A EUROPEAN UPDATE.

Little changes. Brussels keeps warning the UK that it must treat all new European arrivals the same as its own taxpaying citizens, and although the Government will 'huff and puff' with rhetoric that would suggest a kind of opposition, it will continue to throw taxpayer GB's hard-earned money at the problem.

We had a little euphoria in one news broadcast this week, that Ireland is on the mend economically. Pigs have also been seen flying over Dublin. Nevertheless, any kind of improvement must be welcome.

The big story, however, is that internationally renowned economist, Sir Christopher Pissarides of the London School of Economics (LSE), which is an emporium of left wing ideology, has had one of those conversions, rarely admitted by such an high flying establishment figure and Nobel Prize winner. Formerly, his stance on Europe was to back the Euro currency, but he has now 'seen the light', realising that unemployment is totally out of control, particularly amongst the young. His revised recommendation is to dismantle the currency before it does more lasting damage. I'm sure that we can say that this is worthwhile news. So why didn't the BBC report these findings? Answers on a post card etc., .....


IN THE MEANTIME, HAS ANYBODY SEEN ANGELA MERKEL?

THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK.

The place: San Domenico Palace Hotel, Sicily; subject: a new European order. Ten years following the cessation of WWII, 1955, six continental European nations met at this former Dominican monastery, as a group of the six nations European Steel and Coal Community, they were: Germany, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg. Their intention being to create a trading block which would prevent differences that had hitherto led to war; two major conflicts having already taken place in the 20th. century, which brought the continent of Europe to its knees. What transpired was the signing of the Messina Declaration on the 3rd. of June that year.

Britain was conspicuous by its absence. Most of the politicians, across the spectrum, were not interested. For example, Tony Benn on the left and Enoch Powell from the right, were always opposed to what would eventually be the consequences of such a union. I'm sure that Benn responded to a question on why he agreed with the Powell position was because they were on the same side during WWII. Subsequently, unsurprisingly, following much lobbying by conservative leader, Ted Heath, we were granted entry; which was confirmed by referendum under the premiership of Harold Wilson (Labour) in the mid seventies.

We can now 'fast forward' to late 2013. Enter the British Tory MEP, Daniel Hannan. Hannan is one of those rare birds who reads the small print. Multi-lingual, with a wonderful intellect, and is the secretary-general of the Alliance of European Conservatives and Reformists (AECR). This group convened at the same venue as the 1955 meeting referred to above. This time, however, it was to roll back the burgeoning effect that is stifling Europe as an economic power with any influence in the world. The AECR is proposing to return to what was drawn up originally, albeit with a secret agenda; purely as a trading group, abolishing all trading tariffs, a common market, simple.

The cross section of nations represented proved to be quite surprising. Luxembourg, for example, was complaining about the bullying it receives from both Germany and France. Poland, Bulgaria and Romania were also annoyed at losing the very people required to improve their own economies. The most surprising of all, however, was the argument put forward by Italian, Professor Antonio Martino, a former Italian Government Minister; whose understanding of the situation, and the current chaotic system, the centralisation inflicted on member states by Brussels, is not working, or ever will. Interestingly, the Professor's father was the host of the 1955 meeting.

Whether or not one is interested in this openly opposing view of the regime in Brussels, it is news, and should be reported as such. Such a notion, nevertheless, would not cross the minds of the BBC news desk, which operates the PRAVDA principle, 'only if we approve'.

BATTLE LINES ARE DRAWN.

DO I WORRY? BECAUSE SOMEBODY SHOULD.

According to the financial press, the European Union loans to Mediterranean countries has soared to over a trillion euros. We can safely say that we are in 'toxic' territory. Apart from Greece, Spain, Portugal and Italy, we need to add Ireland. None of these nations has a cat in hell's chance of repaying their debts; so what happens to this 'black hole'?

It is reported that Britain is holding a high proportion of the debt. Perhaps it is time that taxpayer GB is informed of the collateral, by way of water tight guarantees, which will ensure repayment over a given period of time. Otherwise, how can the nations underwriting these debts possibly make any plans for the future.

The outcome will naturally be much different, as the loans in many cases are probably only promises. This doesn't appear to stop the ongoing process of even more borrowing, with little or no hope of repayment, ever.


SUCH 'BLACK HOLES' TEND NOT TO GO AWAY. 

SOMEONE'S ROCKING MY DREAMBOAT, SOMEONE'S BEEN TAPPING MY PHONE.

As Europe, and Germany in particular, react in a kind of 'stamping foot' protest at the very thought of international security services checking on each others phone calls, the question is; is this a new phenomenon?

The twenty first century, one suspects, will change the world dramatically. No matter how distasteful these hacking activities seem, they are probably here to stay. To the experts it is an every day occurrence, I'm sure. The nightmare scenario is that systems are updated rapidly, both in security and hacking, in an endeavour to cancel the other out; making us much too clever for our own good. The author hopes, that in posting these blogs, more people will read them. Overall, the most hits come from the USA, they could well be the same people all the time, possibly the CIA. However, occasionally, a spike will show in Indonesia for no apparent reason. The difference here, of course, between politicians' phones and this blog, is that a greater world coverage is the aim of the latter.

On the other hand, the furore could be a political stunt to mislead others, drawing them in to lower their guard. Angela Merkel could, or even may be, only discussing false information; who knows!

MEANWHILE, I'LL STICK WITH MOSSAD.

THE BIG SLEEP.

This has nothing to do with the Raymond Chandler novel. It is now a week since Angela Merkel was returned to power, or was she? Little or no leadership is currently apparent from the Bundestag, after all 'back of the stairs, cobbling up', what the electorate will buy, can be significantly different from what might have been promised in the run up to the recent election in Germany. We will see.

Chancellor Merkel is certainly a crafty politician, who will no doubt arrange something that is best for the German economy. Will this also be beneficial for the other members of the Eurozone? This remains doubtful for the Mediterranean countries endeavouring to survive within the constraints of the currency.

We have written previously about the obvious differences in performance throughout the zone, the problems being constantly swept down the road; one day, however, these differences will have to be confronted. Unfortunately, as these nations will be obliged to break away, they will be unable to purchase German goods, cars in particular, and the breakaway nations will have to devalue their currencies.


THE FINAL ACT WON'T BE FOR THE SQUEAMISH.

IS IT, OR ISN'T IT GLOBAL WARMING?

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), without conclusive evidence, continues to spread their bets regarding the world's average temperature. They admit, that since 1997, no changes have occurred, certainly no increases. I'm sure that most people understand, that over centuries temperatures have been going, both up, and down. There have been times when, due to volcanic activity, much of the planet  has been blotted out by dust cloud, causing a great deal of mayhem and death, due to the lack of food, which will undoubtedly happen again. Yellowstone Park in North America is a prime consideration. Nature will always be the most powerful force around. Additional taxation won't remove this threat.

The author disagrees, therefore, with the theory, and that is all that it happens to be, suggesting all these problems are man made. The over-population on earth is a massive concern, but feeding all these extra mouths is the prime one. Here in Britain, years of retarded government continues to ignore the fact, that by building on prime agricultural land, we are denying ourselves of the important resource of home grown food.  Ignoring the reduction in flood plain capacity also.

Why, therefore, do European nations in particular sponsor people to have children, numerous numbers becoming a burden on the state, possibly for most, if not all of their lives? Naturally, for the 'left', this is hoped to be a wonderful client block of voters.

The real warning here is that the very expensive IPCC will carry on predicting this 'doom and gloom'; after all, it's a 'nice little earner'. Whoever heard of turkeys voting for Christmas, or the biting of the hand that feeds them. Just more taxes.

IF THE PROBLEM IS MAN-MADE, LET US REDUCE THE NUMBERS.

THE RETURN OF THE DYNAMIC DUO.

The duo in question consists of the lack lustre Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, and the dour Jose`Manuel Barroso, our Commission President. Neither of whom was elected by the public.

Herman VR, who was harangued by UKIP member, Nigel Farage, some years ago, for which NF was admonished and fined. I'm sure he considered this to be the best shedding of euros he has ever spent. The President, nevertheless, doesn't seem to learn. His Autumn Offensive is a concerted effort to stop the reporting of any bad news from the Community, particularly the ongoing, running sore that is the annual audit, which proves to be billions of euros to the bad, due to endless fraud over many years. Naturally, any secretive manoeuvring by VR won't get him into hot water with this nest of vipers.

Barroso on the other hand, who has 'former communist' on his curriculum vitae, is convinced that we should be grateful for the peace that the European Union has maintained since WWII. This Portuguese 'Pinko', obviously disregards the part played by NATO. The fact is, that currently Brussels is stirring up so much trouble around the regions, there is certainly going to be some kind of eruption(s), I'm sure.


RECOMMENDATION: THIS DUO WON'T MAKE A SUITABLE CHRISTMAS TOY.

FARAGE RUFFLES A FEW MORE FEATHERS.

The future is always difficult to predict, but UKIP leader, Nigel Farage, could well be onto a winner, suggesting that violence has to be a possibility, as the disparity between the 'haves and have nots' in the Eurozone becomes increasingly divergent.

If we don't learn from history, then where do we seek our guidance? Nations will only take so much subjugation before factions arise in retaliation. If and when these groups join in unison, we will have a problem. It is no good thinking that they deserved it, through lack of economic discipline, we are now far beyond that point. After all, Brussels must have known that these nations to the south could never aspire to the type of discipline that the Germans embraced; Germany having learned the hard way, following the hyper-inflationary era triggered during the period of the Weimar Republic. France can also be added to the group of 'basket cases'. These financial pressures will probably awaken nationalistic activity in forthcoming generations, who will only see that they have been left an enormous debt by their forebears.

The author is not excluding the UK in this turmoil, post Margaret Thatcher, we are as much to blame as many of these financially weak nations. The British National Debt doesn't stand up to serious scrutiny, which means that trouble can be just around our corner, at home.

SO MR. FARAGE, YOU COULD WELL BE RIGHT!

EUROLAND PARTIALLY OPENS ONE EYE.

The previously presumed 'cadaver' that is Euroland, shows a flicker of life in the economies of both Germany and France; although we need to be cautious about the financial news regarding the latter. Nevertheless, the doyen of all things wasteful, the British Broadcasting Corporation, thought that the suggestion of growth well worth 'crowing' about; albeit, this is less than the improved figures in the British economy, something that they almost choked upon in their news programmes.

It would be reasonable to have anticipated such activity in Germany, but, the French economy must be in dire straits, with their burgeoning welfare system, not to mention the money owed to them, by Greece in particular. Greece, naturally, along with Spain, Portugal, Italy and Ireland, are far from any type of recovery, and will never be in a position to repay their debts to their creditors. The whole of Euroland remains in total financial turmoil with vast mountains of debt.

Is it possible that the 'feel good factor' figures are just 'spin'? What should make us suspicious are the noises being made by Angela Merkel regarding possible repatriation by the Germans of some of the rulings by Brussels. After all, Germany has a General Election coming up.


DO WE SMELL A RAT HERE?

INSIDE INFORMATION.

Reference a letter in the British press this week from an expat, namely John Fordyce, who lives in the South of France, and is married to a French wife. Having lived there since 1984,  he is, therefore, well placed to reflect on France and the appalling performance of their economy. None of the following would be mentioned by that amateurish outfit, the British Broadcasting Corporation.

Most Brits are aware that the socialist regime under President Hollande is scaring the wealthy French, so much so that many are fleeing the country to avoid punitive taxes. What doesn't appear to be mentioned very often is the civil unrest, along with strikes. Striking we understand is very much a French activity, or inactivity, depending on which side of the fence you wish to stand. Peugeot has recently closed one of its plants, which has seen 4,500 workers lose their jobs.

Mr. Fordyce recommends that the purchase of property in France is not a particularly wise move, as that property needs to be retained by the owner for at least 30 years, otherwise the owner is subject to capital gains tax of 27%. Strangely, I do agree with the principle of this aspect of property ownership.

FRANCE IS ON THE BRINK.

A FRENCH BREAK COULD PROVE DISAPPOINTING.

We have explained over on the other blog, accessed via: polly-tickle.blogspot.com, details of our enjoyable tour of much of Scotland. This, however, was a second choice destination, having considered a river cruise down the Rhone. For some time, the author thought long and hard about the consequences about what might happen should we have been caught in France when the European catastrophe finally happens, and happen it must. We can almost see everybody 'downing tools', not giving a thought to any stranded tourists. My wife considered me to be over cautious, as is my wont about such possibilities. The problems, although generally still being swept down the road or under the carpet, are beginning to happen. The staff at the Eiffel Tower along with other venues, it is understood, have withdrawn their labour. In addition, a friend has had her French holiday cancelled due to these activities.

The European Union, no matter how dead it is, loves to pretend that everything in the garden is rosy; Croatia has become the latest new addition. One wonders if they take any notice of how much all these costs will affect their lives, ultimately, for little return. Brussels is feeling good with itself, as is the norm this time of year, having announced the usual increased spending round, which includes a handsome injection to the pension fund of the officials.


CAN THIS MONEY BE REAL?

THEY CALL THIS SUCCESS.

As the Eurozone unemployment figures continue to break the wrong kind of records; particularly worrying is the fact that so many youngsters are out of work. Meanwhile, Brussels considers its actions to be the right medicine. The Commission, which is comprised of failed socialist politicians from across the spectrum of Europe as a whole, naturally don't understand, or recognise failure. In actual fact, they are happy, because they are in the money, irrespective of what happens throughout the Union, these inept 'jobsworths' will be living in the lap of luxury. 'Devil takes the hindmost' seems to be the order of the day.

One has to wonder what it is that makes British politicians so pro-Europe? We had the usual weekly pantomime 'Question Time' on BBC television on Thursday, loaded with the same or similar suspects, which, to a man/woman, all wanted to remain in this fraudulent institution, except for the lone United Kingdom Independent Party voice. In addition, the audience generally appeared to agree with this naive view. Strange, inasmuch as the polls show a strong surge in support for UKIP; the BBC, one suspects, ensures that this won't reflect in the chosen assembly.


ONE WONDERS WHAT EUROPE CONSIDERS TO BE FAILURE. 

YOU'RE ALL EXCUSED YOUR 'ECONOMICS' HOMEWORK.

When the author was at school some decades ago, if we were found to be wrong doing, we would be detained after school to do extra work, or write a hundred times ones misdemeanour. The European Union, however, seems to operate a different system; if you can't comply within the specified period to be economically viable, don't be concerned, we'll extend the time. Is it any wonder that the 'single currency' is collapsing at a rapid pace of knots?

Brussels will make any kind of decision to preserve the very thing that will kill off the European project over time. The problem within the Eurozone is not just the southern European states, but many of the northern members. Not only are their national budgets under severe pressure, but they will have guaranteed backing for the likes of Greece, Spain, Portugal, Italy and Ireland. Lord only knows what kind of bill that will turn out to be.

Nevertheless, the system has to survive at all costs. That cost is, as yet, an unknown, but one thing for sure, it will be vast. Who, therefore, will pick up the tab? Perhaps future generations; but how can they afford to keep their various welfare systems well funded, simultaneously paying off our debt? Something has to give. Discipline is a practice best swept under the carpet by the commissioners at Brussels HQ.


LIVING FOR TODAY APPEARS TO BE THE CURRENT MAXIM.

COULD ANGELA BE GETTING A LITTLE FRUSTRATED?

It would appear that Chancellor Merkel is getting more than annoyed with President Hollande, the French socialist; the one that promised the great Shangri-La, by taking from the worker and giving to the waster. The standard left wing remedy, which naturally gathers plenty of votes from that section of society. Angela must know that the game is up, as the French economy drowns in its own stupidity of scaring the wealth makers to death, many fleeing the country for calmer havens. The nonsense is the theory, that if socialism is given the authority to run the national economy, everything becomes fair. This is, of course, total bunkum.

Interestingly, we had considered a river cruise down the Rhone this year. I felt, however, that a veto needed to be put on the suggestion, as, should the bubble burst, the French will all 'down tools', and I would never forgive myself for being so stupid as to be caught in the middle of their disputes, which could be catastrophic for Europe.

The author would like to think that such things can be avoided; debt however, is a very serious problem.

IT'S THE PAYING IT BACK.

THE WOODWORK MUST BE LOADED WITH THEM.

During the last week or so, a number of declared europhiles have confessed to a Damacene conversion, by 'coming out', declaring their changes of heart, and are now of a sceptic persuasion. The first one of note was Oskar Lafountaine, the German politician, who was a forerunner in the creation of the failed currency, the Euro, which is strangling any possibility of growth within the member states, and holding up progress throughout the global economy. Next out of the blocks was Nigel Lawson, he now sits in the House of Lords in Westminster; he was a former Chancellor of the Exchequer under Margaret Thatcher. Finally, and refreshingly so, Denis Healy, another Chancellor from the past, a socialist no less; probably one of the few brighter ones. All three, along with much of the electorate, realise that the game is well and truly up; which implies some serious thinking.

Naturally, we have the usual career politicians, none more so than the Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, who sees his future as an EU commissioner going up in smoke. So what does he do? He tries to make out that any kind of break with Europe would cost Britain millions of jobs here at home. Firstly, let us put such misleading scaremongering to bed by pointing out a few home truths. Much of Europe is bust, which means they are purchasing fewer goods. Previously, we in Britain were buying far more of their goods than they ours. We are hamstrung by not being allowed to make our own export deals with potential customers outside the European Union; and on top of all this, we pay handsomely to this crooked outfit for such privileges.

The near future is almost bound to produce some seismic shocks throughout the global economy.

PRETTY WON'T FEATURE IN THE OUTCOME.

THE FDP AND THE FRENCH ECONOMY.

The Free Democratic Party in Germany is making noises, quite rightly, about the parlous state of the French economy. Although a minority party, the FDP generally find themselves in a fairly powerful position in the German Parliament, due to proportional representation. Our man in Berlin informs me that they are not making UKIP type waves, but waves even so.

What therefore is the problem? We have highlighted previously in these columns, that the French are vulnerable should the Euro collapse, a possibility which must be considered, indeed, one could suspect that the FDP are being pragmatic, and 'ahead of the game'. Like any clear thinker, they are aware that the socialist regime in Paris is making a total 'pig's ear' of the situation. Many of the high earners in France are fleeing to more acceptable tax havens, due to tax hikes. What is probably the most serious problem, is the fact that the French economy is exposed to serious Euro debt, which won't be picked up by some German 'white knight' rushing to the rescue; it will be too vast.

Naturally, the dire situation will be fudged for as long as possible, unfortunately, by which time we shall be beyond any reasonable chance of recovery.


LORD KNOWS WHAT WILL HAPPEN THEN.

CHASING THE DEBT Mk. II.

The world economy, now includes a downturn in the growth of the Asian countries, China in particular. China needs a growth rate of at least 8% annually to stay on course, but is now falling short of this target. This has thrown the International Monetary Fund into a big panic. The IMF has been concentrating on bailing out the Euro, that being the fairytale currency which is dragging the Eurozone into a major disaster area. In so doing, it has been operating beyond its remit, by helping to prop up the currency; acting illegally.

In response to these dire situations, the IMF appears to be on some kind of 'road show', in an attempt to draw fire from these calamities; Christine Lagarde, Managing Director, playing the lead, along with its top economist, Olivier Blanchard, have decided to humble the United Kingdom Government, suggesting that the austerity measures are not working, which gives the impression that Britain must return to higher borrowing. Bearing in mind that the UK has a National Debt of a nominal £5trillion, thanks to the last Labour regime.

So who are these characters making up this charade? Both French. France as a nation has been borrowing heavily since the mid-seventies. The Euro is bound to collapse, if not totally, certainly, in the case of the Mediterranean countries. The result either way, will turn out to be a 'tsunami' for the French economy, not that it will do the rest of the European nations any good; German goods, in particular, will be too expensive for many of the casualties in southern Europe.

The 'smoke screen' having been set in place, requires a strong response from the UK Treasury, with some real austerity introduced.

UP TO NOW, THE GOVERNOR ELECT OF THE BANK OF ENGLAND DOESN'T INSTILL MUCH CONFIDENCE.

THE PERFECT FINAL ACT FOR MAGGIE.

I recall well an evening in the mid 1970's, having checked in at an hotel near Wakefield in Yorkshire, seeing on the TV news that one Margaret Thatcher had been appointed leader of the Conservative Party. This was a ground breaking move, having been made leader of a party with many 'toffs' in the ranks. Her mentor, Sir Keith Joseph MP, had seen something in her attitude which exuded economic pragmatism. The rest we know is now history.

One can imagine how the Labour Party reacted to her becoming Prime Minister in 1979; the Conservatives of all parties, having the effrontery to produce the first female Prime Minister. Naturally the unions, who had caused the mayhem under the outgoing Labour Government; with piles of rubbish adorning the streets of London and unburied bodies in Liverpool, due to striking gravediggers. The unions nevertheless were going to do their utmost to destroy Mrs. Thatcher by whatever means at their disposal. Striking was of course the obvious tool in their armoury.

Enter Arthur Scargill, stage far left, the leader of the 'Marxist' National Union Of Mine Workers (NUM). His claims demanded that not one colliery was to close until it was totally clear of coal. They were already heavily subsidised by the rest of taxpayer GB. The strike, without balloting the membership, went on for months, which naturally was forcing much of industry to seek other forms of energy. In addition, the Nottinghamshire coal miners, who had seen through Scargill's political manoeuverings, formed a breakaway union, the Democratic Union Of Mine Workers, which managed to keep the coal fired power stations burning for the duration. When the strike was defeated, Scargill was totally discredited; but the martyrs, aided by the 'deep pink' BBC carried on their whingeing to this day. Even on the day of the funeral, they had to visit a number of old pit communities, where the 'Beeb' continues to point the finger of blame at the Thatcher Government, when naturally, the blame should be firmly on the shoulders of Scargill.

Perhaps we can look at some facts: More pits were closed down during the two terms of Harold Wilson's Labour Governments than the three terms of Margaret Thatcher. Letters to the press this week make some salient points. Ian Oxley from East Yorkshire relates the story of his early days when he was a mining engineer apprentice. The year was 1959, twenty years before Mrs. T stepped foot inside Downing Street.  They were called to a meeting by the regional director of of the National Coal Board, to be informed of the programme of pit closures for the next ten years. Of the 630 remaining mines, 300 would be closed down.

Another irritant to the bombastic, name calling 'left', was her supreme humanity; stories of praise come from legions of everyday folk, many having worked for her. One such story however is relayed via journalist Tom Utley, whose father was treated by Mrs T as a sort of sage, giving her intelligent feed-back regarding the mood of the country. On receiving news of his death, she was in Toronto at a G7 summit, such meetings can extend well into the night. Nevertheless, before retiring, the Prime Minister, wrote a five page letter to the widow. At the subsequent funeral, Mrs. T arrived an hour early, leaving the clergy etc., somewhat perplexed, when someone plucked up courage to enquire, "had she got the time wrong?", she pointed out that had she arrived nearer the time of service, she could have upstaged the mourning widow. It didn't stop there. On leaving, she insisted that the funeral cortege should lead the way, and must not be deflected by her presence. Some time later, the PM graciously planted a tree in the deceased's memory; this was of course destroyed by her dim socialist enemies.

Immediately following her death, the under-educated 'left of centre' mob, via the internet, created a record hit with the Harold Arlen/Yip Harburg song from the film 'The Wizard of Oz', 'Ding Dong! The Witch is Dead'. What is interesting here is that Harold Arlen's son, along with two surviving actors, members of the film's cast, both in their nineties, consider this act to be completely abhorrent.

Finally, the socialists will maintain that Tony Blair also won three consecutive General Elections, which is true. There is a difference, however, Maggie only promised hard work, whereas Blair promised the big 'give away', something that will cost us for decades to come.

A WARNING TO ALL OF EUROPE, "BEWARE THE ENEMY WITHIN".

THE BRUSSELS PROTECTION RACKET.

Currently, here in Britain, following the Leveson Enquiry regarding the practise of phone hacking, which turned out to be reminiscent of a BBC outside broadcast; the net result and recommendations were to advise the curbing of centuries of freedom of the press. This posting is not opposed to the perpetrators of such crimes being charged and dealt with through the courts; this indeed is what happened. What is now emerging, is evidence of funds from the European Union Commission finding their way to groups who want government controls over the press. Something that delights the political left here in the UK.

We have made the point on a number of occasions, that we might never have known of the circumstances which finished the political aspirations of Dominiqe Strauss-Kahn had it not been for the free press of the USA. Such behaviour might well have passed unheeded, and Strauss-Kahn would now be the socialist president of France. Naturally, politicians throughout Europe would hide their misdoings behind legislation, denying the electorate of such vital information.

SOCIALISTS RELISH SUCH THOUGHTS.

HERE WE GO AGAIN.

Now, there is a surprise. Before the rescue agreement to bail out the Cypriot financial crisis, they need a considerable 'top up', in addition to the original rescue package recently agreed. We can add to this fracas, the fact that Ireland and Portugal are looking to reschedule their loan repayments; one wonders how much they have paid off so far, if anything.

These childlike shenanigans, we must admit, do make wonderful entertainment value in searching out Nigel Farage and Daniel Hannan on Youtube in the Brussels Parliament, with their intelligent questions and responses. This makes such a refreshing change from the normal delegate reaction, who would normally just clap at any reassurance espoused by the dim commission, kidding them on that everything is under control; reminiscent of communist regimes. What is it about left wingers that makes them have to lie? Probably the fact that they could not hold down a proper job in the real world.


THIS COULD BE THE START OF THE ULTIMATE CREDIT CRUNCH.

THE RELENTLESS MARCH OF THE BRUSSELS MARXISTS.

The moment of democracy that was Cyprus but for a few days, has been crushed by the unelected dictators that inhabit the halls of the European Parliament. One could argue that there has been fraud within the Cypriot banking system, which certainly needs a thorough investigation. The real point, however, which is being ignored, is the fact that any intelligent person knew that 'hot money' was being laundered through the system when Cyprus was welcomed into the 'Euro Club'. It is so typical of any left wing outfit, that such trivialities get overlooked, just to add another scalp to their belt. The devil can take the hindmost in what will be the ultimate unravelling of this mega catastrophe.
 

BEWARE OF UPSTART OFFICIALDOM.

DEMOCRACY BECOMES ENDEMIC ALONG THE MEDITERRANEAN.

Following the recent anti-Brussels polls in the Italian General Election, the Cypriot Parliament has rejected calls for a raid on individuals' bank accounts.

To the unaware, Cyprus, not unlike Greece and other southern European states, have been living far too 'high on the hog'. In actual fact, much of Europe, including the United Kingdom during the Blair/Brown years, were masters of this profligacy; around the Mediterranean, however, it ran amok. The author is mindful of an ancient TV documentary regarding the nationalisation of the British steel industry during the years following the second world war. The workers were just leaning on their shovels, extolling the fact that they were now the bosses, having no intention of putting themselves about, this being the epitome of socialism.

The situation in Cyprus arose because of the deplorable state of the Cypriot economy, and it was, therefore, decided by the dictators in Brussels that, to ensure the granting of billions of euros in loans, the Cypriot people had to subscribe to having a percentage of their bank accounts skimmed to assist in this bail out. This very act naturally would penalise the thrifty, as the folk who overspend have little or nothing in the bank.

Should this practise appear to be acceptable, heaven only knows what would happen around the region. Many a run on the banks perhaps.

WE COULD BE SEEING A COLLAPSE IN EURO ECONOMICS.

ITALY RETURNS TO DEMOCRACY.

The recent election in Italy should throw the Eurozone into renewed turmoil. No matter how much Brussels will vacillate about the result, and the will of the the good people of Italy, obviously the latter are getting fed up with the austerity demanded by their European masters. Unfortunately, the status quo has to remain, unless, conversely, they decide to make the smart move and get out, bringing their currency back into the real world. Naturally, this is pain. Is this better than 'melt down' a little further down the road? Undoubtedly!

We have referred, in the past, to the farce currently being played out throughout all of Europe. Although Britain is intrinsically involved in this mayhem, Brussels continues on its way, ignoring the mayhem. This is the normal response of socialism; they can't see the wood for the trees, and consider the chaos that surrounds them.

Should there be a more serious concern regarding this stupidity, it is the fact that the 'big spender' on the other side of the Atlantic would prefer the United Kingdom to stick with this shambles of an outfit barely staying afloat, east of the English channel.


DON'T EXPECT THE PROBLEM TO GO AWAY.

WORK ETHIC AND CURRENCIES.

An interesting item, noticed in the British national press this week. An American business man, Maurice Taylor, of Titan Tyres and Wheels had been approached by the French Government, with a view to saving the Goodyear plant at Amiens. Mr Taylor duly visited the factory to observe the situation. His findings don't make for good news for the French regime. The workforce are contracted to complete a 7hr. day. The study concluded that each worker did not exceed more than 3hrs work per day. Much of their routine consisted of talking to each other, along with the accepted hour for lunch. Mr. Taylor convened a meeting to thrash out some kind of deal to make the unit profitable; the Unions however, would not agree to anything without being guaranteed a job for life. Naturally this was the end of negotiations; and the factory will close down.

What appears to be mystifying is that the £sterling is weakening against the Euro. This is happening as the workplace in the United Kingdom is becoming more buoyant, therefore showing greater tax returns. On the downside, economists seem to think the continued quantitative easing is still required, and could be one of the reasons. In addition, it is possibly an orchestrated ploy to gain a bigger foothold with more exports? It is dangerous nevertheless, as fuel oil is leaping up considerably.


HOW ABOUT WORKING HARDER.

NEIGHS TO THE RIGHT, NEIGHS TO THE LEFT.

With apt reason, Britain is embroiled in a horse meat scam. Processed meat products, from burgers to lasagne, are being produced from horse meat, but labelled as beef. This may or may not be detrimental to health, but it is disgraceful that the purchaser is being misled. Much of this could well be due to European Union law. To follow much of this complicated business, one needs a complete map of Europe. This is not to apportion blame on any state in particular, as this fraud would appear to be occurring in a number of EU countries, Britain not excluded.

Much political capital is being generated, suggesting that government should be overseeing laboratory tests all over the place. It certainly is disconcerting that such activities are passing under the radar. This, however, stinks of well organised crime gangs who, even if they are apprehended, are aware of weak laws. The fact that this produce can be processed in a series of plants hundreds of miles apart; heaven only knows what offal might be included in the eventual minced product. Another aspect covering any production inside the EU, it only needs to be pointed out that it came from the EU. From whence doesn't matter. This creates a wonderful opportunity for 'con artists'.


WE NEED STRONG SENTENCES TO 'UP THE ANTE'.

THE CIRCUS HITS PARIS.

'Brand Beckham' has rolled into the French capital, to become head shirt salesman for the football club, Paris Saint-Germain. He, Beckham, announces that his income for playing, believed to be around £1.7million, not a bad deal for a third team player, if one considers his shirt number, will go straight to charity. A wise move considering the high tax regime imposed by the new socialist administration. One assumes that his income will be derived from shirt sales, the going rate being 110euros a garment, so poor David won't be without jam on his bread.

We can only suppose that ripped jeans will abound along the Champs Elysees, sporting farcical hair styles, this is before we get around to additional hectares/acres of massed tattoos.

This kind of activity is so typical of the western countries, probably to draw attention from the dreadful economic news. The club, Arab owned, finds a way of extorting more money from the dim supporters. The one heartening point gleaned from this, is that the French supporters are as backward as their British counterparts. At the age of 37, Beckham is well past his best, which was never that good; one footed, no heading ability, unable to beat a man and rarely tackled with conviction. All in all, English football went into reverse during his involvement.


ROLL UP TO SEE THE HYBRID: TATTOOED LADY AND SHIRT SALESMAN.

FRANCE GOES BROKE. SACRE BLEU!

It will not come as a surprise to be informed that the French Government is fighting an economic meltdown. The extraordinary aspect of this happens to be, that this has been unofficially disclosed by one of the French Government Ministers, Employment Secretary Michel Sapin. Although his country is not alone as an economic 'nut case'. Many western nations, not least the United States, are in serious trouble. Most countries that pursue socialism are bound to hit the 'buffers'. They always spend far beyond their means, generally with a view to seeking votes from the sector that is perpetually 'on the take'.

France, as any student of economics will know, in the last year, voted in a left wing regime under President Hollande. Even the previous Sarkozy centre right stewardship operated a great throwaway operation. Few, if any, of the European nations have been living prudently for years now. France has been running a deficit for almost forty years. Eventually a brick wall will raise its head, and that will be the end of 'wonderland'. It would appear that many wealthy folk in France are fleeing the nest. Who can blame them? Why should they fund profligate politicians?

Although not in the Eurozone, the United Kingdom does not come out of this smelling of roses. No matter how weak both the euro and the dollar are, sterling is weakening against both these battered currencies. Why? Because we refuse to shake off socialism, partially due to the Liberal element in the Coalition. 0.5% interest rates are only installed to to encourage people to borrow money. What got us into this dire situation? Too much borrowing.

Germany faces the greatest dilemma, possibly due to their lack of understanding when to say enough is enough. They suffered seriously from this in the last year of WWII.

BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES.

THE LONG GOODBYE, PERHAPS.

Prime Minister David Cameron has eventually 'come off the fence', or has he? A promise of a referendum regarding the British membership of the 'goddam' awful European Union has been promised five years hence, 2018. This is his response to the loss of support from his Tory Party, which is migrating to the United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP). No doubt Cameron will hope that in the interim period, the whole idea will find its way into the long grass. At seventy seven, the author could well be at some other unholy union in the sky; but nothing could be worse than the amateurish EU, run by a bunch of total incompetents in Brussels.

Whenever the media questions the public on the subject of the EU, it, under the guise of even handedness, seeks differing views; naturally, from this, we cannot surmise the true mood of the public, but what is obvious is, that too many people think politicians know best. This aspect is the biggest danger of all. Why can't they understand that we are gradually being drawn into a giant web, where we shall be given little or no chance to vote on major concerns. We'll be overrun by other member states, who easily identify Britain as a 'nice little earner' by just turning up. What the EU is to most politicians is a big 'gravy train'.

One wonders whether or not the real arguments will get enough airing; the BBC will have to change its spots to incorporate democracy into the schedules, don't hold your breath. The BBC wouldn't ever mention the imbalance in our trade relations with the rest of Europe; how much we subscribe annually to the EU coffers, which is far more than we get in return. The latter is never mentioned. Keeping the whole subject in the hands of what in Britain is called the 'chattering class', the elite; which in fact is the dim, blinkered, academic, political class. Which, as ever, is far removed from reality. They adore the plethora of rules spewing out from this very big government. They are comfortable with the endless bureaucracy, giving hundreds of thousands of folk employment, shuffling paper around, at hard pressed taxpayers' expense.

THE NEXT FIVE YEARS WILL APPEAR TO BE THE LONGEST IN HISTORY.

ROLL UP, ROLL UP.

More and more stories are emerging about how European Union immigrants can come to Britain, very often as fake students, having a 'fling' with a man, becoming pregnant, leaving hard pressed taxpayer GB to pick up the 'tab'. It's as easy as that. One particular case is highlighted in this weeks national press, regarding a Lithuanian woman, who, although not breaking any law, is happy to exploit this weakness in the British benefits system; which is geared to encourage people not to work more than 16hrs. per week, otherwise these handouts would stop. The case in question concerns Natalija Belova; she lives a very pleasant life style, which includes new clothes regularly, plus holidays abroad. Why on earth should she wish to change this routine by working more hours? All these excesses were naturally introduced by the previous Labour regime.

Let us add to to this ridiculous arrangement by including the cases of the multinationals, Amazon, Google and Starbucks. This is not a criticism of any of the above, but of the federalists in Brussels whose rules dictate that these organisations can select their country to register for corporation tax; as the EU is deemed, by Brussels, to be one state for such purposes.


ALL THIS BEGGARS BELIEF.

CAMERON AND THE ORCHESTRATED SPIN.

The previous posting 'U.S. VEERS FURTHER TO THE LEFT', was only scratching at the surface of what is happening at the heart of British politics regarding Europe; the orchestration of all the allies that Prime Minister Cameron can muster. We have mentioned the American and German intervention before, the latter being concerned that they would have to 'stump' up more of the necessary, to support the leaking economy of the Eurozone.

The usual suspects are now being rolled out in support of the collapsing European project. Lord Heseltine, the well known supporter of the fraudulent Union. The increasingly dim 'Thoroughly modern' Miliband, here's someone who, as Nigel Farage points out, learned his Marxist politics from his Communist parents whilst sitting around the kitchen table. Brussels, to 'Thoroughly modern', is a natural base, due to the fact that the EU is run on the old Kremlin system. No doubt, my Member of Parliament, Kenneth Clarke, will be rolled out shortly, adding more support to this lost cause. Naturally, the British Backward Broadcasting Corporation, was dibbing in with it's useless understanding of responsibility; a socialist excuse.

So what is the advantage of a political institution that demands more taxes; determines the hours that Europeans are allowed to work; won't control immigration and pretends to have the financial concerns of the failing European nations under control? All of which created the mayhem which is now upon us.

THE ONLY WAY IS OUT, BELIEVE ME.

U.S. VEERS FURTHER TO THE LEFT.

The socialist regime that has now established itself into the American Psyche, has spoken out against the fear that the British are getting restless about the European Union. The term 'union' is now a misnomer due to the underlying problems that are raging below the surface.

Philip Gordon, US assistant secretary for European affairs, doing his President's dirty work for him, recommends that the UK should forget about an in/out referendum on our membership of the fraudulent organisation centred in Brussels; a place where the 'boys and girls' meet to have a big 'jolly', demanding more money from hard pressed taxpayers, which they can then shuffle around, and generally waste. All this activity makes them feel important. It's what socialists do best.

What the author finds difficult to follow, is the fact that Brussels is in the hands of two spineless characters: The unelected President of the European Council, Van Rompuy, and Commission President Barroso, that well known Maoist sympathiser, and equally unelected. When I say unelected, what I mean, is that the public have no say in the appointments. These two unsavoury placements, possibly still glowing from their collection of a Nobel Peace Prize, have this last few days been extolling the theory that the Euro currency has now stabilised. Fat chance! They are the last people that one would trust to help any grandmother across the street, never mind overseeing a vast loss-making economy. As for peace, forget it.

EUROPE IS IN TURMOIL.

OBAMA ACCEPTS BATON FROM EUROZONE.

The United States Government has voted to 'fudge' the issue of their ever mounting, disastrous National Debt. The so-called 'Fiscal Cliff' has been put on the 'back burner' for at least a couple of months. This will give this inept President more time to spin his way out of serious decision making. During this period, he will try to pacify all his supporters who voted for increased Federal spending, which can only increase the horrendous amount being created by this neophyte, who is totally out of his depth. Power at the behest of those 'on the take' will always lead to disaster.

In principle, the way that the US Government controls national spending over specific periods, to avoid borrowing beyond specific targets, is commendable. President Obama naturally thinks he knows better. Hoping that new resources, Gas/Oil (fracking), will bail him out, sooner rather than later. The profits, of course, would only help pay off the massive debt accruing; something that future generations will have to confront.

So is it because of its leader, that the nation, which is in sad decline, is losing its dynamism?  Surely it needs some sound leadership. Copying what is happening in Europe is hardly a good example of competent husbandry. Living solely for today is no excuse. Not to mention, the dangers of socialism.

In the British press, in recent days; Jennifer Selway suggested that 'Fiscal Cliff' sounds rather like a Damon Runyon character from his book, and subsequent show/film, 'Guys and Dolls' (Loesser). Well that is how Obama is treating the situation.

THE BIG SPENDING CON ARTIST.

"HAPPY NEW YEAR": We are going to need it.