth home defeat of season in lacklustre display against Brentford

West Ham 0-2 Brentford Brentford emerged deserved winners of this derby game against a lacklustre West Ham at the London Stadium. On the basis of this performance, those who thought that a change of manager at West Ham would turn things around maybe in for a shock. This was an even more haphazard and under par performance than those previously seen at at the London Stadium this season. The fourth defeat out of four. The initial selection baffled many, with left and right backs, Ollie Scarles and Kyle Walker Peters, reversed to play on opposite flanks. Again, there was no recognised central striker, as the midfield was packed. Brentford really should have won the game far more easily. Though, West Ham did start the game brightly, pressing in and around the visitors box for the first 20 minutes but this quickly fizzled out. Half an hour into the game, Igor Thiago headed over when well placed in front of goal. Alphonse Areola then pushed a header from Mikkel Damsgaard round the post. Finally, the breakthrough came when Max Kilman failed to intercept another long ball, allowing Kevin Schade to lay off for Thiago to apply the finishing touch. Thiago then had the ball in the net again but it was ruled out for offside. West Ham's sole threat was a shot by Jarrod Bowen from the edge of the area, which was pushed round the post by Caoimhin Kelleher. The second half, saw Brentford continue to dominate, with Schade seeing his powerful header bounce back off the bar. Then, Areola saved with his legs from Thiago. It was not until the 94th minute that Brentford sealed the deal, Keane Lewis Potter crossing for an unmarked Mathias Jensen to smash into the roof of the net from just inside the penalty area. West Ham head coach, Nuno Espirito Santo, had sympathy with the fans angry reaction. "I understand the atmosphere, it is up to us to change it," said Espirito Santo, who expressed concern about players not winning individual battles on the field. "We are a long way from finding an identity," said Espirito Santo. Brentford head coach Keith Andrews was pleased with, what he regarded as his team's best performance of the season. "We controlled the game, with the ball and pressed," said Andrews. Espirito Santo certainly has a job on if he is going to save West Ham from relegation, at the moment they must be among the favourites.

Michael Rosen getting through it

Getting through it Old Vic Poet, author and broadcaster, Michael Rosen, delivers a mesmerising talk on the themes of trauma, grief and mortality. The subjects being his son's death and his own near death experience with COVID in 2020. A mixture of poetry and diary style recall, punctuated with Rosen's trademark humour, holds the audience spell bound. The first half deals with the death of Rosen's 18 year old son Eddie from meningitis. The second, his own battle to overcome COVID which involved being in a coma for 48 days then almost having to re-learn how to live. The recall of the death of Eddie brings forth the positive aspects of life. The shock of death, yet celebration of life. The shock came in Rosen finding his son dead, some celebration was the fun of arranging the funeral. All the emotions come out, such as expecting his son to suddenly appear, that inner denial we all have when someone has passed. He recalls meeting a woman in a French cemetery, who has just lost her 18 year old son in a car accident, wondering whether she is more bitter because of the suddenness of her loss. One incisive insight focuses on death and grief. The first, a biological event, the second, being sorry that things are not what they were. Rosen's COVID trauma began, when he was taken into hospital in March 2020. He recalls being asked to sign a form allowing ventilation of his lungs. He asked what were his chances? Nil if he didn't sign, 50% if he did. "I signed," said Rosen. Another time, a nurse called Dan said a number of Hail Mary's over him. Though, Jewish, Rosen felt at the time it was best to cover all the bases. Rosen's treatment came in the context of a government policy, at the time, based on herd immunity,. This saw NHS staff working in a context that saw older people as expendable. The former children's poet laureate also recalled later being asked to give a talk about being in a coma. A short session, he recalled. This audience with Michael Rosen offers fascinating insights into human emotions via two very personal experiences. His trademark humour lightens the darkest of moments. It is truly remarkable that via his poetry and prose Rosen can cover what appear dark subjects in such an illuminating way. The tour of Getting through it began at the Old Vic continuing into next year. Rosen's book of the same title is also an excellent read. published - Morning star - 21/10/2025

Flag fanaticism first seen in Belfast / Patriotic to pay taxes - Irish Post

The sight of St George and Union flags appearing across Britain has caused alarm. There is more than a resemblance to the streets of Loyalist parts of Belfast, with the flags and union jack kerbstones. When coupled with the 100,000 plus protesters out on Tommy Robinson's march a few weeks ago, there is a real intimidatory feel to the whole thing. A major focus is the small boats coming across the channel. The way in which this issue has been used to whip up racism is incredible The number of people taking this hazardous route to refuge in this green and pleasant land is relatively small. Some 35,000 this year (a medium sized football ground). Less than 2% of migrants coming to these shores. Yet a combination of Nigel Farage's Reform, Robinson and the rabid supporting cast, amongst Britain's right wing media, have presented the boats as some sort of threatening invasion force. Using the flag symbolism plugs into the 'we will fight them on the beaches' mentality of Second World War fame. Fortunately, it does seem like the Labour government is at last beginning to stand up and defend the values of a pluralist, inclusive, multicultural society. The Prime Minister Keir Starmer did well recently in calling out Farage and Reform for their racism. However, for the Irish community, especially of Belfast, this whole issue must have an eerie feel. There have ofcourse also been ethnic tensions in the north with minorities being targeted. Some 3.4% of the population of the North come from ethnic minority backgrounds, compared to 18% in England and Wales. But whilst historically the background causes of the divisions in Ireland are different, the hardening of attitudes and physical division of communities seen in the North could provide a glimpse of the future in Britain. A land of segregation. Instead of pluralism, the communities shrink into their religious or ethnic groups. Tensions rise. The trend over the years of seeing developments in the North, later extend to the rest of Britain, is well known. Methods of policing, military actions and laws have all come home as it were. Not usually for the common good. Will the latest manifestation be any different? So how things go over the next few years in Britain will be interesting to see. Certainly the continual rise of the racist right will see an exodus from Britain to places like Ireland, which today appears, for the most part, a country must more at ease with itself, inside Europe, despite other tensions. Patriotic to pay taxes No one wants to pay more tax. But why is that? It is actually a patriotic thing to do. Pay your dues, contribute to the common good. Part of the problem is the perceived unfairness of the tax system, with those who have most seemingly contributing least. The billionaires who prosper, while millions go to food banks. The big multinational companies that use the local population, who have been educated and nurtured at tax payers expense, exploiting that resource, while paying next to no tax themselves. Rich individuals who store their wealth off shore in areas, where they can be assured of paying the least tax. Yet, if we want decent public services they have to be paid for. In Britain and Ireland there has been a myth sold that there can be low taxes and top grade public services. There can't - one thing is used to pay for the other. The idea of the common good is drawn from Catholic social teaching. It really should be the guiding principle as to how a society is run. Not bottom line economics. Everyone pulling together for the common good. Love thy neighbour rather than rip off they neighbour for your own advancement. Those with the broadest shoulders have to carry the heaviest burden. And some are prepared to do so. Groups like Patriotic Millionaires say they want to pay more tax. If more tax was paid there would be less reliance on outside factors like borrowing via the bond markets. What could be more patriotic? But the system does need to be fair and just for all. So let's adopt the common good as the mantra that governs society, not the law of the jungle

More needs to be done to address biodiversity challenge

There was an excellent debate around a motion to restore nature at the last full Redbridge council meeting. The motion highlighted the biodiversity crisis of the moment, with 19% of wildlife lost since 1970. One in six species under threat of extinction. There has been much happening in Redbridge on biodiversity, with 400,000 square metres of land given over to wild space and 10,000 sq m to grow zones. There have been 7,000 trees planted in the last year, while 850 tree pits have been adopted. This is all good but much more is needed to address the biodiversity crisis. A lot of the work undertaken is of a voluntary nature, done by individuals and community groups. Redbridge Council are not the only public body to use volunteer labour. The City of London Corporation get much voluntary help for the park and flats from the likes of the Wren Group and Friends of Wanstead Park. The River Roding Trust does great volunteer work on the river. All of these things are vital, showing a buy in from the community. They must though not be exploited, simply being used to do tasks that otherwise people would be paid to do. They must have a significant voice, in return for endeavour. The need to address the biodiversity crisis also needs to be given higher priority. Both biodiversity and climate aims could be made into statutory duties for local authorities to take on. Additional funding would need to accompany such duties. Environmental groups in Redbridge are urging the council to pass a Nature Emergency motion, similar to the Climate Emergency motion passed in 2019. This would include clear benchmarking of things that need to be done, like committing to 30% of council land for nature recovery by 2030. Also, to extend the duty on developers to provide a 20% biodiversity net gain in projects. There would need to be a comprehensive nature recovery strategy. This would see nature recovery embedded in the policy and plans of the council. This upping of priority for biodiversity aims must be he next step for addressing the crisis. To learn more about the petition for a nature emergency motion see: Https://chng.it/S8TYXnTpBJ What is for sure is that things need to move more quickly. The whole of civil society and local governance needs to be galvanised to address the emergency in nature. It can be done with the right political will supporting the present groundswell of support from residents wanting change. Together, we can create a cleaner, greener Redbridge.

How much has Wanstead changed?

A plaintiff cry sometimes heard amongst those who have lived in Wanstead for a while is that things aint what they used to be. Having lived here for 60 plus years I would question the claim. Yes, things have changed, often for the better but much has stayed the same. A former student of Aldersbrook Primary and Wanstead High schools, those schools continue to excellently serve the local community. A different pupil intake and the developments - including the swimming pool, in the case of Wanstead High - have brought change. But the biggest physical development in Wanstead over recent years, came in the 1990s,with the forcing through of the M11 Link Road. Some of us opposed. Though, the cut and cover approach has ensured that much of the road goes under George Green and beyond. The high street has changed in terms of different types of outlets. The boat shop, Woolworths and Stockdale's have gone. There are many more coffee shops now but that is as a result of different demands. There are excellent independent shops, well supported by the local community. The high street has managed to whether the threats posed by online deliveries, though these occur in practically every road in Wanstead these days. The community in Wanstead has always been strong, never more so than today. The Community Gardeners, Wren Group, Friends of Wanstead Park, Wild Wanstead, Wanstead Climate Action, and allotment holders, to name but a few - all make valuable contributions. There have been welcome new additions to life over recent years, like the Wanstead Festival, Wanstead Fringe and most recently the Wanstead Beer Festival. All signs of a vibrant community that cares. That care also manifests itself in strong protest when people are not happy. I joined with many others to oppose the M11 Link Road at time of construction. There has always been a strong voice for peace, with much activism following the 9/11 attacks in America. Then, the multi-faith group Peace and Justice in East London formed. More recently there has been action over Gaza and Ukraine. Some local people have made their voices heard recently over proposed new stalls on the high street. It is all part of living in a vibrant community, where people care. So, yes there has been change in Wanstead over the years, most good, some not so much. But the cry things ain't what they used to be rather emanates from the human condition. Life is a conveyor belt to the end. We all seek security and certainty - the notion of stop the world I want to get off is something that resonates with many of us. The reality is that the moment we are born everyone is on a journey to the end. The conveyor belt cannot be stopped, no chance to get off. We all have to live life as much, as possible, to the full and in the moment. I have enjoyed life in Wanstead and continue to do so. As a local Labour councillor for Wanstead Village over the past eight years, it has, for the most part, been a pleasure to serve. There is,though, still much to be done. I will not be standing as a Labour councillor next May, so now is time to look for the next challenge on the conveyor belt of life. And Wanstead offers lots of opportunities to do that.

Three great books offering different insights on nature

Three great books, with differing takes on the natural world, offer real challenges and insight for nature lovers. Lake District based farmer and writer, James Rebanks has already produced challenging books in the The Shepherds Life and English Pastoral. But his latest book The Place of Tides (Allen Lane, 2024, £10.99) is a more reflective work, written when Rebanks is at a cross roads in his own life. Rebanks goes on a journey of self discovery, involving spending time out with two of the women who work with eider ducks on the Norwegian outer islands. Rebanks spends three months with Anna and Ingrid, preparing nesting sites for the ducks.Also, seeking to protect the birds from predators like otters, mink and sea eagles. The account is beautifully drawn, showing Anna as someone totally absorbed and fulfilled in what she does (Ingrid is the apprentice). It is Anna's last season doing the work that involves the final act of collecting the eider feathers from the vacated nests. These are then used to make eiderdowns. An old skill but being kept going by the women. The picture is one of humans and nature in balance living sustainably together. Rebanks is at something of a cross roads in his life, driven and burning up - ignoring the things that matter. The three months with Anna and Ingrid see him relax and get things back into perspective as a result of this interchange with nature and someone who has got the equilibrium right. A real cathartic process. Chloe Dalton goes on a similar journey of self discovery by a different route in Raising Hare(Canongate, 2025, £10.99). Dalton is working in a political advisor role at the Foreign Office, when COVID hits. She ends up living, isolated in the country. The story begins when she finds a leveret in the road. She brings it home, searches everywhere for information on what to do to bring up the young hare. A rather beautiful story emerges as Dalton's life is tied to the leveret, which remains based in the house but escapes to surrounding fields during the day, then returns. It has several young, with a variety of domesticity. Dalton discovers nature through her interactions with the hares. She becomes a champion for the hares cause. It is a fascinating story that manages to avoid the sentimental. Dalton for instance refuses to name the animals, seeing this as part of the humans efforts to colonise the wild world. A great insight. John Lewis Stempel has a similarly unsentimental attitude to nature. A farmer, Lewis Stempel shoots for the pot. In many ways, he is the doyen of nature writers. The breadth of his writing is unrivalled, managing to set things in the natural context yet drawing in literary, musical and other references. So there are the works of Shakespeare, John Clare, William Wordsworth and Thomas Hardy. Similarly, the Kinks, Pink Floyd, Ralph Vaughan Williams and Edward Elgar get mentions. A Natural History England (Penguin, 2025,£10.99) is different to the first two books, covering estuaries, park,downs,beechwood, river, field, village, moor, lake, heath, fen and broad and coast. Lewis Stempel goes to different areas for these terrain, such as the Thames Estuary, the Southdowns, Burnham Beeches and the Yorkshire Moors. The book is packed with interesting insights, such as that the decline of cuckoos being linked to changes in farming. And that there are much better conditions for cuckoos in Scotland (30% increase) and Wales (stable) than England (declining). The route back to Africa seems to play a role in survival rates. The Scottish and Welsh birds go south east via Italy, while English birds go south west through Spain. Another interesting view is that well managed grouse moors can be beneficial for biodiversity and other bird species. Lewis Stempel is not a fan of driven shooting but points to how managed moors retain good heather levels. "When management ceases, the waders - the curlew, the plover, the lapwings - who shared the moor with the grouse decline," writes Lewis Stempel. All three of these authors provide valuable insights on the natural world and in the case of Rebanks and Dalton the human psyche. They have a real resonance for those of us who find solace in our own natural world in this area. That being part of nature, as we walk park and flats, watching birds and animals, observing fauna and insect life. Highly recommend all three books to anyone looking to learn more about the natural world and maybe even about themselves.

Graham Potter concedes West Ham must do better, after third home defeat in a row

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace West Ham slid to their third successive home defeat, this time against Crystal Palace, in what is turning into a nightmare season at the London Stadium. What is difficult to fathom is the lacklustre attitude of this West Ham team. This was another game where it seemed the points were there for the taking but West Ham couldn't get up the impetus to make it happen. Crystal Palace took the lead just after the half hour. A corner was met by Marc Guehi, who saw his header come back off the bar but only as far as Jean-Philippe Mateta, who headed home. West Ham nearly snatched an equaliser just before half time, as a decisive move involving El Hadji Malik Diouf, Crysencio Summerville and Callum Wilson ended, when Yeremy Pino finally blocked the shot. After half time, Maxence Lacroix rattled the cross bar with a header. The West Ham equaliser followed quickly after, when a Diouf corner, was met by Jarrod Bowen, who came short to head home. Then, Mateus Fernandez had a header cleared off the line. Kyle Walker Peters also saw his headed effort go wide, after getting on the end of a cross from Lucas Paqueta. But that was the last of West Ham's serious efforts. Then, Palace's Adam Wharton struck a long ball that was headed out to an unmarked Tyrick Mitchell, who turned and volleyed home. Most of the stadium had once again gone before the final whistle. The frustration for the home fans must be that with more effort and bit of luck this game was easily winnable. But that spark was missing, as heads went down and another defeat became inevitable. Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner told how his team targeted West Ham's seeming weakness over set plays, with six goals conceded from corners in recent games. The Palace manager explained how having played as a defender for many years, these things can get inside your head. A satisfied Glasner reflected on seeing "many positive things but also a lot of potential." His only complaint was that his team should have killed the game off. West Ham manager, Graham Potter accepted the problem with set plays, declaring that the only way to overcome the problem was hard work, with the players. There were protests from fans before the match. Potter responded, saying he understood the frustration, accepting that "everyone is entitled to an opinion " Opinions are not in short supply at the moment regarding the future at West Ham United.

More beers and more people expected at 3rd Wanstead Beer Festival - 4 October 2025

More beers and more people expected at the 3rd Wanstead Beer Festival The third Wanstead Beer Festival (WBF)is set to kick off at Christchurch halls on 4 October - with more than 50 beers and ciders on offer. There will also be gin, wine, prosecco and a selection of soft drinks. Our hosts, Christchurch, will be offering their superb burgers and hot dogs. Among the beers to look out for are Essex based Elephant School brewery's Mango Unchained, made with real mangos. A 7.2% beer, with a great combination of flavours. Looking for a good bitter, then Milestone brewery's Cromwell Best, fits the bill. It has a deep, slightly malty taste. Then, there is the lighter East London brewery favourite, the award winning Cowcatcher. The always popular champion winning beer Captain Bob from Mighty Oak brewery will again be available. Those who like a dark beer can't go far wrong with Brentwood breweries stout Walrus of Love. Another new beer this year is Broadsword from St George's brewery on Great Wakering. A new brewery this year is Pillars, which will be providing Helles and Pilsner lagers. Redemption brewery bring Rhinelander lager. Also, festival regular Pretty Decent once again provides "I could get better at T*sco for a quid." Among the ciders, there will be a good selection from Somerset based Farmer Jim. Get in early for the tasty Rhubarb Bob. The WBF is once again seeking to blend the local with national in the selection of beers. Another new brewery is Leyton based, Libertalia. Amongst Libertalia's offering will be the popular new bitter Private Eye. Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out. Bought in advance tickets cost £10, which includes the unique WBF glass. This year there is a new twist, with a bit of colour added. Tickets on the door will be £12. The organisers hope to keep most drinks at £5 or less. Thanks go to all those local businesses who have sponsored the event and help make it possible. Proceeds raised by the event are to be split between three charities - the Wren Group, Wanstead Community Riding Stables and the Christchurch restoration fund. So now the clock is ticking till kick off at 1 pm on Saturday 4 October. To get your ticket, see: www.wansteadbeerfestival.co.uk

West Ham implode, after promising first half

West Ham 0-3 Spurs West Ham once again totally imploded, after holding their own for more than half this game against Spurs at the London Stadium. Whilst the home fans loudly booed returning striker Mohammed Kudus, every time he touched the ball, it was the little Ghanian who had the last laugh, helping dismantle his old team. Then, the boos died away, as most the West Ham fans had already left the stadium before the end. The first half was an evenly matched affair as the two sides largely cancelled each other out. The best effort for West Ham came when Lucas Paqueta rolled the ball wide after Jarrod Bowen found him in the penalty area. For Spurs, Cristian Romero headed the ball home from a corner but was adjudged to have fouled Kyle Walker- Peters in the process. The second half was just a minute old when West Ham hit the self destruct button. First, a totally unmarked, Pape Matar Sarr, came in round the back to head home a corner. Tomas Soucek then lunged in with studs up, hitting João Palhinha In the leg. He was duly sent off. Two minutes after the sending off Romero launched a ball from the back to find Lucas Bergvall, who acrobatically headed home. The rout was completed, when Bergvall wriggled free in the area to lay the ball off for Micky van de Ven to sweep home. Worryingly for West Ham there was little sign of a fight back. Manager Graham Potter rang the changes but to little effect. Many, though, must have wondered about the original selection, packing the central midfield with four players, whilst leaving both strikers (Callum Wilson and Nicolas Fullkrug) on the bench. Potter recognised how events conspired, with a soft goal followed by the red card. "Our home form has not been good for a period of time. All we can do is focus on the positive things," said Potter. Spurs manager Thomas Frank was pleased with the win. "It was a my win and a good performance," said Frank, who pointed out that the club had not won at the London Stadium for six years. This disappointing result will throw further doubt on the future of Potter as West Ham manager.

Is Britain a hopelessly divided, racist country?

The gatherings around asylum hotels over recent weeks have threatened to boil over into violent riots of the type seen last summer. The political class has done precious little to calm things down, with business and trade minister John Reynolds declaring people were upset for "legitimate reasons" about asylum. There have also been declarations that people have the right to protest. Really, the right to gather outside a hotel, terrifying those inside? The government should be taking a stronger line, condemning the often violent protests, whilst defending the right of people to claim asylum. A coalition of far right politicians and publications have collaborated to demonise asylum seekers. So they are not now seen as desperate people seeking sanctuary but criminals preying on the innocent Talking of crime, it was interesting to note the news that 40% of those charged with crimes during the riots last summer had already been reported for domestic violence. Asylum seekers are becoming the target of the mob. It was racist motivations that sparked the riots last summer, and the protests this year around asylum hotels So is the UK just a hopelessly divided, racist society? Well no. Last year, the riots stopped when the majority of tolerant people said enough, coming out in places like Walthamstow in east London to make it clear that this unlawful violence could not go on. Similarly, large counter protests have appeared in places like Epping saying they will not stand for victimisation of asylum seekers. Last year, the government gave a lead, ensuring those convicted of violent acts felt the force of the law. This year, things seem different, with politicians hedging their bets. Reynolds with his comments about legitimate concerns and Neil Hudson, Conservative MP for Epping, declaring that the local asylum hotel must be shut. So, in other words capitulate to the demands of the racist mob. It is ofcourse a good idea to take asylum seekers out of hotels. The government is seeking to do this. Processing needs to speed up, so decisions can be taken and actioned. It would also substantially cut costs if asylum seekers were allowed to work. On the wider point, the flow of asylum seekers will not lessen, as long as the causes such as war and climate change fail to be addressed. Maybe, some of those British arms companies that make so much money out of conflicts around the world could pay some of the asylum costs. Another change that would help deal with the likes of the small boats crisis would be establishing safe routes for those seeking asylum. It was done for Ukrainians, why not every other nationality? What is for certain is that the appeasement of the mob cannot continue.Just shutting hotels is no solution. It is time to stand up for those British values of tolerance, plurality and multi culturalism. These are the values of which all can be proud, not the bigoted, racist utterances of the mob.

New adaptation of Shawshank Redemption starts tour at Theatre Royal Windsor

The Shawshank Redemption Theatre Royal Windsor This excellent stage adaptation of Shawshank Redemption really encapsulates the injustice, yet triumph at the heart of Stephen King's book. It was always going to be a tough task to adapt Shawshank Redemption to the stage, especially when the production hangs in the shadow of the brilliant film, starring Tim Robbins (Andy DuFresne), and Morgan Freeman (Ellis 'Red' Redding). In this stage version, Joe McFadden as DuFresne and Ben Onwukwe as Redding, make a good attempt at walking in the shoes of Robbins and Freeman. Onwukwe, particularly, well captures the wheeler dealer, yet decent nature of the Redding character. He also narrates the whole thing nicely. Bill Ward also does well as Warden Stammas, without quite conjuring up the cold terror of the film version character. Indeed, the violence on stage is somewhat toned down. The plot largely evolves around these three central characters. Original adapters Owen O'Neill and David Johns did a fine job, creating a contracted version of the original whilst remaining true to the narrative. Though, it is an adaptation that has had several rewrites over the years. Director David Esbjornson does a slick job with this version, keeping the momentum going throughout a compact plot. The set can at times seem a little cramped, moving from prison yard to wardens office and the much campaigned for library. But in the main, a limited space, is well used. The overwhelming theme of the play is injustice and the struggle of so many in the system to fight against the odds to get justice. In this case, for Redding and Du Fresne, the final redemption is found on a beach in Mexico. The story ofcourse is also one of an utterly corrupt system that seems to punish those seeking justice - a theme that resonates with the system here and even more in the USA. The US ofcourse always takes things, that one step further, with more stark and brutal scenarios. This production does well in depicting the 1950s system and how little has changed, through to the present day, in terms of brutality and injustice.. An excellent production, well worth seeing. At Theatre Royal Windsor till 6 September, then Darlington Hippodrome 9 to 13 September, Truro Hall - 16 to 20 September, Blackpool Grand Theatre - 23 to 27 September. The run ends next June at the Richmond theatre. For all dates see: https://www.kenwright.com

More beers on offer at third Wanstead Beer Festival

The third Wanstead Beer Festival (WBF)is set to kick off on 4 October. Bigger and better than ever. There will be more beers and ciders this time, topping the 50 mark. Gin, wine, prosecco and a selection of soft drinks will also be on offer. Our hosts, Christchurch, will again be offering their superb burgers and hot dogs. Among the beers to look out for are Milestone brewery's Cromwell Best, a deep, slightly malty bitter. Then, there is the lighter East London brewery favourite, the award winning Cowcatcher. The always popular champion winning beer Captain Bob from Mighty Oak brewery will again be available. Those who like a dark beer can't go far wrong with Brentwood breweries stout Walrus of Love. Sussex beer, Harvey's Best, will be on tap. Among the ciders, there will be a good selection from Somerset based Farmer Jim. Get in early for the tasty Rhubarb Bob. The WBF is once again seeking to blend the local with national in the selection of beers. Among local breweries contributing are Brentwood, East London, Redemption, Neckstamper, Pillars, Pressure Drop, Mighty Oak and Pretty Decent. These are tough times for the hospitality sector, with pubs and breweries under pressure. Thousands of pubs are closing every year - it is a real case of use them or lose them. So we all need to do our bit to support the sector. Sadly, since last year Walthamstow brewer Beerblefish has stopped trading. They were an early backer of WBF. Whilst Beerblefish will be missed, we have a new brewery to add in Leyton based, Libertalia. It is hoped that among Libertalia's offering will be the popular new bitter Private Eye. The WBF organisers aim to keep prices around £5 a pint. Tickets are selling fast, so don't miss out. Bought in advance tickets cost £10, which includes the unique WBF glass. This year there is a new twist, with a bit of colour added. Tickets on the door will be £12. The organisers hope to keep most drinks at £5 or less. Thanks go to all those local businesses, who have sponsored the event and help make it possible. The WBF is a real community effort all round. Proceeds raised by the event are to be split between three charities - the Wren Group, Wanstead Community Riding Stables and the Christchurch restoration fund. The funding for the stables will be going towards buying a big horse. "A horse that is safe, strong, kind, well schooled and suitable for riders with disabilities," said a member of the fundraising team. So now the clock is ticking toward kick off at 1pm on Saturday 4 October. To get your ticket, see: www.wansteadbeerfestival.co.uk

Pressure continues to build on West Ham manager Graham Potter, as Chelsea cruise to easy victory

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea The pressure continued to build on beleaguered West Ham manager Graham Potter, following this trouncing at home to Chelsea. Things started well for the home team, when inside five minutes, Lucas Paqueta rifled home from 25 yards. The visitors, though, were quickly level, when Marc Cucurella headed on a corner for Joa Pedro to open his account for his new club with a crashing header. A decisive moment came for West Ham when what looked a good goal for Niclas Fullkrug was ruled out for offside, after a VAR check. Two Chelsea goals followed before half time, knocking the stuffing out of West Ham. First, Paqueta was dispossessed by Pedro, who crossed for Pedro Neto to supply a crisp finish. Then, the industrious Estevao knocked over a cross for Enzo Fernandez to finish. The second half was a story of corners and goalkeeping errors. Both goals coming from corners fluffed by West Ham keeper Mads Hermansen. The first knocked home by Moises Caicedo, the second by Trevor Chalobah. West Ham's best response was a shot from substitute Freddie Potts that was turned over by Robert Sanchez. Any hope West Ham had that Chelsea might be fatigued by their FIFA Club World Cup exploits were quickly dispelled. The West Londoners grew in dominance as the game went on, first to every ball and always looking likely to score when they came forward. West Ham manager Graham Potter said: the manner of the goals was too cheap and too soft. "You can't defend the box like we did - it's basic defending," said Potter, who admitted it had been a tough week. "We have to drastically improve." It is going to be a long hard season for West Ham, who are sadly lacking in a number of areas. Potter will be hoping for reinforcements before the transfer window closes. Something the owners need to make happen, rather than hanging the manager out to dry.

Why so much media coverage of a party with 5 MPs - strange case of Reform UK?

The advance of Reform UK has been in no small part due to it's promotion in the British media. A party of just five MPs appears to dominate the political discourse. Compare the amount of media coverage of Reform UK to say the Green Party, with it's four MPs or the Independents with their five seats. Even the Liberal Democrats do not fair well in the comparison stakes, with their 72 seats. The new party launched by Jeremy Corbyn and Zara Sultana has drawn quite a lot of coverage but these are early days. The spread of Reform UK is amazing to behold. They seem to hold an almost permanent pew on programs like the BBCs Question Time. Leader Nigel Farage has been on the program more than any other politician over the years. In the print media, Reform UK also seem increasingly to make the running. It was extraordinary recently to see respected financial journalist Hamish McRae taking Farage's opinion on the future of pensions as his departure point for an article in the I paper on the subject. Reform UK has ofcourse fanned the flames of the immigration debate, always involved in the discussions over the boats coming across the channel or protests outside asylum hotels. Editors claim that Reform UK are popular, likely to form the next government - if the polls are to be believed - so warrant the coverage. But the next election is four years away. Why was so much coverage, particularly on the BBC, given to the party launching its law and order policy back in July? It was presented, as though an election had been called not that one maybe four years hence. Reform UK are no doubt reaping the benefit of a tendency in recent years to predict rather than report what is going to happen in the news. The danger with such an approach is that the prediction becomes a reality. The failure of the Labour government to communicate it's own narrative is another factor. This has created a vacuum that Reform UK, with it's media savvy leader Farage is always willing to fill. The government often make things worse by appearing to run scared of Reform UK, seeming to want to ape their policies rather than reject and state their own. The editors would claim the coverage is legitimate, given Reform UKs polling. They represent the discontent of much of the population with mainstream parties. Organisations like the BBC would claim they have a duty to cover the new party, scrutinising what it is all about. True enough. This particular approach will be put to the test now that Reform UK are running a number of councils and mayoralities. If the electorate still want Reform UK, what can the media do,? Though, the US media would claim it scrutinised Donald Trump. He even had a first term, yet the electorate decided he should have a second term. A less righteous view is that much of the media like Reform UK because they are good box office. Farage always has a media friendly soundbite to offer. The party has a number of, to put it nicely, eccentrics, who will always entertain. This line of thought no doubt has a role for programs like Question Time, though, they would claim the scrutiny role. It is a difficult argument. Reform UK need to be covered and scrutinised. If the electorate then put them into power so be it. But there also needs to be care taken not to promote the new party, making Farage's ascent to Number 10 seem almost an inevitability. So a fine line has to be trod, otherwise mayhem beckons.

Civil liberties are under unprecedented attack

Civil liberties are under attack in the UK in a way that has never been seen in modern times. There is always a tension between citizens liberties and those who govern, going back through the centuries. These ancient rights, like free speech, right of assembly and trial by jury, go hand in hand with the functioning of a healthy democracy. As democracy falters, so those in power, feel insecure and the need to clamp down. A former chief constable said that the mantra, give me your liberties and I will provide security, has been the refrain of dictators down the ages. It is a threat that is never far away. In modern times the conflict in the north of Ireland provided ample proof of liberties being removed on the back of security. Then, Home Secretary Royal Jenkins first introduced the Prevention of Terrorism Act, in the wake of IRA bombings in England. He introduced the measure in 1974, which allowed for seven days detention by the police, apologetically, declaring it a "temporary" and "draconian" measure. The PTA also allowed for proscribing (banning) terror organisations. There was a debate for renewal each year thereafter. Judge only Diplock Courts came in in the north of Ireland, where the right to silence was first removed. Restrictions on assembly took place. The PTA was,then, effectively used to harass the Irish community throughout the UK. Later, anti-terror legislation was used in similar fashion, against the Muslim community, during the so called war on terror. The scope of anti-terror laws extended over the years. A circular process also developed that saw rights removed under anti-terror law downloaded into the criminal law. The detention period under the PTA extended to 14, then 28 days. Labour Prime Minister Tony Blair tried to get pre- charge detention extended to 90 days. But this was famously defeated in a backbench MP rebellion caused by a revolt in civil society. The threat to civil liberties though continued over these years. The creation of the control order regime, overseen through immigration courts, effectively at one point legitimising detention without trial for terror suspects. Individuals were effectively kept in detention, often not knowing what they were accused of. The ongoing erosion of civil liberties continued, with every atrocity being used as a reason to cut more liberties in the name of security. Come forward to the present day. Peaceful marches through London protesting about what has been going on in Gaza are vilified by successive home secretaries. None of Jenkins reticence, over restricting liberties, from his successor Stella Braverman , who in 2023 branded the protests in London to be "hate marches." The protests have been peaceful.The police have been put under pressure to meet right wing politicians constructs that they are not. Braverman accused them of bias. The police have been on a tightrope, which they have struggled to maintain. Freedom of speech and protest is under pressure. However, what the politicians would do well to heed is that when people have a justice based grievance, just making it more difficult to protest does not make the issue go away. It simply changes the form of protest. Returning to the north of Ireland, where it was the initial failure to respond to the demands of the civil rights protesters, that in part led to the violent conflict that followed. People's grievances found other forms, fuelled by a denial to respond to their demands, then a clampdown on their means to make those demands. Today, politicians who seek to demonise protest and restrict freedom of speech should learn the lessons of history. A strong , thriving democracy is one at ease with itself. Liberties, such as free speech, habeus corpus and right of assembly abound and are celebrated. They should not be removed on a whim. Confident leaders are comfortable and proud of these liberal, pluralist traditions. As the chief constable said it is the dictators, who promise security in exchange for liberties. We cannot sleepwalk down that path.

Next test for old and new political parties comes next year, with the local council elections

The next big test for the political parties comes next May with the local council elections. At present, things seem to be changing by the week in the political lexicon. The Labour government seems to be struggling, despite its huge majority. Many of its problems come from a failure to communicate what it is about and what it is doing. There is no clear narrative, yet many good things are going on. This vacuum is being filled by other parties. So, by contrast, there is a media fascination with Reform UK. It is hard to believe that this party has just five MPs. This contrasts with the Independents, who have the same number and the Greens with four. Arguably, Reform get more coverage than the Liberal Democrats, with it's 72 MPs. Much ofcourse is to do with Reforms continual high ratings in the opinion polls that indicate it could be the next government. But that election is still four years away. Some in the media claim they are providing scrutiny of Reform, whilst others just see Nigel Farage and his party as good box office, always ready with a catchy soundbite. Reform are certainly playing the system, announcing policies as if a general election is imminent. The electorate would, though, do well to look at what is going on in those areas, where Reform are now running things, as well as in America, where the chaos being created by Donald Trump's administration is a forerunner of what would be likely to happen here if Reform ever do become the national government. On the left, there is the emergence of the new party led by former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn and fellow MP Zara Sultana. The principles outlined, with emphasis on addressing poverty and inequality and opposing war are more in line with the original principals of the Labour Party. Indeed, the Labour Party should beware the threat it faces from the left, via the likes of the new party, the Greens and Liberal Democrats. All of these changes in the political landscape mean the upcoming local elections are likely to see some major power shifts in the political scene. In Redbridge Labour hold 54, seats, the Conservatives five with four Independents. Recent by-elections highlight the threat posed by the Independents, with Reform also likely to have more of a day this time. For my own part, I have decided that after eight years, I won't be standing for the Labour Party in Redbridge next May. But more on that in due course.

Fiona Phillips experience exposes lack of priority given to dementia

Funding for dementia remains very low in the UK, despite one in three people likely to fall victim to the terrible disease. Without wishing to create a hierarchy of suffering, for every pound spend on cancer research, just 31 p is spent on dementia. The subject has jumped up the news agenda recently, with the diagnosis of journalist and former GMTV host, Fiona Phillips, diagnosed with Alzheimers. Her partner, Martin Frizell, has spoken out poignantly about their situation. The non-recognition, shrinking away, wanting to go back to a time in her childhood. Listening to Frizell brought back many of the memories of my own father, when he had dementia. He would suddenly appear in the evening, ready to go home. Explaining this was his home didn't help. The home he was thinking about was the one he grew up in 80 odd years before in Goodmayes. Interestingly, Frizell tells how he has learnt to never disagree, just go along with the fiction. Dad was a strong personality - a former headmaster in Newham. But those strong instincts can make for difficult times, when dementia strikes. His belief he was right saw him get out of the house, not knowing where he was going. This resulted in us all out searching the town to find him. Anything could have happened. There were, though, glimpses of the old Dad, when he had coherent phases. These were precious moments, though sadly, not frequent. Dad died in 2008 but it sounds as though little has improved since then. Martin Frizell was spot on, when he said dementia is seen as an old persons disease. The attitude being that sufferers have had a good innings.. and all the other platitudes. Fiona Philipps is 63, not old, and there are many much younger with the disease. Frizell claimed little has advanced with Alzheimer's since it was first diagnosed in 1912. He is right. There is certainly no prioritisation of the disease, even as it claims more and more victims. If it were prioritised, with the requisite funding provided, then very real progress can be made. Frizell has contributed to a book with Fiona Phillips on what has happened. They make some very valid points. Let's hope those with the power to address dementia are listening. This is a growing problem for our society that needs urgent attention, not outdated views on ageing and the relative values of life.

Review of: The next crisis - what we think about the future by Danny Dorling

Publisher - Verso, £22 The Next Crisis presents a fascinating examination of what are perceived as the crises of our times. The author examines how these crises mean different things for different groups and how elites manipulate priorities. Professor Danny Dorling dives deep into the problems, then comes up with a surprisingly upbeat message of hope for the future. The different crises from cost of living, inequality and poverty to war, violence, healthcare and climate are examined in turn. Then, how they can move around according to the reality of different groups lives, what they fear and why. The Dorling mantra that most of the crises emanate in some way from inequalities in societies, causing poverty and division is central. So, a health crisis like COVID, was dealt with better by more equal countries like Finland. Equally climate and biodiversity crises will be better dealt with by more equal societies. Also, the more equal countries are the happier ones. Dorling looks at immigration, a subject manipulated by elites to stir fear and division. He explains how migrants coming to an area can galvanise economies, whilst their departure triggers unemployment. The danger for an ageing population, like the UK, is in not being able to attract the migrants required to run the economy - not being over run. The present hostile environment is not attracting migrants. Dorling recalls how at Oxford University last summer, post the racist anti-migrant riots, that he and his colleagues wondered whether some students would return for the autumn term. Throughout, there are reminders of the damage done to societies by the rich elites. It is they who damage the planet most, use private planes, private schools, build buy to let portfolios and pass on inherited wealth. Dorling puts the downgrade of climate and biodiversity crises in the ratings across the world as partly due to rich people being the main cause. The promotion of climate skepticism or denial over recent years has profited the rich. Among the answers is the need to reduce inequality and revive the idea of community and social solidarity. Dorling is hopeful for the future, though believes there could be major crises ahead, many not even yet contemplated. This latest book from Danny Dorling is a good read, a little dense at times, but offering a real insight to the problems of the world. It offers a great opportunity to learn more as to why we have the problems we have but also how priorities get manipulated for the benefit of rich elites. There is though a message of hope for the future in troubled times. An important read for those who want to understand better the world in which we live, as well as what might be coming next.

Cheap, efficient, public transport, as well as electrification, have a role to play in sustainable transport system

The growing number of electric powered, rather than petrol and diesel, vehicles on the road is generally viewed as a positive thing. There is government led drive to see all vehicles on the roads being non-fossil fuel consuming by 2035. At local government level, the infrastructure is being developed to provide for the expansion of the electric vehicle sector. Electric vehicles reduce carbon emissions, pollution and noise. What is not to like? But there are critics. They claim that a lot of carbon emissions are created in the manufacture of these vehicles. The batteries, with the mined elements, such as lithium, cobalt and nickel attract particular criticism. There is also the disposal of the batteries, when exhausted. To summarise, critics claim that given the carbon emission costs in manufacture, it will take a very long time to recoup these over the lifetime of the vehicle. No doubt there is some value in this criticism. However, as the technology develops, there should be efficiencies in production that ensure the short term damage done by these vehicles is limited. Also, charging networks need to be sourced with renewable energy. But it is wrong to see replacing petrol and diesel vehicles with electric ones as the panacea to save the planet. The electric car has a part to play but road vehicles generally need to be controlled. The number of cars and car journeys need to come down. This though can only happen if other forms of transport improve and become cheaper. Public transport across the country is not of sufficient standard or cheap enough to fill the void. Cheap, if not free, reliable public transport has a huge role in the future regarding how people get about. Public transport ofcourse needs to be run on renewable energy. The number of vehicles on the road would reduce substantially, if free reliable public transport was available to all. Road space could also be freed up if freight was largely moved from road to rail. In order to achieve such a modal shift in transport away from the car to public transport would involve a large investment in public transport and infrastructure. The tax system could also to be used to incentivise these more sustainable modes of travel. The future of transport in the UK should be made up of a mixture of electric vehicles, renewable energy powered infrastructure and free, efficient public transport. The present incremental approach will see more and more of the country go under concrete, with the ongoing predict and provide model operating. The present piecemeal approach creates ever greater friction between car drivers and everyone else. A more holistic approach is required, taking in all requirements to provide a sustainable, cheap system of travel for all.

Time to call a nature emergency

The world is undergoing a crisis of climate and biodiversity decline. The two things are inextricably linked, with the devastation of natural phenomena, like trees and peat bogs, increasing carbon emissions, which change the climate. Both biodiversity and climate need addressing in unison. Unfortunately, the two things often seem to have been treated as separate, with biodiversity very much the junior partner. Whilst human beings are the cause of much of the destruction creating climate change, their actions on biodiversity border on the suicidal. Some 54% of insects have disappeared between 2004 and 2023. Bees are under threat from insecticides used on the crops. Without these insects, it will be impossible to provide the food we all need to survive. Nearly one in six species in the UK are threatened with extinction. Some 19% of species have become extinct since the 1970s. The present populist rhetoric of some in government that seems to imagine it is bats and newts stopping housing developments rather than greedy profiteers, gaining from land banking, beggars belief. Nature is also vital to the mental and physical wellbeing of human beings. It has been humanities desire to dominate and destroy, rather than work with nature, that has brought the world to crisis point. Yet, despite these stark and alarming statistics, humanity seems content to sleep walk into oblivion. Political leadership is needed, not more denial. Now, is the time to call a nature emergency. A number of councils (28%) around the country have done just that. Locally, this would be something similar to the climate emergency that was passed by Redbridge Council in 2019. A nature emergency would include developing a nature emergency action plan, thereby, ensuring that nature recovery was embedded as a key part of plans and policies. It needs to become a fundamental part of the council DNA, not an add on. One specific would be to manage 30% of council land for nature recovery by 2030. More trees and wild areas. And, the adoption of initiatives like No Mo May. A number of local groups have put a petition on the council petitions site calling for a nature emergency. This enshrines the principles of what is required and can be found at: https://moderngov.redbridge.gov.uk/mgEPetitionDisplay.aspx?ID=2088RPID=81311114&HPID=81311114. The petition and hopefully a motion, with a comprehensive plan, can be brought forward later in the year. There are positive things happening, like the grow zone areas, pollinator pathways, tree planting programs, restore nature pledge, days of community action and the promotion of community gardens. But much more is needed. It is time to put nature front and centre of the environmental emergency. The crisis in nature is on a par with that effecting the climate. It can no longer be treated as a secondary consideration, if the planet is to be saved for our children and children's children the whole crisis must be given priority.

The future of Wanstead Parks' waterways and the River Roding are inextricably linked, so what will be the best outcome?

The competing demands for water in the local area was one theme that came out of a session run last month by Epping Forest in Wanstead Park. Invited to the park, local stakeholders were shown around by Epping Forest staff. The focus was the Park Plan, with projects that had been undertaken and in some cases completed over the past couple of years. On the completion side, there is the floating reed bed on the Heronry lake. Work to restore the Grotto is underway, with refurbishment of the Temple about to start. But perhaps the most interesting proposal is the plan to pump water from the River Roding into the adjacent Ornamental Water (where there has been no water for some time), then onto the other lakes in the park. The new plan in a way operates the opposite way around to the originally designed water system. Then, the water flowed from the Basin on the golf course to the Shoulder of Mutton onto the Heronry Lake, the Perch Pond and finally the Ornamental Water. The old system no longer functions well, with different lakes drying up over recent years. The Ornamental Water in particular does not hold water for long. The stop gap measure of recent times has seen the Environment Agency (EA) granting a licence for Epping Forest to pump water from nearby bore holes into the Heronry Lake and Perch Pond. But this is a short term arrangement, not a permanent solution. Epping Forest are set to replace the old pumphouse with a new one in order to extract water from the River Roding in the winter months. Though, Environment Agency approval is required for this to happen. The role of the River Roding in this equation is an interesting one to ponder. On the one hand, there are the warnings about rising river levels with the onset of climate change. This could put surrounding residential areas under threat of being flooded. A safety valve like extraction of water to expanses like the park can relieve some of these pressures. On the other hand, at present, river levels seem low, with competing interests seeking to draw on already depleted resources. The EA has to decide which interests take priority. There are many calls for water the be restored to the Wanstead Park lakes. Yet, others say why should the river be depleted to maintain a man made structure in what was the play pen of members of the British aristocracy in past centuries? The park, though, as part of Epping Forest, was ofcourse given to the people of London by the Crown in 1878. Indeed, the river used to run through the lake before it was separated off and straightened, as part of the 18th century designs of the park. So there are interesting competing narratives on the question of water supplies. Some imaginative thinking is required from all sides. Pumping water from the Roding into the lakes has a role to play but there will be a question of how much? What will future water levels be on the Roding? Maybe going forward, there should be thought given to developing more reed beds and wetland style terrain, as part of the long term solution. Or some sort of restoration of the original design, with the river running through the lake or controlled by a sluice gate? The park needs to be viewed as but one part of the overall mosaic that includes the River Roding as well as surrounding residential and non-residential areas. A more holistic view is needed to ensure a truly sustainable long term solution.

A dangerous world without rules

The recent events in the Middle East mark the emergence of a new rule-less world. On the basis of Israel, the US and Russia's recent actions in the Middle East and Ukraine, it seems anything goes! This marks the end of the rules based approach to world affairs that has largely operated since World War II. International treaties, overseen by the likes of the United Nations, ensured a steady world peace, though with lesser conflicts and proxy wars still ongoing. The rules based approach was first weakened by the US, when it attacked Iraq without a UN resolution in 2003. The UK duly followed it's special friend into the disastrous conflict. International law was flouted, with no one person or country being brought to account. Next up was Russia invading Ukraine in 2022. No going to the UN, a straight land grab. Thousands dead on both sides with no end in sight. Some 18 months later, Hamas attacked Israel on 7 October 2023, killing 1200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel claimed. right of self defence, attacking Gaza. The stated object was to defeat Hamas but that action has now gone way beyond self defence. More than 55,000 dead, with the denial of humanitarian aid prolonging the suffering. More than a million people displaced. The US has unquestioningly backed Israel. The British government has backed up its special friend. Now, Israel has attacked Iran. Former US President Bill Clinton has pointed out this attack on Iran has much to do with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyaho staying in power. When the fighting stops Netanyaho is likely to be out of office. Most recently, the US bombs Iran, backing up Israel, on the premise of destroying Iran's nuclear bomb making capability. No reference to the UN or even the US Congress, an attack that could have huge implications for world peace launched by a president allegedly committed to peace. The world is now an even more dangerous place. In the US, the rule of law, seems to have been replaced by the law of the jungle and might is right. In the US, the President does as he pleases, the courts seem to have little power to restrain him. The much vaunted US constitution is being tested to breaking point. So the ideals of the rule of law, democracy and peace are all up for grabs it appears. Whether order and the rule of law can be restored in the US and internationally remains to be seen. The alternative hardly bears thinking about.

The way to counter Reform is not to become more like them

The surge in popularity of the Reform Party is a sign of a general disillusion with the mainstream parties. Reform triumphed in the recent local and regional elections as well as taking the constituency of Runcorn and Helsby from Labour. They look set to eclipse the Conservative Party, if the present direction of travel continues. Worryingly, the two main parties seem to have decided the way to confront Reform is to become more like them. For example, both parties seem keen to vilify migrants. The hope must be that now Reform actually have to run some councils and regional government, they will be exposed. They will learn that negative rhetoric about Low Emission Neighbourhoods and diversity officers in authorities that don't have either cuts little ice in government. The huge costs of providing child and adult social care and housing the homeless, on the other hand, whilst working with reduced budgets, offers a far greater challenge. Both of these needs are statutory requirements for local authorities, so not even Nigel Farage's disciples can dodge the requirement. It has to be hoped that the British electorate do not swallow the reactionary rhetoric of Reform in the same way as the Americans have the mantra of Donald Trump. In the end, if the cutting does not stop the services simply cannot be provided and cease to exist. This is a stark reality that is beginning to hit home in America. Better not to follow that path. But the disillusion of the electorate that is seeing the surge in support for Reform needs to be addressed. The seeds of the present crisis were sown by David Cameron's Conservatives, assisted by it's Liberal Democrat coalition partners, who brought in austerity policies. As a result, millions have hardly seen their wages rise in real terms for over a decade. Public services like the NHS, education, transport and the police have been starved of resources Some clever media and political manipulation managed to convince many people that Europe and migrants were to blame. Enter Brexit. We are all now poorer and the problems are worse.Yet, still we don't seem to learn, the architects of Brexit, were the forerunners of Reform. What is needed is to grow the economy in a sustainable way, ensuring that the fruits of people's labour flows to everyone not just a few. The creation of a more just, equal, functioning society is the way to address Reform, not becoming more like them.

Water needs to be nationalised

The privatisation of the water industry has been an unmitigated disaster. This particular Thatcherite masterstroke was allegedly about bringing more money in the form of private investment into the water industry. A revived infrastructure serving all needs from investors to consumers. So much for the fantasy. The reality has seen more than 40 years of unscrupulous private investors asset stripping the sector. Investor dividends have been prioritised, whilst debt has piled up. Leaking pipes, building reservoirs and dealing with sewage outfall have all been put at the bottom of the priority list. The result is a water system that is an embarrassment to the country: sewage in the waterways, creaking infrastructure and higher bills. The system has been mismanaged, whilst some greedy people have got very rich at the expense of everyone else. Privatising public utilities has always been a nonsense. It does not bring competition and efficiency but private monopolies with licence to exploit vital public resources. The only way such privatisations would work is if they were so tightly regulated that little profit resulted. Then, those benevolent investors would not put their money in in the first place. Fortunately, things are beginning to change, with tighter regulation of water companies. Directors have been made personally responsible for resulting damage, whilst rewarding failure has been restricted by withholding bonuses. Though, in the longer term these vital public entities need to come back into public ownership. The process is now underway in the rail industry. Faltering water companies, like Thames Water, need to be taken into adminstration on the road to public ownership. No more bailouts or hitting the customer with higher bills. Neither should the model adopted with the banks in the crisis of 2008 be repeated. Then, these institutions were taken into public ownership, but once revived (at public expense) handed back to the privateers to probably do the same thing again. So, there are encouraging signs of change but the privatisation of water has created such chaos across our waterways that it will take time to resolve. The whole infrastructure needs renewal, with building reservoirs and fixing leaks, as well as dealing with sewage outfall all needing to be prioritised. Above all the industry needs to be run for the common good of all, not the benefits of a few.

Ecological succession

The natural landscape all around us is continually changing. It is not a static thing. The thought occurred when thinking back to my childhood in Wanstead Park and on the Flats. In those days (1960s and 70s), there always seemed to be much more grassland around. Areas like around the big mound opposite Northumberland Avenue and the Shoulder of Mutton and Heronry lakes. The areas were almost like pampas. Today, there are some big thickets of brambles, especially around the mound area. Similarly the terrain on the flats has changed a lot. The Epping Forest authorities spend a lot of time cutting back broom and brambles to maintain grasslands. The big changer in all of this was that back in the day cows roamed freely across these areas, eating back brambles etc. Herds of 30 or 40 plus cows would wander around, eating back the vegetation. They did help themselves to the prize plants in some front gardens but that was unusual and a small price to pay for the ecological succession. The cows brought a wonderful intervention that helped many other creatures in the ecological succession. The recent reintroduction of a few longhorn cattle over by the plain area in the park for a few months each year is having a similar small scale effect. The longhorns are due back in September. Nature is a constantly changing thing. A wood is not a wood that will stay the same for ever. The same applies to meadows and fields. Every landscape is a dynamic thing, constantly changing. Landscapes are growing, living breathing things. If the cows are not around or alternative interventions made then the land would turn (or should that be return) to scrub and bramble. All will turn to forest. It is important that as humans we act in partnership with nature, not act to dominate and destroy for the benefit of human beings. Human beings are but one element of the natural world. We need to partner with the other aspects not seek to dominate. An absence of this type of approach is evident in some of the mindless rhetoric we hear about how bats and newts must not be allowed to stop "development." Fortunately, we are seeing more of the partnership approach with things like the rewilding movement. Locally,there are encouraging developments in the park and on the Flats. The floating reed bed put in at the end of last year on the Heronry Lake, opposite the mound. The skylark enclosure on the Flats plus the efforts to develop wildflower meadows. These are all positive things that work in partnership with rather than against nature. This has to be the way to advance in the future - very much together forever.

Tackling inequality will help economic growth

There is much talk about the need for growth in the economy, so the country can pay for vital services like health, social care, education and transport. It is a case of increasing the size of the economy in order that these things can be afforded. Or is it? The big problem of society today is inequality. There can be growth created but at present, the spoils of such success will flow to the few very rich people in society. That is why in a country like America, which had a buoyant economy, with 3 per cent growth, under the previous Biden adminstration, the majority of people did not feel the benefits. The cost of living crisis hit hard, with the mass of people feeling worse off. They did not get the benefit. The result, Donald Trump was returned as President promising to make America great again. Inequality needs to be addressed. The present Labour government has taken some steps to tackle inequality, like raising the minimum wage and improving worker's labour rights. There is talk of scrapping the two child limit for child benefit. But there has been no effort to make those who have the most pay more tax. In the 1970s, tax rates on the rich were much higher. The gap between rich and poor was narrower and people were happier. The polarisation of wealth with a flow from everyone else to the uber rich has been ongoing since 1980. Since 1995, the top 1 per cent have captured. 20 times more of global wealth than the bottom 50 per cent. If the government needs more funds for basic services, tax the rich, don't go for the poorest and most vulnerable in society. The cry goes up the rich will all leave the country but this is largely a myth. Some may go but if they don't want to contribute to the common good, is that a bad thing? There are though plenty of rich people who want to pay more. Patriotic Millionaires UK are one such group. They can see the unsustainability of the present system. So let them pay more. Universal basic income is another thing that would help reduce inequality. If AI has the impact predicted, then a form of universal basic income will become obligatory to keep the economy functioning. So, yes sustainable growth is needed but the fruits of such developments must be spread more evenly. A more equal society is a happier and better functioning place for everyone, including the very rich.

West Ham's season - a case of one step forward, two steps back

One step forward, two steps back is the best summary of the past season for West Ham United. The ownership of the club decided in it's wisdom to part company with manager David Moyes at the end of last season. This was a manager that saved the club twice from relegation, then qualified three seasons running for European football, winning the Europa Conference League in 2023. In his final season, the club finished ninth in the Premier League and got to the quarter finals of the Europa League. A period of unprecedented success. A campaign to get rid of Moyes began on social media, then took hold. Supporters didn't like the style of play, it wasn't the West Ham way etc. Some of us warned at the time, be careful what you wish for and that has very much proved to be the case. Since Moyes left, first Julian Lopetegu and then Graham Potter have struggled to manage the club. This season it finished 14th, got knocked out of both the FA cup and Carabao cup at the early stages. European football is now a distant memory. The owners of West Ham spent £130 million in buying nine players for Lopetegu. The signings came late, so the manager still didn't' seem to know his best formation, even by October. There were some good signings, like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Crysencio Summerville and Niclas Fullkrug. But Lopetegu struggled, both on the field and publicly with the media. After a poor run of results, Lopetegu was replaced in January by Potter. Things,though, did not really improve. In fact for most of his time in charge Potter's record has been worse than Lopetegu. Lopetegu secured 23 points from 18 games, Potter 20 points from the same number of games. The difference has been that the former Brighton and Chelsea manager gives the impression that he knows what he's doing. He has a clear narrative and deals well with the media. There have been some encouraging signs, not least Potter's willingness to give young players, like Ollie Scarles and Lewis Orford, a chance. Hopefully some of those, loaned out this season, like George Earthy and Freddie Potts, will be given their opportunity next season. The belief amongst fans is that Potter must be allowed to shape the team he wants. This will mean a major shifting of players in and out in the summer. The owners though must be wondering about the future. Will things come good under Potter? Are they prepared to put up more money on the basis of the poor returns seen since Potter took over in January? An interesting what if arises, given that at the time of his appointment it was rumoured West Ham wanted to offer an initial contract to the end of the season. Sensibly, Potter insisted on a longer deal - had he accepted the shorter one, would the owners now be offering him a new contract? The style of play has certainly not got better, in fact from an entertainment angle it is far worse. Potter's defensive formations with three at the back and five across the middle, playing the ball square, instead of forward, hardly excites. The West Ham way it aint! So not a very good season for West Ham. Potter should turn things around, given the time and money to do so - these, though, are commodities, in increasingly short supply in football. But will the club finish above Everton next season? Everton have been flying, ever since Moyes re-took charge, earlier in the season. Only time will tell.

Welfare cuts have hint of eugenics

There has been much alarm aroused by government proposals to cut welfare benefits for some of the poorest and most vulnerable in society. The numbers of people claiming these benefits have risen substantially over recent years, in no small part due to the COVID pandemic. The mishandling of so much of the pandemic by government has helped create a huge number of people, who are unable to work. The harm done to mental health over this period and subsequently has been huge. It is estimated that two million people (3% of the population) are still suffering from long COVID. The government has targeted welfare on the basis of saving money. Again, as with the attack on winter fuel payments, the amount being saved is relatively small. Why not tax those with the most, many millionaires and billionaires have asked to pay more? There is a rather worrying eugenic theme running through these policies. The government bang on about delivering for working people, whilst seemingly ignoring, or attacking, other groups such as the elderly, disabled and poor. In the case of the elderly, who proportionately vote more than any other demographic, it seems a strange electoral strategy, let alone the moral dimension. A number of commentators have also made the link between the moves to legalise assisted dying and these other policies attacking the poorest and most vulnerable in society The narrative seems to be if you are not tied to the economic wheel of employment you have no worth. Never mind the billions of pounds of free care provided by elderly people for their children and grand children. Or the voluntary work done by so many. Or the service and taxes contributed over the years. None of this counts, only work, right now, on the wheel of capitalism by 'ordinary working people.' It is all rather confusing if not a little sinister. The mindset needs to change. Everyone has worth, all lives are sacred, it is high time government recognised this reality and acted accordingly for the common good of all.