Are You A Left-Winger Or A Right-Winger?

Look at the facts objectively to understand the reality of the situation. Consider whether a policy response is appropriate. Critically appraise proposed government legislation. Turn that into an engaging and provocative article. That's what Tim Worstall did re gender pay equality.

If you've ever questioned whether you're naturally right-wing or left-wing, I'd suggest which camp you come down on in the debate in the lively comments thread would be a decent indicator. If this is your reaction, then I am afraid it's terminal. You're destined to a happy existence working towards the North Korean model. Personally, I've always been in favour of as little government intervention in the labour market as possible (think UAE).

Update

And if you're a left-winger, you'll probably get a bit twitchy about this sensible article.

Hash Browns

'Don't say you weren't warned' I said shortly before Brown was crowned a year ago today. I need say little more. I was right. A year on and I am in a minority. Unlike 85% of people Gordon has met my expectations.



Blair and Brown will not go down as good PMs, but I do think their task has been herculean. The real problem is the Labour Party and especially the PLP. Since about 2003, neither Blair nor Brown has really been able to lead their party and have been led by the nose by a bunch of no-mark MPs. I've got a new line that seems to strike a chord with people when they moan about this government. We (the country not me personally) voted in a bunch of teachers, trade unionists and lawyers so it's obvious that we should have a bossy, socialist government that thinks that they can solve any and every problem with legislation. Do you like it? I find this argument works well with uncommitted voters. Try it.

Don't Miss Tory Conference

Discounted tickets available for a limited time. Not only will this event be in my hometown, but it will be in my home constituency. See you there.

Emergency Talks In Prague

Nicolas Sarkozy is paying Prague an 'emergency' visit to try to get the Lisbon Treaty back on the rails. He'll have his work cut out. Mind you, he's also holding a drinks reception at the French Embassy this afternoon so don't kid yourself that he's that bothered about the Lisbon Treaty hitting the wall.

I'd love to spend more time on the DD campaign in Haltemprice & Howden, but for now, I'll just share a few thoughts on a contest that is shaping up as not just a battle for liberty, but one against the Westminster village who condemn themselves every time they ask what David Davis stands to gain by his decision. My suggestions for the campaign are as follows.

1. Emphasis that David Davis is a moderate libertarian and that basic civil rights are the platform - it's not about extreme libertarianism or special interest groups. So it's not about drug-taking, prisoner votes or undermining professionals in positions of authority.

2. The campaign must be anti-Labour, but not pro-Conservative. That means no rosettes, no branded literature, no unprincipled concern for the impact on the polls. If I visit from the West Midlands I would like to travel up with non-Conservatives supporters such as Colin Ross or Dr Dave.

3. Someone should set up an online roll-call of those who have supported (and opposed) David's campaign. Let the record show who stood on both sides of the debate in the 2008 Battle of Haltemprice & Howden?

Over and out. Offline again for a bit.

We Are Such Stuff As Dreams Are Made Of

David Davis' resignation isn't the moment when the mainstream meeja took leave of their senses, but it will be seen in that way. This episode is similar to the way that Labour failed on the economy far before the public acknowledged this self-evident truth. When I heard of his resignation I was rattled... for about 30 seconds. It is a political masterstroke. Politicians have a range of tools at their disposal, but no British MP has ever gone leftfield like this. For innovation, DD scores 10 out of 10.

2007 was a year when a raft of anti-democratic measures were proposed or enacted by Labour. The consequent news mostly ended up being chip paper. In 2008 David Davis made a stand. From ID cards to private coroner inquests, from 42 days to the bribes that helped force it through, Labour has disgraced our country. Regardless of who stands against him, Haltemprice and Howden 2008 will be a jamboree for liberty and freedom and I and many others will be there to make a stand. The political 'impact' is immaterial. I support DD and his stance on the issues upon which he is making a stand.

Having Like-Minded Friends

You're the best!!!

Where Next For Labour?*

*Due to its methodogy ICM generally overstates the Labour vote.