Scottish independence and devolution superthread

[AyrJambo]

On 23/09/2025 at 12:10, Jacques de Gauthier said:

Leaving a well-established union with vague plans and plenty of 'likely to' and 'will find a way to' ideas... Sounds like a great plan, and one that has no recent comparison we could learn lessons from...

 

A well-established union which at it's very core and from it's outset was intended to annexe, subjugate and suppress Scotland while commandeering all it's resources.

And has done now for over 300 years

[Gundermann]

SNP getting close to a majority in the Scots parly again. Never saw that coming. I guess a mixture of Starmer's lurch to the right and Reform/ English flag mania is boosting the vote.

 

 

[manaliveits105]

Swinney needs to confirm that an independent Scotland will only accept immigrants (including English 😁) who have legally applied . No illegal immigrants/asylum seekers will be accepted .

Guaranteed vote winner 

 

Their everybody  is welcome to Scotland policy is a disaster waiting to happen and sure vote loser but bizzarely the SNP's likely favoured option.

[Gundermann]

58 minutes ago, manaliveits105 said:

Swinney needs to confirm that an independent Scotland will only accept immigrants (including English 😁) who have legally applied . No illegal immigrants/asylum seekers will be accepted .

Guaranteed vote winner 

 

Their everybody  is welcome to Scotland policy is a disaster waiting to happen and sure vote loser but bizzarely the SNP's likely favoured option.

 

Your last paragraph is very wrong if recent elections and polls are anything to go by. If the SNP have lost votes then it's not because of being pro-immigration.

Edited September 26 by Gundermann

[Hagar the Horrible]

16 minutes ago, Gundermann said:

 

Your last paragraph is very wrong if recent elections and polls are anything to go by. If the SNP have lost votes then it's not because of being pro-immigration.

he is right though, and so are you, a lack of trust in the SNP, sleaze on an industrial scale that would make a Tory blush,  Incompetence.  Swinney having zero gravitas, Sturgeon been seen as a monster by all sides.  However Starmer will stop the SNP rot,  not farage.  the number of people who are now openly saying sod this I am voting for Farage, perhaps chaos is what we need for a reset.  But the SNP are losing members faster than a motorway gritter loses grit.   They don't have the same cash to fight a campaign properly.  So yes there are lots of reasons.  but the polls will be like brexit, people at the booths used AFI (Ahh-****-it) mentality and said yes, not expecting to win, this is why reform will do well....too well, but its not for ever.  

[lost in space]

1 hour ago, Gundermann said:

SNP getting close to a majority in the Scots parly again. Never saw that coming. I guess a mixture of Starmer's lurch to the right and Reform/ English flag mania is boosting the vote.

 

 

Always interesting but these polls are not likely to be correct.  No independent MSPs (from parties)?  I think there will be a mini-resurgence for Labour and will go with -

 

SNP - 58

Labour - 25

Reform - 16

Tories - 11

Lib Dem - 13

Green - 6.

 

Giving SNP/Greens a total of 64 - not enough for a majority - HOORAY!!  Wouldnt it be good to have a parliament that made decisions to benefit Scotland - rather than their own party.

 

[Gundermann]

30 minutes ago, Hagar the Horrible said:

he is right though, and so are you, a lack of trust in the SNP, sleaze on an industrial scale that would make a Tory blush,  Incompetence.  Swinney having zero gravitas, Sturgeon been seen as a monster by all sides.  However Starmer will stop the SNP rot,  not farage.  the number of people who are now openly saying sod this I am voting for Farage, perhaps chaos is what we need for a reset.  But the SNP are losing members faster than a motorway gritter loses grit.   They don't have the same cash to fight a campaign properly.  So yes there are lots of reasons.  but the polls will be like brexit, people at the booths used AFI (Ahh-****-it) mentality and said yes, not expecting to win, this is why reform will do well....too well, but its not for ever.  

 

He's not right. He said SNP will lose votes over their stance on immigration and there's no evidence for that. As I said, other issues may lose them votes but not that one.

 

Even given the SNP's lacklustre record, recent elections and polls show them to be the most trusted. In short, a bigger number of people don't trust anyone else to do a better job.

 

As to you voting Farage for chaos, very good if you don't have kids, mortage or a job that could be lost as a result.

[Gundermann]

13 minutes ago, lost in space said:

Always interesting but these polls are not likely to be correct.  No independent MSPs (from parties)?  I think there will be a mini-resurgence for Labour and will go with -

 

SNP - 58

Labour - 25

Reform - 16

Tories - 11

Lib Dem - 13

Green - 6.

 

Giving SNP/Greens a total of 64 - not enough for a majority - HOORAY!!  Wouldnt it be good to have a parliament that made decisions to benefit Scotland - rather than their own party.

 

 

I think the Independents are inlcuded under 'Others' at 1%. Alba is included as well though they continue to fail. 63 seats may be a peak but the SNP will win by a country mile and I do believe that fear of Farage will drive that to some degree.

 

I don't think any party really puts country first. The Tories, despite being 'patriotic' sold off the UK's assets to a medley of international spivs. Labour knows that Brexit continues to harm us - and has even made the 'boat people' situation worse - and yet continues to appease the right.

[lost in space]

28 minutes ago, Gundermann said:

 

I think the Independents are inlcuded under 'Others' at 1%. Alba is included as well though they continue to fail. 63 seats may be a peak but the SNP will win by a country mile and I do believe that fear of Farage will drive that to some degree.

 

I don't think any party really puts country first. The Tories, despite being 'patriotic' sold off the UK's assets to a medley of international spivs. Labour knows that Brexit continues to harm us - and has even made the 'boat people' situation worse - and yet continues to appease the right.

I doubt that SNP will win by a country mile but there will be an interesting build up to the election.

 

Starmer is trying to appease just about everybody.   He needs to do more with immigration though, especially legal migration (Labour have started but need to do more) - and realise why so many voters are turning to Reform.

 

He should also should have stuck with welfare reforms - aimed at getting lazy feckers claiming sickness benefit back to work (Obviously not the very sick who cant).  He was weak and should have told Labour MPs who disagreed to back him or leave the party.

[Gundermann]

1 hour ago, lost in space said:

I doubt that SNP will win by a country mile but there will be an interesting build up to the election.

 

Starmer is trying to appease just about everybody.   He needs to do more with immigration though, especially legal migration (Labour have started but need to do more) - and realise why so many voters are turning to Reform.

 

He should also should have stuck with welfare reforms - aimed at getting lazy feckers claiming sickness benefit back to work (Obviously not the very sick who cant).  He was weak and should have told Labour MPs who disagreed to back him or leave the party.

 

Your own prediction has the SNP on more than double the number of seats than Labour.

 

Migration and welfare need proper attention and not short-termism as is the norm. In terms of welfare, while many/ most welfare claimants are in work, then clearly we need to make work pay better. The gap between an ordinary worker and the CEO is greater than ever.

[lost in space]

20 hours ago, Gundermann said:

 

Your own prediction has the SNP on more than double the number of seats than Labour.

 

Migration and welfare need proper attention and not short-termism as is the norm. In terms of welfare, while many/ most welfare claimants are in work, then clearly we need to make work pay better. The gap between an ordinary worker and the CEO is greater than ever.

I dont really mind how many more seats SNP are ahead of Labour - as long as they (and the Greens/ALBA) dont have a majority. I dont think they will.

There are always going to be low paid jobs - and the benefits they receive are deserved. Its the "too sick to work" that need to scrutinised.

 

[Jacques de Gauthier]

20 hours ago, Gundermann said:

we need to make work pay better

I don't disagree with the sentiment, but how can this actually be achieved?

 

Increasing minimum wage means employers will be hesitant to take people on.

Increasing benefits for those in work has to be paid for from somewhere, so would you want to be taxing those in work (i.e. making their work worth less in their pockets) more?

 

It's the kind of problem which probably requires a bit of carrot and stick. The problem is, any solution is instantly demonised by those it has an impact on and the government(s) end up doing a u-turn because it hits them in the polls/public perception. Democracy, eh...

[Gundermann]

1 hour ago, lost in space said:

I dont really mind how many more seats SNP are ahead of Labour - as long as they (and the Greens/ALBA) dont have a majority. I dont think they will.

There are always going to be low paid jobs - and the benefits they receive are deserved. Its the "too sick to work" that need to scrutinised.

 

 

1 hour ago, Jacques de Gauthier said:

I don't disagree with the sentiment, but how can this actually be achieved?

 

Increasing minimum wage means employers will be hesitant to take people on.

Increasing benefits for those in work has to be paid for from somewhere, so would you want to be taxing those in work (i.e. making their work worth less in their pockets) more?

 

It's the kind of problem which probably requires a bit of carrot and stick. The problem is, any solution is instantly demonised by those it has an impact on and the government(s) end up doing a u-turn because it hits them in the polls/public perception. Democracy, eh...

 

Fair points.

 

It won't suprise you to hear me say that the answer probably lies in fairer taxation. What you say is fair enough but equally, us plebes are seeing the rich get disproporionately richer.

 

Other nations seem to balance a free, but regulated, market with a more equitable distribution of wealth.

 

As to the workshy... well, aye. If they're fit enough to attach flags to lamposts and paint roundabouts, they're fit enough to pick litter and dig auld dears' gardens.

 

This, is our problem:

 

 

Edited September 27 by Gundermann

[lost in space]

41 minutes ago, Gundermann said:

 

 

Fair points.

 

It won't suprise you to hear me say that the answer probably lies in fairer taxation. What you say is fair enough but equally, us plebes are seeing the rich get disproporionately richer.

 

Other nations seem to balance a free, but regulated, market with a more equitable distribution of wealth.

 

As to the workshy... well, aye. If they're fit enough to attach flags to lamposts and paint roundabouts, they're fit enough to pick litter and dig auld dears' gardens.

 

This, is our problem:

 

 

Of course the answer is in a "fairer" taxation - but the problem is that most taxpayers think a fairer system is the one that gives them more money.

If you are on the 21% level, you are not on a high income and think 21% is high.

If on 41% (and an increasing number are) - you think that the level (£43K) is too low and should be £50K - like England/Wales.

Higher than 41% - well, is that fair?

 

Of course there will be a fairer system somewhere in the world - but any party trying to impose it will not be in power for long.

 

Short-termism is here to stay, in taxation and other areas, like benefits.

 

 

[OTT]

Recent poll showing Reform picking up a fair chunk of Scottish constituencies:

 

I think the SNP need to figure out how to better appeal to rural communities. I think far too much attention has been given to niche, uni driven interests. Losing Fergus Ewing and Kate Forbes as big voices for these communities is going to be a big loss. I think many in the SNP have been quick to talk down Forbes & Ewing's beliefs/contributions, but the reality is that they do represent large swathes of Scotland. 

 

The SNP always prided itself on being a "big tent" party, but unfortunately under Sturgeon this tenant was completely abandoned. IMO Swinney needs to take the SNP a bit closer back to the centre ground and get some visibility of rural MPs/MSPs from the Highlands. Perhaps making a pretty clear statement opposing Starmers farmer estate tax plans. Would be viewed favourably in the highlands & borders IMO.

 

Also, whether you're unionist or nationalist, can we agree that getting Douglas Alexander to **** would be a good thing?

 

[jack D and coke]

8 minutes ago, OTT said:

Recent poll showing Reform picking up a fair chunk of Scottish constituencies:

 

I think the SNP need to figure out how to better appeal to rural communities. I think far too much attention has been given to niche, uni driven interests. Losing Fergus Ewing and Kate Forbes as big voices for these communities is going to be a big loss. I think many in the SNP have been quick to talk down Forbes & Ewing's beliefs/contributions, but the reality is that they do represent large swathes of Scotland. 

 

The SNP always prided itself on being a "big tent" party, but unfortunately under Sturgeon this tenant was completely abandoned. IMO Swinney needs to take the SNP a bit closer back to the centre ground and get some visibility of rural MPs/MSPs from the Highlands. Perhaps making a pretty clear statement opposing Starmers farmer estate tax plans. Would be viewed favourably in the highlands & borders IMO.

 

Also, whether you're unionist or nationalist, can we agree that getting Douglas Alexander to **** would be a good thing?

 

He’s another Labour rodent. I can’t imagine what mental gymnastics it takes to vote for this lot. 

[Malinga the Swinga]

First priority is to ensure the weirdos that represent the Green Party do poorly. Ross Greer and Gillian Mackay should be nowhere near power or responsibility.

Greer in particular is just grubby. No experience of actually working, just a grifter whose jumped into politics and wants to impose his strange beliefs on others.

[JudyJudyJudy]

14 minutes ago, Malinga the Swinga said:

First priority is to ensure the weirdos that represent the Green Party do poorly. Ross Greer and Gillian Mackay should be nowhere near power or responsibility.

Greer in particular is just grubby. No experience of actually working, just a grifter whose jumped into politics and wants to impose his strange beliefs on others.

Hopefully they do get wiped out . A dangerous bunch of lunatics 

[lost in space]

26 minutes ago, OTT said:

Recent poll showing Reform picking up a fair chunk of Scottish constituencies:

 

I think the SNP need to figure out how to better appeal to rural communities. I think far too much attention has been given to niche, uni driven interests. Losing Fergus Ewing and Kate Forbes as big voices for these communities is going to be a big loss. I think many in the SNP have been quick to talk down Forbes & Ewing's beliefs/contributions, but the reality is that they do represent large swathes of Scotland. 

 

The SNP always prided itself on being a "big tent" party, but unfortunately under Sturgeon this tenant was completely abandoned. IMO Swinney needs to take the SNP a bit closer back to the centre ground and get some visibility of rural MPs/MSPs from the Highlands. Perhaps making a pretty clear statement opposing Starmers farmer estate tax plans. Would be viewed favourably in the highlands & borders IMO.

 

Also, whether you're unionist or nationalist, can we agree that getting Douglas Alexander to **** would be a good thing?

 

I am sure that Swinney will talk down the "Farmers Inh Tax" - since Scotland will receive funds from Westminster for it but have no say in it.

Re Douglas Alexander - can you list reasons for your wish of his departure?

[JudyJudyJudy]

Wow 

 

 

 

[OTT]

1 minute ago, lost in space said:

I am sure that Swinney will talk down the "Farmers Inh Tax" - since Scotland will receive funds from Westminster for it but have no say in it.

Re Douglas Alexander - can you list reasons for your wish of his departure?

 

He's just an absolute ****ing weasel. A pro-Iraq war dog, up to his eyeballs in the expenses scandal and has pretty clearly stabbed Ian Murray in the back. 

 

He's an actual embodiment of everything wrong with Labour. He doesn't represent Labour values, he's a careerist Blairite with absolutely zero principles, or interest in representing anyone other than Douglas Alexander. There are many politicians I don't agree with, but can respect because they actually possess principles (David Duguid, Charles Kennedy, Jeremy Corbyn, Robin Cook etc). Ironically, as much as I've slated Maggie Chapman, at least she actually has a belief system. 

 

If anyone actually wanted to understand why Labour are in the position they are (where they have utterly betrayed public trust and are facing near wipe out), its because of people like Douglas Alexander who stand for absolutely nothing, have no red lines to their moral compass and will say whatever to get elected. 

 

Neale Hanvey said something in reference to Alex Salmond which rings very true here - I've met lots of people in politics who are here to feel important, but few who are in politics to do important things. Alexander absolutely falls into the former category. The type who can talk in circles but never actually achieve anything. Alex Salmond raised the Sapphire, and delivered Scotland a referendum. What the **** has Douglas Alexander done in his life time of public service, except get caught with his hand in the expenses cookie jar and help push through an illegal war ? 

 

If Douglas Alexander told me it was raining, I'd stick my head out the window. 

 

He's an absolute weaselly snake of the highest order. So lacking in spine, he can crawl under doors. 

[Hmfc1965]

21 minutes ago, JudyJudyJudy said:

Wow 

 

 

 

She's not wrong on this one though. 

[jack D and coke]

6 minutes ago, OTT said:

 

He's just an absolute ****ing weasel. A pro-Iraq war dog, up to his eyeballs in the expenses scandal and has pretty clearly stabbed Ian Murray in the back. 

 

He's an actual embodiment of everything wrong with Labour. He doesn't represent Labour values, he's a careerist Blairite with absolutely zero principles, or interest in representing anyone other than Douglas Alexander. There are many politicians I don't agree with, but can respect because they actually possess principles (David Duguid, Charles Kennedy, Jeremy Corbyn, Robin Cook etc). Ironically, as much as I've slated Maggie Chapman, at least she actually has a belief system. 

 

If anyone actually wanted to understand why Labour are in the position they are (where they have utterly betrayed public trust and are facing near wipe out), its because of people like Douglas Alexander who stand for absolutely nothing, have no red lines to their moral compass and will say whatever to get elected. 

 

Neale Hanvey said something in reference to Alex Salmond which rings very true here - I've met lots of people in politics who are here to feel important, but few who are in politics to do important things. Alexander absolutely falls into the former category. The type who can talk in circles but never actually achieve anything. Alex Salmond raised the Sapphire, and delivered Scotland a referendum. What the **** has Douglas Alexander done in his life time of public service, except get caught with his hand in the expenses cookie jar and help push through an illegal war ? 

 

If Douglas Alexander told me it was raining, I'd stick my head out the window. 

 

He's an absolute weaselly snake of the highest order. So lacking in spine, he can crawl under doors. 

A labour scumbag. Party is riddled with them. 

[Tazio]

22 minutes ago, JudyJudyJudy said:

Wow 

 

 

 

And on this occasion she’s totally correct. 

[JudyJudyJudy]

2 minutes ago, Hmfc1965 said:

She's not wrong on this one though. 

The point is neither is she or big Val . She’s got some brass neck 

[JudyJudyJudy]

10 minutes ago, OTT said:

 

He's just an absolute ****ing weasel. A pro-Iraq war dog, up to his eyeballs in the expenses scandal and has pretty clearly stabbed Ian Murray in the back. 

 

He's an actual embodiment of everything wrong with Labour. He doesn't represent Labour values, he's a careerist Blairite with absolutely zero principles, or interest in representing anyone other than Douglas Alexander. There are many politicians I don't agree with, but can respect because they actually possess principles (David Duguid, Charles Kennedy, Jeremy Corbyn, Robin Cook etc). Ironically, as much as I've slated Maggie Chapman, at least she actually has a belief system. 

 

If anyone actually wanted to understand why Labour are in the position they are (where they have utterly betrayed public trust and are facing near wipe out), its because of people like Douglas Alexander who stand for absolutely nothing, have no red lines to their moral compass and will say whatever to get elected. 

 

Neale Hanvey said something in reference to Alex Salmond which rings very true here - I've met lots of people in politics who are here to feel important, but few who are in politics to do important things. Alexander absolutely falls into the former category. The type who can talk in circles but never actually achieve anything. Alex Salmond raised the Sapphire, and delivered Scotland a referendum. What the **** has Douglas Alexander done in his life time of public service, except get caught with his hand in the expenses cookie jar and help push through an illegal war ? 

 

If Douglas Alexander told me it was raining, I'd stick my head out the window. 

 

He's an absolute weaselly snake of the highest order. So lacking in spine, he can crawl under doors. 

👍👍👍

[Hmfc1965]

1 minute ago, JudyJudyJudy said:

The point is neither is she or big Val . She’s got some brass neck 

I'm assuming this is about the gender argument. 

The statement in itself is perfectly correct. 

Matthew Collins had a cracking quote in his book about ethnic minorities being abused as drug dealers and rapists by the drug dealers and rapists of the BNP.

 

[JudyJudyJudy]

3 minutes ago, Hmfc1965 said:

I'm assuming this is about the gender argument. 

The statement in itself is perfectly correct. 

Matthew Collins had a cracking quote in his book about ethnic minorities being abused as drug dealers and rapists by the drug dealers and rapists of the BNP.

 

Yes how can she argue woman are are rish if she can’t actually define what a woman is ? 

[lost in space]

1 hour ago, OTT said:

 

He's just an absolute ****ing weasel. A pro-Iraq war dog, up to his eyeballs in the expenses scandal and has pretty clearly stabbed Ian Murray in the back. 

 

He's an actual embodiment of everything wrong with Labour. He doesn't represent Labour values, he's a careerist Blairite with absolutely zero principles, or interest in representing anyone other than Douglas Alexander. There are many politicians I don't agree with, but can respect because they actually possess principles (David Duguid, Charles Kennedy, Jeremy Corbyn, Robin Cook etc). Ironically, as much as I've slated Maggie Chapman, at least she actually has a belief system. 

 

If anyone actually wanted to understand why Labour are in the position they are (where they have utterly betrayed public trust and are facing near wipe out), its because of people like Douglas Alexander who stand for absolutely nothing, have no red lines to their moral compass and will say whatever to get elected. 

 

Neale Hanvey said something in reference to Alex Salmond which rings very true here - I've met lots of people in politics who are here to feel important, but few who are in politics to do important things. Alexander absolutely falls into the former category. The type who can talk in circles but never actually achieve anything. Alex Salmond raised the Sapphire, and delivered Scotland a referendum. What the **** has Douglas Alexander done in his life time of public service, except get caught with his hand in the expenses cookie jar and help push through an illegal war ? 

 

If Douglas Alexander told me it was raining, I'd stick my head out the window. 

 

He's an absolute weaselly snake of the highest order. So lacking in spine, he can crawl under doors. 

So, in short, your name-calling, insulting rant is about the Iraq war. Hindsight is great isn't it?

There were plenty in the Labour Party who were against it (particularly Cook, as I remember it). 

Having principles is what we want in our politicians but listing Jeremy Corbyn as an example rather demeans your point.

 

So he is a weasel and a dog and a snake- for goodness sake, make your mind up!!

 

I believe he is keen to give money directly to the Scottish councils, who need it - rather than pass to the Scot Govt so they don't waste on another vanity project. GOOD.

[JudyJudyJudy]

1 hour ago, JudyJudyJudy said:

Yes how can she argue woman are are rish if she can’t actually define what a woman is ? 

Dearie me predictive text all awry . Meant 

“ how can you make this statement if she can’t actually say what a woman is” 

[OTT]

15 minutes ago, lost in space said:

So, in short, your name-calling, insulting rant is about the Iraq war. Hindsight is great isn't it?

There were plenty in the Labour Party who were against it (particularly Cook, as I remember it). 

Having principles is what we want in our politicians but listing Jeremy Corbyn as an example rather demeans your point.

 

So he is a weasel and a dog and a snake- for goodness sake, make your mind up!!

 

I believe he is keen to give money directly to the Scottish councils, who need it - rather than pass to the Scot Govt so they don't waste on another vanity project. GOOD.

 

You were going to disagree no matter what I said. 

 

The guy is an untrustworthy rat of a human being that stole from the public purse, pushed us towards an illegal war (that killed hundreds of thousands and destabilised the middle east) and back stabbed a colleague. You can talk about hindsight, but there was plenty of opposition at the time. Alexander chose to put his career ahead of doing the right thing and opposing the war. A party before country type, hardly a defence of the spineless cretin. 

 

Anyone that wants to condone him remaining in public office needs to have a word with themselves. There are snake oil salesman with more morals than that prick and his colleagues clearly can't stand him either. 

 

https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/scots-labour-mp-brands-douglas-35869188

[lost in space]

1 hour ago, OTT said:

 

You were going to disagree no matter what I said. 

 

The guy is an untrustworthy rat of a human being that stole from the public purse, pushed us towards an illegal war (that killed hundreds of thousands and destabilised the middle east) and back stabbed a colleague. You can talk about hindsight, but there was plenty of opposition at the time. Alexander chose to put his career ahead of doing the right thing and opposing the war. A party before country type, hardly a defence of the spineless cretin. 

 

Anyone that wants to condone him remaining in public office needs to have a word with themselves. There are snake oil salesman with more morals than that prick and his colleagues clearly can't stand him either. 

 

https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/scots-labour-mp-brands-douglas-35869188

A rat now as well!!!

I notice that when you listed politicians with principles, you didn't include an SNPs.

We agree. There arnt any.

Fergus Ewing was one and we know what happened there.

 

[OTT]

3 minutes ago, lost in space said:

A rat now as well!!!

I notice that when you listed politicians with principles, you didn't include an SNPs.

We agree. There arnt any.

Fergus Ewing was one and we know what happened there.

 

 

I'm not coming at this from the POV of Unionist vs Nationalist, I've quite literally avoided that in my previous posts. 

 

Its simply my view that Douglas Alexander is a terrible person that isn't fit for public office. He's untrustworthy, disloyal, lacks moral character, and has unclear principles and values (much like his PM). 

 

If you think I'm just picking on Dougie because he's a Unionist, I refer you to every single post I've made about Nicola Sturgeon for the last 5 years. If you want to talk specifics about SNP politicians who shouldn't be in office - Neil Gray has repeatedly shown poor judgement in using his ministerial car for non-Government business (like attending Aberdeen games), Michael Matheson should have lost the whip and been forced to resign his seat after the iPad scandal, Patrick Grady should never have regained the whip after his creepy behaviour. Who else? Odds are we probably agree!

 

Its not about Unionist vs Nationalist, its about Douglas Alexander being a piece of shit. 

 

Just to illustrate my point, Brian Leishman has been excellent since coming to office. Stood unequivocally on a platform to save Grangemouth, and has been justifiably critical of the Government failure to live up to its manifesto commitments. He's also repeatedly shown good character, and strong principles in his voting record. 

[lost in space]

1 hour ago, OTT said:

 

I'm not coming at this from the POV of Unionist vs Nationalist, I've quite literally avoided that in my previous posts. 

 

Its simply my view that Douglas Alexander is a terrible person that isn't fit for public office. He's untrustworthy, disloyal, lacks moral character, and has unclear principles and values (much like his PM). 

 

If you think I'm just picking on Dougie because he's a Unionist, I refer you to every single post I've made about Nicola Sturgeon for the last 5 years. If you want to talk specifics about SNP politicians who shouldn't be in office - Neil Gray has repeatedly shown poor judgement in using his ministerial car for non-Government business (like attending Aberdeen games), Michael Matheson should have lost the whip and been forced to resign his seat after the iPad scandal, Patrick Grady should never have regained the whip after his creepy behaviour. Who else? Odds are we probably agree!

 

Its not about Unionist vs Nationalist, its about Douglas Alexander being a piece of shit. 

 

Just to illustrate my point, Brian Leishman has been excellent since coming to office. Stood unequivocally on a platform to save Grangemouth, and has been justifiably critical of the Government failure to live up to its manifesto commitments. He's also repeatedly shown good character, and strong principles in his voting record. 

I know your posts on this thread and although, of course, I don't agree with many - I know your opinions are not just based on party lines.

Re Alexander, he was fairly young at the turn of the century and has been out of party politics for some time.

I don't really know his personality but will judge him on his performance as Sec of State - rather than on his previous career.

 

[JamboGlen]

19 hours ago, OTT said:

 

He's just an absolute ****ing weasel. A pro-Iraq war dog, up to his eyeballs in the expenses scandal and has pretty clearly stabbed Ian Murray in the back. 

 

He's an actual embodiment of everything wrong with Labour. He doesn't represent Labour values, he's a careerist Blairite with absolutely zero principles, or interest in representing anyone other than Douglas Alexander. There are many politicians I don't agree with, but can respect because they actually possess principles (David Duguid, Charles Kennedy, Jeremy Corbyn, Robin Cook etc). Ironically, as much as I've slated Maggie Chapman, at least she actually has a belief system. 

 

If anyone actually wanted to understand why Labour are in the position they are (where they have utterly betrayed public trust and are facing near wipe out), its because of people like Douglas Alexander who stand for absolutely nothing, have no red lines to their moral compass and will say whatever to get elected. 

 

Neale Hanvey said something in reference to Alex Salmond which rings very true here - I've met lots of people in politics who are here to feel important, but few who are in politics to do important things. Alexander absolutely falls into the former category. The type who can talk in circles but never actually achieve anything. Alex Salmond raised the Sapphire, and delivered Scotland a referendum. What the **** has Douglas Alexander done in his life time of public service, except get caught with his hand in the expenses cookie jar and help push through an illegal war ? 

 

If Douglas Alexander told me it was raining, I'd stick my head out the window. 

 

He's an absolute weaselly snake of the highest order. So lacking in spine, he can crawl under doors. 

I agree with what your saying about Alexander. I actually voted for him at the general election knowing he's a sleekit wee dick. Sadly where I am it's always a 2 horse race between Labour and the Nats.

[Gundermann]

18 hours ago, lost in space said:

So, in short, your name-calling, insulting rant is about the Iraq war. Hindsight is great isn't it?

There were plenty in the Labour Party who were against it (particularly Cook, as I remember it). 

Having principles is what we want in our politicians but listing Jeremy Corbyn as an example rather demeans your point.

 

So he is a weasel and a dog and a snake- for goodness sake, make your mind up!!

 

I believe he is keen to give money directly to the Scottish councils, who need it - rather than pass to the Scot Govt so they don't waste on another vanity project. GOOD.

 

Wonder if this dosh will make up for the costs of Labour's PFI?

[lost in space]

5 hours ago, Gundermann said:

 

Wonder if this dosh will make up for the costs of Labour's PFI?

Probably best that we move on from PFI - in both the UK and Scotland!! 

[JamboGlen]

On 28/09/2025 at 16:13, JudyJudyJudy said:

Wow 

 

 

 

Is Val female?

[JudyJudyJudy]

54 minutes ago, JamboGlen said:

Is Val female?

Yes . 

[Jeffros Furios]

28 minutes ago, JudyJudyJudy said:

Yes . 

She's nearly as fat as you Jamsey .

[JudyJudyJudy]

5 minutes ago, Jeffros Furios said:

She's nearly as fat as you Jamsey .

I am 70 Kg dear

[Gundermann]

1 hour ago, JamboGlen said:

Is Val female?

 

[JamboGlen]

On 27/09/2025 at 11:55, lost in space said:

Of course the answer is in a "fairer" taxation - but the problem is that most taxpayers think a fairer system is the one that gives them more money.

If you are on the 21% level, you are not on a high income and think 21% is high.

If on 41% (and an increasing number are) - you think that the level (£43K) is too low and should be £50K - like England/Wales.

Higher than 41% - well, is that fair?

 

Of course there will be a fairer system somewhere in the world - but any party trying to impose it will not be in power for long.

 

Short-termism is here to stay, in taxation and other areas, like benefits.

 

 

41% starting at 43k is utterly nonsense. That's teachers, nurses and cops. Not wealthy people. The nuts in Holyrood should never have had income tax powers.

[lost in space]

45 minutes ago, JamboGlen said:

41% starting at 43k is utterly nonsense. That's teachers, nurses and cops. Not wealthy people. The nuts in Holyrood should never have had income tax powers.

At one time £43k (think amount is actually £43,668 or similar) was a reasonable level as it was well above an average wage. But of course, wages increase, mostly annually - and the level hasn't.

Great for SNP/Scot Govt - more money for them to spend.

Annoying when you see the sensible level in the rest of the UK.

Imagine if you are entering the UK as a senior charge nurse - are you going to take a job where you pay 41% or 21%??

[JamboGlen]

10 hours ago, lost in space said:

At one time £43k (think amount is actually £43,668 or similar) was a reasonable level as it was well above an average wage. But of course, wages increase, mostly annually - and the level hasn't.

Great for SNP/Scot Govt - more money for them to spend.

Annoying when you see the sensible level in the rest of the UK.

Imagine if you are entering the UK as a senior charge nurse - are you going to take a job where you pay 41% or 21%??

To think some of them probably vote SNP as well. I think a lot of the general public are unaware how much this government hits them in the pocket.

[Malinga the Swinga]

14 hours ago, lost in space said:

At one time £43k (think amount is actually £43,668 or similar) was a reasonable level as it was well above an average wage. But of course, wages increase, mostly annually - and the level hasn't.

Great for SNP/Scot Govt - more money for them to spend.

Annoying when you see the sensible level in the rest of the UK.

Imagine if you are entering the UK as a senior charge nurse - are you going to take a job where you pay 41% or 21%??

The SNP cultists or nationalists as they prefer to be called these days as they pretend to be unhappy with SNP government but secretly worship them, don't give a toss whether the average worker in Scotland is at breaking point or not.

All they want is independence and they'll happily sacrifice generations of growth and children as long as their dream remains a political goal.

It's no surprise Farage & Reform are gaining support because they at least listen to what being said by public instead of reflecting what a small minority bleat about whilst ignoring everyone else 

[Hagar the Horrible]

I know this should be on another thread, but with the HGE in 8 months, and labour are the only option against the SNP, but both are failed governments.  SKS had his say today, now normally they don't shift the needle at all, but after his and Rachael from Accounts diatribe yesterday, it might as well have been a PPB for Reform.  The SNP are going to sleepwalk or just throw in the towel to a reform power grab. 

 

Starmer and Swinney just cannot read the room

[Dennis Denuto]

1 hour ago, Hagar the Horrible said:

I know this should be on another thread, but with the HGE in 8 months, and labour are the only option against the SNP, but both are failed governments.  SKS had his say today, now normally they don't shift the needle at all, but after his and Rachael from Accounts diatribe yesterday, it might as well have been a PPB for Reform.  The SNP are going to sleepwalk or just throw in the towel to a reform power grab. 

 

Starmer and Swinney just cannot read the room

Interesting theory that

 

https://ballotbox.scot/scottish-parliament/polling-scottish-parliament/

[Taffin]

I feel in the short to medium term there are 3 scenarios that could play out, none of which lead to independence.

 

1. Labour turn it around and there's general contentment and the SNP fail to regain support and don't get a mandate to push it

2. Farage elected, it's chaos. SNP miss open goals left, right and centre again and shit the bed

3. Farage is elected, it's chaos. SNP somehow play a blinder and the Scottish electorate again shit the bed.

 

 

Everyone complains the Scots have been robbed of their democratic will. Rinse and repeat 

[Hagar the Horrible]

3 hours ago, Dennis Denuto said:

Interesting theory that

 

https://ballotbox.scot/scottish-parliament/polling-scottish-parliament/

It is just a theory, nobody likes Coldplay or Snowpatrol, but someone still buys the records and gets sacked after being on their fan cam. The only polls that matter are the exit polls. If you saw Sturgeon's coupon she knew it was a disaster yet the polls were favourable