Forum Topics

Transport issues  - Guy Lambert

Hi Guy Lambert,You said you were keen to discuss the transport in the area, so here is my view, and I am sure others will contribute.The good, the bad and the uglyThe good: Many may disagree with me here,  but I think rail link for those of us who want to commute to Central London is , if not good, but adequate. Of course, longer trains are needed because  the service is overcrowded, and we'd  all like trains to move faster, but in comparison to everything else we have in Brentford / Syon / Isleworth, rail is probably the better one of the lot. I read that there are plans for additional rail links (15-year plan), so this could work well for those who live or commute for work into the area.Bus services towards Hounslow (237 and 235) are quite good too.The bad: We don't have a tube station, and probably won't have in the future,  but a frequent bus service from Brentford High Street to Osterley tube would help a lot (H91 service is less than adequate and doesn't connect town centre). There is a bus service to Hounslow East station, but it takes too long due to road congestion. The ugly: Now, the "ugly" is so ugly, that I want to scream at the computer while I am typing it. I am taking about the bus services towards West Mid hospital and Twickenham.If you look at the stretch of the road between Morrisons in Brentford and Isleworth War memorial, there are 6 primary, 3 secondary schools and a major teaching hospital with A&E and maternity units that just doubled in size. There is just ONE bus route that takes you from Brentford to Twickenham, and frequency of service is frankly appalling.I spent countless mornings at a bus stop on London road with my 2 young kids just to watch buses whizz by without stopping because they are FULL. I am talking about 8 o'clock in the morning, well before the start of the school day. We then had to walk 1.5 miles, often in cold rain, and by the time we reached school gates kids were cold, wet and not set for learning. It is pretty much the same on the way back at 3.30 pm. On those occasions we did manage to get on a bus, my kids were pushed about, smacked in the head with rucksacks and I was verbally assaulted by the feral girls from Gumley school. This happens pretty  much every weekday. And just to mention - those buses are now stuck in a car park called Twickenham road, adding up to 40 minutes to a journey that used to take less than 15.This is now. Let's remember that you are about to open a new secondary school at Busch corner, adding 1000+ journeys every weekday to the public transport network that is already bursting at the seams. Someone mentioned 2 more schools at or near Gillette's - true? How about 18,000 jobs planned for Golden Mile? How are those people meant to get to and from work?There is a big push from your colleagues at Hounslow council to get people out of cars and onto bikes and public transport. May I ask, what did they do to improve public transport first? They are about to spend £60,000 of our money on leaflets advertising how we should all start cycling. Don't you think it's a bit disingenuous, when your party's mayoral candidate Sadiq Khan told the press only today that he won't let his OWN two daughters cycle in London because it isn't safe?For the record, I walk whenever I can, but sometimes it is too far for the little kids, or too cold, or they are too tired after a full day at school. You leave us with no options. I can see a big trouble coming your way.In the spirit of "citizen engagement" may I suggest that you and your colleagues start talking to the real people and listen to the problems we face day in and day out.I am not saying that council is solely responsible for this mess, but you need to talk with TFL and try and sort out transport infrastructure problems before approving thousands of new developments in the area.And then there is a death trap called Busch corner junction. People have been complaining about safety for months, but no one had a decency even to acknowledge the issue. Councillors, including yourself, seem to be spending a lot of their time talking about dog mess, potholes and other non-issues, but nobody wants to see the elephant in the room.Please let me know if you wish to discuss this personally.

Marina Thomas ● 3467d15 Comments ● 3465d

Aversion to being straight and honest

Why is it that Hounslow Council have an aversion to being straight and honest and rely of deception and half truths?They did it with the wheelie bins, the CPZs, local developments and now with the latest leaflet on garden waste.To quote:"Presently. All residents pay for a free garden waste collection service regardless of whether they use it or not.Asking residents to pay for the service means only those who want it receive it.Charging also helps prevent abuse of the collection service by gardening contractors and helps towards the cost."This is both a breach of trading standards and the ASA code of practice.'Free' and 'Pay' in the same sentence? Somewhat contradictory.'Abuse by Gardening Contractors' Where? How? and under what circumstances.If you get someone in to sort your garden, it's still your residential garden waste, irrespective of who actually puts it in the bags.If it is such a problem then why is it not being observed reported and dealt with in the same way as fly tipping?Garden waste is a profitable industry. About the most profitable area of the entire recycling industry.So why lie? They want to make extra money out of you and me, on top of the council tax we pay.However, as it clearly states we are Currently Paying for a free garden waste service, then where is the refund if one decides to not take up the invented charges?That clearly implies that residents should get a fifty pound rebate.

Raymond Havelock ● 3469d4 Comments ● 3468d

Council Leader Complains To Planning Inspectorate Over Lucozade Sign

http://www.chiswickw4.com/default.asp?section=info&page=conlucozade002.htmCouncillor Steve Curran, Leader of Hounslow Council, has penned an open letter to the Planning Inspectorate to complain about the removal of the iconic Lucozade advertisement at York House, Brentford.He says he is concerned that there is "a lack of consistency with decisions for advertisements on the Great West Road" and wants to see an independent review of the training and decision-making process of the Planning Inspectorate, regarding advertisement appeals across the borough of Hounslow.Over the Christmas holidays, JC Decaux installed an internally illuminated LED screen at York House, Brentford, to screen advertisements, removing the iconic copy of the 1920’s 'dripping bottle' Lucozade advertisement that many people associated with the area.Hounslow Council planners had previously turned down permission for the LED advertisement screen, but it was given consent on appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, a situation that the Lead member described as "depressing".Cllr Curran says in his letter, that removing the iconic sign has caused great upset in the local community and attracted considerable attention from the media."Overall, I am concerned there is a lack of consistency with decisions for advertisements on the Great West Road. I appreciate there is a real pressure from advertisers to locate here, as one of the most valuable stretches of land for advertisements in the country. But it is mainly a residential area and local people are not happy about the brightness of the LED screens, which is completely different to the old style illuminated advert hoardings.""The Planning Inspectorate overriding the decisions of my planning officers, based on the Town and Country Planning (Control of Advertisements) Act 2007 and Local Plan policy, is depressing."However, there are inconsistencies as the Planning Inspectorate dismiss about eight applications for every one approved."I would like to see an independent review carried out of the training and decision making of the Planning Inspectors involved in decision making on advertisement appeals in LB Hounslow since the 2007 Act came in to force.he replacement advertising hoarding (Picture: Brentford Heritage)The Lucozade advert (or a similar version) has been situated on the building on the Great West Road since the fifties. It's much loved and seen by many returning from a long trip outside London giving the first indication that they are close to home.The digital display ad that has replaced it is advertising Mercedes vans rather than energy drinks. A petition has been set up with change.org calling on the Prime Minister to: 'Bring back Brentford's iconic Lucozade sign. Remove the hideous digital advertising.'JC Decaux has declined to comment on the removal of the sign.Nina Meusberger, head of marketing at Lucozade Energy, said: "We're grateful for the public’s appreciation for the iconic Lucozade Energy sign which was displayed alongside the M4 in Brentford. We have preserved and stored the sign since the decision, which was beyond our control, was made to turn the space into a digital advertising board."We are considering various options of where to place it next."January 20, 2016

Reg Ghosh ● 3487d1 Comments ● 3487d

Front gardens will have to be changed to accommodate bins

Meanwhile in Ealing ....Conservative Councillors in Northfields are warning residents that they may have to alter their properties to accommodate wheelie bins which are to be introduced borough wide next year.In their local leaflet 'intouch' they say council officers told them that it was the responsibility of residents to ensure they can store the bins - even if that means knocking down walls or removing shrubs and trees. The information came after Councillors Millican, Mullins and Conti went on a walkabout with the officers and visited various roads including Belsize Ave, near Northfields Station. There they saw houses that would not be able to accommodate the wheelie bins without adapting their front gardens, unless the wheelie bins were left directly in front of the front doors.Officers also apparently confirmed that legal action could be taken if the bins were left on the pavement.The news will cause anger - this year 7,000 people signed a petition against the changes.In Brentford the recent introduction of the new collection service has led to protests outside the Council Leader's house.Ealing Council plan to introduce the alternate collections and wheelie bins in late Spring and are currently assessing properties which are not suitable for a wheelie bin and say they will provide the same service offered to homes on red routes.They say if any waste (contained or otherwise) is left unauthorised on the pavement, action can be taken. However they claim that they want to ' work closely with residents before, during and after service roll out to prevent any need for this'. Residents can store wheelie bins in their front gardens if they wish to.An Ealing Council spokesperson added:''Wheelie bin collections have been successfully introduced in many parts of London, making it easier to recycle. We have carried out a survey of all homes in the borough and the majority of homes will be able to store wheelie bins. We will be writing to people early next year to let them know what their collection service will be and help will be at hand for people who need further advice.''

Reg Ghosh ● 3537d31 Comments ● 3495d

No Christmas Excess Rubbish Allowed Say Council

From the Chiswick site http://www.chiswickw4.com/default.asp?section=info&link=http://neighbournet.com/server/common/hounspol194.htmDon't put out extra bins over festive period or they won't be collectedChristmas may be regarded as a time of excess but not where Hounslow Council's rubbish collection is concerned. This year they have warned that anyone putting out extra rubbish beside their wheelie bin will have to deal with it themselves.The Council says 70% of the extra waste generated over Christmas can be recycled. Real Christmas trees will be collected for recycling during January 2016.All excess waste is recorded by collection crews. Anyone caught dumping excess waste on the streets will face a fine of £80, warn the Council.Any bags placed beside or on top of wheelie bins will not be collected. Bins where the lid is open or not firmly closed will not be collected."Hounslow residents receiving wheelie bin rubbish collections are reminded not to leave additional bags out for collection during Christmas and the New Year to avoid having to get rid of them themselves."Only waste in wheelie bins is collected to limit the amount of rubbish households can throw away, which encourages residents to recycle more."Staff will not return to collect any excess rubbish and residents will need to take any uncollected waste to Space Waye Reuse and Recycling Centre, Pier Rod, Feltham, or a civic amenity in neighbouring boroughs of Richmond, Hillingdon or Ealing.More than 40,000 households across the borough now use wheelie bins to contain their waste- despite their unpopularity in some areas. A further 24,000 households will receive a new bin in the New Year.You can recycle:• all wrapping paper• cardboard packaging from presents or food• food packaging like plastic pop bottles, plastic pots and tubs from chocolate boxes• glass drinks bottles and jars• drink tins and mince pie wrappers • all leftover food that cannot be eaten or frozen.Revised waste and recycling collections will be made during Christmas and the New Year.You need to place your Christmas tree out for collection on your normal garden waste collection day (this can be found through the collection day finder). Only real Christmas trees will be collected, all decorations, pots and stands need to be removed before they are placed out for collection.Residents living in flats can also arrange to have their real Christmas tree to be collected.Contact the Council to arrange a collection, by emailing recycling@hounslow.gov.uk or by calling 020 8583 2000.

Reg Ghosh ● 3515d6 Comments ● 3503d

1960's Movie

Hi everyone,I haven't posted for a very long time because I've had nothing to say of interest, plus being 16000 odd kilometres away in Australia. However, I do look through the forum at least once a week.I have been looking for many, many years for a 1960's movie, where quite a few scenes were shot in Brentford. I had been told it may be a movie called "The Concrete Jungle" starring Stanley Baker,  but I hunted that down and didn't find what I was looking for.Last night I goggled "Brentford 1960's" and up came a site called "reelstreets". This brought up a lot of stills from a movie called "The Challenge" and lo and behold I had found what I was looking for. It came out in America as "It takes a thief"so I then went on You Tube to see if it was there. Type it in as "It takes a thief" and you are able to watch the whole movie.At the 23 minute mark is the scene I had been looking for, as it shows kids running out of school at the end of the day. This is in fact myself and other kids running out of St Paul's gate and continue running towards the Rec. Unfortunately, it is a short scene, and we run pretty fast, that I can't really 100% say which one I am.My best shot is that I maybe the girl towards the end who seems to almost take a tumble, as her arm comes up in order to keep her balance. The reason I am sharing this with you is that you may be one of the other kids, or much to my dismay, you may lay claim to being that little girl. Anyhow, tell me what you think of the whole thing as there are more scenes from the streets of Brentford i.e. New Rd, Brook Rd North and a few others. In fact you may end up seeing your own house on there.Enjoy!

Sue Gowty ● 3525d5 Comments ● 3508d

The Battle of Brentford

10 London ‘battlefields’ – 7. Battle of Brentfordhttp://exploring-london.com/2015/12/09/10-london-battlefields-7-battle-of-brentford/Having taken Banbury and Oxford in the aftermath of the Battle of Edgehill, the Royalist army marched along the Thames Valley toward London where a Parliamentarian army under the Earl of Essex waited.Having arrived at Reading to the west of London, King Charles I, apparently unconvinced peace talks were heading in the right direction, ordered Prince Rupert to take Brentford in order to put pressure on the Parliamentarians in London.On 12th November, 1642, up to 4,600 Royalists under the command of the prince engaged with two Parliamentarian infantry regiments at Brentford, one of the key approaches the City of London. The Parliamentarians were under the command of Denzil Hollis (who wasn’t present) and Lord Brooke – various estimates put their number at between 1,300 and 2,000 men.Prince Rupert’s men – consisting of cavalry and dragoons – attacked at dawn under the cover of a mist. An initial venture to take a Parliamentarian outpost at the house of Royalist Sir Richard Wynne was repulsed by cannon fire but Sir Rupert ordered a Welsh foot regiment to join the fight and the outpost was quickly taken.The Cavaliers then pushed forward across the bridge over the River Brent (which divided the town) and eventually drove the Parliamentarians from the town and into the surrounding fields (part of the battle was apparently fought on the grounds of Syon House – pictured at top).Fighting continued into the late afternoon before the arrival of a Parliamentarian infantry brigade under the command of John Hampden allowed the Roundheads to withdraw.About 170 are believed to have died in the battle (including a number who drowned fleeing the fighting). Followed by the sack of the town, the battle was a success for the Royalists who apparently captured some 15 guns and about 400 prisoners. The captured apparently included Leveller John Lilburne, a captain in Brooke’s regiment.The Royalists and Parliamentarians met again only a few days later – this time at Turnham Green (for more on that, see last week’s post).Incidentally, this wasn’t the first battle to be fought at Brentford. Some time over the summer of 1016, English led by Edmund Ironside clashed with the Danes under the soon-to-be-English king Canute. Edmund was victorious on the day, one of a series of battles he fought with Canute.Meanwhile, more than 1000 years earlier, it was apparently at Brentford that the British under the King Cassivellaunus fought with Julius Caesar’s men in 54 BC on their approach to St Albans (Verulamium).A pillar stands High Street in Brentford commemorating all three battles while there is an explanatory plaque about the battle in the grounds of Syon Park.For more the Battles of Brentford and Turnham Green, see www.battlefieldstrust.com/brentfordandturnhamgreen.

Reg Ghosh ● 3529d10 Comments ● 3524d

Council leader felt 'harassed and threatened'

What a complete idiot this man is, people feel so strongly about an issue so they try to talk to a reluctant local representative who throws a wobbly and says he felt 'harassed and threatened', well now he knows how the rest of us feel at our treatment by Hounslow Council. It's like being in a permanent state of war with these twerps.If the Dear Leader and his colleagues had an ounce of political nous they'd have stopped to consider the sizeable backlash the decision on wheelie bins has caused. There are some of us for whom they work well, but you really do have to consider that some areas are not suitable for these, and try listening to people's real concerns. Just brushing criticism to one side and refusing to engage is hardly the action of a councillor in tune with his constituents.I have just had a letter through my door also on a subject that people in Isleworth are up in arms over, the closure of Church St. something else where a sizeable public meeting showed its disagreement with this barmy decision, but which they are going to blunder on with anyway. Then they insult us all by having the absolute gall to say that 243 people responded to their 'informal consultation' and 60% of those supported the closure! That works out to 145 people, are they kidding? When by their own calculations this will push nearly 2,500 extra vehicles on to the Twickenham Rd. and down other residential streets! 'Harassed and threatened?' Well, you have your answer - try listening to people and not being so bloody arrogant!

Vanessa Smith ● 3547d90 Comments ● 3529d

Latest developments on Isleworth Pit Park saga

As this is a major ongoing local issue in its own right I thought I'd take the liberty of detaching it from the Brent Lea thread so as not to blur the two, linked though they are as they both throw a revealing light on our local authority's approach to resident engagement:Vanessa Smith wrote:  "It seems in our fight to wrest our local park back from individual usage and ensure pubic access for local residents, that Isleworth councillors are taking lessons from their Leader. Apparently a meeting has been arranged for this Thursday at Isleworth Library to set up a 'working party' to look into the issues surrounding the use of the park, it has become clear that only selected people have been notified of this meeting, it looks like it's people who back on to the park only, which is not a lot of homes when you consider the local area. In the best traditions of repressive states across the world Labour councillors are manipulating the process instead of opening this up to the wider public locally. I have asked for an explanation of just who decided to do this and why the people who have been notified don't include the people who took the trouble to respond to the so-called 'consultation' (which was done after the park was given away). After all if people took the trouble to respond then doesn't that tell  you that they have an interest in what happens?"As anybody who has been a councillor knows, there are sometimes extraordinary demands on an elected member's time.  This is even more so in the case of a councillor who serves on the Cabinet, as two of Isleworth's three elected members do.Under the circumstances it seems bizarre to say the least that Isleworth's councillors would want to set up a working party involving some of the residents affected by a Council decision but not others, with a view to then repeating the exercise before a wider group at some unstipulated later stage.  Much easier, one would have thought, to include everybody concerned from the off.It is difficult therefore to conclude that this is anything other than a particularly crude attempt at community divide and rule, which seems an extraordinarily insensitive and frankly arrogant approach to take in the wake of the original blunders to which the councillors freely admit (although some believe, not without good reason, that there was more to things than mere incompetence).  Surely some contrition, rather than further manipulation of events, is what is called for here?Some words of explanation either from them or from their Leader, whose backing they continue to enjoy, would be helpful to us all.

Phil Andrews ● 3706d16 Comments ● 3531d

Stupid beyond Comprehension

If anyone is in the slightest doubt about how Hounslow wastes money in a time of financial angst. Take a walk to Alexandra road on the corner of Albany Road and The Court.They have installed a one way cycle route, downhill with hugely expensive speed bumps.It is a route to nowhere and is unbelievable unsafe for cyclists and simply won't ever get used.The junction at the High street is at one of the worst black spots on that section of road.It is blind to turn right and for traffic heading west on the high street also blind to cyclists.Far easier and safer routes exist.It does not connect with the cycle route that runs through St Paul's Park which is also a safer and easier flat route from Grand Junction to Kew Pumping station.Now terminating buses at the Alexandra Road stop block up the former one way road causing other buses and traffic bound for Morrisons to back up into the high street causing delays right back into Brentford and the Half Acre.It's only been there 2 days and already it is a total mess.Officers were warned that this would not work and that it is a completely pointless route for us cyclists.Even with these mini speed bumps, no safe cyclist in their right mind would cycle downhill towards a main road with a contraflow of traffic in particular buses.They have made a safe area dangerous. Utterly stupid and a huge waste of taxpayers money.On top of that they have blocked of Albany road with non removable bollards. Albany road is the pick up point for the air ambulance crews which land in the dogs corner of the park.It is now only accessible from one end which can block up with a light van.  How could something so stupid which could cost lives get passed through let alone proposed?Money massively wasted. If they really want to make cycling easier and safer, sort out the Great West road cycle track with visible repeater traffic lights and sweep the often puncture blighted surface regularly.

Raymond Havelock ● 3536d7 Comments ● 3532d

Pollution nearly twice legal limit in Twickenham Road

Get West London: http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/news/west-london-news/pollution-nearly-twice-legal-limit-10544910 Pollution nearly twice legal limit in Isleworth's Twickenham RoadProtesters say shocking levels of nitrogen dioxide along Twickenham Road back up their calls to overturn Church Street closure.  Protesters fighting a controversial road closure in Isleworth have unearthed alarming data about pollution which they say supports their case.Levels of harmful nitrogen dioxide (NO2), produced by vehicles, in Twickenham Road are nearly twice the legal limit, according to Hounslow Council's own figures.  Campaigners say closing nearby Church Street will add to congestion in Twickenham Road, which is home to West Middlesex Hospital and a number of schools, making the air there even filthier.A report published by Hounslow Council in October shows NO2 levels at Busch Corner, at the junction of Twickenham Road and London Road, were 74.9 micrograms per cubic metre (µg/m3) in 2014.Dr Nichola Keay, who unearthed the statistics, is among those opposed to the 18-month trial closure of Church Street, which is due to begin on Monday (December 7)."Given the council's own predictions that closing Church Street will increase delays in the area by 142%, it's inevitable pollution in Twickenham Road will become even worse," she said."I have asked the council's head of transport what the pollution threshold is at which Church Street would be re-opened but I have not received a reply."The council has said it took the decision to close Church Street following complaints from residents about drivers using the narrow residential road as a "rat run" .In a survey earlier this year about 60% of those responding supported the move, but critics say a wider area should have been consulted .Campaigners are planning to march along Twickenham Road next weekend in protest at the closure.On the same day, residents of Church Street are holding a Christmas party to celebrate their road being closed to through traffic.

Reg Ghosh ● 3535d2 Comments ● 3534d

Wheelies and Fire Safety Regs from the Watch Manager

To those who have been posting wondering about the fire safety aspect of wheelie bins being placed next to buildings (something which I am not particularly concerned by) I today emailed the northwestareasupportteam@london-fire.gov.uk and asked whether there was any advice/regulation. I was very impressed to get the following answer back within a few hours. It is not what people may be wanting to hear but hopefully it clarifies the situation somewhat.Dear Sir / Madam, Many thanks for your enquiry regarding the refuse collection system and your fire safety concerns. Unfortunately, as far as our regulatory / enforcement powers are, I am unable to offer any professional assistance in regard to the refuse bins you have been provided with. Sadly, the fire safety legislation does not extend to single private dwellings or their surrounding land. I can understand your frustrations and concerns, particularly if the bins provided make it difficult to use your property the way you would wish to. When having encountered this in the past, I’m afraid I have only been able to refer people to the local councillor / MP and / or environmental health officer.   My sincere apologies that I can’t assist you further, I trust the matter will be amicably resolved in the near future .    Yours sincerely,    Watch Manager Daniel Burrage Fire Safety Inspecting Officer, Fire Safety Regulation, SE Area London Fire Brigade 90 Old Town, Croydon, CR0 1AR Tel      0208 555 1200  x 37618 Mob    07825 996 369

Anne England ● 3544d4 Comments ● 3537d

Wheelie Bins: Fire safety hazard & insurance risk

This is the official Fire safety advice for residential wheelie bins.Sent to me from a colleague in Cheshire Fire service but most others also offer the advice. This has come about because of the huge increase in fires in rubbish bins in the North of England.Another fact ignored by Hounslow Council.Should a wheelie bin fire damage your property, your insurance may well not cover the damage as if too close to your home and not following fire safety recommendations could void it.The council and Councillor cabinet member ( in this case Cllr. Mann - who elects to ignore the advice and as a multiple landlord should be fully aware) may well be liable as the bin is council property.If they ignore appeals on safety grounds and the worst happens, then they will be fully liable.In the case of Wheelie bins being in terrace houses with frons lest than 3m deep this places the vast majority of bins within 1 metre of a door or window and within arms lenght of a passer by.This makes the fire risk extreme.So courtesy of Cheshire Fire service. Wheelie bin - fire safety tipsHelp to prevent bin fires by following these tips:Do not place hot items in the bin, for example:  smoking materials, hot embers from coal/wood, hot ash, etcDo not store rubbish or wheelie bins/refuse containers by windows or doors - any fire in the bin could easily spread to your property.Do not store your wheelie bin/refuse containers in close proximity to a building.Do not overfill your wheelie bin/refuse containers or leave loose rubbish around them.Whenever possible, wheelie bins/refuse containers should be stored securely behind locked gates.Only place your wheelie bin out on collection day. Return it to your property as soon as possible after collection. Do not leave your wheelie bin out at night.Do not allow bins or rubbish to block escape routesDon't let your bin become a target for arsonistsWe would like to urge residents and businesses to store all bins away to avoid them becoming a target for arsonists.This includes wheelie bins and refuse containers.Please store them away, especially at night. Please take extra care to make sure that rubbish does not pile up close to buildings

Raymond Havelock ● 3554d9 Comments ● 3541d

Possibilitiy of three wheeled bins per household

Not content with imposing one bin on us, Hounslow Council want to issue a second bin for co-mingled recycling and a third for garden waste.Possibilitiy of three wheeled bins per householdHounslow Council have announced the introduction of wheelie bins borough wide with great publicity but haven't mentioned their intentions to bring in a fortnightly waste collection for non-recyclables.At September's Cabinet meeting it was agreed that:-The Cabinet agreed the introduction of a fortnightly collection frequency for residual waste.The Cabinet agreed the introduction of a charge for the collection of garden waste from April 2016 based on the collection of 240 litre wheeled bins on alternate weeks (with the residual waste service).The Cabinet approved the policies at Appendix A and B of the report. These contain the full details of the wheelie bin policy and garden waste collection.The Cabinet agreed to bring the service back under local authority control upon the termination of the current contract (which ends on 31 October 2016).In addition the Council will look further at:The introduction of a co-mingled recycling service based on the collection of 240 litre wheeled bins on alternate weeks (with the residual waste service). This would mean a second wheeled bin instead of the current green box and bags.The retention of a weekly kerbside sorted service based as currently provided.The possible redevelopment of the council’s civic amenity site at Space Waye to improve service provision and allow the council to handle collected recycled materials for onward processing.The options for the sale/processing of collected recyclables;To agree the financial implications set out in the report with final costings being reported to Cabinet in December.All councils have been asked to achieve a 50% recycling target by 2020 and Hounslow has been at around 35% in recent years, the worst recycling level in West London.SITA staff are employed on the minimum wage rather than the London Living Wage which Hounslow requires.Garden waste will be via a(nother) 240l wheeled bin with the option of two sacks instead at a charge of £50 per year for fortnightly collection. This is expected to be brought in next April.The report also states that there is no requirement to consult service users.  http://democraticservices.hounslow.gov.uk/mgAi.aspx?ID=88338#mgDocuments

Reg Ghosh ● 3550d7 Comments ● 3543d

Proposed closure of Church St.

From Cllr. Guy Lambert's weekly TW8 Newsletter."Saturday was monthly surgery in the Mission Hall. A lady looking for a venue to run an after-school group (must get back to her) and another lady who wanted to protest about the imminent trial closure of Church Street in Isleworth to cars, which she believes will make her late for work each day after depositing her child at the Blue School. I’m sympathetic to her personal difficulties but we did hear the arguments for and against this closure at the last Isleworth and Brentford Area Forum and councillors unanimously (I think) agreed to the trial."Clearly Cllr. Lambert didn't pay any heed to the public meeting held at the Isleworth Public Hall recently, where it was quite clear the arguments for and against this decision seemed to consist of offering residents several options all of which contained a closure! He along with others needs to understand that where traffic is concerned you CANNOT look at things in isolation, this stupid and misguided plan will cause gridlock on the Twickenham Rd. The whole area from Busch Corner right up to the A316 roundabout has to be considered. Is Cllr. Lambert familiar with the area? If he is then he's talking balderdash, if he isn't then he should try driving around here in the rush hour. Listening to officers referring to their reports is not enough, councillors should familiarise themselves with the issues they are being asked to take decisions on, then he might understand the dreadful implications this decision so easily taken will have for all local residents.

Vanessa Smith ● 3556d1 Comments ● 3556d

The white poppy - time for a rethink all round?

Following on from discussions elsewhere on this forum about yesterday's Remembrance Day events, one couldn't help but notice that Syon councillor Katherine Dunne was sporting a white poppy at the Isleworth parade alongside the traditional red one, emblazoned with the word "Peace".Personally I thought this was a nice touch.  So often I have found myself nonplussed by the abuse I have received from a very small minority of people when selling poppies, usually accompanied by allegations that I am a warmonger and an apologist for murder.  Yet I have opposed UK and Western military aggression in North Africa and the Middle East as outspokenly and as consistently as any anti-war campaigner from the so-called "left".Similarly there is undoubtedly a feeling amongst some to whom the Remembrance season is held dear that those who choose to wear the white poppy are unpatriotic, even traitors, whose act betrays those who have given their lives.  This despite the fact that they call only for peace and an end to war - a sentiment which, in my opinion and experience, is shared by the overwhelming majority of ex-servicemen and women as well as right-thinking people everywhere.  The former ICG councillor Dr. Genevieve Hibbs was a pacifist who, when she became Mayor of Hounslow, struggled with her conscience in the knowledge that she would be expected to attend the annual ceremony of Remembrance and to play a prominent part in proceedings.  I remember having a long conversation with her in which I managed to persuade her that Remembrance was not a celebration of war but an act of respect for those who had lost their lives as a result of the failure of politics and of national leaders worldwide to reconcile their differences peacefully.  Indeed some may even see it is an act of defiance to those people, a reaffirmation of the gratitude and debt that we feel to those brave men and women who put their lives on the line in contrast to the contempt that we may hold for those who casually send them out to fight from their comfort and safety of their own pampered offices.  I am pleased to say she attended the event and did Isleworth proud.There needs in my view to be a rethink on the part of all concerned.  The moral snobbery contained in the notion held by a few that people who wear the red poppy are all monsters who celebrate in blood and death is as insulting and obscene as it is patently ridiculous.  There need be no contradiction between remembering with fondness and gratitude those who gave their lives, and aspiring for a peaceful future in which war is made a thing of the past.

Phil Andrews ● 3559d0 Comments ● 3559d

Progress promised following claims Brentford High Street 'left to rot'

Apparently something is moving.......http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/news/west-london-news/progress-promised-following-claims-brentford-10372085s frustration grows over wait for huge new development, council leader says legal agreements should be signed within next few weeksrogress has been promised on the long-awaited redevelopment of Brentford High Street, following claims the area has been 'left to rot'.It is nearly a year since Ballymore was granted permission last November to build nearly 900 homes, plus shops and offices on the mostly dilapidated land between the southern side of the High Street and the River Brent.The plans were controversial at the time but frustration is now growing among local business people at the lack of action since then. TrendingCrimeBonfire NightChristmas    Uxbridge    Hounslow    Ealing    Harrow    FulhamProgress promised following claims Brentford High Street 'left to rot'    10:52, 4 Nov 2015    By Robert CumberAs frustration grows over wait for huge new development, council leader says legal agreements should be signed within next few weeks    Shares Comments Artist's impression of phase one of the planned regeneration project for the south side of Brentford High Street by developer BallymoreProgress has been promised on the long-awaited redevelopment of Brentford High Street, following claims the area has been 'left to rot'.It is nearly a year since Ballymore was granted permission last November to build nearly 900 homes, plus shops and offices on the mostly dilapidated land between the southern side of the High Street and the River Brent.The plans were controversial at the time but frustration is now growing among local business people at the lack of action since then.Brentford High Street developmentVideo loadingPlay0:00/0:00FullscreenMuteShareA small amount of demolition is all the action people have seen so far on the ground, and one shopkeeper, John Russell, of the cobblers Russell's claims the area has been "left to rot".Council leader Steve Curran had admitted the development was "not going along as quickly as we would like" and has since met representatives from Ballymore, to pose alongside a digger, marking the start of demolition work.He described the meeting as "positive" and said he was hoping legal agreements between the council and the developer would be signed in the next four weeks.However, he said it was not possible to give an indication at this stage of when building work would start, or how long it might take."The legal agreements should be signed in the next four weeks. Once that has been done we're hoping they can give us a clearer work pattern," he said.Ballymore said it was unable to comment at this stage.

Domenico Urzi ● 3564d0 Comments ● 3564d

Do they get irony?

Consultation on the future of parks and librariesHounslow Council is calling on residents to have their say on plans to redesign and rationalise leisure and culture services in the borough.At the heart of the consultation exercise is a draft strategy that sets out four objectives: to modernise the borough’s library service; to enhance local parks and open spaces; to support residents to be more active; and to celebrate Hounslow’s cultural make-up and rich heritage.  A poster and postcard campaign launched on 5th October 2015 invites residents to comment on the objectives and the steps suggested to achieve them.Though the new approach is driven in part by the council’s need to cut its budget, the strategy is deliberately ambitious.  For example, it sets a target for Hounslow residents to become the most active in London by 2022 – when at present they lag behind the London and England average for people participating in exercise for at least 30 minutes a week. The strategy proposes a shift towards online and digital services. And, for libraries, it also refers to the need to reach out to more residents since, while the Chiswick, Feltham and Hounslow branches remain busy, overall use of libraries has dropped by 20 per cent in the past five years.The draft also explores the possibility of making better use of the borough’s 1,365 hectares of green space, with the cash being ploughed back into improved facilities.Councillor Ed Mayne, Hounslow Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Health and Leisure, explains: “Over the next four years the council must make at least £70million in savings and the leisure services budget is expected to be reduced by at least £2.3m. Our draft strategy aims to make sure we maintain the highest possible standards in our leisure services while adapting to the budget cuts and changes in the services residents want.  So, residents’ views are essential if we are to rise to this daunting challenge successfully.”The draft Leisure and Culture Strategy was published on Monday 5 October and consultation closes on Monday 16 November 2015. Residents can view the draft strategy and comment on the council’s website at www.hounslow.gov.uk/leisureconsultationOctober 14, 2015 I'm not sure if this is someone's idea of a joke or a p*sstake, if residents do decide to give their views which are apparently 'essential' I can only wish them the best of British! Judging by the determination to keep on ignoring residents and not even being willing to ask for their views around here! Yet again the promised 'through the door consultation' is being delayed, yet another excuse dredged up - this time the fact that a group of local residents from both Richmond and Hounslow have joined together put in an application to have our small local park designated as a Village Green. This as far as I can tell has absolutely nothing to do with consulting on the future use of the park and is just another delaying tactic. An FOI request as to the possible overrun of the budget for the recent 'Inspiring Isleworth' festival in Redlees Park had met witha convoluted explanation and then a 'we don't actually have that information yet'! So much for caring what residents think!

Vanessa Smith ● 3585d2 Comments ● 3584d

Do you live in Syon Lane north of A4?

You may know that the London Borough of Ealing owns playing fields known as Warren Farm on the east side of Windmill Lane north of the M4 bridge. Ealing has neglected these facilities for many years and is now entering a deal with Queens Park Rangers F C to develop the site as a training facility for the Club. Understandably the Club wants a 'level playing field' and originally proposed grading the site into a series of terraces to provide a number of level football pitches. But QPR then got demoted from the Premier League and could no longer afford the costs of this development. Somebody then came up with the bright idea of raising and levelling the whole site to the highest current level by importing tons of landfill for which the Club will be paid. This then makes the development affordable. There are many issues surrounding this development about the loss of community facilities, the loss of public access and the impact of development on Metropolitan Open Land but the Labour Group on Ealing Council, in the face of massive public opposition, recently rubberstamped the planning application. This may be OK for Ealing but of course, the width restriction at Three Bridges means that the waste material to level the site will have to be brought along Syon Lane from the A4 to the site. QPR state that importing the waste material to level the site will require 150 Heavy Goods Vehicle movements for 10 hours per day for 8 months! This is really not acceptable!

David Mercer ● 3590d2 Comments ● 3590d

Microchipping for your pets

Metropolitan Police Free microchipping and tag engraving Monday 5 October -Friday 9 October 2015 Attention all residents!London Borough of Hounslow & Battersea Dogs & Cats Home are offering:  Free microchipping and tag engraving Monday 5 October -Friday 9 October 2015 Microchipping makes it easier to return your special friend to you if they get lost.We are offering a FREE tag engraving and microchipping service. Just bring your dog and we’ll do the rest.  You’ll find us: Monday 5 October - 11am - 4pmSt Johns Gardens, St Johns Road, Isleworth TW7 Tuesday 6 October - 11am - 4pmBedfont Lakes Country Park(near information Centre),Clockhouse Lane, Bedfont TW14 8QA Wednesday 7 October - 11am - 4pmBrent Lea Recreation Ground,London Road, Brentford TW8 8JQ Thursday 8 October -11am - 4pmSaxon Ave/Nene Gardens, Hanworth TW13 5PQ Friday 9 October - 11am - 4pmWorple Avenue/Northcote Avenue,Isleworth TW7 7JG battersea.org.ukFor more information please call 0208 583 5085or email animalwarden@hounslow.gov.uk*All dogs must be on leads.Only six months before microchipping becomes law. Get your dog chipped today To get more information from the police about the borough and the ward you live in, please visit the Hounslow section of the Metropolitan Police website.This is not a crime reporting system. Contact 101 or visit the Metropolitan Police website to report a crime.Dial 999 if you need police in an emergency. Metropolitan Police Service, New Scotland Yard, 8-10 Broadway, London SW1H 0BG 020 7230 1212 | http://content.met.police.uk/Home

Vanessa Smith ● 3602d5 Comments ● 3591d

The Clifden Road White Elephant

Around 4 or 5 years ago 23 Clifden Road was bought by a developer who, after starting work, put in a planning application for a single-storey rear extension, two-storey side extension and roof extension, and a “bed-in-shed” annex.  The application turned the property into a 7 bedroom, 6 bathroom house.Despite the plans being clearly designed for multi-occupancy bed-sits the Hounslow Planning Officer inexplicably believed the developer’s story that he intended the house only for his daughter and grandchild.   Following vehement objections from local residents the Hounslow Planning Officer tried to backtrack and deny the application so it then went to the Planning Inspector who went on to approve the plans.  The application was granted with one of the clauses stating that multi-occupancy is not permitted.The building work was completed I think sometime in 2013, the daughter and grandchild never moved in, and the house was put on the market at £2.3million.  Not surprisingly the house has not sold.  In my view no family will be interested in such a large house with tiny bedrooms, miniscule kitchen and “convenient” toilet/shower located off the main reception room.  Since the work was completed the property has remained largely empty thought reportedly has had a couple of short-term tenants.  Such a waste that a prime property in a sought after location, and with off-street parking, was ruined by the developer’s plans and the Planning Officers who approved them.The price has reduced a few times and is now down to offers in Excess of £1,250,000.I’d be interested in other’s views on the property and its likely future.

Reg Ghosh ● 3598d1 Comments ● 3598d

Don't Deport Wadih Chourey

People who live near or use South Street in Isleworth will probably know Wadih Chourey, whose brothers Joseph and Camil run the long-estabished Joseph's Patisserie opposite Isleworth Public Hall.Wadih, aged 44, who has Down's Syndrome, has lived in the UK since 1997 when he came from the Lebanon with his parents as his life was in danger from gangs who were victimising him and encouraging him to commit crime on their behalf.  Since then he has been a popular local figure, undertaking simple tasks in support of the family business and enjoying the trust and sense of responsibility that this brings.  He is happy, helpful and always pleasant.His parents have both since passed away and as a result of this he faces deportation by the Home Office back to his native Lebanon.  His brothers, and his many friends in the community, fear that he would be in danger if he were to be forced to return. He is not capable of living independently, needing help to wash and dress himself.Local people believe that Chourey has been an asset to the local community, he is integrated and is a popular local figure.  His removal would appear to serve no useful purpose to anybody.  A campaign is underway to prevent the deportation and this campaign is fully community-led, having been initiated by the Old Isleworth Four Roads Residents' Association.The decision is currently at the appeal stage and I would invite users of this forum to sign the petition at the address below to say Don't Deport Wadih Chourey.https://you.38degrees.org.uk/petitions/do-not-deport-wadih-chourey-vack-to-the-lebanon-just-because-his-parents-have-died?bucket=38blast

Phil Andrews ● 3991d34 Comments ● 3607d

Albany Road Closure and St Paul's School

I was walking to Morrisons around lunchtime today when I came across a major health and safety exercise involving the pupils of St Paul's School - they were learning how to cross Albany Road to the new school wing at Alexandra House. They were all lined up regimental from the park and proceeded to cross single file at the traffic calming hump on the junction of Albany/Alexandra Road and Back Lane. It looked like most of the teachers were there supervising. Unfortunately as I approached (wondering whether to wait or just dodge through a gap) one of the first pupils fell over in the middle of the road and subsequently lay there crying and distressed, thus causing a knock on effect with those behind, and the whole train came to a sudden halt. Panic ensued with the adults in a dizzy fit shouting orders to remain calm because at that moment a car driving a snails pace was approaching them on Albany Road. Horror of horrors! For all the preparation they hadn't planned for someone tripping up which threw the whole exercise into chaos. (I say exercise, but they could have just been on a short trip to acquaint themselves with their new premises). Whilst I understand that primary school children should be afforded every possible safety when crossing a road, I consider it excessive that this reasonably quite road should be closed off permanently to allow it. Indeed, cars must approach the junction with Alexandra Road with caution in any event due to buses and other vehicles going up it. The only entrance to Morrisons car park is via Alexandra Road past the County Court so presumably everyone from an easterly direction will have to go to the Ealing Road/High Street Junction and turn right and then right again into Alexandra Road, or take a short cut from Albany Road down the already congested and narrow Wilkes Road. Surely a better solution can be implemented - such as a zebra/pelican crossing, or a large "CAUTION SLOW - CHILDREN CROSSING" or other such sign. The council should exercise some common sense here - assuming they have any left. Call me an old fuddy duddy (and bring back the Green Cross Code blah blah) but really - there's far too much bubble wrap these days and it's bad for the environment.

Paul Brownlee ● 3626d4 Comments ● 3622d

Council takes action against Thames Water

Not Hounslow of course who are utterly useless in dealing with Thames Water at Mogden but Hammersmith and Fulham and Ealing Councils who have threatened immediate legal action and I only wish we had councillors in our Borough who actually give a tossFrom the Chiswick W4 WebsiteSouthfield Councillor Gary Malcolm has welcomed news that Hammersmith Council is threatening to take Thames Water to court because of the noise and smell caused by the pumping station in East Acton. The action is backed by Ealing Council and Thames Water has been given until this weekend (September 6th) to deal with the problem. Local Liberal Democrats have accused Thames Water of trying to delay things too long. "Thames Water should get on and fix the problem they have caused. Until they cover the tanks I cannot see the problem being solved," commented Cllr Malcolm. The pumping station Local people say between 400 to 500 people are affected and more than 50 complaints have been received by the council from people living near the Acton Pumping Station in Warple Way, East Acton. The tank holds storm water after heavy rain once sewers have reached maximum capacity. The smell of sewage building up at the bottom of the tanks and the noise of pumps sending water back into the sewers after heavy rain has been leaving residents unable to open their windows for several months. Councillor Wesley Harcourt, Cabinet Member for Environment, Transport and Residents’ Services, says: "The noise and smell from Acton Pumping Station is stopping residents enjoying their homes and that is simply unacceptable."Thames Water has had plenty of warning about this problem and residents have had enough. The company has until September 6 to take effective action or face the consequences."Mark Danks of Warple Way works from home and lives opposite the tanks. He estimates about 1,000 local people are affected. He says: "Our building is very energy efficient; it feels like summer ten months a year. It’s horrible living in a place where you can't open your windows or doors, it's like being in a sweat box. If I had known I never would have moved here."I can’t have people over, it’s embarrassing. If you open your windows or doors, you feel nauseous. Many neighbours with weaker stomachs than me can’t eat in their own homes."After earlier intervention from H&F Council, which is leading the action backed by Ealing Council, Thames Water installed an automated cleaning system and a bigger, more powerful pump. But these still failed to drain the tanks properly, leaving a foul-smelling sludge at the bottom of the tanks.H&F Council has now served the company with a legal notice giving Thames Water until September 6 to solve the problem or potentially face court action. Anyone concerned about the smell or noise coming from Acton Pumping Station should contact the H&F Noise and Nuisance Service on 020 8753 1081 during office hours and 020 8748 8588 outside office hours.Last summer locals were told that it was a short term issue affecting tanks near Canham Road due to problems with the emptying of sewage. Locals claimed they had been told it would improve when the tanks were cleaned but the foul smell has remained. Liberal Democrat Councillor Andrew Steed, organised a meeting with Thames Water last year , along with the local residents association A letter from the headteacher at Southfield Primary School, to Thames Water last year said that teachers had to keep children in from the playground when the odour was bad. The school, which has over 500 children from Chiswick, Acton, and Shepherds Bush, said it was having an impact on the childrens' learning.A petition was also set up on Ealing Council's website which gathered hundreds of signatures.Thames Water has identified Acton Storm Tanks as part of its proposed Thames Tideway Tunnel or 'Super Sewer' which has been recently given the go-ahead. You can read more about that here .

Paul Fisher ● 3627d1 Comments ● 3626d

Brent Lea Rec saved!

Steve Curran called me on Friday with this news and asked me to wait until this was released today. All our hard work has paid off. Thank you to everyone who sent objections and put their name on the Statement of Objection.Come to the rec on Weds evening where we will be celebrating. Bring a bottle and a picnic from 7.00pm.The council has received a clear message from Brentford people that their decisions will be challenged. PR 310910 August 2015For Immediate ReleaseAppropriation of Brent Lea for Floreat no longer going aheadHounslow Council is no longer considering whether or not to appropriate Brent Lea for a temporary site for Floreat Free SchoolAn alternative site for Floreat has been agreed, meaning the decision on the appropriation – which was due to be made by the Chief Executive in consultation with the Leader of the Council – will no longer need to be made.  While the consultation process for the appropriation was ongoing, the EFA in conjunction with Floreat continued to look for alternative sites for the school. On 30 July it was confirmed that an alternative site had been identified at Trico House, in the Great West Quarter development, and that heads of terms for the lease had been agreed between the EFA and Trico Developments.  Councillor Steve Curran, Leader of Hounslow Council, said:“The appropriation for the temporary school will no longer be going ahead but I am grateful to the public for spending time submitting their responses to the consultation.“Hounslow Council will continue to cooperate with the EFA to identify a suitable permanent site and await the sequential testing results which will inform the next steps – which we will be sure to keep residents informed of.“We need a permanent school in the Brentford area, as providing good quality school places is a top priority for us, but we also need to take into account the importance of preserving our green space.”

Joanna Russell ● 3651d24 Comments ● 3649d

How thick can LB. Hounslow get?

Latest missive from LBH came through the door.To The Residents. From Cllr Amrit Mann, but no doubt written by someone else.Another letter teaching us how to suck eggs on waste disposal and confirm weekly collection detailsThat's fine, from time to time the complexities do need to be explained. Something most neighbours usually do for other neighbours in doubt.Presumably the rather poorly written letter is also supposed to point out changes in refuse collection days..or is it?Missing from the missive are the most important elements. The days of collection and if these are changes, the dates of commencement.According to this, our current collection day in Brentford is Wednesday it now appears as Mondays and Thursdays until you read it a few timesIt appears these days this apply only to flats above shops?  If that is the case, why send this missive everywhere?What is the point of sending out letters and then leaving the key information only via an internet address.?Surely someone at LBH is capable of writing in clear simple english and at least proof reading and checking for practical clarity?The Keep it Posted campaign has revealed that some 40% of Greater London residents have no access to secure online computers or are capable of using the web.At least LBH do have a phone contact but in all honesty, this letter should and could have contained everything we need to know and save a lot of messing about.It's just created confusion this wasting time, money and resources.

Raymond Havelock ● 3665d6 Comments ● 3665d

Local defect list

I wonder if it is worth starting a local defect list of items that remain unresolved even after reporting them to LBH or indeed other organisations responsible for our parks and streets.It might make it easier too for Guy when he seeks out all these defects.For reasons unknown my entry last week with a short list of locations was deleted, so primarily for Guy as he is making an effort and hope it might just succeed where ordinary mortals have failed, here goes again:Column 15 Footpath between Albany Road and Lateward road out now for 2 years reported countless timesVarious new lights in Lateward road and Clifden Road either inoperative or spasmodic in operationPotholes in Lateward and Albany road. Part of Albany road slowly subsiding near jcn with Brook roadTrees damaged by overlength recycling trucks not replaced at Brook Road and Mafeking Ave.New streetname signs fitted to bent and leaning signposts New Road / Ealing RoadSelf closing gate in Childrens playground, St Paul's Rec, Half Acre corner. now faulty for over 3 years. A 10 min fix yet contractors removed a spare pair of gates with same fittings which were no longer in use last spring. This is a dangerous location and has been reported many times even by a local doctor.The solution? A chain and padlock around it. Not satisfactory. Now removed but still not repaired. A bit of cord and a clear sign to remind careless or oblivious parents to "Please Close the Gate' would suffice.Missing items from Kid playground refurbished just a few years ago,  Surface debris never removed, Adult gym apparatus shown in the posters and publicity for the refurbishment still not installed.

Raymond Havelock ● 3754d44 Comments ● 3672d

For information - more open land going!

On open green land formerly used by the Conquest Club Nishkam School Trust Brentford Community CouncilSign up for our free newsletter Comment on this story on the forum Nishkam School has been temporarily situated in an office block on the corner of London Road and Wood Lane. The school has now submitted a planning application for its full size permanent site. EFA, the Education Funding Agency has already bought the site of 21.74 acres with the school being 'restricted' to 10.30 acres. The land is Metropolitan Open Land, designated in Hounslow's Unitary Development Plan, formerly used by Conquest Sports Club and Wycombe House Cricket and Tennis Club. Proposed buildings The school, which is a multi-faith school run on a Sikh based ethos is for around 1400 pupils from ages 4-19. They are considering a Nursery School on the site in the future as well. Up to 50% of places are offered as faith based places with the rest being open. Hounslow Education Officers expect Nishkam School to make a significant contribution to managing the shortfall in central Hounslow and to a slightly lesser extent in Heston & Cranford, and Brentford. The main vehicular access is to be via Syon Lane, slightly north of the current point. Additional pedestrian and cycle access will be at the junction of Braybourne Drive and Wood Lane, with a servicing access directly onto Wood Lane. 85 car parking spaces are proposed. The remaining Metropolitan Open Land to the north of the application site is retained for future community sports use and discussions with the Grasshoppers Rugby club is ongoing. Any development on this remaining land will need to be subject to a future planning application. Site Layout The Council say Brentford is in need of extra primary and secondary places, and existing schools have had extra classes added where possible. Find the planning application by visiting planning search (agreeing T&Cs, and then selecting "search planning applications") and then entering 01106/152/P3 in the box marked Planning number. Comments on the planning application should be sent to Stephen Hissett at Stephen.hissett@hounslow.gov.uk  July 7, 2015

Vanessa Smith ● 3685d11 Comments ● 3681d

Brentford Great West Quarter - Where does the air come from?

The Highways Agency recently announced that it was investigating proposals to make M4 Junctions 3 to 12 into a "smart motorway" by using the hard shoulder.I asked for the Preliminary Environmental Report that covers the scheme and browsing through it I came across the paragraph :"Local operational effects (Opening Year, 2022)6.14.22 The magnitude of change in NO2 concentrations at sensitive receptors atjunctions 3 to 1 of the M4 is predicted to be small at one receptor (X617)which is predicted to be above the annual mean objective value with theScheme in place. However, this location is unlikely to have Openablewindows, as an apartment block and may therefore already be mitigatedagainst poor air quality. This increase is due to the proximity of this receptor to the A4 and M4 at junction 2 and an anticipated increase of approximately 4,900 vehicles on the M4. The predictions at X617 have been considered as part of the overall evaluation of significance for operational air quality. However, further work will be undertaken to consider how this location is assessed and whether this location is included in the evaluation of significance for the final ES. The magnitude of change in NO2 concentrations at all other receptors is predicted to be imperceptible resulting in a negligible change in air quality. 203 receptors are predicted to be above (160) or just below (43) the annual mean objective value with the Scheme in place. It is also anticipated that exceedances of the 1-hour mean objective are unlikely in this part of the study area as annual mean concentrations at all receptors are less than 60 μg/m3."The maps showed that X617 was a single point ("receptor") representing the whole of the Great West Quarter while on the other side of the road each terraced house was an individual receptor!Do windows open in the Great West Quarter ? If not, where does the air come from ?

Tim Henderson ● 3898d11 Comments ● 3702d

Closing off Albany road

As usual no mention of this when proposing the extension of the school to a second site which is a good idea.But as usual, done on the cheap and will lead to constant and costly upheaval every time children need to move sites.A simple solution would be a subway linking the sites as it is a relatively short distance.The problem closing the road is it does not achieve much.For cyclists it is not a logical route as Grosvenor road and the park to the half acre has already  been opened up as a cycle route avoiding buses and most other traffic. But Lateward road is the more logical west -east route - apart from the potholes.But this will force almost all local traffic into Lateward road . It will also cut Morrisons off from all shopping traffic from the east side of the area, adding to the congestion at Half Acre and small roads like Wilkes road and Albany road itself will also be subject to blockages and increased diversionary traffic.It will also lead to Lateward road being blocked by the 50% increase in school run drop offs and collections which currently affect three roads so water down the problem.This will concentrate the problem to one road which potentially traps a whole neighbourhood.The same applies to the severe reduction is access to the whole area for emergency vehicles.Cyclists wont and don't use the road up the side of the court as it is mainly used by buses and Morrisons traffic and HGVs and is a short steep incline.  It will also be hazardous for cyclists then turning right across channelled traffic and then into a blind corner occupied possibly by school children.Would be better to make Albany Road  one way for the last 50m and leave the cycling route as it is.But a footbridge or a tunnel keeping the children away from all traffic and keeping them within the secure confines of school premises would be a far better solution long term.

Raymond Havelock ● 3734d5 Comments ● 3728d

Parachute 'party' cross community think tank ideas for you to get you 'mass debating' or not?

(all ideas are a summarised, fine detail on options as to how each idea could work in practice can already be expanded on, and can be discussed at a later date) 1. Identify brownfield sites in easy access of multicultural residential/retail high street areas and make available on long term lease for development into open air sports, recreational, media and performing arts areas. In return for organising and managing refurbishment, using local trades people to area (part funded by local council), music and dance license will be a prerequisite, subject to sound controls.2. Police surveillance of all care homes and mental health professionals’ meetings prior to a Section order being granted. Public access to these surveillance recordings after decision.3. Councils to publish monthly detailed spending commitments and have a dedicated officer team to deal with individual concerns regarding spend. Additional powers given to MP’s in that borough to formally question local authority/NHS trusts on spend and processes.4. Proactive Lobbying of central government to introduce a new act of Parliament called ‘The Compassion Act’.5. High Street parties twice a year as a London-wide holiday, all to pay a contribution, minus those who are disabled or on income related benefit or pensioners. Surplus to be used for increased funding for the performing arts.6. The wearing of a suit and tie is no longer obligatory for any specific profession or job of work.7. Monthly ‘Question time’ style panel debates with local MP, local police commissioner, health trust chief executive, local council leader as well as spokespersons for community action and arts groups across all ethnicities. All attendees to be able to vote on specific key issues raised. An 80% majority vote to be taken forward by the respective public official, with responsibility for that area. Progress updates at subsequent meetings.8. The legal right for councils to identify and use unoccupied properties as part of the housing stock with affordable rents, with the rent held in trust for the legal owner of the property.9. A minimum £10 per hour living wage for all employees working in the constituency.10. A cap on private landlord rents.11. Enforcement team with greater powers to bring those employers guilty of paying less than minimum wage including sequestration of assets.12. Enforcement team with greater powers to bring ‘scum’ landlords and major environmental health contraveners to the criminal courts as well as sequestration of assets.13. A redrafting of all ‘Vexatious complaint policy documents’ issued by Public Authorities to ensure greater inclusivity and accessibility to formal complaints procedures.14. Maximum £1000 on the spot fine for all those in big, posh cars (£500 for 'ickle, bitty cars) that use a disabled parking bay in hospitals when they are clearly able-bodied and selfish-minded. 15. Schools to adopt a ratcheted keep the kid in school policy for all persistently disruptive students. A more proactive, effective crackdown on bullying, targeting serial offenders in schools.16. All convicted serial offenders of grievous abuse/harm to others to be named and tagged in the constituency. 17. Free council funded Business and Financial advice to all self-employed adults and consideration of awarding of works contracts to micro-businesses (1-5 personnel) in the West London area especially for arts, construction, maintenance and environmental works including ex-offenders subject to restrictions on certain serial offences of actual/grievous abuse/harm to others.18. Vocational students in schools to be given more work related experience during secondary school. Where students prove competency in certain key trades then an hourly rate is to be paid by Lea/school education budgets to be held in trust on behalf of student and made available for business related activities when they are no longer at school and administered by an accredited Business adviser linked to a national business charity ie. Princes Youth Business Trust, Businesslink, Threshold etc.19. Development of ‘Sure start’ style + crèche care centres free or discounted dependent on income and family status of applicant. 20. Development of ‘Darby and Joan’ style meeting and communal event halls with extra funding given to those that are multicultural, equality and diversity friendly spanning all age groups with an arts, social and nutrition focus. Cross community, class, age and equality/disability friendly. 21. Legalise brothels and license sex workers.22. Legalise Cannabis and Marijuana (‘erb) subject to a tax/duty no greater than the lower of that on wine or tobacco.23. All public enforcement/ face to face council workers and police people that have documented accusations of bullying and / or racism alledged against them by several members of the public in which the 'serve' are to be reassigned back office duties (for their own protection, bless 'em).Associated Music:  Suffering City – Johnny Copeland (Atlantic, 1968)

Alex Thomas ● 3743d1 Comments ● 3742d

Thames Water Propaganda

In their continuing efforts to bamboozle the public, Thames Water's unattributed scare propaganda article about coliform in the Thames Tideway is a nonsense and contains material errors. Without coliform in the environment, humans would not be able to develop healthy immune systems. We live with them all the time. Thames Water's Mr Stride is talking crap. Does he suggest removal of ducks and swans on the river or banning dog walking along the tow path to reduce coliform? No. Furthermore, as Mr Stride knows, swimming is banned in the Tideway by the Port of London Authority. The main group who make contact with Tideway water are rowers. They have been found to be many times more resistant to infections than the general population. An assessment of health cost (QUALY) results in a figure of £150 million if infections were eliminated. Hardly a case for spending £4.2Bn (excluding finance costs and inflation) on the Thames Water promoted Thames Tideway Tunnel to prevent a few tummy upsets.Mr Stride quotes a figure of 39 Million cubic metres of Thames Water’s discharges to the Tideway. What he fails to say is that later this year, when the Lee Tunnel is commissioned, that figure will reduce to 18 Million cubic metres. He also fails to say that the vast majority of that discharge is rain water and not foul sewage. Thames Water discharges only happen after rain. By design of  point source control, rain can be stopped or delayed from entering the combined sewers at a far lower cost. What Mr Stride also omits to mention is that following the £1.2Bn spent including Mogden, Beckton and Crossness Sewage Treatment works upgrades, the Thames Tideway already meets the quality standards set by the Environment Agency in response to the EU Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive. Once the Lee Tunnel is operational, the ecological conditions can only improve further.This means that you do not have to pay the £6 extra on your water bill this year, rising to £34 over the next 5 years then up to £70-80 extra (excluding inflation). Thames Water’s confidence trick has been exposed for what it is. The incoming Treasury ministers need to call a halt to this Thames Water scam and hold an independent review of current information urgently. There are far more urgent environmental issues to deal with not least, the cost of dealing with air pollution in London that results in thousands of premature deaths each year and is damaging our children’s health. NB Thames 21 is funded by Thames Water and therefore cannot be considered objective or independent.

Roland Willis Gilmore ● 3744d1 Comments ● 3744d

'mansion tax/ property tax' question for Ruth Cadbury

I'm moving this question out of the other thread as that is a little crowded.  Ruth / GuyPlease explain to us how mansion tax will make any money for the NHS.The Economist, FT, OBR and various other publications & independent bodies detail how £1.2bn might well be raised from this tax, but that £2.0bn will also be lost due to reduced stamp duty and inheritance tax revenue. Mansion tax devalues 'mansions' by imposing an everlasting tax liability on them. With the average 'mansion' tax bill expected to be £25,000 per year it is hardly surprising that the devaluation is going to significantly affect stamp duty and inheritance tax revenues.£1.2bn take away £2.0bn is a negative result, so there doesn't appear to be any money left over for the NHS.Why then are Labour pushing this mansion tax thing so hard?  Is it perhaps a tax that you can say 'someone else will pay' when canvassing for votes?  Or is it a tax that will be extended down to a starting rate of £500k or less, so that it can actually raise some money?My first example for this is Greece, where mansion tax was introduced in 2008 and by 2013 the government deemed anything worth more that £250k was a mansion and had to pay 1% of its value as additional property tax every year.My second example is ATED, the Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings.  This is a tax paid by foreign property owners here in the UK (yes, it does already exist). Introduced at a starting level of £2m, next year the level will be bought down to £500k.  The tax payable has also almost doubled in just 2 years.  You can't dispute this reduction in kick-in level or amount paid as their are official government figures.I'm genuinely interested in this and I'd like an answer please.

Lorne Gifford ● 3754d18 Comments ● 3746d

Brentford & Isleworth a marginal seat

Oh what a delight, officially a marginal seat and according to various newspapers a seat in which the topic of mansion tax may decide the vote.So, in order to influence the vote, here are the mathematics of mansion tax (ie the stuff Ed Miliband doesn't mention and Ed Balls can't work out)£1.2bn revenue but £2.0bn loss of other revenue equals not a penny raised.Mansion tax in its proposed form won't make a penny for the NHS and is the thin end of the wedge known as 'home ownership tax' that will have us all paying 1% of the value of our homes each year as additional tax.Various non-party independent reports say the tax has to average £12,000 per home to raise £1.2bn a year. They say this level of tax burden not surprisingly devalues 'mansions', with the result that stamp duty revenue falls. They even put a figure on it, 20% fall in value and £2.0bn per year less revenue than at the moment.1.6% of homes pay the majority of stamp duty revenue and stamp duty revenue is currently over £13bn a year, so the reports make perfect sense. So what is £1.2bn a year take away £2.0bn and how many nurses does that buy?Mansion tax only works when extended to the general housing population just like has been done in Greece.  Mansion tax introduced in 2008 and by 2013 anything worth more than £250k was an official mansion.  Tax rate is 1% of value per year.The tax everyone thinks is great because it's tax 'someone else will pay' is in reality a whole new area of taxation that we will all pay.  Taxing the prudent, once again, taking those that decided to buy a home instead of a new car or a fancy holiday.

Lorne Gifford ● 3759d13 Comments ● 3750d

Is this to allow building on parkland?

Had a copy of this forwarded to me. Not managed to get to the website links for details but is this a start of wriggling around to build on park and recreation ground?The whole thing seems far too complex and tech speak for ordinary folk to have a clear idea what is going on. Deliberate?  Who knows.  But care we should.Dear Sir or Madam, Consultation on Proposed Modifications to the Local Plan Proposed Submission (March 2014) Incorporating the Minor Changes (October 2014)Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 I am writing to inform you that Proposed Modifications to the Local Plan will be published on Friday 24 April 2015. The London Borough of Hounslow invites you to make representations on the "soundness" and "legal compliance" of the Proposed Modifications to the Plan during a six week consultation period running from Friday 24 April 2015 to 5pm Monday 8 June 2015. The Local Plan The Local Plan was submitted to the Secretary of State on 20 August 2014 who then appointed Planning Inspector Mr Robert Mellor BSc DipTRP DipDesBEnv DMS MRICS MRTPI to examine the Plan for its soundness and legality. Between 10 February and 16 April 2015, the Inspector held hearings on aspects of the Local Plan as part of its Public Examination.  During the hearings, the Inspector indicated that in order for the Plan to be sound the Borough should modify the Plan in a number of areas. Before issuing his report on the Plan’s soundness and legality, the Inspector will consider representations made on the Proposed Modifications. Consultation The Borough is now inviting representations on the: ·         Proposed Modifications to the Local Plan Proposed Submission (March 2014) Incorporating the minor Changes (October 2014). The above document, along with an update to the Sustainability Appraisal and other documents associated with the public examination, are available for viewing on the council’s consultations page (www.hounslow.gov.uk/consultations). The document will also be available to view at libraries and the council’s Civic Centre. Making a representation Information on how these documents can be viewed and how representations can be made is set out in the "Statement of Representations Procedure", which is available on the on the council’s consultations page (www.hounslow.gov.uk/consultations), and further information on the examination is available on the Local Plan website (www.hounslow.gov.uk/localplan). The consultation will run for a six-week period from Friday 24 April 2015 to 5pm on Monday 8 June 2015. All comments should be made on a representation form which is available as follows: -       By downloading from the council’s consultations website (www.hounslow.gov.uk/consultations);-       By e-mailing LDF@hounslow.gov.uk-       From the Hounslow Civic Centre or libraries; or-       By phoning 020 8583 5202. Next steps Following the period for representations, the Borough will submit the representations received to the Inspector, together with a report setting out the Borough’s response to them. Before issuing his report on the Plan’s soundness and legality, the Inspector will consider comments made on the Proposed Modifications and the Borough’s response. The Inspector will decide whether there is any need to reopen the public hearings. Should you have any further queries please visit the website above, phone: 020 8583 5202 or send an email to LDF@hounslow.gov.uk. Yours sincerelyIan RaeHead of Regeneration, Spatial Planning & Economic Development

Raymond Havelock ● 3758d1 Comments ● 3758d

Worthy of consideration?

Several times on this forum the way Hounslow Council now conducts its business has been questioned. In the past few months we have seen several examples of very unhappy residents banging their collective heads against an intransigent wall of officers with elected members seemingly incapable or unwilling to intervene.Hounslow now has the 'cabinet' model where a few members with portfolios for specific areas have the power invested in them, and officers have had more and more power delegated to them, even though none of them were elected to represent us. The previous committee set-up might have been slightly more bureaucratic but it seems to me that it at least had the merit of giving each and every councillor a role and a purpose. It also gave all councillors an opportunity to have an overview of what the issues were in other wards apart from their own and to give them some consideration at budget setting time, it also afforded members the chance to ask about and probe officers reports and recommendations, something that appears to have gone the way of the Dodo. Now it seems from recent experience that officers call the tune and members just quietly acquiesce, never mind the locals they said they wanted to represent. This cabinet system seems to have disenfranchised not only the public but a lot of elected councillors as well.It now seems the tail wags the dog. From a conversation I had today I gather some authorities have had a change of heart and reverted back to the 'old' way of doing things, from where I am I'd say it's way past time Hounslow took a good, hard look at what the hell they are doing, because looking at this forum and W4 I'd say there are a lot of very unhappy bunnies out there. None of what goes on fills many of us with much confidence in the political system, time for a change?  

Vanessa Smith ● 3769d4 Comments ● 3768d

Horse Play in Isleworth?

There has been much comment on various threads about the leasing of a public amenity in Northcote Avenue, Isleworth, to a private individual for the grazing of horses without, it would appear, any kind of prior consultation with erstwhile users or local residents.Following on from said comment I decided to take a look for myself at what little documented evidence there is available around this decision.The document which refers can be viewed at http://democraticservices.hounslow.gov.uk/documents/s109338/CO%20Grazing%20licence%20Northcote%20Ave.pdfAccording to this "Chief Officer Delegated Approval" - signed by Hounslow's Director of Regeneration, Economic Development and Environment - the grazing licence was agreed "with the permission from Leisure Services, who manage the land and Lead Ward Member Cllr Sampson".I have a few questions arising from this:1. Unless the rules have changed since I was a Hounslow councillor (up until May 2010), only the relevant Cabinet (former Executive) portfolio holder may take a Single Member Decision.  Such a decision cannot be taken by a simple ward member, only members of the Cabinet have the right and such decisions must only be taken by each respective councillor within the orbit of his/her area of Cabinet responsibility.  Councillor Sampson's portfolio, as listed on the Council's website, is "Communities and Economic Development".  The relevant portfolio area for this issue would presumably be "Public Health and Leisure", which is held by Councillor Sachin Gupta.  Why then has this decision been signed off by Cllr Sampson as opposed to Cllr Gupta?2. Again when I was a councillor, there was no such thing as a "Lead Ward Member".  All three ward members had equal status.  When and by what means was the office of "Lead Ward Member" created and where has this decision been publicised?  Who appoints/elects a "Lead Ward Member"?3. Lead Ward Member or no, we have established that the appropriate portfolio holder was Cllr Gupta and not Cllr Sampson.  Why then did the Director of Regeneration, Economic Development and Environment solicit, or at least accept, the signature of the wrong Lead Member on the document?  Was Cllr Gupta consulted about this process and if so why was he not asked to sign the document?4. Why has the Leader of the Council not intervened to correct any of the errors above?  Should we assume from his silence that he is happy with the handling of this matter, including the apparent undermining by a senior officer of Cllr Gupta?5. Ditto Councillor Ruth Cadbury, the prospective parliamentary candidate.  Has she taken an interest in this development and the ever increasing concern that it is provoking amongst the surrounding community, from which she presumably aspires to attract votes?5. Why was there no public consultation prior to the decision when it impacts upon the residents of an entire estate and a few more people besides?  Bearing in mind that the Council is presently employing Community Engagement Officers on substantial salaries, is it reasonable that very highly paid senior officers could "forget" to consult dwellers on an entire estate before removing from them a much used amenity?  Was this omission not spotted by ward members, lead or lesser, at the time?6. In her early posts Vanessa Smith, who has been following this matter throughout, seems to be of the view that senior officers have been running this show over the heads of elected members, and implies that this is the impression given to her by elected members themselves.  And yet one of the ward councillors is named on the document as having authorised the approval given to a private resident to use the site for grazing.  This would appear contradictory, so what is the truth on this please?7. Was the applicant to whom the grazing licence has been granted known to any of the councillors or officers prior to this decision?  Does he/she have any connection to the estate?  If so, would it be reasonable to me to assume that this fact was declared prior to the decision having been signed off?That's enough to be getting on with, hopefully somebody in authority on this Council may be able to shed some light on this for me.  Many thanks.

Phil Andrews ● 3836d332 Comments ● 3771d

ICG's comments on Hounslow Homes Tucker Report

Millions lost as ‘Hopeless Homes’ fades into the mists of time  Hounslow officers and Councillors seem to have washed their hands of the appalling scandal that has enveloped the council’s old Housing company Hounslow Homes, dubbed ‘Hopeless Homes’ by a former Labour Councillor.  A report by consultant Steven Tucker has said that a catalogue of mismanagement by the HH bosses have led to massive financial losses, poor services to tenants and a culture of bullying, sexual harassment and corruption which utterly shames the council,  the former board members and the senior bosses. Examples of things that went wrong include : • Incompetent usage and theft of materials – the ICG estimates that this has led to a loss of £2.3m, something which the council was unable to disprove. • Bad running of the call centre• Turning a blind eye to wrong doing• Sacking of anyone who ‘rocked the boat’• Hiding financial figures or bending them to fit what the bosses wanted• Staff having stock delivered to their home for their own use• Mistakes in handling corruption allegations which meant that at least one member of staff got away scot-free• Family and friends taken on regardless of their ability to do the job• Top bosses leaving with golden handshakes instead of being sackedIf you think you can hold your local Councillors responsible, think again. ‘Nothing to do with us, guv’, says Hounslow Council itself, despite the fact that it wholly owned Hounslow Homes and still holds all its financial records. Even Councillors who were actually on the HH board don’t answer our emails. And what’s more, at least some of the time the Board and Finance Committee were led by so-called ‘experts’ who were never elected by anyone.  It seems likely that ‘Hopeless Homes ‘can waste or steal over £2 million of tenants’ money ( that’s about £175 per family/tenant) and then fade away like a dodgy double glazing company shutting down and nicking everyone’s deposits. If you’re concerned about this, please ask for more information from your local Councillor from the list of questions on this site on the next thread.

Ian Speed ● 3790d3 Comments ● 3787d

Hounslow Homes Tucker Report - detailed queries

Tucker Report of Independent Investigation into Hounslow Homes DLOQueries regarding published version of report The Tucker Report into Hounslow Homes covers a range of misdeeds and incompetence by staff stretching back several years from 2013. The council has been unable to bring any criminal charges against anyone despite substantial reports of fraud being provided to Mr Tucker. In one case a fraudster was allowed to resign and thus could not be disciplined and sacked, in what Tucker reveals was clearly a bad mistake by Hounslow Homes HR. But it wasn’t just criminal behaviour by staff that was going wrong. The whole organisation was clearly very badly run and yet CE Bernadette O’Shea was allowed to depart with what we estimate was over £300k in redundancy and extra pension benefits rather than facing any kind of disciplinary action. This is on top of what we estimate to be the £2.3m losses from mismanagement and fraud. The ICG has prepared a list of questions below about how Hounslow Homes was run which you can copy and paste and send to your local councillor. You’ll need to refer to the report, a copy of which I can send you if you privately message me or email the icg on icg@community.org. The report was on the council’s website at one point but is not easily found. 1. Section 1 Introduction Para 1.4 –• Why was a measure of productivity not introduced regarding the increased number of agency operatives? • Why did managers not anticipate the requirement of resources necessary to do this and create resources accordingly? 2. Section 2 Executive Summary Para 2.3• How did managers try to establish proper oversight in the running of the DLO? Why was this so unsuccessful that the organisation was ‘reluctant to identify and repudiate wrongdoing’?• Why did managers ignore the issue of high earnings not being justified via a productivity scheme and why did they not challenge or reform the defunct scheme? • Did finance managers try to establish why members of staff who ‘rocked’ the boat found themselves former employees? Was this not obvious through payroll and salary cost records? Para 2.7• Why did finance managers overlook the principle that the DLO was supposed to operate in a commercially viable manner and cover its costs through income generated? • Why were the usual checks and balances associated with trading account reconciliation of cost, income and productivity not in place? 3. Section 3 Summary of Investigation Findings. Para 3.4• What procedure is there to ensure proper write-offs of materials? Was this followed in the instance referred to in the paragraph? Para 3.5• Given the extremely sensitive nature of this issue ( expected disciplinary action for fraud) , what action was  taken to ensure that the correct procedure was followed in the case of the serious HR error regarding the suspect member of staff’s disciplinary?  When the employee was allowed to quit instead of being sacked, was any disciplinary action taken against the member of staff who made the error? 4. Strategic Direction Para 4.1 • Why did managers allow a situation to develop whereby the organisation expanded into other areas of work ‘without effective controls in place to ensure accountability’? • Why did they allow a situation whereby there was no testing as to whether the new work could be undertaken at a profit? • Why did they not ensure labour and material costs were actively managed and productivity measured (section 4.9) to avoid the situation of spiralling costs? Para 4.2 • Why did managers allow a situation to develop whereby decisions were made autocratically and without openness and effective scrutiny? • Why did managers allow a situation to develop whereby ‘critical analysis and evaluation of performance had been compromised and subordinated to a question of loyalty to the party line’? • Why did managers allow a situation to develop whereby ‘the management arrangements within the DLO had been consciously dismantled?’ • Why did managers allow a situation to develop whereby ‘there was a hectoring and threatening approach’ to management, and ‘unrealistic demands and targets’ were set? • Why did the managers  allow a situation to occur where Performance  figures were manipulated so that they showed a positive trend? Why did the managers not introduce something akin to the new suite of performance indicators now being recommended? • Why did managers allow a situation to occur where disclosure or speaking to officers outside of the DLO was condemned as disloyalty? • Why did the managers  allow a situation to occur whereby budgets were only made available to a certain officer(s) and thus inconvenient matters and issues possibly subject to challenge could be concealed? • Why did managers not encourage ‘an atmosphere of openness, honesty and transparency’, as is now believed necessary under the new management team? Para 4.3• Why did the managers not prevent the employment of staff with extended family connections within the DLO? • Were managers aware of this happening? What efforts did they make to ensure core public service values of equality of opportunity and modern management standards were being adhered to? • Did managers carry out their responsibility to challenge and eliminate such favouritism? • Why did managers not ensure the Code of Conduct was promoted and supported? • Why did managers not ensure that management meetings and contract meetings were minuted? • Why did the managers not ensure that one to ones and appraisals were properly documented? Section 4.4• What action did managers take to ensure the Systems Thinking project was selected and implemented properly and that the problems outlined by the para 4.4.1 did not occur? Section 4.5 • What action did managers take to review the high cost of materials and prevent the misappropriation of stock? • The difference between the 39% of turnover that the £6.5m cost of materials in the report represents, and the industry average of 25% implies that £2.3m worth of materials has been used inefficiently or misappropriated. Is this analysis correct and how many financial years are represented by these figures? Does this figure not represent over £175 per council dwelling household in the borough? Section 4.6• Why did managers not arrange for checks and audits to be performed on the performance monitoring data for the contracts? Has any estimate been done as to the loss to the council from this? • What action did managers take to ensure that procurement practice should be undertaken to ensure it matched and supported strategic objectives and is in accordance with procurement law? Section 4.7• Why did managers not arrange for the DLO to meet ‘important business process’ requirements across a wide range of the DLO’s activities? • Why was the repairs contact centre not ‘fit for purpose’? • Why did the managers allow incidents like the huge changes in job prices and materials costs occur? • Why did managers not ensure that the ‘inexperienced administrator’ referred to in section 4.7 was fully trained up and imbued with skills equivalent to their predecessor? • Why did managers preside over a situation where the trading account was largely hidden in the Hounslow Homes DLO? Why did the council’s own Director of Finance not take charge of this situation? Section 4.8• Why did managers allow a situation to occur whereby operative pay levels were very high in comparison with other London DLOs, and the productivity scheme be suspended? Why were these pay levels not benchmarked? • Why did managers allow a situation to occur whereby staff were appointed outside the agency framework and the DLO was paying £790 per week for inexperienced staff? Section 4.9• Why did senior management allow the service to expand without ensuring the service was delivering effectively on its core business? • Why did managers neglect the issues that the report suggests the review of agency labour addresses? Section 4.11• Why did managers not devise a clear strategy for the commissioning of an approved subcontractor supply chain? Section 5.3• Why did managers not ensure the security of stocks? Section 5.5• Whose responsibility was it to ensure any discount due from Right-to-buy sell-ons was repaid? • Was this done in the case referred to in Section 5.5? Section 6• Which manager, referred to as ’ineffectual’ and ‘powerless’, was primarily responsible for the ‘managerial failings’ referred to? • Why did managers allow a siege mentality to develop such that information and budgets were concentrated in the wrong hands? • Why did the Director of Finance not properly ‘protect public resources’? General • Given the mismanagement evident from the report, why was Bernadette O’Shea allowed to depart on early retirement (costing upward of an estimated £300k) and not subject to disciplinary proceedings for negligence/gross misconduct? 

Ian Speed ● 3790d0 Comments ● 3790d

Measles outbreak in Hounslow

From Hounslow Council WebsiteFri, 13 February 2015Public Health England (PHE) has been notified of an outbreak of measles in children of mainly school-going age in Hounslow, West London. A number of cases have been identified at Feltham Community College, Oriel Academy, and in younger children in the community.Measles is a highly infectious viral illness that sometimes leads to serious complications and is easily spread in unimmunised children and adults. Cases are infectious from four days before until four days after their rash develops. Women who are pregnant, babies under six months old and people who are immunocompromised for any reason are at increased risk of serious complications.Two doses of measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccine offers full protection against the three illnesses. In the UK the first dose of MMR is given at 12 months of age, and the second dose from 3 years 4 months (pre-school). There is no upper age limit for receiving MMR.Dr Deborah Turbitt, deputy director for health protection for PHE London, said:This outbreak of measles is affecting children and teenagers who are unvaccinated or only partially vaccinated with MMR. We could potentially see further measles cases in Hounslow and wider areas of West London as a result of this outbreak so we are asking parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated with two doses of MMR.We are working with the schools involved and the London Borough of Hounslow and NHS England to urgently inform parents of the situation. We have sent letters to parents and carers of all children attending Hounslow schools, early years centres and children’s centres with information on the symptoms of measles and asking them to ensure that their children are fully immunised with two doses of the MMR vaccine. Local GPs have also been alerted to the outbreak.Dr Khadidja Bichbiche, Consultant in Public Health for Hounslow Council, said:‘It is never too late for children and young people to get vaccinated against measles. Parents of unvaccinated children, teenagers and young adults who have not received two doses of MMR should arrange for them to be vaccinated by their GP. If you are unsure whether your child has had two doses of the vaccine, please speak to your GP who will have a record.”

Paul Allen ● 3827d3 Comments ● 3826d

Under siege

I am really beginning to feel that Isleworth must have upset someone given some of the things going on here.First we have the ongoing saga of the shortened median strip at the junction of Dawes Ave. and the Twickenham Rd. which has allowed illegal right hand turns into Dawes Ave. thereby creating extremely dangerous manoeuvres into the oncoming traffic, and putting more vehicles onto local roads which are also the way to three local primary schools. Since I met with councillors and the Head of Traffic last August it seems nothing has been done! A CCTV camera is monitoring illegal turns and now the council are to issue warnings to offenders and then PCNs! Never mind the serious implications this has for road safety, what a nice little earner this could turn out to be.Secondly the saga of the horses on the local park rumbles on, with the council in their (doubtful) wisdom attaching an A4 piece of paper to a nearby gate with an e-mail address and calling it a 'consultation'. Several of us residents have impressed upon Cllr. Mayne the importance of a full and proper consultation, meaning letters through the doors of everyone who lives in this area. The fact that our councillors were sucked into this by officers is pretty appalling but their reluctance to sort it out is even more so. One only has to look at legislation regarding public open space which this park is to see what a real clanger has been dropped. Has no-one ever heard of 'sorry we got it wrong'? It seems someone's horses grazing are more important than having an amenity for local residents, talk of costs for the upkeep of this fairly small area are a complete red herring to try and justify what is a very murky issue.  

Vanessa Smith ● 3866d12 Comments ● 3859d

What a nerve!

Having spotted two horses being grazed on a small underused and neglected local park and today someone having tried to block the entrance I contacted our local councillors. I had previously complained about the state of the park and asked if some consideration be given to following the example of the old allotments at Whitton Dene and turning the park into a dog exercise area. A lot of people take their dogs there but the area was filthy and needed a couple of bins and the grass kept short, needless to say the contractors said a bin would be too expensive and would have to be a bid in the council's capital programme, which I found extraordinary. However, the contractors, who are in Sheffield, went very quiet, and today thinking someone was really taking the mickey I alerted the local members. I am now informed that not only did they know about this - the person has been given a lease to graze their animals! No-one around here has been consulted about how they'd like to see the area used, God forbid any attempt at democracy - no, we are going to now get a letter TELLING us what's happened, isn't that mighty big of them? Apparently £3k has been saved by not having to cut the grass and clear the park, isn't that just dandy? Apparently this is not an issue for Hounslow in Whitton Dene, what next? No grass cutting - we'll get goats instead for a few days? I am appalled at the high handed arrogance of local councillors and wonder if we'd ever have found out what was going on had I not raised this. What a bloody cheek, Vladimir Putin would be proud of them.

Vanessa Smith ● 3918d6 Comments ● 3913d

Recycling revisited.

https://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?hl=en&vpsrc=6&ctz=0&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=216134571813262028800.0004b161383c1d5bc2759&t=m&ll=51.468766,-0.33783&spn=0.074854,0.192261&z=12&source=embed&dg=featureIf we as a country are one of the worst for recycling targets, and if Hounslow Council fails too... perhaps we should not be surprised. Personally I think it's all a shambles..and so poorly managed.Announcing the arrival of Wheelie Bins, it had been stated that Hounslow Council is to reduce the number of it's Recycling DEPOTS from 40 to 27.  Really? What is a DEPOT? One location apparently is the Inverness Club in Boston Manor Road where we can take glass (clear, green and brown). Is there a notice at the Club to say we can do that? Would you drive into the Club and be seen to unload stuff into their skips?One Depot is the Civic Centre! There you can deposit textiles, shoes and SMALL electrical items!  Is that what they call a Depot!In Heston is another DEPOT for recycling. It's at the British Legion.You can only deposit CLEAR GLASS and BROWN GLASS.  What about GREEN. Surely most wine bottles are GREEN.  It's just a joke!I recall that when the big recycling lorry arrived at Morrisons (in the good old days) the driver clearly mixed up all the bottles whatever their colour..even though Hounslow Council's residents, who used the facility, were instructed by the Council Notice there to keep colours separate!  What a clueless joke. The TW8.com front page clearly states "However it is planned to cut by one-third the number of public recycling depots in the borough from 40 to 27."   What 40 I ask!Remember they only want glass at Osterley Park House. (that's one DEPOT!)I noticed on the BRAG WEBSITE (Brentford Recycling Group etc) that they had a recent stand at Morrisons. You would have thought that with all the time some of us have spent on this Forum complaining about the problem at Morrisons ..that they might have at least posted a note on this Forum to let us know.  Shame... it's all so clueless..and you my have more examples. Maybe not! Bedfont Lakes Country ParkGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans and paper Budgens, Staines Road, BedfontGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, textiles and shoes, paper and books----------------------------------------------------------- HOUNSLOW COUNCILS RECYCLING DEPOTS as stated:Bedfont Football and Social ClubGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass Corner of Hampton Road West / Sunningdale AvenueTextiles & Shoes, Paper Royal British Legion, Cross Road, HanworthGreen glass, clear glass and brown glass Royal Navy Club, Park Road HanworthGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, textiles & shoes and cardboard Swan Road, Hanworth TW13 6SA - near shopsTextiles & shoes, paper, books and small electrical items Feltham ex serviceman's Club, off Bedfont Lane, FelthamGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, textiles & shoes St Giles hotel, Hounslow Road, Felthampaper Constitutional Club, Hanworth Road, FelthamGreen glass, clear glass and brown glass Sparrow Farm Club, Sparrow Farm Drive, FelthamGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, textiles & shoes and paper Elmwood Ave/Feltham High Street, FelthamGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, textiles & shoes, paper and small electrical items Tescos Supermarket car park, High Street, FelthamGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, cardboard, plastics, textiles & shoes, paper, beverage cartons, books and small electrical items Space Waye reuse and recycling Centre, North Feltham Trading Estate, Pier Road, FelthamSpace Waye is Hounslow’s re-use and recycling centre for the disposal of the borough’s public and trade waste click here to find out more. Green glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, cardboard, plas... Tescos Supermarket, Bulls Bridge Estate, SouthallGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, plastics, textiles & shoes, paper and beverage cartons Royal British Legion, 79 New Heston RoadClear glass and brown glass The Cross Lances Pub. 236 Hanworth RoadGreen glass, clear glass and brown glass Hounslow West, Bath Road, HounslowGreen glass, clear glass, brown, cans, textiles & shoes, paper and books Hounslow Heath car park, Staines Road, HounslowGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, textiles & shoes, books and small electrical items Civic Centre, Lampton Road, HounslowTextiles & shoes and small electrical items Osterley Park House, off Jersey Road, IsleworthGreen glass, clear glass and brown glass, Tescos Supermarket car park, Syon Lane, IsleworthGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, plastics, textiles & shoes, paper and beverage cartons Osterley Library Car Park, St Mary's Crescent, IsleworthGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, textiles & shoes, paper, books and small electrical items Royal British Legion, 5-6 North Street, IsleworthClear glass and brown glass Working Man's Club, St John's RoadClear glass Gymnkhana Club, Thornbury Road, IsleworthGreen glass, clear glass and brown glass Tescos Supermarket car park, Mogden Lane, IsleworthGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, cardboard, plastics, textiles & shoes, paper and beverage cartons Inverness Club, Boston Manor Road, IsleworthGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass Brentford Fountains Leisure Centre, Kew Bridge Road BrentfordGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans and paper Chiswick Village, ChiswickShoes Sainsbury's Supermarket Car Park, Acton Lane ChiswickGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, plastic, textiles & shoes, paper and beverage cartons Chiswick High Rd Car Park/Police StationGreen glass, clear glass, brown glass, cans, textiles & shoes, paper and books Bethany Waye Feltham TW14 8BTShoes & Textiles ----------------------------------------------

Jim Lawes ● 3935d8 Comments ● 3924d

Wheelie bins

So the Brains of Hounslow suggest the imposition of Wheelie Bins will save ££££££sQuite how is quite beyond me.How a saving can be made when these things cost to purchase, have a durability life of just a few years before they go brittle and look hideous1. Cost of the units and short life per cost per year.2.Black bags are paid for by residents not the council.3. Where do you store one in small terraced streets for example, when it is is impossible to keep even a bicycle.?4. If plonked outside like in Fulham the stench from just one unkempt bin lingers along the whole street and leave the view out of the front window obcured and darkens the front room.5. Cannot be moved easily in tightly parked streets meaning longer collection times and thus increases in fuel and operating costs.6. Streets will still need to be cleaned afterwards as spillages remain the same.7. Those with more extreme anti social habits seem to delight in depositing in these.8. Hugely unsightly especially in areas where multiple dwellings negate any form of stowage space or rented accommodation and lack of civic pride prevails.9. These things litter some streets for a full 24 hours making pavements hazardous to visually challenge and wheelchair users10. Vehicles are damaged regularly by them being mishandled or misused.11. Cost of conversion and extra depreciation on vehicles plus increase in CO2 footprint by plant.The cost of insurance claims, capital expenditure, time lost, fuel wasted, make this quite bonkers.Fine for streets with Driveways and side access or rear access but what about the smaller streets and those with none of those features?

Raymond Havelock ● 3940d57 Comments ● 3929d

cure for ebola discovered in brenford.

apparently the brewing process involves "a number of proprietary chemical food additives belonging to the group of proteins known as "asbestotic hemipersiflagic trimethylhypoglycerides" which although uncommon in European lagers, are abundant in Fuller's London Pride beer." - writes Professor Eustace Kerastase of The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine in The Lancet on Saturday. - "and kebabs", he added, "for everything else there's garlic and electroconvulsive therapy", which (when used in tandem -and- in sufficient doseages, (sic)) "can convince even the most reluctant of patients to pull themselves together pronto wot wot".In 2006 Prof. Kerastase was struck off the Medical Register for gross malpractice after prescribing cocoa to several members of the Hounslow Insomniac's Support Group - headquartered at O'Brien's Tavern, Brentford. Local pharamacists later admitted initial surprise when challenged to process prescription slips of 200mg cocaine sulphate B.I.D / ad lib; not least because according to NICE guidelines registered pharmacies are obligated to retain under a gram of the medicine absent fulfillment of 'personal-use-prerequisite disclosure' licensing.Commenting after the sentencing hearing, Prof. Kerastase was quoted as saying "wot ya spect blud? me gotsk me papers at da TVU innit!"Some of the plaintiffs were awake for a fortnight; more than double the median day/night cycle of locals surveyed as part of the 2011 Census.Mr. Kerastase was unable to comment today, as he was preoccupied cling-filming the exterior of his 3 bedroom maisonette in Isleworth and organising a helicopter-borne dispersal of aerosolised Dettol over the property and surrounding area. "take Pride dho" - he said before slamming the door of the HUEY gunship rented from a local vendor - "sheets abaht 2 get reel man".Pride. This reporter is considering swallowing his; sack the Carling, we've got bigger things to worry about.- from the Brentford Informer.

Carol Mackay ● 3952d0 Comments ● 3952d

Is this a police issue??

Can someone tell me if this is a police issue.My daughters ex got his daughter to call my daughters car insurers pretending to be my daughtet and told them she had sold her car and to cancel the policy due to this my daughter had to get rid of her car as she could not afford to renew it.Then 2wks ago the police came to see my daughter they had a certificate of ownership of my daughters dog from petlog kennel club and it was in her ex name.  We were shocked as my daughter got her dog when he was a pup in 2012 and his chip wss done in 2012 in her name so we called petlog and we were told they had recieved a change of ownership form signed by my daughter (in her old surname as her surname was changed in April)They also have a tel recording from a female pretending to be my daughter to confirm change of ownership. My daughter did not sign any form or make that call and the dog is still with her. Petlog was happy that my daughter was telling the truth and placed it all Back in my daughters name with a new chip and id number and are going to write to her ex.Then my daughter received court papers stating he was taking her to court to get his dog back,  the dog was bought by him in 2012 for £400 he bought it for her.All vet bills since then was paid for by my daugter and all paperwork inc insurance for him has always been in her name. She also has emails from him admitting hitting the dog, and emails from his daughter telling her back in april to come down to exeter service station to get him which she drove down with my wife to get him. Then because she told him she didnt want anything to do with him no more she got emails from his daughter's partner saying her ex wanted £400 or the dog when my daughter thretened with the police they emailed her saying keep the dog and dont ever contact us again. She also was sent a letter from her ex saying he had enclosed the dogs paperwork. But now he is trying to take her to court over custody of the dog.  Over the petlog and insurance stuff should she report it to the police?

Simon Anderson ● 3966d9 Comments ● 3954d

Virgin Media

My broadband has been down since yesterday morning. I suppose I should be pleased that their support website actually acknowledges there's a problem, which is a first. [Usually you have to spend half an hour on the phone before they say, "oh, yes, there's a fault in your area - check our website for progress" when their website says all is sunny]Leaving aside that they say that the problem started at 01.36 pm on Thursday [there is no such time as 01.36 pm - do they mean 0136 hours or 1.36 pm?] by yesterday morning they were saying:There is a fault disruption.Some videos via You Tube.com may be degradedFault Reported on :01:36PM Thursday 11 SeptemberThe problem is almost fixed - our engineers are carrying out their final checks.Fault reference:F003288630and suggesting a fix yesterday lunchtime. By the afternoon it was saying the same except that fix would be 10 am today.11.42, and it still says the same.This is an idiotic message: "Some videos via You Tube.com may be degraded" No, not degraded (though I'm sure some YouTube videos are indeed degraded :p) but totally unavailable, along with any other internet content and there's no 'may' about it.Their engineers have been carrying out their final checks for 22 hours and counting.Because I'm feeling grumpy, I want to complain about this nonsense. I can phone them (but I don't want to and it's probably out of hours) or do live text (recommended). So I click on live text... AHA, gotcha, sorry our hours are 9 to 5 Mon-Fri. So WHY ARE YOU RECOMMENDING IT AT 11.30 on a SATURDAY? OK I'll email a grumpigram. No, this hi-tech internet age company does not provide an email address, but you can write them a letter.I've been on the brink of kicking them out for what must be 15 years....

Guy Lambert ● 3982d4 Comments ● 3980d

Mansion tax? No it’s a maisonette tax

I could be ranting here, but the Liberal, and now Labour, proposals for a mansion tax simply don't add up.We’re told that property worth more than £2 million should be subject to an additional wealth charge to claw back some of the tax the rich are avoiding. It’s pointed out that half those property owners are the bankers and non-domiciles who created our financial problems in the first place and are compounding it now by actively avoiding their fair share of tax.  Sounds fair enough, but what about the other half.  Presumably these are people who worked hard and saved, didn't buy new cars or expensive holidays and invested prudently so they could afford their dream homes.  Just the sort of people the Conservatives say we all should emulate. Why then are we going to introduce a tax that will penalize the prudent as well as the reckless with such a blunt weapon?  Surely if the government wanted the to raise more from the rich they’d just increase the top tax rate, and if it’s only bankers and the like that are to be targeted then why not add a box on the tax return that asks if you’re a banker or non-domicile?  A tick in this box means an automatic 10% increase in tax, and if the person didn't tick but works for Bank of Scotland on a million a year then there’s an automatic 20% fine.  It really would be that easy.No, mansion tax is not a tax for the rich, history shows us instead it’s opening a new area of taxation we’ll all end up paying.I read an interesting article a week ago about how property prices increased 11% last year and will multiply many fold in the next decade.  The supporters of mansion tax counter by saying the price at which it kick in will increase with inflation, but they said the same for stamp duty and 40% income tax rates, and of course no such thing happened.  In fact on the basis of every single new tax ever introduced in the UK, history tells us mansion tax will lag inflation until it has moved from the minority to encompasses the majority.  Call it a mansion tax to get it introduced, then creep it until we all pay.It’s actually quite interesting to think about why property will increase so much in the near future.  Surely, you’d reason, there isn't enough cash around for normal houses to become so expensive?  Where does all the extra money come from?  Well it comes from the government.  Since we dropped off the gold standard then every year they've printed a few billion extra pounds to help pay the salaries and pensions of the half million civil servants we have.  It’s called a FIAT monetary system and is, of course, simply creating cash out of thin air.  Don’t confused this with the car maker though as Fiat cars are a lot more reliable than FIAT money; another lesson from history. This newly printed money quickly makes its way through the civil servants pockets and into the general economy where it causes the inflation we all live with.  More pounds in circulation without any more apples simply means each apple costs more.  Quantitative Easing, where the government prints hundreds of billions to bail out the banks in turn leads to much quicker and higher inflation.  The banks are neatly focusing and multiplying this QE money into property through their Fraction Reserve system and a tendency to only lend on solid investments.  This is why we've had, and will continue to see, massive house price inflation.  It’s annoying that official inflation figures don’t include house prices, because if they did we’d all feel a lot more worried about the creeping inflation rate.We’re led to believe that house inflation is a good thing.  We must all be getting richer because our houses are worth more and more. I don’t want to call this a bubble, but the reality is that when all property prices are increasing and none are going down, then the market is inflating just like a bubble.  And why should it be so good that something costs more this year than it did last year?  With increased manufacturing, farming and building efficiency, products should actually cost us less and less each year?   The whole purpose of an industrial society is to raise everyone's standard of living by creating more purchasing power year on year.Imagine we lived in a world where the government didn't print billion of extra pounds a year, a world without inflation, or better still a world with deflation.  In this type of world my pension could simply be money I put away today that I know will buy better things in the future.  I wouldn't need to invest it, and in so doing pay fee’s and management charges and take risks.  Instead I could just put it in a tin box under my bed safe in the knowledge that a pound tomorrow would buy more than a pound today.  We’d all be far better off in a world without FIAT money, Quantitative Easing and Fractional Reserve banking.  Instead though we live in a world where the government, banking and finance sectors are no longer working for the good of the people.  They weigh ever heavily on our shoulders, have eaten their pound of flesh and now want a direct feed of the blood from our bodies.‘Mansion’ tax?, no it’s not a mansion tax.  We’ll all be paying as it transitions into a ‘maisonette’ tax.And for those with real mansions then avoiding this tax is simplicity in itself.  Convert the top floor of your average London town house into a self contained and separate flat for the nanny, and rename the basement cinema  as a storage cellar.  Try doing that with a family of 5 in a two bedroom maisonette.

Lorne Gifford ● 3992d8 Comments ● 3992d

Local MP comments about GAZA

An open letter to Mary MacLeod.Dear Ms MacLeod,Your comments about the conflict in Gaza have only my qualified support, because you omit one extremely glaring fact. In defense of it's citizens, the Israel government has instructed it's military to target those locations from where rockets are being launched. Tragically, Hamas has chosen either to launch from locations where innocent citizens are already residing or worse, to place innocent men, women and children in those same locations, in either case, with the intent to cynically seek sympathy, claiming that the Israel government doesn't care about the resulting tragedy of innocent lives being lost. They do care but are doing no less than you would do if your neighbor was shooting at you and your family and to protect your loved one's, your only option was to fire back. Beginning with the wrong headed partition of Palestine by the then English and French governments, finding a solution presently that allows Israel to live in peace alongside a Palestinian homeland is so complex a process. Clearly Israel must stop building settlements on Palestinian land; that would be a good start. What would also be a good start would be for Hamas and it's supporters denouncing any adherence to the destruction of Israel and death to all Jews. Your comment about the crises in Gaza is one sided. I call upon you to acknowledge that Israel is not at fault when it does what it has to do too protect it's people, especially when it has to do so against an enemy so cynical and evil.

Jeff Birnberg ● 4018d5 Comments ● 4013d

British Values

British Values There is no such thing as British values. There is, however, a British way of doing things. It follows that Michael Gove erred when he said schools should promote British values. To expect schools to uphold British institutions would make much more sense. What matters, in Britain, is loyalty to the institutions which in this country enable us to enjoy in our own constantly evolving fashion the blessings of democracy, freedom, fairness and the rest. Teenage pregnancy, promiscuity, binge drinking, rape culture, victim blaming, casual racism, escalating homophobia and sexism are basic British valuesA secular school being turned into a faith school is not "extremism" or a "swamp" of full of infant terrorist "alligators". It's an unauthorised Muslim faith school. Nothing Ofsted have found seems to amount to anything more than that. The media seem to have got this completely out of proportion. Allowing pupils to pray at lunchtime if they wish to and wear the hijab if they choose to, or shortening the school day during the Ramadan fast – is an attempt to meet their spiritual needs as one tool to raise their achievement. Islam and Muslims are being criticised virtually every day by large sections of the media. There was a hysteria a few weeks ago over halal meat and now we have this. This is a witch hunt plain and simple. Why should not religious taxpayers have a right to send their children to schools that accord with their beliefs? Is this not, after all, supposed to be a tolerant society? If people receive a religious education, they are not rendered incapable of thinking. That is a thoughtless idea of people who advocate 'secularism' --it may not be a religion, but it certainly believes it has a monopoly on truth. Today's 'secularists' are extremists, who want to impose their views on the rest of society. Sir Michael says children (in the criticised Muslim) schools in Birmingham are not being encouraged to "develop tolerant attitudes towards other faiths". What about state and church schools?  Schools should be run by head teachers who are answerable to boards of governors who are elected by parents. The role of the state should be minimised - concerned only with acceptable standards of education being delivered and economic efficiency. Most problems in education and in society in general have been instigated by politicians who are the real scourge in modern society, not religion or faith schools. when Brits colonised the sub-continent and beyond they enforced their system on to the locals, side lining their religious practices and tribal systems. In India and Africa the Brits behaved like dictators and enforced a White Christian, UK bigotry on the locals, often by second rate Britishers who has failed at home. You could say we are now getting a taste of our own medicine ? Gove's plan to promote British values in schools will do absolutely nothing to aid societal cohesion. Many young Muslims go to schools which are almost or entirely Muslim. Their friends are Muslim, their family is Muslim, their Mosque and, naturally, their values are Muslim. They have little meaningful experience or connection with our native peoples and culture. We have enabled a people of some 4 million souls to create their own culture and nation within our nation. Don't blame Muslims. This is perfectly natural and what people of very different cultures do when establishing a life in a different country. It is what we Brits did in Africa and India and other countries. If it causes problems in wider society, the people to blame are politicians who allowed mass immigration from very different cultures without a suitable programme of integration like other countries have like the States. A core British value is to be ashamed of being British. Is respect for international law a British value, Mr Gove? Is thinking that Michael Gove is a bell-end officially a British value yet?  What is a British value? Does the European Convention on Human Rights express British values? Who decides? Gove: all schools must promote 'British values' The British sense of fair play? The rules of cricket? A couple of Shakespeare quotes? Help me out - I'm really struggling with this and I have only lived here for 50 years... Gove's idea of British values won't include multiculturalism and political correctness? A "culture of fear and intimidation"= British values. Ofsted were assessing a nursery school's ability to prevent extremism. My guess is that schools in Birmingham are the new favourite battle ground for Tory politicians. British values. Hamm, these days that seems to be...Massive, obscene inequality, hammer the poor and disabled. Kowtow to a wealthy elite and let corporate corruption go unpunished whilst attacking the most vulnerable? Cater to the whims of Banksters and business and punish the poor? Rank hypocrisy from a moral minority on high? These may well be Etonian values I suppose, but do we really want them in all our schools? A 'value' has no meaning without practicing what you preach. This government wants a superficial veneer of those values only, like fascism. ... promoting British values" I honestly have no idea what that means. Neither does Gove, but it's a great sound bite isn't it? British Values! Let the rich get richer and sod the poor. Invade foreign countries, displace the local population, allow them to emigrate to the UK, then cry wolf when they set up 'free schools'.According to the Holy  Quran, all children are born Muslims but their parents grow them up as Christian, Jews, Hindus and atheist. Muslim schools are not only faith schools but more or less bilingual schools. Muslim children need to learn and be well versed standard English to follow the National Curriculum and go for higher studies and research to serve humanity. At the same time they must learn and be well versed in Arabic, Urdu and other community languages to keep in touch with their cultural heritage and enjoy the beauty of their literature and poetry. A Muslim is a citizen of this tiny global village, he/she does not want to become notoriously monolingual Brit. when Brits colonised the sub-continent and beyond they enforced their system on to the locals, side lining their religious practices and tribal systems. In India and Africa the Brits behaved like dictators and enforced a White Christian, UK bigotry on the locals, often by second rate Britishers who has failed at home. You could say we are now getting a taste of our own medicine ? This Trojan Horse is a stir up to put up an attitude amongst the British community upon Muslims AGAIN, this hysteria has all been blown up because they do not want non-Muslim youngsters falling to the idea of Islam. Jewish schools have a more strict approach to religion than the majority of Islamic schools or schools that are heavily influenced by Muslim governors, yet they are not gonna be investigated because any hysteria brought up would be labelled anti-Semitism to become increasingly anti-establishment and belligerent. And they would have every reason to if this garbage continues. Park view is not multi cultural. It is mono cultural. It is to all purposes an Islamic school posing as a British secular state school. This "Trojan horse" thing worries me...I do not think that Greek classical mythology necessarily falls within the frame of reference of Muslims.. This affair was started by a hoax letter , driven by Islamophobia , which achieved its end , courtesy of a Government paranoid about ' extremism ' without any definition of what it means , and a ' anti-terrorism industry ' trying to justify itself and its funding to the Home Office . Meanwhile Ofsted have become a political tool , a new thought police , with little relevance to the standards of education , and an agenda driven by paranoia in a society which constantly changes its moral goalposts , itself in moral flux and confusion . And let not forget where did this all started, with Al Qaeda, which was created and nurtured and armed by the West. Now everyone is complaining where do all these extremism come from. If you are serious about fighting Muslim extremism start by going to the source, in allied countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and so on. But that would never happen because you also want your cheap oil. Hypocrite.IALondon School of Islamics Trust

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4073d29 Comments ● 4024d

Immigration

Europe is dying it natural death by aging population and low birth rate. Now the population would be replaced by Muslims. Did you forget how your white asses came on boats, robbed people of their wealth from colonies in East? And killed and tortured them? Did you ´integrate´ then? You Brits are-were nothing but thieves. Majority British population does not know its own history of crimes against humanity because your government there wants to regiment you with false propaganda and tell you bed time stories about your ´royalty´... who were, as I said, nothing but thieves. Whilst I agree that you have an immigration problem in this country, I don't think that this is your main problem. Your main problem is the disintegration of the family unit and the loveless binge drinking environment that your children are growing up in! NEVER in my life have I seen another country where people so seldom give their children a hug and a kiss like in this country and NEVER in my life have I seen another country where there are so many children from different fathers growing up in single parent households! Before you tackle the immigration problem (at least the immigrants LOVE their kids) you should first look at yourselves! Why complain when it’s the British who first migrated into other lands enslaving those people? When it is a question on immigration, the feelings are so strong. I wonder why. Serves you right! Britain! When the British colonised the world, it was ok. But now when people from the former colonies and from other countries come to Britain, its not ok? Look into history and then you can cry because what goes around comes around. Don't see why people have such a problem with mass immigration? It enriches our culture and boosts the economy! We have to stop looking at these people as immigrants and think of them as human beings. The immigrants are not to blame because they were invited and welcomed here by our successive government. We have quite large Spanish , French and Italian communities in Brighton and I believe it really enhances the place and adds to diversity of the City. Globalisation is here to stay. Britain colonised & some would say civilised half the world. It's called Karma. Not so long ago British people colonized Asia, living like kings while locals suffering to no end. At least, these migrants do not enslave the  Britons, so stop whining please. Without immigration, British society and economy would bleed to death. Immigration is a good thing. My main left artery was repaired by two Profs, one from Holland and one from Italy. The road is being repaired by lads from Armenia. The strawberries and fruit and veg counter are picked by summer migrants and as they pile up in the loading bay get driven away by British hauliers to British shops to be bought by British people. The immigrants plugging these little holes more than pay for themselves in multiplier effects on economic activity. Skills they learn here they take back to their homelands, who, if keen to keep skilled folk, would crack down on corruption and stop harassing small traders and people trying to make a living. The UK should be prouder, fearless and more welcoming. the Conservatives must lose their "perceived" hostility to immigration. They are the Party of the "Free Market". to oppose the free movement of people is hypocritical. Multiculturalism has been around in these islands at least since the Anles, Jutes and Saxons came over and displaced the Celts. That was about 2000 years ago. Between then and 1950 immigration was slow. Since then it has become massive. Multiculturalism means different cultures living side by side, separately. We live in a multicultural world of mono-cultural countries. If only England becomes multicultural and other countries don't, then the result will be a less multicultural world. Right next to the Over ground Station, a peek inside the Railway Tavern pub will reveal white locals in the front, black locals in the back room. This segregation is self-enforced; both parties seem to prefer it that way. The sight of such retailed segregation is uncomfortable, and off-putting. It inevitably reminded me of the ”separate but equal” facilities of late-Jim Crow 60s America. Many comments claim that the immigrants don't integrate. Aside from the little interactions mentioned, how can integration occur? Doesn't it need to be 2-way? How many of us are pleased to accept hospitality and gifts of exotic dishes offered by the 'immigrants' and yet don't reciprocate? Difficult to have a truly 'multicultural' society when the core belief of many of those who inhabit one of those cultures is that all the others should be eradicated. Speaking English does not promote integration into British, American and Australian societies, and broaden opportunities. English speaking Muslim youths are angry, frustrated and extremist, thanks to state schools with monolingual non-Muslim teachers and English language. English language is not only a lingua franca but also lingua frankensteinia. Human right are also covers linguistic right. Cultural and linguistic genocide are very common. British schooling is murdering community languages like Arabic, Urdu and others. English is today the world killer language. Linguistic genocide is a crime against humanity and British schooling is guilty of committing this crime. Language is not just a language. It defines one's culture, identity and consciousness. It defines how we think, communicate and express ourselves. The fact is the most South Asian Muslims have come to know Islam by way of Urdu, the children's alienation from the language that connects them the heritage of their parents and grandparents is disturbing. As a matter of fact, one has to get to know his mother tongue well if one is to master any other language.IALondon School of Islamics Trusthttp://www.londonschoolofislamics.org.uk

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4031d0 Comments ● 4031d

Trojan Horse

Trojan Horse Tahir Alam is allegedly the man behind a blueprint for the ‘Trojan Horse’ plot for the radical ‘Islamisation’ of secular state schools. An alleged plot to takeover some of Britain’s schools by Islamist extremists has been reportedly masterminded by a ringleader who had drafted a guide document on the process, a media report has said. Tahir Alam, chairman of governors at Park View school in Birmingham, is allegedly the man behind a blueprint for the so-called “Trojan Horse” plot for the radical “Islamisation” of secular state schools. He called for “girls [to] be covered except for their hands and faces”, advocated gender segregation in some school activities, and attacked a “multicultural approach” to collective worship, the Sunday Telegraph' reported. In his 72-page document, published by the Muslim Council of Britain in 2007, Tahir Alam and co-author Muhammad Abdul Bari categorically attacked many state schools for not being “receptive of legitimate and reasonable requests made by some Muslim parents and pupils in relation to their faith-based aspirations and concerns”. They described how Muslim governors could be activated to press the “views and aspirations of Muslim parents and the local community” on reluctant schools. Birmingham has a large Muslim population, nearly 22 per cent, according to the 2011 census. The “Trojan Horse” plot had come to light recently and involves the alleged takeover of secular state schools and the removal of secular head teachers in Birmingham by radical Muslim staff and governors. There are more Methodist schools than Muslim schools in England and 33% of English state schools are Christian. There’s been a big kerfuffle over a supposed Muslim influence on six schools in Birmingham, with outlets like the BBC and Telegraph alleging a “Trojan horse” takeover by Muslim parents. But whether you agree with religion in schools or not, the faith that is most clearly represented in Britain’s education system is Christianity. There are more Methodist schools (26 or 0.13%) than Muslim schools in England. Out of the total number of state-funded schools (primary and secondary) in England this is what percentage were Muslim in 2012. Some 0.06% or 12 schools are Muslim faith schools.  Out of all UK state-funded schools, 33.61% or 6751 schools are Christian. School segregation: 12% of state schools are split into boys and girls. Charges against the six schools in Birmingham include not teaching the curriculum, inviting radical speakers to talk to the children and gender segregating classrooms – to the detriment of girls. A small, but significant number of traditional British schools are split by gender too. The man accused of being at the centre of the plot, Faisal Khan, has denied the allegations, saying his sole motive was to improve the standards at schools and that he had no wish to “Islamize” British schools. British authorities are now investigating the alleged plot. UK Education Secretary Michael Gove appointed Peter Clarke, former head of Scotland Yard’s Counter Terrorism Command, to lead the probe. The appointment of Clarke has faced criticism, with critics saying the move has resulted in rising fears over a possible government crackdown on Muslim communities in the UK. There are concerns that the plan could prevent ordinary Muslims from getting involved in their children’s schooling affairs for fear of being branded extremist. “The idea that MCB document was a Communist or Trotskyite-type plot to takeover all Birmingham/UK schools is laughable. This feeds into a wider 'counter-jihadist' (Breivik, EDL, etc) narrative that Muslims want to "take over". To describe the handbook as 'a document on manipulating teachers and curriculum' or 'a detailed blueprint for the radical "Islamisation" of secular state schools', as Sunday Telegraph says, is an insult to the many thousands of professionals and lay people who have been involved over the last ten years in the massive improvements in the educational achievement of young Muslim people. There is a level of hysteria building which is not justified, we need to take the temperature down and politicians must not play with these issues or else face a potential backlash, possibly in community cohesion." Abdul BariThe whole saga is outrageous, beyond belief and frankly if it was not so serious, it would be comical. The documents on which this whole action is perused is false and as there is no proof of extremism in schools, Mr Gove has made it illegal for Muslims to have conservative views (coming from a minister of conservative government, its comical really). Feel like we are back in the fifties in the USA again. Michael Gove is an avowed Zionist which is not the best way to approach issues like this! Because it can lead greater attacks on Islam. It amazes me that on the basis of an anonymous letter the whole country has been lead to believe that there is an organised plot to somehow take over schools, now allegedly across the length and breadth of Britain! Furthermore the amount of coverage that this has received from the media as being a credible story, to me, suggests the level of Islamophobia in our society has reached alarming and dangerous heights. I would suggest that for the sake of fairness, equality and justice all schools are subject to the same level of scrutiny. For example Christian, C-of-E, Jewish and Hindu, Sikh schools. I believe that this not only a witch hunt but a move to tarnish and undermine the credibility of Muslims in general and the noble teachings of a widely practiced and rapidly growing religion which a people devotedly choose to follow. Islamophobia should be stopped - especially when the racist is a government minister or department. you must share this island with many people, why does it belong to one people? Grammar schools regularly carry out gender segregation, shall we remove those Head teachers too.  The horse in question, it is alleged, contained Muslim extremism – brought to state schools by stealth, by governor bodies launching subtle pincer movements, to remove the kind of pesky teachers who might object to the segregation of pupils by sex, or a refusal to stick to the syllabus. How incredibly extremist. Schools where segregation of pupils by sex occur. How different from boy's only Grammar schools and High schools for Girls that exist in predominately Conservative areas. And that exist predominately in the private school sector. It does though surely produce better exam results, as pupils are less influenced by the idea of 'girl's subjects' and 'boy's subjects', and are less likely to be distracted by sex. Allegations of an Islamic takeover plot of Birmingham schools are just the latest in a string of slurs against Muslims. It is not clear what is meant by an "Islamic plot takeover", and whether that is the same thing as saying or hinting that some Muslims might want to get some schools to adopt their particular version of Islamic religious values, behaviours and life-styles. If it is the latter, that would not necessarily be an indication of "terrorism", so I struggle to see the need for 'counter-terrorism' input. It is not terrorism in any way shape or form. It is important to remember this is not about Islam as such but yet another chance to bash people perceived as foreigners. To many Muslim is another word for immigrant and coloured person, two terrible bugbears. Why should an unnamed, undated, unspecific source has effected students, teachers, governors, parents in one swoop. It has serious implications on unfounded accusations for hundreds of people. In no way shape or form is this right, nor should have it EVER happened. Just by a anonymous letter how can you judge the schools and it is bringing such bad vibe to Birmingham schools and local Muslim community we feel like we're targets no matter how hard we try we will never please and move forward from the terrorist labelling. I am disgusted at the way these particular schools and governors were targeted for no reason other than being Muslim. No solid evidence wa available to substantiate these accusations which arose and yet such great weight and focus was attached to them. Morally unjust and utterly unacceptable. The Trojan Horse document was clearly written by someone who knows little about Birmingham and even less about Islam. It has chimed, however, with widespread Islamophobic fantasies and fears amongst non-Muslims, and as a result of unethical reporting in the media has done much damage. On the one hand we get told we are not integrating enough and we should engage more in civic society. On the other, when we do, we get accused of having sinister agendas. Since when do concerns by religiously conservative parents about teaching on homosexuality, girls and boys mixing, and the reciting of prayers, require anti-terrorist experts to get involved? Allegations of an Islamic takeover plot in Birmingham schools aren't justified by the evidence – and the government response is way out of proportion. Perhaps its best to let the Muslim community sort these issues out. These are in effect Muslim schools now. It is up to the Muslim community to see off hard liners (if there are any) otherwise it is their own children's' education that will suffer. I think it would be very difficult for non Muslims to get involved either as governors or management so perhaps that it is one of the reasons for the conflicts that have arisen. It may be best for the Government to but out providing the record of the school is O.K. from an exam point of view. I am so disgusted that even after it was proved there is no factual evidence or basis for that racist and hate filled document, schools in Birmingham are being subjected to this horrific ordeal and the name of many good reputable teachers is being tarnished... Why? Clearly viewable that this accusation has been purposely placed on these schools which surprisingly consists of majority Muslim children. Clearly the school policies are being contradicted by Mr Gove as they clearly state that it is the schools priority and job to meet the needs of the local community and of the students within the school. So if a school is doing that then what is the issue? What is happening feels like the persecution of a religious group. This is important because the wit hunt feeds Islamophobia. As we can see from the bombings and arson attacks on mosques in the UK, Islamophobia is a very dangerous and divisive form of racism. I'm sick of this hatred of Islam and Muslims. Haters, ignorant scum, look for any means to target Muslims, now even in our schools. It's a joke and this has to stop. How hypocritical does a country have to be to illegally invade Muslim countries and then accuse Muslims of terrorism? I am a Muslim. I am an anti-terrorist.   I never realised how racist and anti-Islamic this country is until I moved here. These people are here legally and have the right to live how they want to. Just because there are terrorists who use Islam as a doctrine to justify their hateful acts, does NOT mean that every Islam wants to change Britain to Sharia Law, kill the gays and put all women in burkas! These people are being judged and punished for the actions of others that have nothing to do with them, simply because they are of the same religion. Do you judge Germans in the same way because their country committed genocide? Or the Irish if they are from an area where religious conflict was particularly violent? No. Seems like thinly veiled racism to me, not the 'staunch upholding of British rights against religious extremists' as you all seem to espouse. What do people mean when they talk about 'multiculturalism'? If a lot of people come from a foreign country and settle in a particular area they will bring the culture of that country with them. Of course they will want their schools to promote their values. Gender segregation is everywhere in the Muslim world including in EU applicant, Turkey, so either we believe in Britain as multicultural or we don't. You don't get to pick and choose the bits you want. Why not sit down with parents and listen to their concerns, instead of ordering an investigation? Shocked at this terrifying witch hunt against Muslims who are simply trying to raise standards. Its totally unacceptable to create a furore in the country over anonymous accusations with no proof. Because it is a divisive move and will affect community relations. This is the very reason why society does not function properly, this is a deliberate attempt to spread fear amongst communities, as the best way to control a nation is through fear itself. because this is NOT ,,I repeat is NOT an Islamic plot to take over Birmingham, so DO NOT put false information in the media to put Muslims down!!!!! What next.....Muslims taking over hospitals, banks, pubs....come on... Tomorrow, a Pakistani MP would become the PM of GB and this does not mean that the country has become a colony of Pakistan.  What's taking place is an absolute disgrace. This whole witch hunt is putting Muslims off from becoming governors at a time when it is need the most. Why should Muslim parents be targeted when all they want at the end of the day is a good all round education for their children. Before Muslims governors came on to the scene all the inner city schools were doing poorly and failing all the children of the school. Muslim parents were criticised for their lack of involvement in their children's schools. Now they are being vilified. It is an absolute disgrace that an ex anti terrorist police office has been brought in to investigate the situation. It stinks of racism and the desire to label all Muslims into the category of extremist and jihadist. What a disgrace by the national and the local government. It's wrong for Gove to be deliberately politicising our Education system. All our children deserve respect and not to be scapegoated. What a total waste of tax payers money and tactical manoeuvre by Michael Gove to divert attention away from the real issues. Gove’s war is designed to destabilise governing bodies where Muslims form a majority. Don't want us to be part of 'big society'?  We totally reject the idea that there is Muslim plot to take over Birmingham schools. We abhor the scapegoating of the Muslim community being whipped up by the media. We call for the removal of Peter Clarke as we believe this is a provocative appointment, designed to divide our community. I don't believe that there is an Islamic Plot to take over Birmingham schools. It's a set-up. Anonymous complaints have been used in the past to hound good head teachers of community schools out of their jobs in order to facilitate the creation of academies. This whole story smells of falsification and corruption. I suspect that the people wishing to take over schools are not Islamic extremists, but Academy Chains with business interests. A shamefully irresponsible and sensationalised inquiry whose adverse impact on community relations locally and nationally will sadly be lingering long and far. If British authorities are so concerned about their education institutions being infiltrated by ``extremists'' then I suggest they stop Tony Blair, architect in chief of the illegal and violent 2003 Iraq invasion from speaking at colleges and universities across the UK and the world. His lies and fabrications caused the deaths, directly and indirectly, of thousands of Iraqis, British and Americans. While the survivors of his wars suffer in silence, this former British Prime Minister makes millions through his speaking engagements at educational institutions across the world with little or no sign of remorse for the suffering he caused. Nothing I see in the above articles suggests the British Muslim educators in question did anything illegal, let alone anywhere as remotely destructive as the twice elected British Prime Minister. Britain's interests would be served better if they questioned their own domestic and overseas policies instead of perennially whining on about ``extremist'' from their (mostly) law abiding immigrant communities. There are a total of 21300 Primary and 3900 Secondary schools in the UK. Finding that 6 out of these 25200 had board members who wanted to push their extremist views over the governance of those school is not a Islamic Plot or Trojan Horse to Islamises UK. This is a massive overreaction and the Islamophobia on display in the comments is more terrifying than the actual case itself. Stop the racist witch hunt in Birmingham schools. We Muslims have a right to our religion. I decry everything which denigrates Muslims in this country. The media and governmental attitudes and actions, inflame prejudice and ignorance. We want the best for our children and such baseless witch hunt of school governors does not help the cause of better education. Stop this hate against Muslims. It is not them who are terrorists , but all those who imply they are with the help of media you try bringing others to your side giving false details - twin towers wasn't Muslim either - that was the Americans - you will not win as Islam Will forever grow and prove it is peaceful through the will of God (Allah SWT)... amen. This is undermining confidence in the Muslim community and increasing Islamophobia. This is another example of the media whipping up hysteria against the UK Muslim community.  The way our Govt treating British Muslims is as if all Muslims are terrorists unless they prove otherwise. Govt should focus on its job. Governors of this school worked hard to help a failing school achieve outstanding rating from Ofsted. Please fix Ofsted and stop demonising Muslims. Nick Clegg on LBC radio indicated that the DFE is full of right wing ideologues and extremist loons. Islamic schools protect Muslim children from the onslaught of Euro centrism, homosexuality, racism, and secular traditions. All education systems appear to be indoctrination systems. I went to a good private school. Guess how we were 'encouraged' to think about politics! Having a Muslim name in UK is a crime. All UK job application forms have sections ask your race and religions. Most UK employers simply reject your applications just by looking at this section. Native Brits must learn to respect and tolerate those who are different. The needs and demands of the Muslim community are different from those of natives. Muslims are in Britain not to give up their cultural heritage. They must integrate in their new home country, learn new languages and apply for political representation -- without forgetting their cultural heritage. It is important to learn Standard English, but their  languages should not be neglected. They need Masajid and grave yards. Muslim children not only need halal meat or Eid Holidays but they need state funded Muslim schools with Muslim teachers as role models during their development period also. There is no place for a non-Muslim child or a teacher in a Muslim school. A Muslim is a citizen of this tiny global village. He/she does not want to become notoriously monolingual Brit. The whole world belongs to Muslims. He/she must learn and be well versed in Standard English to follow the National Curriculum and go for higher studies and research to serve humanity. At the same time, he/she must learn and be well versed in Arabic, Urdu and other community languages to keep in touch with their cultural heritage and enjoy the beauty of their literature and poetry. For a Muslim English is an economic language and Arabic is a religious while Urdu and other community languages are their social and emotional languages.Muslim children not only need halal meat or Eid Holidays but they need state funded Muslim schools with Muslim teachers as role models during their development period also. There are hundreds of state primary and secondary schools where Muslim pupils are in majority. In my opinion all such schools may be opted out to become Muslim Academies. This means the Muslim children will get a decent education. Muslim schools turned out balanced citizens, more tolerant of others and less likely to succumb to criminality or extremism. Muslim schools give young people confidence in who they are and an understanding of Islamic teaching of tolerance and respect which prepares them for a positive and fulfilling role in society. Muslim schools are attractive to Muslim parents because they have better discipline and teaching Islamic values. Children like discipline, structure and boundaries. Bilingual Muslim children need Bilingual Muslim teachers as role models during their developmental periods, who understand their needs and demands. There is no place for a non-Muslim child or a teacher in a Muslim school. Legally, the state has an obligation to respect the rights of parents to ensure that 'education and teaching(of their children) is in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions.' The schools must satisfy the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural needs of Muslim pupils. State schools with non-Muslim monolingual teachers are not in a position to satisfy their needs. A good school is not just a knowledge factory or a conveyor belt for churning out exam passes - it is a community, a family. A community is held together by common values and principles.IALondon School of Islamics Trust

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4094d2 Comments ● 4031d

Isleworth Public Hall (well well well)

Who would have guessed it eh that the latest Labour leaflet is again telling porkies and Theo Dennison even accused the ICG of scaremongering at the Hustings the other eveningA group bidding to run a popular public hall say they are still awaiting crucial information from Hounslow Council, despite an election leaflet suggesting it is a done deal.The council agreed in principle earlier this year to hand over management of Isleworth Public Hall to a consortium of not-for-profit groups.The plan was to hand them a five-year lease beginning in April this year, which the council estimated would save £425,000 over the course of the contract.An 'Isleworth Matters' leaflet recently published by the ruling Labour group proclaimed the consortium had won a contract.But members of the consortium say no deal has been signed and they are still awaiting information from the council, including details of running costs, which they claim they need before putting together a final bid.Christine Diwell, of the Friends of Isleworth Public Hall, one of four groups in the consortium, said: "We haven't won any contract and according to the council the procurement process is still ongoing."We're setting up a social enterprise which could run the hall we've asked the council for a lot of information which it has so far been unable to provide."The hall, in South Street, Isleworth, is currently run by the council's leisure contractor Fusion Lifestyle.Should the consortium win the contract, it could pave the way for similar voluntary groups to take control of other public halls across the borough.A council spokesman said: "The council has been working very closely with the Isleworth Public Hall Consortium to help them through the whole process. We are hoping to enable them to finalise their application very shortly."http://www.getwestlondon.co.uk/news/local-news/public-hall-takeover-still-not-6992973

Paul Fisher ● 4131d49 Comments ● 4037d

An Open Letter to the New Secretary of State for Education

An Open Letter to the New Secretary of State for Education I congratulate You on your new appointment. Education may well be a critical tool of socialisation; But it's only a tool.. that's why it's debatable whether education does, should, or can imbue us as citizens with a sense of our national identity and priorities. It all depends on how education gets used, and by whom. So from my own critical perspective I certainly don't think education does or should act like a gang of construction workers, cementing a shared but distinctly concrete narrative of common purpose. Rather I suppose education should kindly facilitate whatever individuals want to learn, whenever or wherever we want to learn it.. but maybe this might seem too radical.. If you had a non-Muslim school that encouraged teenage girls to dress modestly, successfully persuaded pupils not to drink alcohol, railed against gambling, engaged in lengthy study of ancient scriptures and languages and achieved good exam results, the Conservatives would be lining up to lavish it with praise. More so if it were Christian. This is as good a book review for the bible and the koran as could ever be written:“The [Trojan Horse story in Birmingham] bible/koran is one in which carelessness, incompetence, coincidence, opportunism, self-interest and sheer wickedness all play significant parts.Michael Gove's disastrous tenure as Secretary of State for Education has united the vast majority of Academics, Educationalists, Head Teachers and Teachers against hi...m like never before in the UK. 'At its May 2013 conference, Gove was criticised by the National Association of Head Teachers, whose members condemned the climate of bullying, fear and intimidation they claimed he had created during his time as Education Secretary. The conference passed a vote of no confidence in his policies. Votes of no confidence were also passed by the Association of Teachers and Lecturers at conference in March 2013, the National Union of Teachers at its conference in April 2013 (unanimously), and the NASUWT.' I hope the new secretary of state for education will do something positive to improve the educational standard of the Muslim children. Muslim children not only need halal meat or Eid Holidays but they need state funded Muslim schools with Muslim teachers as role models during their development period also. There are hundreds of state primary and secondary schools where Muslim pupils are in majority. In my opinion all such schools may be opted out to become Muslim Academies. This means the Muslim children will get a decent education. Muslim schools turned out balanced citizens, more tolerant of others and less likely to succumb to criminality or extremism. Muslim schools give young people confidence in who they are and an understanding of Islamic teaching of tolerance and respect which prepares them for a positive and fulfilling role in society. Children like discipline, structure and boundaries. Bilingual Muslim children need Bilingual Muslim teachers as role models during their developmental periods, who understand their needs and demands. There is no place for a non-Muslim child or a teacher in a Muslim school. Muslim schools should be inspected by Muslim members of the Ofsted. They understand the needs and demands of the Muslim children as well as their parents. Twenty leading educationalists and Muslim leaders have questioned Ofsted's impartiality in the Birmingham 'Trojan Horse' affair, education consultant Robin Richardson reflects on the factors behind its controversial recent inspections. What gives OFSTED the right, or indeed any Brits, to preach to minority groups about how they should live their lives. This is a cosmopolitan country, the Muslim community have the right to educate their children how they choose. What has being British got to do with your religious belief? In Britain there are Hindus Sikhs pagans Jewish Buddhists atheist Zoroastrians Rasta's and many more should they all change there religious beliefs because they are British? Studying the Qur'an will certainly help towards these children becoming fully integrated citizens of the UK. Like many Ofsted stories this is no news. There are lots of schools up and down the land without male teachers. Teaching is so female dominated you wonder why pupils are so poorly behaved. After all feminism blames men for everything and here are the results of female dominance...IALondon School of Islamics Trusthttp://www.londonschoolofislamics.org.uk

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4038d6 Comments ● 4038d

And they wonder why?

Today thousands and thousands of public sector workers are out on strike over wages and pensions. I watch Daily Politics (God alone knows why, it does the blood pressure no good at all!) I am furious that government ministers and other feel that TU's should be subject to getting at least 50% of their membership to agree to a strike before it can go ahead, when they are quite content for pathetic numbers of electors get them into Parliament. I have seen several members of the government this morning trying to slag off the unions and banging on about how we have to sort out the financial deficit, so therefore no-one in the public sector can expect a rise. The bankers and politicos who got us into this mess don't seem to be doing to badly- how many of them are cutting back? In the past couple of days the papers have been full of how the higher echelons are trousering ever larger rises, bonuses and pension pots, and today comes the news that more of the great and the good have fiddled tax to the value of £5bn. And they wonder why people are on strike? Only a few are paying the price it seems, at the same time rather than face the fact that to finance our NHS we have to understand tax must rise, there is talk of people having to pay for certain services. So rather than do what is best for the country's health a political decision will guide what happens to the health service, no we can't possibly put up tax. It's not about running anything it's all about keeping power for the select few who don't have the intelligence or the guts to do what is right and fair for the majority.

Vanessa Smith ● 4047d5 Comments ● 4038d

South Street roundabout/Twickenham Road - response from LBH

Copied and pasted below is the response I've received from LBH (following my complaint to Cllr. Mayne) regarding the South Street junction.Hopefully we'll see an improvement - although I've got even less faith in Road Safety Audits now than before !!!.Adam------------------------------Dear Mr Beamish, Councillor Mayne has asked that I respond to you directly regarding the ongoing works on Twickenham Road. I’m sorry that you’ve considered it necessary to write to express concern over the incomplete work and the delays in implementation. The past and on-going situation is far from satisfactory, but I can assure you that lessons have already been learnt and we will be reviewing our work practices ahead of the implementation of any future major schemes. In terms of completing the current Twickenham Road scheme we’ve been working with Hounslow Highways to have the works completed as soon as possible. It has been confirmed to me in the last few days that work to remove, rather than ‘black-out’, the old and existing road markings will commence on the evening of 20 January 2014 this will take 5 or 6 nights to complete as these works stretch along the complete length of Twickenham Road. The application of the new road markings will start on 21 January 2014 and this will take around 7 to 10 days, depending on the weather; again these works stretch along the complete length of Twickenham Road. The removal of the redundant traffic signs will be completed by the end of this week. I note that you’ve suggested that a ‘roundabout ahead‘ warning sign should be considered for the approaches to the South Street roundabout. One of the aims of the Twickenham Road scheme is to improve the streetscape environment by reducing street clutter and this would include the provision of extra traffic signs. There is no requirement to have ‘roundabout ahead‘ warning signs and our view is that these signs are unnecessary. The mini-roundabout signs (white on blue), whilst positioned close to roundabout as per standard practise, have sufficient forward visibility. An independent Road Safety Audit was carried out on the design prior to implementation and no concerns were raised regarding inadequate signing of the junction. I accept that the northbound approach to the South Street roundabout has been an issue. It is hoped that once the road markings are permanently removed and the new markings applied that drivers will form only one lane on this approach. We will review this just as soon as the markings at this location have been completed. You may like to know that a further independent Stage 3 Road Safety Audit will be carried on completion of the road marking and traffic sign element of the scheme. I hope that this information helpful. Should you require any further information regarding this scheme then do not hesitate to contact me directly. Yours sincerely__________________________________________________Christopher DeakinsTeam Leader - Network Management

Adam Beamish ● 4223d90 Comments ● 4044d

FGM Vs Chastity Belts

Subject: FGM Vs Chastity Belts Chastity belts were very common during the middle ages in the UK. The key of the belt was always in the pocket of the fathers. At the time of marriage, the key was given the husband. It is just possible that FGM has the same purpose of chastity. FGM has no connection with any religion, it is as prevalent in African Christian communities as those practicing other faiths including tradition African religions. It is primarily a tribal/cultural element, much like ritual scarring etc. FGM is an ancient practice that originates across a plurality of cultures, mostly in sub-Saharan Africa and the Arabian peninsula, whether these are Christian, Islamic or animist. It in fact affects only a tiny  minority of British Muslims. FGM is nothing to do with Islamic teaching. 'FGM is violence against women and girls. Over 99.9% of British Muslims are not concerned with it. British Establishment should concentrate on the education of Muslim children who have been mis-educated and de-educated by the state schools with non-Muslim teachers. Muslim children need state funded Muslim schools with Muslim teachers as role models during their developmental periods. There is no place for a non-Muslim child or a teacher in a Muslim school. Muslim children attending state secular schools were subjected to an educational environment that pressured them to adopt values that contradicted Islamic values, such as evolution theory, sexual relations outside marriage and drinking alcohol.' " According to UNICEF, the top rates are in Somalia (with 98 percent of women affected), Guinea (96 percent), Djibouti (93 percent), Egypt (91 percent), Eritrea (89 percent), Mali (89 percent), Sierra Leone (88 percent), Sudan (88 percent), Gambia (76 percent), Burkina Faso (76 percent), Ethiopia (74 percent), Mauritania (69 percent), Liberia (66 percent), and Guinea-Bissau (50 percent). Outside Africa FGM  occurs in Yemen (23 percent prevalence), among the Kurds in Iraq (giving the country an overall prevalence rate of eight percent), Indonesia and Malaysia. These are the facts and we shouldn't ignore them. For that reason there is probably not too much point in warning all the children in Truro about it, but attack it at the likely sources, which is where there are immigrants from the listed countries.The white man complex is a term that is not discussed much but can be seen nearly in all cultural discussions. This term basically describes the superiority complex that many in this community possess which has deluded them to believe that their culture is superior or that their OPINIONS matter which is far from the truth. Instead of looking at problems within in their own community; Mass exploitation of the poor, mass corruption, paedophilia that is prevalent in schools and churches, entertainment business and even politics they instead focus on other communities and cultures. I suggest seeing as this practice of female circumcision is not so prevalent in the UK that you focus on you own issues and stop talking down on others. I can guarantee that the communities in question care not for your words and for you to stop dictating to everyone how they should live and what they should do.Yeah like your people ever followed the rules of the country which you entered illegally in the past. To this day you still do not follow the rules and customs of nations which you migrate to (Emirates,Qatar, India etc). How about you learn the languages of the nations which you migrate to, follows their rules and customs and then complain when the same is not done in the UK. Like i said before, this talk of female circumcisions has been going on for a very long time, but nothing has changed because the communities which practice it do not listen to a bunch of bigoted people who talk down on Also, as it seems it needs to be pointed out, from a few comments here, I'd like to add that it's quite wrong to see FGM and the circumcision of boys as equivalent. A circumcised boy can, as an adult, enjoy a normal (or even not so normal) sex life. A girl or woman who has been exposed to FGM cannot do that, in the sense that she can never have an orgasm. There is a tremendous difference, and it's a pity that the term "circumcision" is often used where both sexes are concerned -- it's highly misleading.every other culture and custom. Once you realise this you can do more worthwhile things such as stopping your priests from molesting your children.I suggest seeing as this practice of female circumcision is not so prevalent in the UK that you focus on you own issues and stop talking down on others. I can guarantee that the communities in question care not for your words and for you to stop dictating to everyone how they should live and what they should do. Yeah like your people ever followed the rules of the country which you entered illegally in the past. To this day you still do not follow the rules and customs of nations which you migrate to (Emirates,Qatar, India etc). How about you learn the languages of the nations which you migrate to, follows their rules and customs and then complain when the same is not done in the UK. IALondon School of Islamics Trust

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4046d9 Comments ● 4044d

And they wonder why?

Today thousands and thousands of public sector workers are out on strike over wages and pensions. I watch Daily Politics (God alone knows why, it does the blood pressure no good at all!) I am furious that government ministers and other feel that TU's should be subject to getting at least 50% of their membership to agree to a strike before it can go ahead, when they are quite content for pathetic numbers of electors get them into Parliament. I have seen several members of the government this morning trying to slag off the unions and banging on about how we have to sort out the financial deficit, so therefore no-one in the public sector can expect a rise. The bankers and politicos who got us into this mess don't seem to be doing too badly- how many of them are cutting back? In the past couple of days the papers have been full of how the higher echelons are trousering ever larger rises, bonuses and pension pots, and today comes the news that more of the great and the good have fiddled tax to the value of £5bn. And they wonder why people are on strike? Only a few are paying the price it seems, at the same time rather than face the fact that to finance our NHS we have to understand tax must rise, there is talk of people having to pay for certain services. So rather than do what is best for the country's health a political decision will guide what happens to the health service, no we can't possibly put up tax. It's not about running anything it's all about keeping power for the select few who don't have the intelligence or the guts to do what is right and fair for the majority.

Vanessa Smith ● 4047d1 Comments ● 4046d

Thames Water Strike Again ! - Mogden Footpath Shut ?

Emily sent the following email. I don't understand why the Mogden footpath should be closed. If the path through the works has to be closed because of pollution in the Duke of Northumberland's River, shouldn't access be prevented to the rest of the river and the River Crane ?Dear ResidentsA two-metre valve (penstock) in a major sewer serving Heathrow Airportjammed shut on Saturday afternoon at Cranford Bridge on the A4 Bath Roadwhile engineers carried out routine maintenance.All attempts to re-open the valve were initially unsuccessful.  It is nowbeing forced open using specialised lifting equipment fitted overnight.While we are able to take a lot of backed-up sewage away in tanker lorriesfor treatment, the volume of sewage was such that we were not able totanker all of it.Faced with the unpalatable choice of letting the remaining sewage back upinto the airport or spill to the River Crane, we were forced to opt for thelatter, resulting in sewage entering the river and damaging wildlife, whichwe deeply regret.We are working with all those affected by this problem and with theEnvironment Agency, who are aware of our plan to tackle this problem assoon as possible.Once normal flows resume, probably later this morning, some stronger thannormal effluent will arrive at Mogden and this may cause elevated odourlevels for a few hours, for which we wish to apologise in advance.Some of the pollution from the River Crane has passed into the Duke ofNorthumberland river, and this has required a temporary closure of thefootpath through the Mogden works, for which we would also like toapologise.Kind regardsEmilyEmily GorenCommunications AdvisorThames WaterMogden STWMogden LaneMiddlesex TW7 7LWt: 07747 644345

Tim Henderson ● 5030d17 Comments ● 4049d

Multiculturalism

During colonial days, British did not follow local customs or culture. They didn't exactly "go native". They even forced the native Americans and native Australian to adopt all the evils of their culture and customs. They are still the underdogs of American and Australian societies. At least Australian Prime Minister apologised to the natives for their evil deeds. Brits living in Spain and France don't even bother learning the language of the new adopted country. Frankly suggesting that people don't want to become "British" they should move elsewhere is extremely irritating. Immigrants are in UK because they are needed, it was never an act of charity. Without migration, British economy and society will bleed to death. British culture and customs will undoubtedly change as it has for millennium due to immigration. I am not quite sure why Brits would be worried about that. Of course Multiculturalism has failed. The Irish hate the English The Scots hate the English & the Welsh hate The English. So what do you expect from people from other nations. Whilst I agree that you have an immigration problem in this country, I don't think that this is your main problem. Your main problem is the disintegration of the family unit and the loveless binge drinking environment that your children are growing up in! NEVER in my life have I seen another country where people so seldom give their children a hug and a kiss like in this country and NEVER in my life have I seen another country where there are so many children from different fathers growing up in single parent households! Before you tackle the immigration problem (at least the immigrants LOVE their kids) you should first look at yourselves! Why complain when it’s the British who first migrated into other lands enslaving those people? When it is a question on immigration, the feelings are so strong. I wonder why. Serves you right! Britain! When the British colonised the world, it was ok. But now when people from the former colonies and from other countries come to Britain, its not ok? Look into history and then you can cry because what goes around comes around. Don't see why people have such a problem with mass immigration? It enriches our culture and boosts the economy! We have to stop looking at these people as immigrants and think of them as human beings. The immigrants are not to blame because they were invited and welcomed here by our successive government. We have quite large Spanish , French and Italian communities in Brighton and I believe it really enhances the place and adds to diversity of the City. Globalisation is here to stay. Britain colonised & some would say civilised half the world. It's called Karma. Not so long ago British people colonized Asia, living like kings while locals suffering to no end. At least, these migrants do not enslave the Britons, so stop whining please.IALondon School of Islamics Trust

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4087d3 Comments ● 4060d

Bus route from Hammersmith to Heathrow

I have raised this problem with the TFL for several years without any real response, I recently tried again.QuoteTalking of which, as an elderly person relying on Public Transport, I have for several years requested TFL to look into the possibility of extending the Number 9 bus route to a 24 hour service and extend it to Heathrow all the time. This would assist people on the Hammersmith, Chiswick, Brentford, and Isleworth corridor to enable them to get to the airport without the hassle of struggling to access the Piccadilly line, with heavy baggage, which does not have any escalator SERVICE FROM STREET LEVEL AT MOST OF THEIR STATIONS.UnquoteI also said that with the increase in accommodation coming on-line in this corridor during the next year or two there would be a terrible short fall in the ability to travel on the existing bus service.Their first response was totally negative and I pursued the matter further on the telephone. I have now received their latest response and it would appear that if they get enough people raising the problem they may address it again, so please help in getting this thing rolling by supporting this initiative and  writing TFL or call their hot line at 03432221234.Their recent reply to me is: Our ref:Date:1014037866/43947744-Jun-14 TfL Customer Services4th Floor14 Pier WalkLondon SEI 0 OESwww.tfl.gov.ukDear Captain WeaverThank you for your further correspondence with us on 19 May regarding busservices from Hounslow to Heathrow.I appreciate your comments regarding the current bus routes causingdifficulties for those less able who wish to make this journey. Therefore yourcomments have been passed on for evaluation and future consideration.However any changes that could be potentially made will only be considered ifthere is considerable demand for this.Should you have any further comments, please do not hesitate to contact me.Alternatively our call centre can be reached on the low cost number 0343 2221234. Signed by Emma Bradley, Customer Services Advisor. TFL Customer ServicesSo please guys get on the phone send those emails and see if we can make some progress.

Philip Weaver ● 4079d6 Comments ● 4075d

Great West  Quarter

Mary Macleod MP calls meeting in Parliament over Great West Quarter saga Local MP Mary Macleod has called for a meeting in Parliament with representatives of A2 Dominion and Barratt homes following news that Trico House residents in the Great West Quarter are still suffering from sewage, hot water and heating problems. At the meeting, she will personally investigate the ongoing issues affecting Trico House residents in order to ensure that a comprehensive resolution can be established. Mary said:“Residents of the Great West Quarter have been living with disgraceful living conditions for far, far too long. Just before Christmas, residents were without hot water and heating in their homes for several days – an issue which has surfaced time and time again. It is appalling to see families with young children having to suffer these conditions! They have also been subject to a foul stench from sewage, about which I continue to push for answers. I have therefore organised an emergency meeting in Parliament with Barratt Homes and A2Dominion so we can thrash out a solution that will be lasting and binding.”Mary has been aware of the long-running issues faced by the residents of Great West Quarter for some time. Last year, after being contacted by a number of her frustrated constituents, Mary called a meeting with all residents to discuss their concerns. The session was attended by members of the residents association, local councillors and representatives from A2Dominion where each party was able to voice their concerns. Since then Mary has been in constant contact with the Chief Executives of both A2Dominion and Barratts in an effort to resolve these factors. She is fully supportive of the residents at Trico House and the problems they are facing and will continue to work on their behalf to help resolve the situation.Mary added:“As the local member of Parliament I will continue to represent the views of Trico House residents and push for improvements to the situation at the Great West Quarter. I hope that in the course of discussions with A2Dominon and Barratt Homes we will finally be able to resolve matters for residents.”

John Todd ● 4223d36 Comments ● 4079d

Chiswick Library may be in danger from Labour

For many years Chiswick has had a fine Public Library in Duke's Avenue just off Chiswick High Road. The original building was bequeathed to the people of Chiswick by the owners of the famous Sanderson wallpaper factory in nearby Barley Mow Passage.Subsequently, Brentford and Chiswick Council built a new extension which today houses the Reference and Children's Libraries. The facilities are well used and well loved by a large number of Chiswick, Brentford and Isleworth residents of all ages.There is now a very real concern that after this week's  Borough Election, Hounslow Council will, if it is still controlled by the Labour Party, announce the sale, demolition  and redevelopment of one of at least one of the two buildings that currently collectively comprise the Library. In view of the importance of Chiswick Library to the people of Chiswick,Brerntford and Isleworth  it is important that the current Labour leadership of Hounslow Council state their position on this issue immediately.A cast iron guarantee from the Labour Leader of the Council before we vote on Thursday that the neither of the Library buildings will be shut, sold or redeveloped would be most welcome.Failing that local residents will be entitled to assume that Labour, if relected, does indeed intend to sell off part or all of the Library. Local residents will well remember that a few short years ago Hounslow's Labour Council closed down the Chiswick Day Care Centre which provided valuable services to elderly and vulnerable members of the community and hosted the lunches for the homeless run by the local churches. It did so despite opposition from the families and carers of those who used the centre, local GP's, the local churches, local Chiswick Councillors and our local MP Mary Macleod. The site has now been sold and is being redeveloped. Those of us with longer memories will remember when Hounslow's Labour Council tried to shut down and sell off New Chiswick Pool in Edensor Road, Chiswick  but was prevented from doing so by an effective campaign by local residents. For all of these reasons, and more, it is important that Chiswick, Brentford, Isleworth and Syon elect a large number of Conservative Councillors on Thursday.

David Giles ● 4097d13 Comments ● 4096d

I am one of the Conservative Candidates for Syon

I said to myself I would not get involved in the debates on this forum because many of them start well but then individuals can’t help themselves.  it’s those same individuals who deny that they are politicians on one hand, whilst running a spectacular negative campaign to discredit their political opponents on the other. Anyway as you can tell I have been an interested spectator here; but I am not especially interested in political point scoring or denial of politics. Instead I am using this piece to introduce myself to those whom I may not have had the pleasure to meet on the door step as yet. I am 32 year old man and a resident of Brentford for the past 12 years. I was raised in several foster homes throughout my early teens under the watchful eye Hounslow Borough Council and the good people of Hounslow Social Services. Indeed it was my sixth foster home in 1997 that finally turned out to be my last and I am well aware that I was extremely lucky because many young people that I knew growing up with during that turbulent period of our lives have gone the other way as adults. I am still in touch with a few of them but I am also proud to say that a lucky few have gone to be successful in their own right. The unfortunate ones have to my knowledge, disappeared and a handful are serving or have served time in prison.I was fortunate to come through to the other side largely due to the kindness of my foster parents, but also because of the safety net that was provided by Hounslow Social Services.  I am standing as a Conservative because I believe we all have aspirations and that a safety net of a community is vital to all of us. The local Government therefore needs to offer a service that supports us all but only doing so in a smart, professional and a cost effective way. I believe Hounslow Borough has done great things to support our vulnerable resident in years gone by and I am happy to say that I am a case in point; but somewhere in the last few years it has lost its way. That safety net is now shadow of its former self. I am standing because I believe that the Conservative Party are the only local group with a serious plan to deliver better services at a good value cost to our community of residents. Our local Conservative Party was one of the first administrations to freeze council tax long before it was fashionable. We simplified things so that services were easily accessible and brought in some of the best officers available to deliver on our promises.We all have read about the recent economic figures that were achieved nationally under the steadfast leadership of David Cameron. So it follows that Conservative Party are about delivering on our promises both nationally and locally.I am proud to say that the Conservative ARE a political group made of people like me and you who live in community. I for one I am a games teacher and rugby coach. My colleagues David Gerrey, Ranjit Gill and I are not professional politicians, but We know that we have enough experience to deliver a professional service to our residents.  At these times where we need more than ever a smarter Local Government  that delivers services to its residents in a cost effective way - it is so important that we look beyond political posturing and name calling and look instead at who is best positioned to deliver on your vision for Syon.  There serious issues about schools, public service, our high street, cleanliness, housing, parking and pollution. We don't need petty negative campaigning to win the augment.  If the recent National economic figures are anything to go by, the Conservative Party is delivering on its promises nationally and they say - the apple doesn't fall far from the Conservative Party tree! Please vote on Thursday. Ron Mushiso

Ronald Mushiso ● 4098d15 Comments ● 4096d

Halal Meat

Halal Meat Muslims say a prayer before they kill an animal. Christians say a prayer before they eat it. I'm not sure why either of these practices should be thought particularly offensive. How on earth does eating a piece of meat or poultry that has been slaughtered with a prayer equate to accepting or supporting a religious practice? Why are you so threatened if a person has said a couple of words in Arabic beforehand? With so much crap going on in the world it's ridiculous (and frankly embarrassing) that this is something of major concern to the extent that it is creating so many headlines. Granted, people should be told if they are eating halal meat, but the vitriolic responses are becoming increasingly disturbing. This is not about food standards, it is not about 'defending' a secular society, it is not about labelling or consumer rights or animal welfare. This is about the fact that some people just don't like Muslims.Slaughterhouses are businesses, they also have "the right to choose" to conduct and practice their business in whichever way they wish in order to maximise their customer base. Pizza Express and other restaurants also have "the right to choose" what their menu consists of, again in order to maximise their customer base. Both halal-compliant slaughterhouses and Pizza Express are doing just that, nothing sinister or malicious or untoward. You have the right as the consumer to choose what you buy/eat, sure, which is why it's important that products are labelled well and that, say, places which use halal meat say that they do. Which Pizza Express was doing anyway. This wasn't a secret, the company are pretty clear about it on their website and if this matters so much to you then surely in order to exercise your "right to choose" as a consumer and decide whether/not to eat there you have to actually go and do some research? If you want to be an engaged consumer you have to actually be an engaged consumer, you can't expect everybody to do it for you, you have to ask. When you buy a chocolate bar, do you expect somebody to rush up to you and say 'BY THE WAY THAT CONTAINS NUTS~!' or do you read the packaging?This is a story about lazy people who couldn't be bothered to act like engaged consumers and are horrified to find out that they were 'unwittingly' being given something they never asked not to be given in the first place. That is all it is. My only concern is mislabeling food. If it is halal - it should be labelled as such. For example, the branches of subway which sell halal meat clearly show it. So, you have a choice - go in and buy halal food or not. In the case of supermarkets selling meat which is actually halal but not clearly labelled, this should change. Just like for a muslim it is important they eat halal eat meat it is important for some people (e.g. Sikhs) that their meat not be ritually slaughtered. In regards to animal welfare its a load of bullcrap. Ask the animal how it feels when it's life is taken. Calling it 'humane' is just nonsense. These type of news articles are purely about inciting hatred - the only ones who don't see it are the ones who truly believe that they have a right to hate on another group of people purely by what they believe. As my son asked "All our tongues are the same colour so why do they hate us daddy?" You guys can eat anything even pigs that roll in their own filth but you wont eat HALAL which is clean meat.  You know, the bible also says you shouldn't eat pork as it is 'unclean'.....just saying for all of you stating this is a christian country. Bit of course it's nothing to do with the meat, it's just another excuse to have a pop at Muslims isn't it. I for one am proud to live in a multicultural society and am glad that my child is growing up in one. I would hate for her to grow up as a little Englander with a hateful, narrow view of the world and frightened of anything even remotely different to her. Pork is banned in the christian religion. Read the bible and find out. Stop this vendetta against Halal meat......how many will get an Asian / Indian halal curry after a night Boozing! And as usual I bet the Muslim parents wouldn't have an issue with pork etc as long it was served n cooked separately to the Halal food which would also apply if catering for vegetarians and non vegetarians!! British Muslims have every right to be catered for. They are as British as the rest. I think people are worried in case the ritual prayers are in fact spells which will turn them all into Muslims. This week's row has got nothing all to do with animal welfare. The fuss is about people's fears over the covert Islamification of society. You may or may not agree that concerns are realistic or even legitimate, but food suppliers and others concerned ought not to deny that it is an issue or answer criticisms honestly. I don't think eating halal meat actually turns you into a Muslim. This time it is aimed at Muslims. However assaults on ritual slaughter have a long history in terms of European anti-Semitism. This is just more of the same, prejudice dressed up as concern for animal welfare. Taking lives, foods and shelters of others are cruelty, so, don't take meat, fish and vegetables  for food because they have lives. Don't milk animals because they are their babies food. Don't take drinks because they are the abodes of so many living creatures. Don't let mothers do breast-feeding because it harms their beauty.....Just be the champion of saints of mankind! "  - Do this words sounds funny? Hope, don't for those champions who are the modern advocates of "RIGHTS". Stunning is unethical. Stunning causes the animal SO much pain. Halal is HUMANE and CARING to the animal. Denmark is a country that SUPPORTS animal cruelty. Science has shown the Halal is peaceful. Science has shown that stunning causes animals PAIN and SUFFERING. Centuries ago people were more natural. Stop perverted GMO and perverted food practices. Islam is the best way of life.Birmingham school says sorry for serving non-Halal meat to Muslim pupils. Council catering staff had wrongly dished up the non-Halal food to Muslim pupils on December 12, but details have only just come to light. On Monday parents received a letter from Craig Jansen, head of the 1,400-pupil secondary school and sixth form, in which he apologised unreservedly for the incident. There are hundreds  of state and church schools where Muslim children are in majority. In my opinion, all such schools may be opted out as Muslim Academies so that non-Muslim children could enjoy their own meals in their own schools. IA London School of Islamics Trust    

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4102d13 Comments ● 4097d

Once again Labour is scaremongering about the NHS

The Labour Party, as usual, has so little positive to say that it is now once again scaremongering about the NHS alleging that the Government wishes to close the A&E service at Charing Cross Hospital. Nothing could be further from the truth.Way back when we had a Labour Government, NHS North London originally proposed to downgrade Charing Cross Hospital to little more than a glorified GP's surgery like Chiswick Health Centre.Labour Controlled Hounslow Council originally supported these plans perhaps because it favours the West Middlesex Hospital over Charing Cross Hospital. This is of course completely wrong- we need both.However these original plans were rejected by the local Chiswick Conservative Councillors at a meeting of the Chiswick Area Forum in October 2012 which passed a motion to that effect. Local Conservatives believe that the retention of A&E at Charing Cross and the West Middlesex is essential and have continued to make representations to that effect through our local Conservative MP, Mary Macleod, to the Conservative Secretary of State for Health, Jeremy Hunt MP. The Secretary of State is far more likely to listen to Conservative MP's and Councillors on this issue than to Labour ones. Thanks to pressure from local Conservatives and others, the NHS now proposes that, far from being down-graded, Charing Cross will become a world class centre for elective surgery and remain an important A&E centre. This is a vast improvement on the original proposals. These changes are supported by clinicians and by local GP's and by those who have taken the trouble to examine the proposals in detail. These proposals will save lives and lead to an improvement both in elective surgery and in A&E services. Charing Cross Hospital will get the long term investment it badly needs and Brentford  residents will continue to be able to avail of its services. The Labour Party should stop alarming and worrying local residents by spreading false rumours about Charing Cross Hospital in an attempt to hide Labour's poor record on the NHS when it was in power and to trick people into voting Labour at the Borough Elections on Thursday.The Labour Party has nothing to offer Brentford residents except the possible downgrading and reduction in size of Chiswick Library following on from Labour's totally heartless and unnecessary closure of the much loved and very vital Chiswick Day Centre a few years ago. If you want to save Charing Cross Hospital and Chiswick Library, vote Conservative !

David Giles ● 4098d2 Comments ● 4097d

A Future for Muslim Schools

Muslim children not only need halal meat or Eid Holidays but they need state funded Muslim schools with Muslim teachers as role models during their development period also. There is no place for a non-Muslim child or a teacher in a Muslim school. Legally, the state has an obligation to respect the rights of parents to ensure that 'education and teaching(of their children) is in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions.' The schools must satisfy the spiritual, moral, social, and cultural needs of Muslim pupils. State schools with non-Muslim monolingual teachers are not in a position to satisfy their needs. A good school is not just a knowledge factory or a conveyor belt for churning out exam passes - it is a community, a family. A community is held together by common values and principles.Western media and politicians have been trying their best to propagate against Muslim schools. Muslim schools are even called Osama bin Laden Academies by a Teaching Union. Only less than 5% of Muslim children attend Muslim schools while more than 95% are in state schools to be mis-educated and de-educated by non-Muslim monolingual teachers. The demand for state funded Muslim schools is in accordance with the law of the land. Muslim community is not asking for any favour. Muslim community pays all sorts of taxes and is less burden on social services. Church leaders say it is no longer "appropriate" for them to run Sacred Heart RC Primary School which has just six Christian pupils. The school in Blackburn, Lancs, could be handed to the nearby Masjid-e-Tauheedul mosque.The Muslim community has been passing through a phase of fourth Crusades. The battleground is the field of education, where the young generation will be educated properly with the Holly Quran in one hand and Sciences in other hand to serve the British society and the world at large. A true Muslim is a citizen of the world, which has become a small global village. We are going to prepare our youth to achieve that objective in the long run. A true Muslim believes in Prophet Moses and the Prophet Jesus and without them one cannot be a Muslim. My suggestion is that in all state, independent and Christian based school special attention should be given to the teaching of Comparative Religion and Islam should be taught by qualified Muslim Teachers to make the children aware the closeness of Islam to Christianity and Judaism which will help them to think about Islam, as “A Pragmatic and Modern Way of Life,” during their life time. The demand for Muslim schools comes from parents who want their children a safe environment with an Islamic ethos. Parents see Muslim schools where children can develop their Islamic Identity where they won't feel stigmatised for being Muslims and they can feel confident about their faith. Muslim schools are working to try to create a bridge between communities. There is a belief among ethnic minority parents that the British schooling does not adequately address their cultural needs. Failing to meet this need could result in feeling resentment among a group who already feel excluded. Setting up Muslim school is a defensive response. State schools with monolingual teachers are not capable to teach English to bilingual Muslim children. Bilingual teachers are needed to teach English to such children along with their mother tongue. According to a number of studies, a child will not learn a second language if his first language is ignored.It is absurd to believe that Muslim schools, Imams and Masajid teach Muslim children anti-Semitic, homophobic and anti-western views. It is dangerously deceptive and misleading to address text books and discuss them out of their historical, cultural and linguistic context. It is not wrong to teach children that Jews are committing the same cruelty in Palestine what German did to them before or during Second World War. It is not wrong to teach children that anti-social behaviour, drinking, drugs, homosexuality, sex before marriage, teenage pregnancies and abortions are western values and Islam is against all such sins. This does not mean that Muslim schools teach children to hate westerners, Jews and homosexuals.Extremism, homophobia and anti-Semitism are nothing to do with Islamic teachings and beliefs. Islam does not teach that Jews and Christians are pigs and monkeys. The Policy Exchange Think-tank should concentrate on institutionally racist British schooling with chicken racist teachers. Muslim parents do not want their children with behaviour problems that include unprovoked aggression, promiscuity, violence, eating disorder, bullying and alcohol. According to ATL, teachers believe behaviour is worse than it was five years ago, with even five year olds being disrespectful, intimidating and violent. This is the true picture of British broken society and the Muslim community does not want to be integrated. The British government is again asking us, Muslims, to adopt the" British values" and to integrate fully into the British way of life. But many so called "British values" are not acceptable to us. The Muslims don't want to integrate or abide by western law. Just because they don´t want to wear nude clothes or at least cloth that can show how big her breast are... so these people failed to integrate. Just because they don't like free sex, then these people failed again. What a dirty Bush mind you have! British schooling and the British society is the home of institutional racism. The result is that Muslim children are unable to develop self-confidence and self-esteem, therefore, majority of them leaves schools with low grades. Racism is deeply rooted in British society. British schools are not doing enough to tackle racism and promote race relations. Many teachers are unaware of racist attitudes amongst pupils. Schools have a responsibility not only to deal with racist incidents but also to prepare pupils for life in a multicultural and multiracial society. At least one racist incident is reported daily in Bolton schools, according to stats obtained from Bolton Council by Mancunian Matters. Bolton Council of Mosques Manager, Ibrahim Kala, said the data is only the “tip of the iceberg” and that Islamophobia makes up a large portion of the reported incidents. Stats obtained through the Freedom of Information request show 2,397 cases of racism in Bolton schools in the years from 2004 to 2013, meaning on average there are 1.26 racist incidents occur daily – and these are only the ones being reported. British society must learn to respect and tolerate those who are different. God has created diverse human beings to live in this tiny global village of one family. Creation by its very nature is diverse with different species, different communities, different cultures and languages. These differences represent the beauty and wonder but diversity is sometimes not fully appreciated, resulting in all sorts of clashes. The British society and Establishment must learn to respect and accommodate others, as if in a family. A report by the Institute for Community Cohesion found that native parents were deserting some schools after finding their children outnumbered by pupils from ethnic minorities. Schools in parts of England are becoming increasingly segregated. The study focused on 13 local authorities. Many of the schools and colleges are segregated and this was generally worsening over recent years. This is RACISM because British society is the home of institutional racism. A study by Bristol University reveals that a high level of racial segregation in Oldham schools and tension between communities resulted in recent riots in 2001. The solution is that those schools where Muslim children are majority may be designated as Muslim community schools. The native parents do not want their children to be educated along with migrant children. As soon as they find that the number of other children is on the increase, they remove their children to those schools where native children are in majority.Truth is always bitter. You must learn to listen to those who are culturally, linguistically and spiritually different. Education is should be more than providing pupils with the skills they need to get a job or enter university: we should not forget that we have a duty to pass on a body of knowledge through generations.Prince Charles, while visiting the first grant maintained Muslim school in north London, said that the pupils would be the future ambassadors of Islam. But what about thousands of others, who attend state schools, deemed to be "sink schools"? You better teach your children in your own schools and let migrant communities teach their children according to their needs and demands. British Establishment and society should concentrate on the evils of their own society and stop trying to change the way of life of Muslims. Muslim community does not want to integrate with the British society, indulging in incivility, anti-social behaviour, drug and knife culture, binge drinking, teenage pregnancies and abortion. In education, there should be a choice and at present it is denied to the Muslim community. In the late 80s and early 90s, when I floated the idea of Muslim community schools, I was declared a "school hijacker" by an editorial in the Newham Recorder newspaper. This clearly shows that the British media does not believe in choice and diversity in the field of education and has no respect for those who are different. Muslim schools, in spite of meager resources, have excelled to a further extent this year, with couple of schools achieving 100% A-C grades for five or more GCSEs. They beat well resourced state and independent schools in Birmingham and Hackney.  Muslim schools are doing better because a majority of the teachers are Muslim. The pupils are not exposed to the pressures of racism, multiculturalism and bullying.  According to a recent report, Muslim schools performed best overall, although they constitute only a fraction of the country's 7000 schools. Muslim schools do well because of their Islamic ethos and a focus on traditional discipline and teaching methods. They teach children what is right and what is wrong, because young children need structured guidance. You better teach your children in your own schools and let migrant communities teach their children according to their needs and demands. British Establishment and society should concentrate on the evils of their own society and stop trying to change the way of life of Muslims. Muslim community does not want to integrate with the British society, indulging in incivility, anti-social behaviour, drug and knife culture, binge drinking, teenage pregnancies and abortion.  Prince Charles, while visiting the first grant maintained Muslim school in north London, said that the pupils would be the future ambassadors of Islam. But what about thousands of others, who attend state schools deemed to be "sink schools"? In education, there should be a choice and at present it is denied to the Muslim community. In the late 80s and early 90s, when I floated the idea of Muslim community schools, I was declared a "school hijacker" by an editorial in the Newham Recorder newspaper in east London. This clearly shows that the British media does not believe in choice and diversity in the field of education and has no respect for those who are different. Muslim schools, in spite of meager resources, have excelled to a further extent this year, with couple of schools achieving 100% A-C grades for five or more GCSEs. They beat well resourced state and independent schools in Birmingham and Hackney.  Muslim schools are doing better because a majority of the teachers are Muslim. The pupils are not exposed to the pressures of racism, multiculturalism and bullying. There are hundreds of state primary and secondary schools where Muslim pupils are in majority. In my opinion all such schools may be opted out to become Muslim Academies. This mean the Muslim children will get a decent education. Muslim schools turned out balanced citizens, more tolerant of others and less likely to succumb to criminality or extremism. Muslim schools give young people confidence in who they are and an understanding of Islam’s teaching of tolerance and respect which prepares them for a positive and fulfilling role in society. Muslim schools are attractive to Muslim parents because they have better discipline and teaching Islamic values. Children like discipline, structure and boundaries. Bilingual Muslim children need Bilingual Muslim teachers as role models during their developmental periods, who understand their needs and demands.IALondon School of Islamics Trust

Iftikhar Ahmad ● 4108d13 Comments ● 4101d

Meet the Brentford UKIP candidate.

Dr Ryan Thomas CEng MIMechE.Follow me on Twitter: @ryanthomas2013About me: I graduated from Cardiff University with a degree and a PhD in mechanical engineering in 1999.  Following this I joined the British Army and in December 2000 was commissioned from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst into the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.  I completed 9 years of service, which included two tours of duty, one in Iraq and the other in Afghanistan.  My first job upon leaving the army was in financial services, but since 2011 I have worked in construction in the water industry as a SCADA project manager.  I moved to Brentford in 2012.My politics: I believe that individual responsibility, self-reliance and consideration for others are the cornerstones of building a strong, vibrant and prosperous community which allows constituents to realise their full potential whilst the vulnerable are also protected.  The council exists to serve the community and not the other way around.  They only have power because we give it to them, and they only have money because we pay it to them.  For me the role of the council is clear, it provides services and an administrative capability in order to serve the community.    We decide what we want, and we pay our money to fund those activities accordingly.  If the council is not spending our money on services that we require, then it should give it back.My main concerns:Education.  As a society our prosperity depends upon our ability to develop our human capital - the bedrock for this is a solid education.  Are we providing enough school spaces?  Are our teachers of the required quality?  How do we support apprenticeships and further education colleges?  How do we support tertiary education establishments?  How do we help adults that want to re-skill or learn new skills?  Are our libraries relevant and if not what can we do to improve them?  To be clear: I am a massive supporter of libraries and believe they provide an essential public service, if they are ever under threat I will always fight to ensure that they are maintained.Activities and opportunities for young people.  After school clubs, sports clubs, Scouts, Brownies, Girl Guides, cadet forces, Duke of Edinburgh Award.  I believe that challenging our children, and exposing them to risk-taking opportunities in a safe and controlled environment is essential in developing their non-academic skill-sets.  If elected I would be a strong supporter of activities and opportunities for young people.Health.  Is the council catering for the community's needs and is it meeting its statutory obligations? What more can we do to make our roads safer for cyclists to encourage more cycling; is there more we can do to encourage people to walk more?Business and commerce.  Local government cannot create jobs but it can create the conditions that encourage businesses to grow, invest and recruit.  Our local businesses are our Crown Jewels and our golden geese all rolled into one.  What do they need from the council to make doing business easier? What more can the council do for them and why isn't it already doing it? What more can we do to encourage businesses to establish themselves in the borough?I believe in a smaller, leaner council and holding it scrupulously to accountWhat I am against: Crime. Anti-social behaviour.  CPZs. A bigger council. Regulations. Giving money away for zero return. Waste.The Lionel Road development and the re-development of the current Brentford Football Club site will clearly have a massive impact on Brentford in the coming years.  How can we minimise the adverse impact on existing residents while maximising the opportunities these projects will bring?

Ryan Thomas ● 4127d14 Comments ● 4115d

Last chance to sign up to free Outdoor Events training!

Whether you are a seasoned planner or first time organiser, Hounslow Heart of Events is a free, two day seminar to develop your skills in planning an outdoor event and how to work towards delivering a safe and successful outdoor event in the borough.  This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to develop skills and knowledge in event management:o How to write and event management plano What to include in a risk assessment for an evento What will attract people to your event and how do you measure their experienceso Gain a better understanding about licensing events and when you do or don’t need to have them for your evento Collect top tips in sourcing and contracting suppliers, performers and recruiting volunteerso How to fund your event and secure sponsorship and budget for an evento How to approach and involve Local partners and organisations in your evento What you should to have in place to ensure your event is legally compliantThe training is led by industry professionals who deliver the course in manageable bite size pieces in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, further information on the course outline can be found online www.hounslow.info/heartofeventsDates: Monday 28th April 9.30-4pm and Friday 9th May 9.30-4pmVenue: CAN Mezzanine, 2nd Floor Treaty Centre, Hounslow, TW3 1ES (second floor of Hounslow library)Please register your interest: Thursday 24th April 4pm by completed and returning the application form on the website to hounslowevents@carillionservices.co.uk

Amy Curtis ● 4126d0 Comments ● 4126d

Why I have to go

I have lived in Brentford, to be precise Mafeking Avenue for 33 years. I remember that in the early days the plan was to re build the High Street, and change the Green Dragon Lane estate. Today the high street is mainly the same, with the exception of that a number of companies have closed down, or gone somewhere else. Of course the Green Dragon estate has improved, but the Tower Blocks remain the same eyesore. Whilst most London boroughs have demolished their High rise blocks, Hounslow intend to build adverts on the top of theirs, and of course have given the only piece of green land on the estate to a developer. As time goes by the estate will get older and one day it will have to be pulled down and re built. Meanwhile every piece of spare land is now being built on and it is indiscriminate. There is no plan, and no one at the council gives a dam. To them more residents equals more income. That's it, full stop.I have had many careers here, Truck driver; shop manager; teacher; lecturer. I retired "early" from teaching because I had just got tired of the continual changes. (Why is it that every government thinks it is an expert on education).However after spending lots of money on training, and a huge amount on tools; stock; indemnity insurance; van insurance and tax I started a home security service, or more commonly known as a locksmith company.The CPZ is the final straw for me; I don't have regular hours of work; some days I have no work at all, others I work long and late hours. I also own a car, because when I visit friends or go out for a day I don't really want to drive around in a van, so I have a car as well. Yes it is taxed and insured and it has an M o T. Am I breaking any law? No, but come the CPZ I probably will be, I don't agree with paying road tax; and council tax, and then another tax so that I can park where I live and have paid council tax for.So after 33 years I am selling up and heading somewhere less crowded; where there are no CPZ's, and where the council cares about the environment and uses planning laws properly. Where they wont ok large advertising signs on the motorway encouraging people to drive without due care and attention, and where they wont take every opportunity to milk the motorist dry.For those selfish people who want the CPZ's, I have to ask why? Less cars in the street during the day? What difference does it really make? There will be less parking places at night too, so it is a tax to have less of something.  When Hounslow finally runs out of things to sell; when there is no where else to build and they cannot put up the council tax they will put up the charges. Your cost of living will also go up as like most trades people if I have to go in to the congestion zone I add that to the bill, when you have trades people visit you will be buying the ticket. I can go on and on, Hounslow is with out any doubt in my mind one of the worst councils I know of. Whose fault is it? well it's ours. Those of us who cannot be bothered to vote, or more importantly stand as an independent councillor because that is what Hounslow needs. People who want to do the best for Brentford, not sell it so that those in Hounslow can go on and on throwing money away.So I leave in two or three months. If you want a new lock fitted be quick! Paul Wilson (www.ilocksecurity.co.uk)

Paul Wilson ● 4136d10 Comments ● 4129d

Poor street lighting makes BBCtv

The rather poor street lighting PFI scheme Hounslow managed to get conned into has now made BBC news.It's not really a surprise, the whole deal is a monumental cock up which makes one wonder just why again and again, councils get duped into such spiv like deals.The LED is a big advance in public lighting but so much is still untried and untested technology. To the point that many authorities are sitting it out until it is tried and tested.It is still at a point where trials are taking place and designs fine tuned.Not this one though. LBH have dived into to a contract which is being regarded in the industry as 'naive and careless'.It is being done with very poor design standards, with no consultation and as we have seen in Boston Manor road, no regard for aesthetics or specially designed street furniture designed and paid for not by LBH but by GSK as part of section 106 to improve the environs of Brentford and Boston Manor.The lack of quality design and planning means lighting is placed without regard to obstructions like trees and buildings.The LED lantern is so basic that it cannot be positioned without directing light into windows and casts hard shadows which compromises street safety.To hear the guff from a Cllr Ellar and some other chap about quality and care at last months farce of a forum meeting, one wonders how they have not been fleeced of all their clothes. They are that gullible.Most of Hounslow's street lighting is quite young and way off it's life expectancy. It was a PFI that simply was not needed.  As for light pollution, well 80% of the boroughs light polluting  sodium lighting was replaced already. One of the first boroughs to do so 25 years ago .Thanks to the chap at the meeting who explained all this in such detail to me a few weeks back.

Anthony Waller ● 4141d9 Comments ● 4136d

'Heartbleed' Bug: Change ALL Of Your Passwords Warn Security Experts

'Heartbleed bug' exposes encryption keys; How to test your favourite sites for safetyNot much consumers can do to fix the problem.Published 09 April 2014  |  Brownie MarieEmail Print Text Size Larger SmallerMore Sharing Services ShareCodenomiconA flaw in the popular OpenSSL software has left millions of people vulnerable to having their banking information, tax files, emails, and other online data exposed. And there's no way to know if someone has accessed your information.Nicknamed "Heartbleed," the "bug" is actually a weakness in OpenSSL's cryptographic software that makes SSL/TLS encryption backfire on computer users. The "https" protocol that is supposed to identify a secure website is actually a signal to hackers that the site is vulnerable to cyber attack. The hackers can then trick a computer's server into sending data stored in its memory.Google security researcher Neel Mehta was the first to discover Heartbleed, and the weakness was confirmed by internet security firm Codenomicon. Alarmingly, researchers found that the Heartbleed flaw has been in OpenSSL for two years. It is unknown if attacks have been carried out, because exploiting the software loophole leaves no trace.In addition to exposing users' passwords, personal files, and credit card information, hackers can also steal encryption keys-- the code that translates computer-generated nonsense into usable information."It may even be able to use the secret key to impersonate the server, tricking users into divulging their password and other sensitive information," Vox Media wrote.Codenomicon states that because of the wide-spread use of OpenSSL and the untraceability of Heartbleed, consider your accounts compromised."You are likely to be affected either directly or indirectly," their website, Heartbleed.com states. "OpenSSL is the most popular open source cryptographic library and TLS (transport layer security) implementation used to encrypt traffic on the Internet. Your popular social site, your company's site, commercial site, hobby site, sites you install software from or even sites run by your government might be using vulnerable OpenSSL."To end Heartbleed's hold on the server, vendors and service providers must adopt the Fixed OpenSSL, which was released Monday."Operating system vendors and distribution, appliance vendors, independent software vendors have to adopt the fix and notify their users," Codenomicon instructs. "Service providers and users have to install the fix as it becomes available for the operating systems, networked appliances and software they use."Changing your passwords before the server has adopted Fixed OpenSSL is useless. As of today, most of the major websites, including Yahoo, Google, and Facebook, have fixed the problem. To check if a website has installed the updated OpenSSL software, visit http://filippo.io/Heartbleed/....................................................................,,...................................................................................................................................................................................................................Yahoo Among Millions of Websites Vulnerable to 'Heartbleed' OpenSSL Security BugA new security bug has been found in OpenSSL, the cryptographic library that secures most of the internet's websites, and Yahoo is one of the of the most well-known domains known to have been compromised.Security researchers are very concerned as the bug - dubbed Heartbleed - has been around for two years and affects encryption of data sent over the internet, meaning users' passwords and other sensitive data are open to being spied on.Other websites featured on the top 1,000 websites list compiled by Mustafa Al-Bassam (a former member of the LulzSec hacker collective who is now a computer science student) include popular websites like Imgur, Flickr, OKCupid, WeTransfer, Eventbrite, Web.de, Outbrain, Stackexchange and Kickass Torrents.It will be difficult to discover if or when you have been compromised as attackers are able to exploit the flaw without leaving any trace of their presence.    What is OpenSSL?    OpenSSL is the software library used in servers, operating systems, email and instant messaging systems to protect internet traffic as it travels back and forth. More than 53% of the web servers which host more than 500 million websites use the software which relies on OpenSSL    (Source: NetCraft)DiscoveredThe bug was first brought to light by security firm Codenomicon, who attempted to attack their own servers:"We have tested some of our own services from attacker's perspective. We attacked ourselves from outside, without leaving a trace. Without using any privileged information or credentials we were able steal from ourselves the secret keys used for our X.509 certificates, user names and passwords, instant messages, emails and business critical documents and communication," they wrote on an in-depth information page.Codenomicon adds that anyone on the internet exploiting the flaw will be able to read the memory of a machine that's protected by a vulnerable version of the OpenSSL library.Security researcher Filippo Valsorda has developed an online test that allows anyone to find out whether a server is vulnerable to being attacked, simply by entering the server's hostname.Not an TLS/SSL flawA new version of OpenSSL, version 1.0.1g is now available to download to patch the flaw, which was caused by an implementation problem in the OpenSSL cryptography library, not a design flaw in SSL/TLS - the protocols used to provide secure communication online."There is no flaw in the TLS protocol or the way it is designed, it's simply an implementation bug that has a catastrophic failure mode. The error is the code equivalent of a typo. But some typos are worse than others," explains Paco Hope, Principal Consultant, at Cigital, a consulting firm which helps organisations to develop secure software."The vulnerabilities in the software you use matter just as much as vulnerabilities in code you write. Finding and fixing such bugs requires applying security throughout the software lifecycle and on all the relevant code, not exclusively at the end and not just exclusively on code you write. And if you acquire software from third parties, you care about what they integrate into the product as much as what they write for you."Fox IT has published a list of indicators that can help companies to identify if their servers may be vulnerable.According to Fox IT, attackers can retrieve the source code of the website, usernames and passwords, as well as private SSL keys.

Nikki Howard ● 4138d0 Comments ● 4138d

Confused.com

That's me.  Because I've just read the latest Labour Party local election leaflet for Isleworth and I noticed a caption under a photograph on the back page saying "Labour's Ed Mayne, Sue Sampson and Lyn Green at their regular surgery on the Ivybridge".For starters I was surprised to learn that Lyn Green holds a councillor's surgery, bearing in mind that she is not a councillor.  She will be a councillor if she is elected in May, but she isn't one now.  Mindu Bains on the other hand is an Isleworth councillor, and she still receives an allowance for being one.  Why then does she not feature on the leaflet, and why is she not holding a councillor's surgery rather than Lyn?But then my confusion intensified when I flipped over to the front page and saw that the only monthly surgery held by the Isleworth councillors these days, with or without Lyn, was at the Royal British Legion.  So how does one go about attending one of their "regular surgeries on the Ivybridge", which are apparently not advertised?Further enquiries revealed that the Isleworth Labour councillors actually discontinued their surgery on Ivybridge over a year ago.  Regular, schmegular...But there is some good news.  Apparently four new police officers have been introduced onto the beat in Isleworth ward.  Which only leaves another 96 to find before the councillors, or "Labour Action Team" as they are now, can fulfil the promise they made to voters during their last election campaign in 2010.Isn't it good having such honest and upstanding individuals representing our interests?

Phil Andrews ● 4170d5 Comments ● 4168d

The proposed closure of Charing Cross Hospital is a disgrace!!

With Charing Cross Hospital we have 500 Beds that are book marked to be reduced to just 60 Beds WHY? we may ask for Development the reply!! it would seem that yet again Money is the root of this evil.Charing Cross treat all kinds of Cancer Patients,their Outpatients Clinics are overflowing I personally have been a patient on a yearly basis since 2002 and without the Consultants & Staff well!! "I" thank God am one of the lucky ones. However without Charing Cross it could so easily have been another story.We need more Hospitals not closure of existing ones!!This Coalition promised so much,yes I do appreciate that Austerity Measures are necessary,however when we continue to give monies to India who have a Space programme & Bangladesh who have a Nuclear programme etc and that this "AID" accumulates to approx 12 BILLION POUNDS per year whilst within London we have just last week had 10 Fire Stations closed with nearly 560 people made redundant just because it would cost £28 million a year to keep them open.What is £28 Million to keep us safe & alive opposed to £12 Billion Aid giving yearly to assist outside governments to go into Space & perhaps use their Nuclear Power against the UK in the future.Our Coalition Government need to prioritize our needs because all these funds that they give to other countries do not go to the actual ppl of said countries they are spent how each individual government wish and our government have no say!! Each day we see Our NHS,Fire Service & Police diminish greatly our Schools are in Turmoil because each year they have a different curriculum to teach it confuses both Teachers & Pupils. I say wholeheartedly to our government don't destroy us!!

Dawn Hardy ● 4224d10 Comments ● 4222d

Good ole Hounslow Homes

Why do Hounslow Homes think this time of year is a prime time to redecorate external areas in their properties?Today I found the communal entrance door stuck because it had been painted.  Now I know I'm not the strongest of persons but I couldn't shift it.  I was locked inside.  I did wonder if there was a medical emergency would I be able to get out?  If a fire had broken out would I have managed to escape?  Even the fire escape from the top of the flats leads down to the communal entrance.  I did report it to the council.  Pleasant chap on the phone making placating noises but what type of numpty employs numskulls to decorate in the midst of winter?       Now picture this: me and another person did actually manage to shove the door open - two old wombles together - and we could see where the paint ripped.  It was stuck.  Hard.  By paint.  Now, what qualified painter & decorator just allows painted surfaces to stick together in this weather?  And what type of painters & decorators are Hounslow Homes squandering money on?Last year, at around this time last year, in all the snow, Hounslow Homes got a painter & decorator in to do up the communal areas.  This so-called painter & decorator - from Hertfordshire according to his van - just painted as directed and missed out filling in a huge crack - caused by subsidence.  Crack filled in six months later.  But not painted over.I thought Hounslow Homes would have learned from their previous mistakes but it seems not.            

Xanthe West ● 4233d5 Comments ● 4229d

New development in LBH's war on community groups as HFTRA disbands itself at Lead Member's behest

Three months ago I wrote a short blog article about a coup which had taken place within the Hounslow Federation of Tenants’ and Residents’ Associations (HFTRA), in which the erstwhile Chair, Dave Cox, an intelligent and free-thinking individual, had been effectively pushed out by a sycophantic clique acting at the behest of the Lead Member for Housing, Councillor Steve Curran.According to an article published in the paper version of the Hounslow Chronicle this week (sadly it doesn’t seem to be available online) HFTRA, latterly under council-approved management, has now obligingly dissolved itself and is no more.  In one fell swoop an organisation representing the inhabitants of 24,000 dwellings around the borough has meekly allowed itself to be terminated, without so much as a whimper, at the whim of one power-crazy politician carrying out the wishes of a power-crazy local party.According to the Chronicle article tenants and leaseholders living in local authority housing will henceforth be “represented” by a new borough-wide residents’ forum that is currently in the making.As an active participant within the G15+ alliance of community groups, I have some knowledge of this “forum”, taken from its own correspondence which we are already in receipt of.  Its terms of reference have already been “suggested” by an officer of the Council.  It is to be chaired by a councillor.  Meetings are to be organised and hosted by the local authority, to a timetable set by the local authority, and a member of the Council’s staff will take the minutes.  As far as I am aware membership criteria are yet to be decided, but nobody should be in any doubt that the power to appoint and to expel residents’ groups from the forum will lie somewhere within the hallowed halls of Lampton Road.Meanwhile said Lead Member has changed the criteria for funding tenants’ associations, basically creating an absolute power of patronage and veto for himself.  It doesn’t take much imagination to see where this is going – if an ostensibly independent association has the temerity to elect somebody to membership who is not a person approved of by our lords and masters, or to engage in any form of campaigning which runs contrary to the designs of the regime, the threat of funding being withdrawn will be instantly invoked (one residents’ association is already under pressure from the Labour Party in Isleworth to dismiss Paul Fisher from membership, presumably on account of the fact that he is a member of the ICG - pressure which to its credit it has fiercely resisted).Residents’ associations and community groups should always of course try to keep on good terms with the local authority.  A constructive approach to dialogue works better for everybody concerned than needless animosity.  But the relationship has to be one based on respect for each other’s independence.  Having a residents’ movement whose membership and constitution can be determined by the local authority makes no more sense than a trade union having its officials appointed by the company management.It is evident that Councillor Curran and his party colleagues are waging a war on community organisations across the borough with a ruthless determination of which the Hounslow Labour Party of the eighties and nineties would have been proud.  Not only have these people learned nothing from the fright they were given in 2006, they are actually going backwards.I am currently compiling a document on these worrying developments, which Councillor Curran seems hell-bent on having in place before the local elections which take place next May.   It seems his control-freakery and that of his party knows no bounds.  It is important that anybody who is involved with residents’ and tenants’ groups is fully appraised of the situation and does whatever is needed to ensure that their organisations act to defend their integrity and independence.

Phil Andrews ● 4248d12 Comments ● 4244d

One hour ago: Blatant flytipping at Morrison's Recycling unit

I'm an avid recycler..and am always particularly concerned with people putting the wrong things into clearing mark bins..thus causing contamination of the whole load.Just one hour ago I witnessed a white transit type van turn up at Morrisons..and the driver caste 3 or four black sacks of items into the Plastic Packaging skip. I could tell that something odd was was going on from the shape of the items poking through.I was going to challenge him and inspect the bags...but chickened out.I noted this 60 year old white slim chap wearing plimsoles was driving a van with the signage FINE DEECORATING,and  xxxx & Lynch.After he had scarppered off, I removed two bags from the skip and immediately saw paint tins, paint brushes, newspapers etc..and left them on the ground in front of the bin so that the Authorities could inspect them  Unfortunately my mobile wasn't working for some reason..and my calls to Hounslow Council failed.So I went into Morrisons and spoke to a supervisor who said the Manager would look into it using my clues. The lady said the dumping problem there was so serious.. that inaddition to being a nightmare each morning when they arrived for work..there was a possibility of closing the Unit down..such was the mess and contimation caused by a few.(The shambles at Tescos Osterley is another sight to see sometimes)On arrival home, I was able to phone Hounslow Council's complicated automated answering service... although ideally an emergency response would have helped.I see on Google that there is indeed a "Fine Decorators" called "Thomas Lynch" at 164 Ealing Road.I will visit them this afternoon. The chap will get an earful!

Jim Lawes ● 4327d85 Comments ● 4252d

Sometimes you just have to laugh at the cheek of them

From the TW8 Front PageAt last week’s Borough Council the Labour administration made 3 new nominations to the Planning Committee.Councillors Colin Ellar, Shantanu Rajawat and Corinna Smart are to replace Councillors Ruth Cadbury, Mel Collins and Steve Curran.Councillor Tom Bruce is appointed as the new Chairman, replacing Ruth Cadbury.Conservative councillors consider this is just in time to ensure Labour retain their ‘political proportionality’ (i.e. 9 Labour votes vs 7 Conservative) for Thursday’s decision on the Brentford FC application as Councillors Cadbury, Collins and Curran are likely to have interests which prevent them from speaking or voting on the application.Councillor Sheila O’Reilly, a Conservative member of the committee, commented “These fresh subs off the bench are welcomed assuming they are fully trained in planning rules, but given the extreme short notice of this move, it is hardly open and transparent as Labour are keen to describe themselves, so I award them a Red Card’.Councillor Peter Thompson, Leader of the Conservative Group added,“Such last minute changes to the Planning Committee only days before the crucial meeting are unprecedented during my time on the Council.  I fully understand that when a councillor has an interest on an application that they have to declare it and not take part in the discussion or vote.  However I don’t recall ever replacing them on the committee!  Given that planning operates without a party whip, with each member deciding how to vote based on their own evaluation of the case, why did the Labour feel the need to make this last minute substitution to maintain their numbers? Even without Cllrs Cadbury, Collins and Curran the committee would have been quorate.  Moreover many residents have been making views known for several months on the Brentford FC application to committee members.  Can Ellar, Rajawat and Smart really be expected to get up to speed on this complex case in a matter of days?”

Paul Fisher ● 4265d7 Comments ● 4263d

Cranes, towers and helicopters

No doubt all of us are chilled by today's accident at Vauxhall. I was on the train today.But it proves that planning and resident objections raised over hi rise buildings and air traffic & flight paths that were dismissed as 'fantasy fiction' by planners and architects are valid and quite, quite real.All of us living here are not strangers to low helicopter movements and the regular visits at night by the police helicopter and the vital input of the air ambulance.The low height is obviously due to the LHR flight path approaches which converge over Kew, Brentford and Chiswick. And latterly over a wider path.Looking tonight at the few cranes I can see from home, they are barely lit. One with two faint red lights and the other with a slow intermittent red light.One crane was lit with LEDs over christmas and that was very visible, even pleasant to view.It is after all, a temporary structure.But the hi-rise buildings are not.One wonders of the wisdom in allowing such a tall building such as the one at GWQ so close to an approach to  one of the planet's most busy airports but also beside a navigable location of the river and the A4/M4Other cities moved their airports so skyscrapers are never in a flight zone but have not done so. Others do not build more than 6 storeys within 20km of an approach zone and this reduces every 5kmIt was a sheer miracle that the aircraft missed the bridge and the train from Hounslow by just some 20 metres.But it must be a warning to have a better strategy before something really big happens.The odds cannot be good.

Anthony Waller ● 4586d27 Comments ● 4274d

Tesco Express London Rd

We residents who live above this shop are fed up with several things, we have twice Wrote to the store manager with NO reply and emailed head office twice they replied stating they would get back to us within 10Days.We have Written to Head Office with our complaint and still No reply.It seems they care about Profit not their Neighbours.What we are disgusted about.1. Lorries turning up to make Deliveries before the time they are allowed to by the Council 8am - 8pm some mornings they do deliveries at 0630 they are VERY noisy and it wakes up people who's bedrooms are above where the Truck Parks.We have notified the Councils but nothing has been done.2. Customers parking in front of our Front Communal door.This is a Health and safety issue as the door serves as a Fire Exit.Tesco are responsible for the Front Forecourt and for their Customers.We have a Single mum and a Disabled Resident who sometimes cant use the Front door because of Vehicles parking in front off our door.We asked Tesco to put a sign up telling their customers not to park in front off our door and they have ignored us.3. Big Metal trolleys at the Back of the Property.Sometimes there can be up to 30 Tall Trolleys at the back which they place half in our car park and sometimes they block are Back stairs when you tell them to move them they don't.4. Rubbish Bin.At the side of their store they have a large container Bin which is kept behind a tall wooden fence and gate, this Gate is always opened which allows kids to go in and pull stuff out of the Bins.We have asked Tesco to start padlocking the Gate, as a child could one day fall inside the Bin.5. Out Of date Bakery Items.Tesco do not place this in their Bin they place it ion a small open trolley which can cause Rats and Mice which they seem to not care about.6. Lastly a couple years ago tesco placed a air vent pipe in our communal area and the residents say they were not asked or notified about this.Now there is Damp around the Pipe.We Feel Tesco should sort out all these issues.

Simon Anderson ● 5932d146 Comments ● 4291d

scrap timber / recycling materials required

As Brentford now enters the "season of hibernation", building work slows to a pause, businesses and residents alike tighten their belts in the frantic run-up to Christmas, and tourism begins to stall, I have decided to take some affirmative action.I propose we gather together scrap timber, excess wooden materials, knackered furniture etc, things which would otherwise simply be taken to a recycling centre (I saw a man thrown a whole single bed frame into a compacter once, it looked perfectly usable! what a waste.) In hindsight, if my memory serves, this was at Morrisons car park; perhaps I should ask Jim about this; people will just dump their rubbish anywhere these days. It's horrendous. Anyway, to get to the point, I had a few small moments of inspiration lately, feeling the chill of winter start to approach, seeing all the Halloween decorations go up (and come down the next day!), and hearing the Diwali fireworks reminding us all that the Fifth of November approacheth; it just all made sense.I suggest we build our tower of timber (about sixty feet tall by twelve wide) in the shape of a man, so as to reflect our ongoing striving endeavour to put the good of the whole community before the needs of ourselves as individuals. We will need someone pious, virtuous, virginal, and Christian. Though the clergy of Brentford are therefore precluded, it shouldn't be too hard to find an unscrupulous, honest soul among our Hounslow councillors. Failing that, and in tune with modern values, environmental activism seems to draw the good and worthy into its flock these days. I'm sure we'll find someone suitably inflammatory. If we honour the old gods properly we'll be sure to see great prosperity in the new year! Reynard Mills may finally see some action, the high street will flourish, who knows, The Lion King might come to the Watermans Arts Centre! We may even end up with a half decent pub in town! I know, I know; fanciful but we can but try. Suggestions welcome for the blood sacrifice; but can we please all get firm agreement first, as the last time I recommended this (Chiswick, 2007), it was a bit poorly organised and we ended up with six small (mostly failed) attempts at the ritual, rather than one big successful one. Three of the candidates for immolation didn't even show up, one of the town councillors was found burnt to a cinder on the morning of the event, (before building of the wicker man had even had a chance to begin) (I still suspect foul play though the coroner declared spontaneous human combustion - he was a bit of a drinker), ((the coroner, not the councillor)), and the Oxjam promoter... Peter? I forget his name - barely got his feet warm despite the most earnest bellowing efforts. An utterly unincendiary man, to say the least. It was a bloody shambles - no pun intended.Anyway, suggestions welcome for candidates and locations! I have a few spare pews to donate. "This is the remix to ignition!Hot and fresh out the kitchen!Mama rollin' that body;Got every man in her wishin'!Sippin' on coke and rum,I'm like so what I'm drunk!It's the freakin' weekend baby,I'm about to have me some fun!" - R Kelly. Toot toot! Beep beep!

Jacob P Aitken ● 4296d1 Comments ● 4296d

Councillor's Special Expertise/Interests

I very rarely find I need to contact The Council, but something happened recently where I thought I should contact "somebody" for clarification of the issue.I Googled, and several names were possibilities, e,g, there were three people who were councilors for my ward, there were people who were on the committees for the question I needed answering etc.To narrow it down I looked for the three councilors in terms of what was their career progression, who had done what etc.Nothing special, I wanted to to link a ward with experience.Finding their pevious experience seemed impossible.Anyway, it looked like the best bet was a chap called Steve Curran, but I didn't know how to double check that.  This question is not about SC specifically but I was surprised to find that the only SC hits said that he was a councilor, I couldn't find out what he knew and didn't know about from his earlier career.I apologize again for being so naive, but I remember seeing the name Seema Malhotra many years ago in the discussions about the "Brentford Market" and thinking that Seema seemed unbelievably interested in a local market?Now that it's Seema Malhotra MP, I understand her interest in regenerating the High Street etc.So, to summarize, if one wants to know what Steve Curran's special skill are, what his job was previously (of course, I mean any councilor) - how does one find out what they might be good at and less good at?Thanks...Dave.

David Johnson ● 4318d9 Comments ● 4316d

Isleworth Public Hall- A Valuable Community Asset

PR 2578 11 September 2013For Immediate ReleaseCouncil seeks proposals over future of Isleworth Public Hall Hounslow Council has invited interested parties to submit proposals on the future management of Isleworth Public Hall.Councillor Ajmer Grewal, cabinet member for leisure and public health, said: “Isleworth Public Hall is a much loved and valuable community asset.“We have had some interest in making better use of the hall and in its future management, which is why we are going out to the community seeking proposals from interested parties.“I want residents or community groups to get involved and make their views known over the future management of Isleworth Public Hall.”                                     Any organisations or person wishing to submit proposals on the future management of the hall should register at procurement@hounslow.gov.uk and title the e-mail ‘Submission of proposals for IPH’. An application form will be sent electronically to you within two working days. The closing date for receipt of submissions is 4pm on Friday 4th October 2013.  Cllr Grewal added: “No decision on the future of the hall will be made until we have carefully considered all submissions.” For more information click on to www.hounslow.gov.uk/isleworthpublichall Notes for editors:Two open days for parties interested in submitting proposals and who wish to view the building and ask any questions, have been arranged at Isleworth Public Hall. These dates are Tuesday, 17 September, from 1pm to 7pm and Thursday, 19 September, from 9am to 2pm.

John Todd ● 4348d27 Comments ● 4319d

Notorious Murderer Caught In Brentford.

Last night's  TV programme, A Very British Murder, revealed that in 1828 William Corder was arrested on Wednesday April 23 at Everley Grove House, Ealing Lane in Brentford, for the notorious Red Barn Murder in which he killed Maria Marten in Suffolk.Wiki explains:Corder was easily discovered; Mr Ayres, the constable in Polstead, was able to obtain his old address from a friend, and with the assistance of James Lea, an officer of the London police force who would later lead the investigation into Spring Heeled Jack, he tracked Corder to a ladies' boarding house, Everley Grove House, in Brentford.Corder was running the boarding house with his new wife, Mary Moore, whom he had met through a newspaper advertisement that he had placed in The Times (which had received more than 100 replies).Lea managed to gain entry under the pretext that he wished to board his daughter there, and surprised Corder in the parlour. Thomas Hardy noted the Dorset County Chronicle's report of his capture:[7]    …in parlour with 4 ladies at breakfast, in dressing gown & had a watch before him by which he was 'minuting' the boiling of some eggs.Lea took him to one side and informed him of the charges; Corder denied all knowledge of both Maria and the crime. A search of the house uncovered a pair of pistols supposedly bought on the day of the murder; some letters from a Mr. Gardener, which may have contained warnings about the discovery of the crime; and a passport from the French ambassador, evidence which suggested Corder may have been preparing to flee.JL

Jim Linwood ● 4336d5 Comments ● 4327d

"Erections" - Brent Way Polytunnels

Hello everyone,I am the General Manager of Cultivate London, and just wanted to respond to this thread to clarify any misunderstanding about what is going on on the former trading estate in question, on Brent Way.  First of all, for those of you who don't know us, we are a horticultural social enterprise and charity, with a primary aim of providing work experience and training for long-term unemployed youth from around Hounslow and Ealing.  We have three apprentices, and work with 10 volunteer trainees at a time (30 per year), all who come to us through the job centre and probation services.  We grow produce on three sites in Hounslow (Commerce Road, London Road in Isleworth, and most recently, Brent Way), and sell it to businesses and individuals across London.  All income is directed back into our training program.  You can fund out more about us on our website: www.cultivatelondon.org.Yes, the polytunnels on Brent Way do indeed belong to us, and I am sorry if their appearance has startled or offended anyone.  In retrospect, it would have been more considerate of us to consult residents before erecting them, however, as there do not appear to be any homes immediately overlooking the site, we did not think that it was particularly necessary to do so at the time.  Once again, apologies for this if we have upset anyone.As for the state of the site, we had originally planned to have the site up and running early in the spring, but due to a variety of factors we were not able to start building on the site until May, by which point our growing season was in full swing on our other two sites.  As a result, we were unable to attend to getting the Brent Way site properly up and running throughout the summer, despite our best efforts (hence the weeds and dead tomatoes). However, may I point out that while yes, the site did get a bit over grown, it was certainly no worse than it was before we took it over!Anyway, I hope that this clears the matter up to a degree.  If ever you would like to visit one of our sites to find out more about what we do, and to meet the youth with whom we work and who are the direct beneficiaries of activities that will be undertaken on the Brent Way site, and elsewhere, please do not hesitate to get in touch with me - adrienne@cultivatelondon.org.  Of course, if you have any more questions specific to the Brent Way site you may contact me as well.Thank you very much.Kind regardsAdrienne Attorp

Adrienne Attorp ● 4335d4 Comments ● 4328d

Aliens? They've already landed

This last week I have the most surreal experiences, so much so that I am beginning to think I have strayed into some other universe peopled by beings who are doing their very best to send me screaming over the edge.First there was the saga of trying to help a poor stray cat, and the obstacles that some vets who were supposed to be part of a scheme to help in cases like that put in the way. I was just sent round in circles and asked to do the most time wasting things, all to no avail. Only Cats Protection and the wonderful, and on her own account - bolshie - Janet were helpful, as were my own vets. Then came the second saga of the unwanted rear access gates with Hopeless Homes completely losing the plot, and their map, and seemingly confusing Crane and Worple Avenues in Isleworth with Crane Lodge Road in Cranford, like you do. Are they contactable - are they b***ery, Clearly lessons must be learned from E.T. As for the roundabout disaster, we will have to agree to disagree, but sorry traffic engineers you obviously operate on a different plane to the rest of us, with cloth ears.I feel as if I have been trying to walk through treacle whilst talking an unintelligible language that no-one can understand. It is exhausting and very frustrating, I thought it was me, but no! it isn't. A friend who is active in the local community is also having the self same cr*p, she too thinks she may be on the edge of insanity. I know the government thinks we are all living too long - so this could be some dastardly plot to finish us off, please someone tell me - why does the simplest thing have to be made so bloody difficult? There has been much in the media about Area 51 and research into aliens recently - I've got news for them - they're already here in Isleworth!

Vanessa Smith ● 4371d5 Comments ● 4364d

Council Wont Take Responcibility

In October 2012 my scooter got stuck between 2 Barriers when i tried to access the Public Footpath between Worton and Wheatley Rd. The Frame snapped, Cracked and got Scratched and my Battery time usage went from 2hrs+ to 30mins meaning i cant go out to far now. I contacted Hounslow Council and they sent me a claims form which i filled out and sent back with Photos Stabled 2 the forms (inc a Invoice to fix the damage £545). I got a email confirming they Recvd the Photos. In January i emailed the Gentleman dealing with the case several times but they were ignored so i made a Official complaint to the council which i recvd a Confirmation but NEVER got a reply. Then a couple Months ago Cllr Harmer contacted the council for me and they emailed 2 say that as they didn't Recv the forms and didn't hear back from me after emailing me in December they closed the Case (all total rubbish)I filled out the forms again and sent them back and this time they confirmed Recv them and i got a Email saying they passed it over 2 their Claims Department. Then i got a letter last Month from Travelers saying they wouldn't pay out, they said Prior 2 my incident the Footpath was inspected and no defects were Noted and that there is a Width restriction to prevent Motorbikes. I then contacted them to say if there was no defect why did they move the 2nd Barrier back 2 its original spot (as u can see where it used to sit into the ground) after i reported the Incident. I took measurements of the Barriers at Wheatley rd end and they were 134m apart (Scooter can get threw as like Prams) the Measurement between the barriers at Worton Rd are as follows:  On the Day of Incident 109m (not wide enough 4 Scooters, wheelchairs of Push chairs) after incident 162m (now wide Enough) I also took photos of the Spots where the Railing was in the ground on day of incident and the damaged Wall next to the Railings (which was like this on the day of Incident) I also mentioned there was no Signs stating the width restrictions and to prevent People with Prams, Wheelchairs or a Mobility scooter to use a Public footpath was discrimination. Now Travelers have emailed me (see below) and what they have said i feel is wrong. All Barriers ive come across are all wide enough for my scooter to get threw it was just this 1 which is obvious the council moved it and placed it to close to the other railing and as soon as it damaged the scooter they moved it back and NOW i can get threw. I am left with a scooter i can only go as far as Tesco and Back so i am back to not going out again. I cant afford 2 ave it fixed or buy a 2nd Hand replacement and the council don't care at all. If anyone has any advice or help they can give me it be appreciated.  This is the Email from Travelers:Insured: London Borough Of Hounslow Policy Number: UCPOP3916388 Claim Number: 829255 Claim Handler: Moira Taylor Date Of Loss: 08/10/2012 Dear Mr Anderson  Thank you for your email of 5th August 2013. We note your comments.  While we have no reason to believe that it is or has ever been the intention of the council for these restrictions to discriminate against any section of society, the matter of whether or not the width restrictions could be considered discriminatory is unfortunately not something we are able to comment upon as it falls outside the scope of the damage claim itself. You are pursuing a claim for damage to your mobility scooter which you attempted to drive through a footpath with a width restricted designed to prevent vehicles, such as motor cycles, from driving down it.  The barriers are similar to those in use in many places across the country and their design is not unusual.  Their purpose range from things like crowd measures (such as preventing people running out from a blind alley onto a main road) to things like preventing small vehicles and motor cycles from inappropriately using footpaths and alleyways making a convenient cut through and thereby creating damage to footpaths not designed to take their weight or, more importantly, to ensure the safety of pedestrians.  The use of barriers in this manner is not unusual and not something for which the Council could be considered to have been negligent. As the barriers are on a footpath there is unfortunately no duty to sign post the width of the barriers.  The requirements to sign post on the road relate to the fact that vehicles will be travelling at speed and the difficulty in judging the size of the gap in relation to the size of a vehicle when taking into account the full extent of the vehicle (including wing mirrors) and while a vehicle is in motion.  No such requirement exists on a public footpath as people will be moving at significantly slower speeds and will have a greater awareness of their own width in relation to the gap they are attempting to negotiation.  Similarly with a mobility scooter it would be expected that you would be moving at considerably less speed and, given the size of a mobility scooter is much smaller than motor vehicle, would allow the user much greater awareness of the width in relation to the gap.  Unfortunately the fact that there is no sign confirming the width of the gap cannot be considered an act of negligence or breach of duty on the part of the Council. While the width of the entry is restricted, the size of the gap is clearly apparent and it would be for the person entering the gap to assess whether or not there was sufficient space for them to pass the barrier successfully.  The barriers are there to be seen. You have commented that the barriers have been moved back which you state is proof of a defect.  Whether or not the barriers have now been moved unfortunately does not establish a defect.  The inspection would be to check if there had been any damage to the barriers or if they had become loose or were otherwise creating a foreseeable hazard.   Additionally the fact that the damage to the wall has not been noted on the inspection would not affect the validity of the inspection of either the barriers or the pathway nor does it create a hazard to the public.  Our understanding is also that the wall is we believe the boundary to private property and therefore would not be considered by the council on their inspection unless loose bricks had fallen onto the public highway; the condition of the wall would not be something the Council would respond to. Whether or not the gap between the two barriers prevented access by mobility scooters  and whether or not that could be considered discriminatory (though we have no reason to believe that there was ever any intention to discriminate) is unfortunately not something about which we are able to comment and any comments you feel need to be made in connection with the size of the gap going forward will need to be directed to the Council.  However with regard to the claim, regardless of whether or not this is an issue the Council need to address; the damage to your mobility scooter must be considered separately and unfortunately we cannot agree that the damage has been caused either by negligence of breach of duty on the part of the Council. We appreciate that our decision is disappointing, but we are only able to consider the damage claim on the basis of legal liability, for which we can find no evidence.  Our decision therefore remains unaltered.  We regret we are unable to offer you any financial assistance on this occasion. We must remind you that you are entitled to seek legal advice in respect of your claim and you may wish to discuss your claim with a solicitor, Citizens Advice Bureau or other legal representative. Yours sincerely  Moira TaylorClaims NegotiatorTel: +44 1737 787 242Fax: +441737 786 720Email: uksirteam@travelers.com

Simon Anderson ● 4377d0 Comments ● 4377d

Victory for common sense!

I think this is "up yours Ellar"!!From the Chronicle online:Councillor Elizabeth Hughes had the whip withdrawn by Hounslow Labour Group at the beginning of July for using 'uncomradely behaviour and racist' language.However, the decision was overturned on appeal by Labour's London regional group last night (Thursday, August 1), a party spokesman today confirmed.Mrs Hughes had sent an internal Labour email in 2010 complaining about the behaviour of an 'Asian boy's club'  which she said was dragging the party down.    Her email referred to fellow Labour councillor Mohinder Gill, who had voted against the destruction of an illegal extension in the face of clear photographic evidence.It later emerged the property in question was the home of Harleen Atwal, a former Labour candidate and daughter of a prominent party supporter.Mr Gill was eventually found by an appeals tribunal in May to have abused his powers and breached the members' code of conduct on three counts. However, the tribunal ruled there was insufficient evidence to show Mr Gill had known of Mrs Atwal's connection to the property when he made his decision.Deputy council leader Colin Ellar had seconded the motion to suspend Mrs Hughes, which was proposed by Balvir Sond.Mrs Hughes has represented Heston West ward for Labour since 2006. Her husband, David Hughes, is a Labour councillor for Hanworth.No internal party action has been taken against Mr Gill, though he was stripped of his planning powers by the tribunal panel and is not planning to stand in next May's local elections.

Vanessa Smith ● 4388d4 Comments ● 4387d

Prudential Ride London 4th August 2013

This event could have a knock on effect to Brentford residents The Post below has been copied from CCF post on Chiswick w4The following roads will be closed in our borough on Sunday 4 August:• The A4, westbound only from central London to the Hogarth roundabout, from 0500hrs until c1430 hrs (also closed eastbound from Earl’s Court)• The A316, both directions between Hogarth roundabout and Chiswick Bridge, from 0500hrs to c1500hrs.This will leave the following area landlocked to motor vehicles for much of the day:• Chiswick Mall / Church Street / Fullers Brewery• Pumping Station Road / Chiswick Pier• Edensor Road / Chiswick New Pool / Dukes Meadows playground• Staveley Gardens• Riverside Drive / Esporta Riverside Leisure Centre  / Rowing Clubs / Golf Club / Dukes Meadows recreation groundsAccess for pedestrians and cyclists will be via the A4 subways at Hogarth roundabout and Chiswick Lane and further east towards Hammersmith.Bus routes affected:The E3 buses are likely to terminate at or near Chiswick mainline station and route 190 is likely to be completely suspended or diverted via Kew Bridge.  Details expected shortly.Effect on Chiswick town center: Possible long eastbound queues on the A4 between the Chiswick and Hogarth roundabouts (due to queuing back from Earl’s Court and the closure of the A316 through to Chalker’s Corner) will mean lots of eastbound traffic diverting onto Chiswick High Road, Sutton Court Road, Dukes Avenue, and Chiswick Lane etc.  Plus lots of extra westbound traffic from central London on Chiswick High Road.  No rail maintenance works expected that weekend, but lots of delays on the road network.Take heed and prepare!

Paul Allen ● 4390d2 Comments ● 4389d

For all who care about Brentford

I had an email today which I've pasted below.It concerns the future of Brentford and has some rather alarming aspects. The idea of more tower blocks amidst the low rise victorian houses and a Croydon like series of development opportunities leaves me cold, but that's what some of the aspects of this proposal/consultation could well lead to.Anyone who cares about the town we live in should take the time and read this stuff and answer in the questions.Copied below is an email which WRAG sent to its contact list earlier this afternoon.  Some of you may have already received it. Also attached are copies of the consultation version of the Local Plan and the PDF version of the questionnaire.  I do hope this doesn’t overload you inboxes. I hope the email below and the attachments are of some help.  Please don’t hesitate to email us if you have any questions. : As we explained last Saturday, the proposed “area of growth and regeneration” zone would enable developers to argue that they could build taller and more densely on key regeneration sites within the area than they would otherwise be allowed to.  A possible example could be the car park and car dealership on the former sidings site between Layton Road and the railway line.  Other sites could be the container storage between Orchard Road and the Station, and either side of Boston Manor Road between the railway and the A4. We really do hope that the low rise residential roads can be removed from the growth area and its boundaries reduced to just those employment sites which front directly onto the Great West Road. Please feel free to forward this email and attachments your contacts, as it’s vital that as large a number of residents as possible respond to the Council about the proposed Great West Road growth corridor and the proposals for the Reynard Mills site.  Just short submissions on these two issues would be an immense help. There will be a short briefing to councillors about the Local Plan consultation at next Thursday evening’s Isleworth and Brentford Area Forum at the Brentford Free Church near the Library.  The meeting is open to the public.  The following links might be useful: Agenda:  http://democraticservices.hounslow.gov.uk/ieListDocuments.aspx?CId=576&MId=7783&Ver=4 Local Plan Presentation:  http://democraticservices.hounslow.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=81819

Michael Brandt ● 4409d17 Comments ● 4402d

Local Plan Consultation - New rail routes ?

Consultation onhttp://www.hounslow.gov.uk/local_plan_consultation_low_res.pdfhas been opened for six weeks according tohttp://www.hounslow.gov.uk/index/environment_and_planning/planning/planning_policy/localplan/planning_policy_options_localplan.htmI was interested in the medium term aspirations for rail improvements. The idea of a Hounslow to Brent Cross overground service and a tram/train link from the centre of Brentford to Southall were new to me. :Improving orbital and Overground rail connectionsPromotion of a new passenger service between Hounslow station and Brent Cross via Old Oak Common, calling at Isleworth, SyonLane and Brentford. This proposed scheme relates to a broader aspiration to improve orbital transport provision from Hounslow andis connected to the wider business case for High Speed 2 (HS2), though the connection could be implemented earlier. The schemewould connect the borough to the proposed transport interchange at Old Oak Common, which will include links to Crossrail.Promotion of a new passenger service between Brentford (Golden Mile) and Southall. This proposed scheme would provide directlinks between the employment corridor and Great Western Main Line and planned Crossrail station at Southall. Currently thereare few options to access the site from the north by sustainable means. It is also feasible that this could also be extended to feedBrentford Town Centre and the South West Trains line, possibly via an on street alignment (e.g. utilising tram/train tech).Improvements to Piccadilly line accessPromotion of Turnham Green station as a permanent stop on the Piccadilly line; this would improve public transport accessibility inChiswick as the present timetable only serves the station in the early morning and late evening. In addition, promotion of improvedpedestrian access to the employment corridor located on the Golden Mile, providing links to the Piccadilly line. Developmentproposals should contribute to potential pedestrian links in this area.

Tim Henderson ● 4429d4 Comments ● 4425d

New 'Brentford North' CPZ - Enfield Road

Are any other Enfield Rd residents concerned about the fact that the pavement-mounted boxes have been painted way further out into the street than residents have been usually parking, making the road even narrower? The line painting took place on Friday 14/06 and over this weekend, I have already noticed larger cars and vans driving really cautiously to avoid hitting parked cars - I dread to think what will happen with rubbish collections on Wednesday and I certainly do not want any damage to my car!  I can only think that the council thought this would be better for pedestrians and also didn't think to measure where cars were already parking before they had to leave the street for line painting. I also have issues with the positioning of the yellow lines for passing spaces and also the general poor surface of the re-surfaced road with all the loose stone chips damaging my hall floor and also sore feet when trodden on, as the chips are carried into the house stuck into shoes soles.This morning I have emailed Amarpal Soor who is the named Senior Traffic Engineer for the council and copied in Matt Harmer - as the only councillor's email address I had to hand.  His direct telephone line is given on the letter but of course there is never any answer nor option to leave a voicemail. If any other residents have concerns, I am sure multiple voices could help us sort this BEFORE the actual CPZ comes into force on 1st July.   amarpal.soor@hounslow.gov.uk

Natasha Manganaro ● 4435d0 Comments ● 4435d

London Underground and Overground disruption this weekend (8-9 June 2013)

The District line and Piccadilly line will be disrupted all weekend due to track replacement at Turnham Green and Acton Town. District line:No service between West Kensington, Ealing Broadway and Richmond all weekend. Piccadilly line No service between Hammersmith, Northfields and Rayners Lane all weekend.  (Piccadilly line services will operate between Heathrow and Northfields.)Replacement buses operate: Service A: Hammersmith – Ravenscourt Park – Stamford Brook – Turnham Green – Chiswick High Road (for Chiswick Park) – Gunnersbury – Acton Town - Ealing Common – Ealing Broadway (for the Central line) – NorthfieldsService B: Low floor buses with luggage capacity for customers travelling to/from Heathrow: Ealing Broadway (for the Central line) – Boston Manor (to reconnect with the Piccadilly line to Heathrow Airport)Service C: Hammersmith – Boston Manor Service D: Hammersmith – Ravenscourt Park – Stamford Brook – Turnham Green – Chiswick High Road (for Chiswick Park) – Gunnersbury (for London Overground services to Kew Gardens and Richmond on Saturday) and on Sunday serves Kew Gardens and Richmond Service E: Rayners Lane – South Harrow – Sudbury Hill – Sudbury Town – Alperton – Hanger Lane (for the Central line and Park Royal) – North Ealing – Ealing Common – Acton Town Passengers from the Chiswick or Brentford areas who wish to travel to Heathrow this weekend should take the E2 or E3 to Northfields station, the 195 or E8 to Boston Manor station, the H91 to Osterley of Hounslow West station or replacement bus service A from Turnham Green to Northfields. London Overground:On Sunday 9 June there is no service between Richmond and Willesden Junction owing to Network Rail bridge work at Chiswick Park and track work at Gunnersbury. Valid rail tickets will be accepted on rail replacement buses.Bus service: Richmond – Kew Gardens (bus stops in Kew Road) – Gunnersbury – South Acton –  Acton Central –  Willesden Junction.Further information:  www.tfl.gov.uk

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4446d6 Comments ● 4442d

All Change on Planet Lampton

I'm afraid I just don't buy this thing about Ruth leaving the Cabinet to concentrate on getting herself selected as the Labour PPC for Brentford & Isleworth.  Just how many person hours need to be put into composing a presentation to a selection panel?At least part of the reason for her change of roles will have been to provide the Labour Group with a credible, heavyweight alternative to Theo Dennison as Chair of Planning. Alone amongst Hounslow Labour councillors in recent times, indeed over recent decades, Theo gives an unmistakable impression of one who acknowledges and accepts the primacy of community.  Or the notion, if one prefers, that the role of the party is to serve the wider community according to its desires, and not the other way around.  On this he has been quite uncompromising, as a consequence of which he has established for himself an excellent reputation amongst his constituents and the local public in general, and has earned a level of respect on the streets and the doorsteps that is unusual for a party politician of any hue.For this he has been ostracised and vilified by his so-called comrades, purged first of all from the Cabinet and now from all posts of any consequence within the local authority.  Thereby the administration at Hounslow has sent a clear message of intent to those of us who value community engagement, and all in all it is a distinctly unfriendly one.Ruth will now be in a position to adopt her own Statement of Community Involvement, drawn up in her former capacity as Lead Member, in such a way as to ensure that the borough's political leadership, as opposed to the community itself, retains ownership of it.As for Steve Curran, well that's one helluva portfolio for a guy who just a few years ago didn't want to be a councillor.  He is obviously a very powerful man within the hallowed ranks of Lampton's Chosen Few.  Like Theo Dennison, he is an elected member for Syon ward.  The selection process for that ward which gets underway shortly is likely to be very interesting indeed.

Phil Andrews ● 4467d36 Comments ● 4444d

Just the Facts Cllr J Sharma

Cllr. J. Sharma,  Hounslow's  Leader, has the temerity  to challenge my comments  and by implication HM Govt figures regarding the UK Council Tax collection data. These figures showed Hounslow as having the fourth highest council tax debt per household in the UK - £325 per household. It is unbelievable that Cllr Sharma should claim Hounslow is 'One of the  Best performing  Councils in London'.He says “As a former teacher, I’m used to marking homework, and in this case I think I need to give Cllr Todd a D for his maths. The last few years have seen us collecting more historical debt than ever before - £4.5 million last year, compared to £2.5 million in 2008/09 when his party were in control of the council.“We have always said we are committed to recovering as much debt as we can, and we don’t write off historical debts like other authorities'.  Councils have the powers to go back 20 years and this is what the Labour Group are doing.“Given this was fully explained to him by officers last week, it’s a shame he’s not willing to recognise the good work being done.”Well thats a severe put down if ever I saw one. I had better justify my case.1. The UK council tax collection average is 97.3%; LBH is 97.4%.2. As at the 30th April the Council tax debt in the LBH books was  £31,497.000. This huge figure places LBH in the top four Councils with the biggest council tax debt.3. Cllr Sharma says we  'are collecting  historical debt'  and we 'don't write off historical debt'Well let's see what a senior officer said'We do indeed perform well and I suspect this leads to the obvious question of how can we perform so well yet regularly appear on the bad debt league tables.  The answer is that we are not so good at writing debt off.   We have a very long list of very old debt that the team have been asked to actively manage.  Within the list are some recoverable sums and the £4.5m recovery shows that they  have been successful in bringing the old debt down during 2012-13 and this is work that continues in 2013-14.  However, over the years there is a considerable proportion of unrecoverable debt (e.g. bankruptcies, gone away, deceased etc) that has just sat on the balance sheet.  Work is underway to consider future treatment of this'.This  explanation  does not corroborate Cllr Sharma's comments nor his harsh and clearly unjustified homework mark.LBH is not the leading performer in London  and the existence of apparently worthless debt in its accounts may,  amongst other  things  indicate that the recoverable /viable debt shown in the LBH accounts is incorrectly included.I have  some time ago raised the viability and accuracy of this  debt at Audit Committee.  I will query it again.Before issuing puffy Press Releases Cllr Sharma should as Lead Member for Finance take the occasional look at the books.We would be happy to assist him if it would help.  If he hadn't scrubbed the Scrutiny Finance and Performance sub committee  we would have probed further.  So has he got something to hide?As he is coming to the end of his so called leadership, I'll let others judge his performance.  I think a period of detention is required

John Todd ● 4455d0 Comments ● 4455d

Is this the latest development in the drive for a borough-wide CPZ?

Not a Brentford issue, but those who have followed the saga of the Grove Park CPZ may find this little story interesting.Here in Isleworth we have for many years had our own CPZ in place which operates only on rugby match days.  Because it was designed with a specific purpose in mind – preventing visiting rugby supporters from occupying valuable resident parking space whilst games are in progress – it works rather well, and the CPZ is popular with local residents.However, the funding for the scheme was provided solely by the Rugby Football Union at no cost to the local authority and hence no cost to residents.  Residents had to apply for a parking permit, but there was no charge.That was always the deal, and they were the terms upon which the CPZ was agreed, cross-party, by the then Isleworth & Brentford Area Committee.Last week it was brought to my attention by a local resident (I have a copy of the letter) that the London Borough of Hounslow is now asking for money for a renewal of the parking permit – a scale of charges starting at £60 for one car.  No prior warning, no consultation.  Presumably the reason why no prior discussion with residents was considered necessary was that this was an existing CPZ rather than a new scheme per se.  But the terms of the agreement have been fundamentally altered.This is in Isleworth ward, as well as in neighbouring Hounslow South.  I was wondering whether our lords and masters at Lampton Road, or any of their cheerleaders on this forum, would care to comment?

Phil Andrews ● 4464d49 Comments ● 4458d

London Underground and Overground disruption this weekend (18-19 May 2013)

The District line and Piccadilly line will be disrupted all weekend due to track replacement at Stamford Brook and Ealing Common, and drainage improvement works at Hammersmith. District line Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May:No service between West Kensington, Ealing Broadway and Richmond. Replacement buses operate:Service A: Earl's Court - Hammersmith - Ravenscourt Park - Stamford Brook - Turnham Green - Chiswick Park - Gunnersbury - Acton Town - Ealing Common - Ealing Broadway - Northfields.Service D: Earl's Court - West Kensington - Hammersmith - Ravenscourt Park - Stamford Brook - Turnham Green - Chiswick Park - Gunnersbury - late night and early morning also serves Kew Gardens and Richmond Piccadilly line Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 May:No service between Barons Court, Northfields and Uxbridge. Replacement buses operate: Service A: Earl's Court - Hammersmith - Ravenscourt Park - Stamford Brook - Turnham Green - Chiswick Park - Gunnersbury - Acton Town - Ealing Common - Ealing Broadway - NorthfieldsService B: Ealing Broadway - Boston ManorService C: Earl's Court - Boston ManorService D: Earl's Court - West Kensington - Hammersmith - Ravenscourt Park - Stamford Brook - Turnham Green - Chiswick Park - Gunnersbury - late night and early morning also serves Kew Gardens and RichmondService E: Rayners Lane - South Harrow - Sudbury Hill - Sudbury Town - Alperton - Hanger Lane - North Ealing - Ealing Common - Acton Town Passengers from the Chiswick or Brentford areas who wish to travel to Heathrow this weekend should take the E2 or E3 to Northfields station, the 195 or E8 to Boston Manor station, the H91 to Osterley of Hounslow West station or replacement bus service A from Chiswick Park/Turnham Green to Northfields.London Overground Sunday 19 May: On Sunday 19 May there is no service between Richmond and Willesden Junction. Valid rail tickets will be accepted on rail replacement buses.Bus service: Richmond - Kew Gardens (bus stops in Kew Road) - Gunnersbury - South Acton - Acton Central - Willesden Junction.++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4466d4 Comments ● 4463d

Love walking or cycling? I'm looking for volunteer champions in Hounslow

We are looking for volunteer champions in the London Borough of Hounslow who can help people be more active through walking or cycling more for their everyday journeys. As a champion you can select which volunteering activities you organise or take part in. These activities include: holding an information standorganising group rides or walkscreate an information displayarranging travel advice clinicsgiving talks Setting up bike user groups or walking groupspromoting the Hounslow Travel Active schemeor, if you have your own ideas for activities the champions support team can work with you to develop them.Time commitment: This is a fully flexible scheme designed to fit around your existing commitments, however most champions do something every month or so. We recognise the valuable time that goes into volunteering with us with gold, silver and bronze certificates. There are also incentives available such as gift vouchers and prize draws provided by Hounslow Council. Why be a champion? Improve lives and environments through increasing cycling and walkingDo something you loveDevelop your leadership, communication and influencing skills through specialised trainingChampions are people who are active or want to be more active. They are good communicators, good motivators and can be a source of support and encouragement for others. If this sounds like you then we'd love to hear from you.Contact me Laura on atchampions@sustrans.org.uk or 0n 0207 017 2356

Laura Slater ● 4468d2 Comments ● 4467d

EU Referendum

David Cameron is for ever going on about re-negotiating with the EU to look after our own borders and make our own laws once again without EU directives.However he cannot start without first invoking Article 50 of Lisbon Treaty which is the only mechanism that exists within the EU Law to get Powers back to our country,he has not done this yet! so how on earth can he persist in telling us that he is on the case as it were! does he really think that we the populace are ignorant and have no understanding.At the moment we are completely controlled by the EU as to whom we can Trade with, we as a country need to be able to trade with our Commonwealth, Asia, China, North & South America, we should not be held to ransom by the EU does Nick Clegg,Ed Miliband and David Cameron seriously believe that if we were given an in/out referendum and we chose to leave the Euro Zone that Europe would no longer trade with us, for heaven’s sake we import approx 60% of their trade, that they even conceive this might happen beggars belief.We now know that if Ed Miliband were to win the 2015 election he would not take us out of Europe let alone give us a referendum because he deems that it would be wrong for us,Politicians have to remember that they were voted in to do the best for our country, not take John Prescott's attitude "They voted us in and they will do as they are told" People age 40 did not have the opportunity to vote and it has been nearly 50 years since we voted to enter the COMMON MARKET to trade not to be dictated to by the EU who gave them that right did you because I certainly did not and I want a say in both mine and my countries destiny.

Dawn Hardy ● 4469d33 Comments ● 4468d

Disgraceful behaviour on 237 bus this morning

I was absolutely disgusted this morning to witness abuse from a man with 2 small children directed at my 71 year old mother and then have this abuse turned onto myself for sticking up for her.I was waiting for the 237 bus as I was making my way into work. Whilst I was waiting a man in his 30s with 2 small children arrived amongst several other people as the bus took a good 10 minutes to arrive. My mother than joined me at the bus stop as she was going to do her weekly shopping. The bus then arrived and stopped in front of my mother who got on the bus first (bear in mind she is a pensioner and the bus was already pretty crowded therefore she would struggle to get a seat).The man who was waiting next to me then said "There's a queue you f****** *****" and I turned to him and said "That is my mother you're speaking to". He then went into a tirade of verbal abuse as we got onto the bus (which was now crowded full of people) to which I refused to resort to his level, only pointing out that this is how he shows respect to his elders. He even offered for me to get off the bus and fight him! This was highly embarrassing and insulting, not only showing a poor example to his children but also a lack of respect for women, elders and his fellow passengers. What has happened to these values in our community?It is so disappointing to find that there are grown men like this who have no shame in behaving in such a disgraceful manner and I only hope that other people on this board have not had to witness similar experiences to this!

Norman Hayes ● 4483d24 Comments ● 4477d

Gunnersbury Park - What if.....

Thought I would peel away from the debate around the park being under threat of development by a commercial enterprise and see if we can get something going on the subject of - "INSTEAD"Picking up on the anger felt by some at the thought of a Labour Council waving through a scheme that flies in the face of the state education system and ignores social "ownership" of an asset. Noting the affront felt by those inextricably linked to the covenant under threat and how for them there is no getting around the fact that it exists and in perpetuity.Also sensing that there are observers out there who whilst they may not sympathise they do acknowledge the woeful state of local authority finances. That, politics aside, the administrators/managers of the park have boxed themselves into a corner having let the park and its buildings become so run down over the years for one reason or another.The facts are that the populations of Hounslow and Ealing come to around 590,000 and in Ealing there are around 50 dependants for every 100 working age people compared to a London average of 45-odd. You can make some assumptions on the council tax per household and what that means in terms in the per capita/domicile levy that a capital intensive project such as a restoration and refurbishment of the Parks buildings might entail. And whatever your own answer comes out to you can imagine what a complicated political "sell" that might be even if it were just one council managing the parks affairs. So, would it or would it not be fair or safe to assume that the two councils will struggle massively to come up with a golden egg/solution for Gunnersbury Park. Could they hope to find a solution that realistically enables them to retain the park's status quo and by that I mean keeping it as - 100+acres of green with a collection of fine buildings for the enjoyment of many but in practice the pleasure of but a few?Now to the What if...?What if there were no council involvement? Instead a Trustee body were created to manage the "estate" with the help of a grant from the councils which would be in the order of £300,000 to £450,000 (I think those were the last figures I saw in a budget for the Park). If the buildings were in good nick and the landscaping sorted that would be enough to have the railings painted, the bins emptied, the grass cut, the lines painted etc etc. But the buildings are all in a sorry state so what is to be done? Where are the many, many millions to be found to fix them? Lottery? Sports Council grant? Brentford FC? London Assembly? Any number of those options put forward by those costly consultants - they are all chip-ins, contributions. There is a huge shortfall and that, they have proposed, is made up by triggering a perfecting legal planning solution (covenant notwithstanding). Its called Enabling Development and it translates into flats and houses in the South West corner. Well, thats just for this decade but in 30 years time when the buildings need a further injection of capital the land bank (park) probably puts up another 10 acres in the South East. Its relatively easy to see that the 200 years  - that people keep mentioning - of being deprived of the small mansion to look at is the equivalent of getting rid of 40 or so acres of park to pay for the upkeep. Does that make any sense?Devils advocate. What if there were no buildings? What if we petitioned English Heritage and said - we can't bring ourselves to sell to a developer (Alpha); our councils can't afford to restore them; we don't want to build on the park to pay for it either so if they can't be used let's just flatten them. No point just looking at a building - even less point looking at a building clad in scaffolding with big signs saying "KEEP OUT" plastered all over it. The General Public can't really enjoy the buildings - Large Mansion museum is nice enough, could be improved but its just a ground floor. Not allowed upstairs. Orangery,closed and empty, Temple open for school visits; Victorian kitchen ditto; stables "danger keep out"; bathhouse closed; Small Mansion closed. Take these away and you have some sports facilities to keep maintained, a playground to smarten up, a pond to keep clean etc. I guess that that is what happens when a private enterprise takes a look at a building in the park the councils say to themselves - Oh good, getting rid of something that nobody uses. I'll just leave it here for now and see if anyone else wants to come in with some thoughts? I've tried to provoke debate and not be prescriptive as I think that its too easy to take pot shots at the Councils and just a bit more useful to try and work out what we could realistically do and do better than the elected people.

Alistair Milward ● 4490d13 Comments ● 4479d

Attack on social housing tenants

Today's "i":Social housing tenants will be expected to keep fit, give up smoking and actively look for work under a controversial new scheme devised by a major housing association. Yarlington Housing Group, which manages 9,000 homes in Somerset, has come under fire for its so-called Household Ambition Plan (HAP), which new residents will be expected to sign when they agree fixed-term, seven-year tenancies. Among the ambitions they could be expected to work towards are "skills and qualifications so that you stand a better chance of finding the job you want". "Skills for life" include "cookery, gardening or DIY" and "health and wellbeing" includes "thinking about what you eat". Prospective tenants have been told: "We will look at the progress you have made with your HAP when we consider the renewal of your tenancy at the end of the seven year fixed period".Am I on my own in thinking this is just about the most insulting, patronising  and quite possibly illegal load of rubbish. When did being a tenant in social housing entitle any landlord to rule an individual's life? How bloody dare they? There just has to be a contravention of Human Rights here, who do these people think they are? In the same paper is a letter from someone commenting on a piece by Amol Rajan about "the "Etonisation of the Tories": the whole political class is being discreetly stuffed with officer-class people, resulting in the shrinking of our remaining pretensions to democracy. We are just going backwards, fast. Maybe the subjugation of the common stock of the UK will be achieved by the same Eton upon whose playing fields the First World War was won, because most surely, war has been declared by them, against us." Judging by events in Somerset that correspondent isn't far wrong...........

Vanessa Smith ● 4485d8 Comments ● 4479d

Kew Village Market - Sunday 5th May

Presents perfect!It’s the May Day weekend so there’s bound to be a special holiday air about Kew Village Market this Sunday 5th May! Of course all your favourite food stalls will be there so you can enjoy a taste of the seaside from the Portland Scallop Company, fantastic flavours of the Mediterranean from Thee Olive Tree, or gorgeous goat’s milk cheeses from Nut Knowle Farm.While our food stalls remain regular our craft content changes with each market – and this month we’re particularly pleased with the quality and range of hand-made originals on offer. If you’re looking for a gift for someone special or simply to treat yourself, don’t miss Kew Market this Sunday!If your taste in jewellery is for natural materials with a contemporary edge, Victorious Bee is for you. They’re launching their new Spring/Summer collection at Kew Market, featuring semi-precious stones in bright, tropical colours with notes of silver or gold vermeil. Or you might be tempted byHoneypot Beads – unique beaded and glass jewellery ranging from pendants to earrings to mobile phone charms.If you’ve a wedding in the offing you’ll be stopping at Camilla Spaven Millinery  – her vintage-inspired hand-made hats with a modern twist are wonderfully wearable works of art. As well as summer hats and headpieces for the guests Milly offers a bridal range and a bespoke service.Perhaps you’re looking for a wedding present? Charlie Bale Textiles has lovely fabric gifts for the home – embroidered cushions, garlands, decorations and much more. At Board n Bread Alan Voysey uses recycled wood to make solid oak cutting boards, cheese board and serving platters, and is happy to personalise presents.  And Jo Beckett’s ceramics would always be welcome: simple shapes in subtle colours with interesting textures, they’re not just beautiful but really useful – all her pieces are both dishwasher and microwave safe (and how often can you say that about hand-made pottery?).Sarah-Jane Hemsley’s service is just as beautiful and useful: at SJ Upholstery she breathes new life into tired furniture, restoring and re-upholstering antique, mid-century and modern chairs, picking the perfect fabric – from designer to original vintage finds – to complement the piece.Finally Botanic Health Care can reach the parts other stalls cannot reach, providing natural products to look after your body inside and out. Their three skincare ranges include therapeutic products to alleviate skin problems.Find a list of all Sunday’s stallholders on www.kewvillagemarket.org and be sure to join us in time for live music from King Ralph at 11:30 and 12:30.

Hilde Bysheim ● 4479d0 Comments ● 4479d

Twickenham Road junctions - CCF please give TfL a kick up the rear !

I know CCF will pick this up at some point - any chance of a further word with TfL regarding the traffic light sequencing at both Busch Corner junction and also the Mogden Lane/Twickenham Road junction.At Mogden Lane/Twickenham Road, the sequence for drivers heading northbound towards Isleworth from the A316 simply isn't long enough.  There's a absurdly (given the relatively light amount of vehicles doing so) long period for drivers heading southwards to turn right using the filter, but northbound the sequence is absurdly short and increasingly traffic is queuing back towards the A316.  This particularly hasn't been helped by the recent opening of TK Maxx on the retail park.  Very easily resolved, simply shorten the time allocated to the right filter heading south and restore that time to the northbound traffic.As for Busch Corner, the right filter from Twickenham Road onto London Road towards Brentford remains absurd.  3 times out of 4 sequences that right filter will last long enough to let 4 or 5 cars through.  At rush hour with the bus lane along Twickenham Road in operation it is creating havoc.  Drivers going straight on at the junction either end up complying the rules and then having to queue for ages in the right lane before rejoining the left lane when the bus lane ends.  Any poor 267 driver regularly ends up blocking both lanes of traffic.  Many drivers (myself included) have resorted to rat-running through Teasdale Gardens or Teasdale Avenue and then turning right onto London Road because it's much quicker.  That junction approach from the south has been a farce ever since TfL changed the phasing last summer.Thanks,Adam

Adam Beamish ● 4531d14 Comments ● 4488d

Re Mentoring/Befrienders for former Remploy staff

May I take this opportunity to introduce myself. I am a Regional Attraction Specialist for Equal Approach.Currently Equal Approach are working on a project with the Mentoring and Befriending Foundation and Remploy called Mentoring for Success. The sole purpose of this programme is to find Mentors/Befrienders for ex-Remploy staff who have recently been made redundant. Remploy’s mission is to transform the lives of disabled people and those who experience complex barriers to work by providing sustainable employment opportunities, either within their own factories or by helping individuals into work with outside organisations. It was established in 1945 under the terms of the Disabled Persons (Employment) Act 1944, and opened its first factory in Bridgend, Wales, in 1946.Following a review, a number of factories across the country have been closed and the staff made redundant, including the factory in North Acton. Due to the barriers to work faced by Remploy employees not only did they reside locally in the London Borough of Ealing but many of them commuted from other boroughs including Brent, Harrow, Hounslow, Westminster and Wandsworth.Across the country Mentoring for Success is currently of the biggest volunteer programmes in operation and it offers individuals the opportunity to do something practical for the former Remploy staff members whilst receiving training and learning a new skill.This voluntary role is for 1-2 hours a week over a period of 6-18 months. Each mentee will have different things they want to get out of the relationship and this may include the mentor providing support and guidance in finding another job or just being somebody independent to talk to. Full training will of course be provided and ongoing support from a Regional Co-ordinator through the length of the relationship. Expenses will also be contributed to.Please visit http://www.equalapproach.com/mentoring.php for further information.

Gary Draycott ● 4495d0 Comments ● 4495d

Kew Village Market - Sunday 7th April

‘The hidden gem’That’s how the Mayor of Richmond, Rita Palmer, a great supporter, described Kew Village Market last month. She went on to say: ‘Of course it’s becoming known much wider afield because of its wonderful atmosphere and quality foods and crafts. I feel proud to be part of its success!’ she added. It’s a feeling echoed by all the organisers, especially when looking back. The market is so right for Kew it seems as though it’s always been there – but in fact it only came into being a year and a half ago. Many of the stallholders who made the leap of faith to take part in the very first Kew Village Market have become its seasoned regulars and will be with us as usual this Sunday, 7th April. If, like the Mayor, you’ll be shopping for your Sunday lunch, you can take your pick of seasonal lamb and rose veal from C&S Stileman or British Lop pork from Noggin Farm (now also selling eggs). Select your week’s vegetables from Beech Hill Farm, with perhaps some Howgate Wonders for an apple crumble, and be spoilt for choice at Norbiton Cheese. Treat yourself to a flavour of A Cena with something savoury from The Food on the Hill, partner of the acclaimed Richmond restaurant, or to Indian delicacies from Kew favourite The Curry Garden. Sample the best of British beer from Real Ale Ltd and pick up a speciality loaf or two from Ruben’s Bakehouse (whose stall at Kew Market has been such a success he’s opened a shop in Twickenham). If your craving is cake-shaped, Sugar Maddy is a must, or you can stop at The Original Maids of Honour for a whole range of beautiful bakes. Discover the wonders of linseed at Flax Farm and tuck into very moreish spicy nibbles at Nutty Lady Ltd. And if you’re in the market for a gift, don’t miss Holly Francesca’s original artwork and home accessories or Becky Harris’s unique yet  affordable jewellery. Since all the above first set up their stalls in Station Parade, the market has nearly doubled in size – you can find a full list of this month’s stalls on www.kewvillagemarket.org. We’re grateful to all our stallholders (and indeed our customers) who make the market what it is – but special thanks this month to our pioneers! Looking forward to seeing you this Sunday, 7th April, 10am to 2pm!

Hilde Bysheim ● 4506d0 Comments ● 4506d

April fools

Great post on the Chiswick's W4 siteBrentford and QPR could share new 60,000 capacity groundLatest ChiswickW4.com NewsClub Merger Could Triple Size of Lionel Road StadiumA Clean Sweep for the Dark BluesChiswick Postmistress Sent to the TowerIt's the Tabard What Dun It - Again!Chiswick's Cafe Culture Attracts Foreign Buyers ParticipateSign up for our free weekly newsletter Comment on this story on the forumThe football world is set to be rocked today with an announcement about a merger between two of West London's clubs. Brentford F.C. and Queens Park Rangers are believed to be in advanced stages of discussions about a deal which will see the two clubs come under the ownership of the same company to make their new home in a 60,000 seat stadium at the Lionel Road site. Computer graphic of new stadiumBrentford FC are believed to be taken aback by the negative reaction to the enabling development which was to provide them with the funds to build a new ground at Lionel Road. The massive commercial and residential development would see ten new tower blocks of up to 14 storeys high built on the border of Chiswick and Brentford.Under the arrangement with QPR and a consortium of oil-rich backers the plans are now to be drastically overhauled with the stadium tripling in size to accommodate top flight football but the surrounding development to be much smaller in scale.One reason for Brentford to consider the offer from QPR is that extra funding will be available for the ground allowing a larger stadium to be built and reducing the size of the surrounding development making planning permission more likely. The source of the extra capital has not been revealed but speculation is rife that Qatari investor Yuran Ap Rilful is backing the scheme.Current development would dominate the sky line in West ChiswickNew FA regulations are to be introduced to allow a club in the lower leagues to be under the same ownership as a premier league club and that team to operate as a feeder club for the team in the higher division. This system operates in Spain and the football authorities believe it will add to the financial stability of teams in the lower league and ensure that the top young talent with the top clubs get regular competitive football.QPR have been unsuccessful in their attempt to secure a site for their own ground and have concluded that Lionel Road would provide the only option. Sources close to the deal say that the Loftus Road based club were so desperate to agree to the deal that they agreed to many of Brentford's demands including changing their name to Griffin Rangers. In a huge gamble for the club they have also accepted that may have to drop down two divisions at the end of this season. The league rules stipulate that two teams under the same ownership cannot play in the same division so if Brentford were promoted from League One and QPR were relegated from the Premier League it would be Brentford that would play in the higher division under the terms of the deal. QPR's higher paid players like Ji Sung Park, Abdel Taarabt and Christopher Samba would move to Brentford while players like Shaun Derry and Clint Hill would probably stay along with Harry Redknapp with a team which would effectively be the Bees' B's.The literally incredible idea would be to create a new West London super club funded by oil money capable of challenging for top European honours. Spokeswomen for the consortium backing the deal, Avril Amadan said, “We want Brentford to be playing Barcelona rather than Barnet. We see them in the Champions League within three years.”They believe that a fan base big enough to attract a crowd big enough to fill the stadium will be easy to establish. Ms. Amadan said, “Recent events has shown that the position of a Russian oligarch isn't always stable and if Roman Abramovitch was to fall out of favour and no longer able to financially back Chelsea and they stopped being good, lots of their fans would be looking for a new team to support.”It is understood that QPR had previously talked with Fulham FC about a similar arrangement and possible merger. Negotiations progressed as far as a short list of names for the new team which included the Craven Queens and the Bush Cottagers but Mohammed Al Fayed refused to budge on joint ownership of the Michael Jackson statue.The consortium have dismissed concerns about transport infrastructure pointing out that there is a regular train to Kew Bridge and the 237, 267 and 391 buses go past the site. Under a green travel plan that will support their planning application they will have a scheme in which visiting supporters will be encouraged to ‘park and ride' by leaving their cars or coaches in the Grove Park area of Chiswick where there is currently no residents' parking zone.April 1, 2013

Kevin Farnan ● 4511d0 Comments ● 4511d

Brentford becoming Croydon?

I do hate the phrase ‘Landmark development’ used so frequently by the developers battling to build ever more high-rise buildings in Brentford.  ‘Landmark development’ is quite literally ‘buildings big enough to be used as landmarks’.  Those 1960’s concrete council tower blocks are landmarks, but not exactly one the council can be proud about.  And interestingly, on discovering quite how ugly they were after they had been built, the council rightly said these towers could not be used as a precedent for further tall buildings.  However every single developer points to them as setting the precedent for Brentford going high rise.Landmark developments stick out like a sore thumbs amidst the low rise Victorian and Edwardian property that is the real Brentford.  According to the article on the Lionel Road development, ‘If all the schemes with consent in Brentford were fully built and occupied, the population of Brentford would increase by over 40%’.  That’s just the schemes that already have consent!!  How many sore thumbs do we actually want?If you take a look at the artists image of the Lionel Road development you’ll see some of the games developers play to get these landmark developments past council planners: The artists image is taken at a considerable distance from the buildings to downplay their sheer bulk, the Victorian water tower is included in the foreground to dominate the image and draw your eye from the proposal, the Jet petrol station is prominent to subconsciously increase the rundown feel of an area needing new life, there are absolutely no Victorian or Edwardian houses of Brentford proper to be seen, and there are only 2 cars on the road – even though 950 more flats will increase the car population of Brentford by oh about 950 cars!This high rise Croydonisation of Brentford is getting out of control and transforming a low rise borough into a Landmark of vulgarity and monstrosity.

Lorne Gifford ● 4515d6 Comments ● 4512d

Brentford FC. Football club or property developer?

It's a huge conundrum.The club I have been a supporter of since 1963. All the years of faded glory, dashed aspirations, and almost success.  But all the same, the club I follow and watch above all others.Anyone who follows Brentford knows Griffin Park is far from perfect, but the ground is known far more widely than ought to be by the proximity of the four pubs on each corner. Unique in world football.The ground is a firmly rooted site for fans and one of the season highlights for visiting fans.It's not Stamford Bridge, but it is arguably better than Craven Cottage.But now it's a dilemma. Is the club now a football club or a property developer?As a resident, like most around here, we tolerate the hustle and bustle of matchdays, the cars, the noise and the crowds. and in years gone by, the agro.But it is what keeps this long neglected town alive and vibrant and keeps alive it's industrial and social past. It's been here as long as most of the streets around it, and if you don't like it, well go live somewhere else, it wasn't imposed out of the blue like some of the other stuff appearing around hereIf Brentford FC have to move then I, as with most, am (or was) delighted that the new site is just a mile away and still in Brentford.  Like the Watermans, move it out of it's spiritual home and it risks terminal decline.But all around this town are ill-designed and overblown luxury developments. Housing for the investors and the wealthy. Nothing of quality nor affordable. It is sprouting up and looming, almost surrounding the old town and bringing no benefits, just a long list of problems and burdens to the inhabitants and community of Brentford.The proposed development by the football club just adds to that and if granted will just give a green light to all the other developers who are queuing up to turn the riverside town into a hi-rise metropolis.It is flawed, badly flawed, and I suspect nothing more than a quick revision of the former site owners proposals which probably would not have got approved. For a medium to large stadium to have almost no parking is a recipe for failure. If fans were going to come to Brentford en masse by train they already would. South Ealing is a 5 to 10 min bus ride and a 15 min walk. Brentford just 5 mins away, 7 bus routes ranging from 30 seconds to 5 mins away as well.But most Championship and league One sides are not connected by these lines. Brentford and Gunnersbury are on Branch lines and not connected to the mainlines to the north, east and west of the country. Fans will still only come by car and coach.The complete lack of open space, health, education and all the other facilities to facilitate a harmonious and decent quality of life for inhabitants is totally devoid, not just in this scheme but in all the others. In fact, the whole place is already beyond breaking point and cannot deliver quality anything.Yet our elected councillors it seems, regardless of party colours cannot or will not make any sort of stand to accommodate this. In fact they are almost doing the opposite and letting things roll. How they can keep approving luxury developments and yet approve piddly little token projects under affordable of shared partnerships seems completely inconsistent or incompetent.These proposed developments are way too high,way too dense and too convoluted to be justify a benefit to simply the football club's well being. At the expense of the people of Brentford?  The very same people who have been the backbone of the club to this very day?It is perplexing, I want the club to be successful, but primarily on the pitch. but not successful to the detriment of Brentford the town.

Anthony Waller ● 4515d5 Comments ● 4514d

Be very careful

Wednesday (27 March) at approximately 11:20 hrs Scruffy White heavy built male ( height approx 5' 8) aged 30/40 ish rang my doorbell and when I opened the front door he asked to leave a card through my letterbox?!  I said ok and closed the door.  About 5 mins later I left the house and I passed 3 white males standing on the corner of Whitestile/Enfield Road.  I then crossed the road and went to the shop and then went to talk to a neighbour to tell him about these guys. The 3 men started walking down Enfield Road and into Avenue Road. I  later learned that whilst I was at the shop that the same man returned to ring my door bell.  My partner answered (thinking that I had forgotten something) and there was the same man who mumbled something along the lines "forgot to leave you our leaflet"!  I think he had seen me leave the house and was just checking to see if anyone else was in!  The 2nd man was slightly smaller than the 1st and a bit tubby too, similar age.  The 3rd one was approximately 5'11, slim, ruddy complexion, with either scratches or sores on his left cheek, age 45/50 ish. Their 'calling card' looked impressive - well laid out with good copy and photo work, even an office number to lend an air of authenticity. I checked the office and I think it is a automated tele marketing number, so they will never answer it. You will just get a recorded message and you cannot leave a message so therefore you have to use their mobile number after all!  No contact address for the office of course.Maybe these guys were just checking who's away for the Easter Holidays - so please be careful.

Mari Austin ● 4516d2 Comments ● 4515d

Brentford Police Station Closing, Chiswick scaled back

The Met is proposing that Hounslow Police station will be the borough's only 24/7 station, with Chiswick scaled back to 9-5 weekdays and Brentford closed completely. All as part of the Mayor of London’s  20% budget cuts. What do readers think?The Met are saying the public can meet the police in cafes, supermarkets and Council offices. However there is no detail about this, and when questioned about the scale and permanence of alternatives at the consultation meeting in Hounslow on 9th February, Stephen Greenhalgh could give no details.  Queues are already long at police counters, but perhaps more importantly, they provide safe space for the public - with an outer waiting area, going through to a separate space at the counter, protecting people from the waiting area.  This is particularly valuable for those in fear of attack when reporting crime to the police.  I cannot see how this can easily be replicated in shops and supermarkets.  Most shops are very tight for space, and supermarkets need flexibility in their space and may be reluctant to cover the cost.  The Council doesn't have suitable premises in the Brentford area but will of course be willing to discuss with the Council - no approach has been received yet.I have little faith that the current consultation is actually about "bringing the police to the people", and has everything to do with scaling back the "front of house" to the bare minimum service - with resulting increase in un-reported crime.

Ruth Cadbury ● 4553d15 Comments ● 4515d

Public Inquiry at Lampton Road - what are Hounslow’s Legal & Planning departments up to?

Publicity has been given recently to the struggle through to the higher courts of the land, for one small boater to retain the rights to continue a long-held [150 years +] tradition of mooring to the banks of the ancient river Brent. It is now possible to reveal the role that Hounslow Council has taken, in seeking to circumvent the Appeal Court rulings against the Canal & River Trust [CART].During preparations for my appeal to the Royal Courts of Justice [against the eviction notices that the predecessors of the Canal & River Trust had served on my boats], I had applied to Hounslow Council for a “Lawful Use Certificate” for the mooring of my boats. This is a certificate that Local Planning Authorities [LPA’s] are obliged to issue upon application, if the “use” applied for does not require planning permission, or alternatively has been carried on for at least 10 years.The purpose of the application had its roots in the 2012 judgment by Mr Justice Hildyard of the High Court [recently discredited and set aside], to the effect that I had to produce evidence of some positive right to moor, if I wished to escape the waterways authority’s accusation that the boats were moored “without lawful authority”.Mindful that such a certificate alone would have sufficed to pre-empt any action on their s.8 Notices, the Canal & River Trust acted to persuade Hounslow Council against issuing the certificate before the then pending trial took place. In submitting a 4 page set of arguments for the Council planning officer to use, they requested that their submission be “treated sensitively”. It is to the eternal discredit of the Planning AND Legal departments of Hounslow Council that they interpreted this as a request that the submissions be kept secret from the applicant – and that they unlawfully acted in accordance with that understanding. The upshot was that they refused to disclose the content or even the tenor of the submission against the application, and unilaterally, in defiance of the regulations governing their conduct, refused the application after long months of delay, without any chance given to the applicant to answer points at issue. Having subsequently goaded the legal department into first producing the submissions and then having a face-to-face meeting, the advice was taken to prepare a second and simpler application requiring no evidence of use at all. Once again, CART intervened effectively, and protracted processes were claimed to be unavoidable so that the date for production of the Certificate in time for the Appeal came and went, and I consequently withdrew that second application.The Planning Inspectorate [PINS] appeal having been lodged, CART once again repeated their objections online, and the Council’s position in regard to the appeal hardened – moving from the claimed readiness to concede that a certificate would be granted, to a reversion to the original discredited claims for the unlawful status of the moorings.In short, instead of simply conceding the facts that they had been presented with, the Council dug in their heels and procured the services of a high-powered barrister – who, last Tuesday 12th March, had to leave home at 0630 hours to force her way out through the snow-bound roads of Kent, to reach the Civic Centre in time for the Public Inquiry. How many thousands of pounds of council tax payers money were spent on this fruitless exercise will probably never be known – but the barrister came primed by CART with extraordinary [and ordinarily persuasive] arguments against the lawfulness of the moorings.Faced with a few blunt truths that she apparently had been kept in ignorance of, the barrister made a brave attempt at mitigating the situation for the Council – but they were intransigent about backing off, and so in the end, we spent a day arguing over whether some pot plants had been in place for more than 10 years or not.That utterly ludicrous situation was where we ended up despite my pleas to the planning committee to intervene, and despite promises from the planning chairman Theo Dennison to investigate the situation, months before we ended up in this farce.Why the Council acted so unlawfully in support of an old enemy [British Waterways, now CART] in so intransigent a fashion, and why the planning committee should have supported such unlawful behaviour, is frankly incomprehensible. Even less understandable is how the legal department could be so utterly debauched as to have not only encouraged such unlawful behaviour but urged defence of the indefensible as they did – at such cost to the taxpayer. Is it not about time that some serious independent investigation into the Council was carried out? The Council’s salaried officers are evidently a law unto themselves, and our elected officers are pusillanimously powerless before them. Is that a state of affairs we should be content with? "Yes Prime Minister" is reality not fiction, and such farce is amusing only on the TV screen.

Nigel Moore ● 4526d11 Comments ● 4519d

Thinking of buying a Kindle

I purchased my first Kindle in October 2010. I successfully mastered how to send my word docs to it, and have ever since been busy downloading various documents/stories etc. from the internet to my PC where I copy and paste into Word,  I then top and tale the document, change the font and size that I like and then send them to my Kindle using its email address. This has been highly successful. I should also tell you that there are many sites on the Internet where you can find free books, usually those out of copyright. That being said there is a site called “Calibre” which has a library  available of many thousands of books, even some well know authors such as Cussler,  Vince Flynn, Daniel Slva, Lee Child, David Baldicci, Nora Roberts and Stuart Woods to name but a few. For more just Google “Free ebooks” Now this sounded all wonderful, and I use my Kindle on my extensive cruises. After the first year of my first Kindle in October 2011, I found that it closed down and had to be rebooted. I rang the 800 number and was sent a replacement machine, as it was just within the 12 month warranty. The second kindle lasted until January 2013, 15 months. So when I called again to complain, I was told I could have a replacement kindle at a reduced price if I was to return the faulty one. This I did and I now have a Kindle Touch, for which I was charged just over $50.I cannot speak to highly of their after sales service and the helpful operators who will assist you if you have any queries.I also discovered that I might have been the cause of the breakdowns of the unit, in that I used to be very lazy and when I had finished a session of reading, I just used to close it and touch the slide switch when I wanted to re-use t. A friend who is somewhat of a computer guru suggested  that if I had bothered to totally shut the machine down after each use I would probably have got a lot longer battery life out of the machine, so this what I am now doing. That being said I have my own suspicions that it might be caused by having it Xayed, every time you board a flight or Ship, as the shut downs usually started to occur after several Xrays. This was not supported by the people at Kindle Help Line.That being said if after a year it fails again, I would definitely buy another one, this has been the greatest innovation for me in being able to read and take hundreds of books with me on the bus, tube , train, flying and cruising.

Philip Weaver ● 4548d0 Comments ● 4548d

Pensioners body lay undiscovered for 6 months

Further to my appeal for help on Jan 30th in Ealing Today news letter I was hoping that somebody may be able to offer me some advice on what I could do?Pensioner's Body Lay Undiscovered for Six MonthsFamily seek help in mystery of Betty Walsh Related Links Betty (on left) with her brother John and sister-in-law May taken several years ago.In the photo Betty's hair is dyed dark red, but may well have greyed.ActonW3.com, ChiswickW4.com and EalingToday.co.uk ParticipateComment on this story on the forum The decomposing body of a 76 year old woman lay for six months under a pile of post at her run-down property in Southall.The family of Betty Walsh travelled to Ealing from Ireland in November 2011 concerned they had not heard from her for some time.They made the grim discovery when police broke into the near derelict house on Lyndhurst Avenue.A coroner's report said the body was 'in an advance state of decomposition of mummification type.. which is not inconsistent with a perceived post mortem interval of six months.' The cause of death was unascertained and, at the inquest in May last year, the verdict was left open although it's not thought she died in suspicious circumstances. The house had broken windows and no heating or running water and neighbours said they didn't think anybody lived there.Her family believe she may have only used it as a mail collection point and didn't find any of her personal belongings.Last February the Coroner issued an appeal for anyone who might have known Betty, or knew where she may have otherwise lived, but there were no leads and her family have now contacted us for help.It's thought she once owned a property in Chiswick, but there are no details, nor of the will that she is thought to have made in the UK.Caroline Walsh from County Kildare says her Great Aunt may have led some sort of double life and she wants to solve the puzzle. She says it's a total tragedy that her life ended in this way:''Despite my efforts I have found no information on her at all e.g medical history. There were no personal belongings in this house which leads me to believe she did live somewhere else. She had been a state registered nurse and was a very caring woman, somebody must know this lady and I am very eager to try find out how this happened.'' Can you help? If you can please contact the editor30th January 2013

Caroline Walsh ● 4563d7 Comments ● 4555d

Disruption to London Underground & Overground and South West Trains services this weekend (9-10 Feb

Disruption to London Underground & Overground and South West Trains services this weekend (9-10 February)Due to planned engineering work this weekend (9-10 February) the following services operating within Hounslow borough will be affected:District Line:There is no service this weekend between West Kensington and Ealing Broadway/Richmond while London Underground carries out track replacement work at Turnham Green.Piccadilly Line:There is no service this weekend between Hammersmith and Northfields/Uxbridge while London Underground carries out track replacement work at Turnham Green. Passengers from the W4 and TW8 areas who wish to travel to Heathrow this weekend should take the E2 or E3 to Northfields station, the 195 or E8 to Boston Manor station, the H91 to Osterley station or replacement bus service A from Chiswick Park/Turnham Green to Northfields. Rail Replacement Buses:The replacement buses for this closure are:Service A: Northfields - Ealing Broadway - Ealing Common - Acton Town - Gunnersbury - Chiswick Park - Turnham Green - Stamford Brook - Ravenscourt Park - HammersmithService B: Ealing Broadway - Boston ManorService C: Boston Manor - HammersmithService D: Richmond - Kew Gardens - Gunnersbury - Chiswick Park - Turnham Green -Stamford Brook - Ravenscourt Park - HammersmithService E: Acton Town - Ealing Common - North Ealing - Hanger Lane (for Park Royal and the Central line) - Alperton - Sudbury Town - Sudbury Hill - South Harrow - Rayners Lane.London Overground: There is no service this weekend between Richmond and Willesden Junction. Valid rail tickets will be accepted on rail replacement buses which will serve Richmond, Kew Gardens (bus stops in Kew Road), Gunnersbury, South Acton, Acton Central, Willesden Junction.South West Trains:Engineering work will take place between New Malden and Twickenham / Shepperton on Sunday 10 February.Trains between London Waterloo and Windsor and Eton Riverside will start / terminate at Staines, but call additionally at Queenstown Road, Wandsworth Town, Barnes, Mortlake, North Sheen and St Margarets - services from London Waterloo towards Windsor & Eton Riverside may run earlier than normal.  This information has been obtained from the TfL and Southwest Trains websites.  No responsibility will be taken by the Borough for its accuracy.Other London Underground and SWT services outside Hounslow borough will also be affected by track work this weekend. For more information:  www.tfl.gov.uk and www.southwesttrains.co.uk

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4564d0 Comments ● 4564d

Watermans out of touch?

Having read the message to patrons and the piece on TW8 I am beginning to feel that Watermans has become out of touch with both reality and it's paying clientele.Moving to a new site, even in Brentford, won't make it better. If it ends up in the ghastly proposed site along the hight street it will be bankrupt, dead and gone forever in no time.I wonder if any of the committee, management or friends actually live in Brentford. Unless it's the deep cushioned haven of the Butts.If they did they will know that almost all the new developments that currently exist are ghost estates with business/retail units that are completely non viable as going concerns. Brentford is a long non radial town and the existing site is perfect for a more arts orientated patronage from both Ealing and Richmond.That will be lost in an instant.For most in Brentford, it is not more than a 15 min walk ( with the exception of the Boston Manor part.)Now they must be on a deathwish. The last USP for getting bums on seats. - Free parking is to be abolished in exchange for a 'policed' car park.It will make no difference, the car park has been bandit territory for decades and everyone will continue to park where they always park, around Brook Roads streets.They must be daft. But also deluded. It could be years before they move and no way should they move unless the alternative site beats the pant's off the existing one - which is a classic example of Hounslow's architectural pedigree which endures to this day!Free Parking is a banner that even Hounslow council has recognised as a lifeline for ailing commerce. They have it and want to ditch it when no-one will use it anyway. How do they think they will attract people to use it? They blame the Olympics for a dismal summer. What about the dismal weather? Perfect for indoor activities. But the list of films this summer was dismal as was the events arranged.Dull and lacklustre. More to do with a mentality of Art School highbrow intellectualism than running an all embracing art centre.At least after months of denials and silence we know that are planning to move but to what? A Potting shed or the few remaining garages?Myopic and Naive....yet again.

Anthony Waller ● 4600d68 Comments ● 4567d

Kew Village Market - Sunday 3rd Feb

Welcome back to Kew Village Market this Sunday – the first of 2013!And how about making a New Year’s Resolution to skip the supermarket on market weekends and do all your food shopping here? Look up http://www.kewvillagemarket.org/stalls-this-month/ for a complete list of this month’s traders (26 food stalls and 5 craft stalls), though here are a few ideas to start your shopping list…As well as bagging the very best bacon and bangers from Noggin Farm, why not stop by at Winterbourne Game to pick up pheasant or partridge, which will soon be out of season? If you’re not sure how best to cook them, Chris or Kate will be happy to help. The Portland Scallop Co has quickly become a Kew favourite: as well as his usual wet fish and shellfish (scallops to die for!) Jamie Wright is hoping to have turbot or brill this month. Add vegetables and fruit (especially English apples and pears) from Beech Hill Farm and artisan bread from Ruben’s Bakehouse and that’s your food shopping – job done! But then there’s cheese and special olive oil, all manner of yummy sweets and deli treats and terrific takeaways – better make that two shopping baskets…We’d also like to welcome some new-to-Kew stalls this month: try Nochia’s fabulous flavoursome African stews, the melt-in-the-mouth makings of Madame Macaroon and the moreish cookies from Fidelma’s Kitchen. On the craft side, Atelier Chokerbali offers unique pieces from a French jeweller who’s recently moved here from France; and Larkspur of Kew has the prettiest little girls’ ‘Sunday best’ dresses, all lovingly hand made.Talking of handmade, don’t forget to stop at the Kew Village Market Stall for the preserve of the month – your choice of Seville Orange or Lemon Marmalade to brighten breakfast till the next market!As always the Market takes place in front of Kew Gardens station between 10am and 2pm, the first Sunday of the month.

Hilde Bysheim ● 4570d4 Comments ● 4569d

Snow Alert!  Friday 18 January:  Southwest Trains changes

From SW Trains website:Changes to South West Trains services on Friday 18 JanuaryDescriptionHeavy snowfall is forecast to affect parts of England, Scotland and Wales during Friday 18 JanuaryAs a precaution, South West Trains will run an amended timetable on Friday 18 January, with changes on many routes as shown below.  The Journey Planner will be updated with this information later today but in the meantime, timetables can be obtained from this linkThe following routes will be closed:•Ascot to Ash Vale•Hounslow to Whitton•Leatherhead to Effingham Junction•Virginia Water to WeybridgeAll other routes will be open but the following South West Trains managed stations will not be provided with a train service:•Addlestone•Bagshot•Beaulieu Road•Bookham (Southern will provide a limited service to and from this station)•Camberley•Chertsey•Frimley•LongcrossThe following stations will not receive a South West Trains service but will be provided with a service by First Great Western:•Bath Spa•Bradford-on –Avon•Bristol Temple Meads•Trowbridge•Warminster•WestburyTwitter hashtag: #uksnowFor the latest rail travel news, why not follow National Rail Enquiries on Twitter, or find us on Facebook.Routes AffectedMost South West Trains routes+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++NB:  This information has been obtained from the Southwest Trains websites  No responsibility will be taken by the Borough for its accuracy.For more information:  www.southwesttrains.co.uk

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4586d1 Comments ● 4583d

Disruption to Tube, Overground and SW Trains this weekend (19-20 Jan)

Disruption to London Underground, Overground and Southwest Trains services this weekend (19-20 January)Due to planned engineering work this weekend (19-20 January) the following services will be affected:District line:There is no service this weekend between West Kensington and Acton Town/Richmond. Piccadilly line:There is no service this weekend between Hammersmith and Acton Town/Ealing Common, and no service between Rayners Lane and Uxbridge.NB:  To travel between Central London and Heathrow Airport: take the Central line to Ealing Broadway, change there for the District line to Acton Town and connect with the Piccadilly line to Heathrow.. To travel between Heathrow Airport and Central London, take the Piccadilly line to Acton Town, change to the District line to Ealing Broadway and connect with the Central line. This journey is step-free between Heathrow and Ealing Broadway in both directions.London Overground: There is no service this weekend between Willesden Junction and Richmond.Rail Replacement Buses:Service A: Richmond - Kew Gardens - Gunnersbury - Chiswick Park - Turnham Green - Stamford Brook - Ravenscourt Park - Hammersmith.Service B: Acton Town - Gunnersbury - Chiswick Park - Turnham Green - Stamford Brook - Ravenscourt Park - Hammersmith.Service C: Acton Town - Hammersmith.Southwest Trains:Due to engineering work between Twickenham and Hounslow / Virginia Water on Sunday 20 January, the following changes will apply:Buses replace trains between Twickenham / Hounslow and Virginia WaterOne train an hour will run between London Waterloo and Reading via Wimbledon and WeybridgeOne train an hour will run between Weybridge and Reading, calling at Addlestone and ChertseyA revised train service will run to / from Kingston, connecting at Twickenham with replacement buses One train an hour will run between London Waterloo and Hounslow, connecting with a replacement buses to Virginia WaterReplacement buses will run between Twickenham and Virginia Water, also between Twickenham and Windsor & Eton RiversideTrains between Ascot and Guildford will be revised to connect at Ascot with the amended Reading trains.This information has been obtained from the TfL and Southwest Trains websites.  No responsibility will be taken by the Borough for its accuracy.For more information:  www.tfl.gov.uk and www.southwesttrains.co.uk

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4586d0 Comments ● 4586d

Brook Rd Sth development may risk flooding

I have just been shown a set of letters and drawings from another resident who has been concerned about the proposed developments at council garage sites in Brook Road and Lateward road.It appears that a series of flood relief vessels exist at both sites and under the road at another site, and are located to prevent breaches of the underground brook that runs to the Thames.Speaking to an elderly neighbour tonight, she recalls Brook road flooding regularly as well as torrents flooding Grosvenor Road and Lateward road as well as St Pauls rec being regularly waterlogged in the north east corner. She recalls this occuring as late as 1973 and the then Metropolitan water board making a lot of excavations to remedy the problem.It seems that the MWB was in transition to the TWA and records do not seem to exist in clarity nor do they seem to exist at all at L B Hounslow. We already know that the planning officers had not identified the Electricity sub-station at one of the sites and failed to inform   councillors voting on the development permissions.The developments will pose a risk to all the local properties as these flood protections will have to be removed for building to take place.It seems too, that the councils developer partner expects the sites to be pre build prepared at the expense of the authority.Does anyone who has lived here for a long time have any recollection of the flooding problem and when the remedial works were carried out?This could have many implications as it will cause issues with insurance, property values and above all risk of flooding during storms.

Anthony Waller ● 4657d33 Comments ● 4609d

Scout Bazaar - Saturday 17th November - Isleworth & Syon School  TW7 5LJ - 1.45pm

The Autumn bazaar for 1st Osterley Scouts is here again, chaps!  This is the 62nd annual bazaar held by the local group and is to be held at Isleworth & Syon School Ridgeway Road Isleworth TW7 5LJ at 1.45pm on Saturday 17th November 2012.Plenty of parking and easy access from the A4 to Ridgeway Road.A group of volunteers have been out collecting donations and sorting them ready for sale.  Everyone will be donating their time as volunteers and there will be many people from the local community helping out with the collecting, sorting, at the bazaar and afterwards to tidy up.  You will probably recognise many friends and neighbours helping out or bagging bargains, on the day.Collected items includeJewellery; books; bric a brac; childrens, mens and ladies jumble; hats; bags and belts; shoes; household goods; small electrical items; white elephant items; toys; fancy goods; furniture (small items only). There is also a raffle and a tombola stall.Should you have any donations these can still be dropped off at the school, early on the day of the bazaar, make sure you find a leader to agree to this and to tell you where items should go.1st Osterley are a local successful Scout Group, offering exciting activities based on the scout programme. The HQ is in the alley next to 63 Osterley Road, close to St Mary's Church. They get no central funding, and depend on income from termly subscriptions and fund raising events such as this bazaar.  They are always in need of more adult helpers and leaders and if you think you may be able to help please contact the Scout leader, Jane Bourne on 020 8758 9850.See you on Saturday!  Come along and bag a bargain! :-)

Sarah Felstead ● 4653d2 Comments ● 4613d

Opinions from Regeneration meeting 21 November 2012

I attended the meeting last night, and have been wondering what other people's views of how the meeting went were.  Mine:- I thought Andrew Dakers, and the woman from the Chamber of Commerce made some very valid points (particularly about our invisible town centre manager who says £1.3m has been spent on Brentford - maybe some of that could have been used to fund a full-time town centre manager to focus on Brentford and not Hounslow)- Hounslow Council were superb at avoiding answering any question.  Density of 198 hrh, when guidance says it should be 70-170 hrh for the size of and PTAL rating of the site....hmmmmm....Is it really conceivable that Ballymore, who have had meetings with the GLA (who apparently are happy with the density figures), and who will have spent somewhere between £500,000 - £750,000 to have got the planning application to the to a point of detailed and outline design stage (not to mention the maquette of the proposed development) will have done so without guidance and input from several Hounslow Council departments? According to the Senior Planning Officer at the meeting - that is what we are expected to believe.  When asked about the density, the reply given was that the council are yet to assess Ballymore's planning application. - I saw one of our local ward councillors there - Ruth Cadbury. I think the meeting was a good use of her time - which was spent working on her Ipad.  good on you Ruth.  At least our MP sat in the middle of the crowd, gave the appearance of actually listening etc,  and stood up and spoke. Not too impressed by our local ward councillors though.Be interested to read anyone else's thoughts on the meeting.

Andrea Hall ● 4642d23 Comments ● 4639d

Syon - Duchess Gate Access ?

Does anyone know the state of play with the footpath access into Syon Park from Duchess Gate ?I thought it was meant to be opened up in connection with the construction of the Waldorf Astoria. However it has always been closed when I have travelled along London Road. Yesterday I was in the park and saw a dedicated board at the Astoria end of the path which showed the opening times - but it was covered up with an old notice reading something like "Path closed - Construction Works". I couldn't see any obvious indication of work activity having taken place recently.Googling, I came across a Sustainable Development C'tee Proposal from 2003 which included:"...SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE  11 MARCH 2003Phase 1 – prior to hotel openingRestoration and re-opening of Duchess Gate for pedestrian use with an associatedpermissive footpath with hours to be agreed.3. Duchess Gate AccessThe report previously stated that ideally the gates should be open between 6am ordawn which ever is earlier until 6pm or dusk whichever is later. The DuchessGate is proposed to be open between the hours of 8am to 5:30pm from Novemberto February, 7am to 7:30pm during March, April, September and October, and7am to 9pm from May to August. This compares with the previous offer of 8-00am to 5-30pm. The proposed hours broadly comply with the hours sought andreflects the hours of daylight throughout the year particularly in the evening.Recommendation: This is considered to be acceptable"Any target date for opening ?

Tim Henderson ● 4708d36 Comments ● 4647d

Why will Hounslow Labour Group not stand by their colleague?

On another thread an individual poster, presuming to speak on behalf of the Hounslow Labour Group, made a nasty personal attack on Councillor Theo Dennison - elected ward member for Syon, Chair of the Planning Committee and until recently a member of the Cabinet.Amongst other things, he offered what purported to be an informed explanation for Councillor Dennison's demotion from the Cabinet.The individual concerned is not a member of the Hounslow Labour Group, not a councillor, not a resident of Hounslow and, depending upon whom one believes, maybe not even a member of the Labour Party.I asked at the time whether any member of the Hounslow Labour Group wished to disassociate themselves, and the Group, from the remarks.  Theo, as is his very honourable but irritating wont, responded in haste to defend his colleagues and to mitigate their lack of support for him by protesting that they never post on this forum (is this attributable to a medical condition?).Within minutes he was further undermined by a member of the Hounslow Labour Group, in fact a Cabinet member, who did indeed post on the forum, not to defend her colleague but to heap compliments upon the man who had abused him.  No disassociation by the Hounslow Labour Group was made from the comments posted by the non-councillor, non-resident and possible non-member.As a local resident and as a constituent of Councillor Dennison I would like to know whether my ward councillor is going to receive the support of his colleagues on this matter.  Or, if not, I would appreciate an explanation as to what power this non-resident wields over the local party which renders them unwilling to challenge a personal attack by him upon one of their own colleagues.

Phil Andrews ● 4695d20 Comments ● 4689d

Richmond Council to hold Referendum on Heathrow Expansion

Conservative-run Richmond Council is holding a referendum on the expansion of Heathrow Airport. It will be held before May next year and other west London councils will be encouraged to take part.The Council Leader, Councillor Nicholas True, said:“Richmond Council has again taken a united stance on an issue where people rightly expect us to put aside party bickering in local politics. We are all elected to fight for our residents - and there is no issue more important to them than this."I deeply regret that the nightmare vision of Heathrow expansion that had been so wisely laid to rest by our Coalition government has been resurrected. This time we must kill it off for good. As far as this Council is concerned it will be all-out war with the big money interests and slick-suited PR men peddling this foolish project. It is perfectly possible to deliver increased airport capacity in south-east England without expanding Heathrow. No-one in their right minds would consider building a new airport on the Heathrow site today - that must surely go for a new runway, too."Frankly, Richmond and other west London residents have had enough. They have patiently borne the scourge of Heathrow, with all the noise, pollution and risks, for decades. In 2010 they were given hope of permanent relief from expansion - they trusted the word of those who gave that promise and it should not be broken. "As their elected representatives we are not prepared to sit meekly and take incoming fire from the Heathrow lobby without giving our residents the chance to hit back and have their say. The proposed ballot will give the long-suffering people of west London an unprecedented opportunity to shout loud and clear to those that run the airport, and anyone inside government who may support them, that Londoners simply won’t take it. I hope that other boroughs will join us.”The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, added: “I warmly welcome the news of this ballot in Richmond. It is a positive step that people living in the vicinity of Heathrow and who would feel the impact of any expansion most acutely, are given an opportunity to have their opinions clearly heard. Londoners elected me on a platform of opposition to expansion at Heathrow and it is a mandate I am absolutely determined to defend. A third runway would mean more traffic, more noise, more pollution and a serious erosion in the quality of life for hundreds of thousands of people. We need to rule out this option once and for all and quickly take forward a bolder, longer term solution capable of supporting the needs of the capital, namely a new hub airport ideally to the east of London."Will Hounslow Council follow Richmond's example ?

David Giles ● 4692d16 Comments ● 4689d

Hounslow Community Fair this weekend (22 September)

In case anyone missed news of this elsewhere:Hounslow Community Fair this weekendHounslow Council is marking the borough’s fantastic summer of celebration this weekend with a unique community fair showcasing everything the borough has to offer.There’ll be plenty on offer at Hounslow Community Fair, which takes place this Saturday (22 September) in Lampton Park, with fun activities and entertainment including the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards 100ft Army assault course and paintballing gazebo; a display of police cars through the ages; funfair rides, arts and crafts stalls, magicians, balloon-modelling and static bikes and rowing machines.Dr Bike will be on hand to give your cycles a health-check, and young families can get advice and help with the installation of child car seats from the Road Safety Team, supported by Mothercare.Information stalls on Hounslow Highways, the new 25 year street maintenance contract, and the Hounslow Town Centre Master plan will also be available, and residents can also show their support for West Middlesex University Hospital by responding to the NHS consultation on changes to hospital provision.Leader of Hounslow Council, Cllr Jagdish Sharma, said: “It’s the grand finale of a unique and memorable summer which saw everything from the Thames Pageant and local street parties to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee, to sporting excellence at the Olympic and Paralympic Games as well as many free events across the borough to mark the Cultural Olympiad.“Our Community Fair is a tribute to our incredible summer of celebration, and as well as fun activities for all the family, there will be many stalls staffed by community and voluntary groups from across the borough where you can find out how you can give something back to your community through volunteering.“I’ll also be there with colleagues from the Police and Health services to answer your questions at a special Leader’s Question Time session, and we’ll also be launching Our Summer of Celebration, a souvenir booklet with photographs – many sent in by residents – as a record of this amazing summer.” A subsidised food court will be set up in the Lampton Park Conference Centre, which will also host the Leader’s Question Time event, where residents can quiz the Leader of the Council and colleagues from the police and health services, as well as getting information on how the council and its partners aim to improve the quality of life in the borough.  Questions should be emailed to communications@hounslow.gov.uk.The council will also be launching a special commemorative booklet featuring photographs from our Summer of Celebration. Proceeds from the booklet, which costs just 50p, will go to the Alzheimer’s Society Hounslow.For more information, visit www.hounslow.gov.uk/communityfair

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4703d1 Comments ● 4703d

Watermans to Close

I've read, with interest, the article on the front page about Ballymore's development of Brentford's waterside.  Most of it appears rather airy-fairy and seems to say it's still all in the consultation stage.  Really?Some people who work at Watermans on a rolling term contract have not been given new contracts for 2013 so effectively their contracts terminate by the end of this year. Of course they're talking about this but word on the grapevine is that they maybe relocated to Feltham - what relocate Watermans Art Centre to Feltham - even though there is a huge cineplex in that area?De Souza - the agents marketing the now defunct Max Factor headquarters situated adjacent to Watermans have taking it off the market and won't even consider a six month lease for the premises - we've tried to get this for a project - and failed - even though we've all the money in place to do this.  De Souza told us it had been taken off the market even though it's been empty for the past two/three years.Barratts have demolished and are building on the old, derelict cop shop - which had to be disbanded because the cells flooded on numerous occasions and because there was a 'mysterious' fire in the derelict office block next door which was only built during the late 1980s, have also been able to demolish these office blocks too and are now building a whole load of flats called - Kew Reach.  It maybe in Brentford but Kew is a far better marketing strategy.  What's the betting these flats will look more like overblown greenhouses - all glass and no bricks - in an attempt to fry residents to make the flow of people a 'green emission'. This is what will happen to Watermans and the adjacent office block and then flow into the park - which, afterall, was only created from a decrepit slag-heap of bygone years from the gas-works with monies given to the council from monies spent by Max Factor to get a waterside location for their head office to now being prime real estate being sort after the likes of Barratts.  Why aren't heritage sites like Kew opposing this every which way?  Afterall, back in the day, they made Hounslow council plant a load of trees to try to obscure the Haverfield estate from being seen by the Kew brigade.  And very fine trees they are too.Watermans will be closing.  Some time soon.  You heard it here first.

Xanthe West ● 4718d13 Comments ● 4714d

Who would believe it part two

From the ChronicleWas this problem not one of Labours key pledges before the last local elections?HOUNSLOW is London's dirtiest borough, according to shocking new figures.The borough is among the worst offenders for five separate criteria used to judge tidiness - the only one of 20 local authorities examined to achieve this dubious honour.It is in the bottom five for fly-tipping, litter, levels of detritus, graffiti and fly-posting, according to combined figures for last year and 2010/11 published last week by the council's overview & scrutiny committee.It is the worst borough, according to the statistics, when it comes to litter, detritus and fly-posting.Only Lewisham, which tops the list of shame in the other two categories and makes the bottom five in all bar one, comes close to matching the levels of grime found in Hounslow.Even boroughs spending significantly less per head on street cleaning than Hounslow, like Harrow, Kingston and Sutton, are performing better, according to the committee's report.Committee members criticised the council for doing too little to address the situation before a new £800 million PFI road maintenance contract, which will include street cleaning, begins in January.Although levels of detritus, fly-posting and grafitti have fallen slightly in the last year, the amount of litter on Hounslow's streets has risen during this period. Hounslow Council currently spends £12.15 a head on street cleansing, less than a third of that forked out in Hackney, according to figures produced by London's Environment Directors' Network (LEDNET).Colin Ellar, deputy leader of Hounslow Council, said: "For many residents in Hounslow the state of our streets and their cleanliness is the number one issue."We are taking steps to improve the situation now by increasing the amount of resources available, and we hope that as people see improvements, they will help us keep the borough’s streets clean."From January 2013, a new Hounslow Highways contract begins to launch the biggest programme of road, pavement and street lighting work the borough has ever seen, as well as improve the cleanliness of the borough."We all have a responsibility to help keep the borough clean and we hope residents will do their bit by not dropping litter or cigarette butts or leaving rubbish lying around. That way we can work together to keep our streets tidy."

Paul Fisher ● 4763d18 Comments ● 4733d

Well who would have believed it eh?

I can think of about 20,000 reasons why this councillor does not intend standing down until 2014!A LONG-SERVING Labour councillor is facing calls for his resignation after being found to have abused his power.Mohinder Gill failed to support enforcement action against an illegal extension at the home of a known Labour candidate, according to a damning report.The Heston Central ward councillor was found to have breached the members' code of conduct on FIVE separate counts, following an investigation by Hounslow Council's standards committee. He was this week banned from sitting on any planning committee as a councillor and ordered to write a letter of apology for his behaviour.However, former Labour agent Noel Murphy insisted the sanctions did not go far enough and called on the party to suspend or ban the disgraced councillor.The row dates back to a meeting of the Heston & Cranford Area Committee on September 23, 2010, when members gathered to discuss an innocuous-looking terraced house at 74 Victoria Gardens, Heston.Despite aerial images clearly showing the building had been illegally extended, Mr Gill and other Labour councillors rejected planning officers' advice to order the extension's destruction.The decision was later overturned and an independent investigation was launched into their actions, which cleared everyone except Mr Gill.The report found strong evidence suggesting he had known the owner of the property's wife to be Harleen Atwal, a Labour candidate for Osterley & Spring Grove in May 2010.Mr Gill admitted knowing Ms Atwal, whose father was a long-standing member of the local Labour Party, but claimed to be unaware she lived at the property.However, the report states how he indicated in a conversation to the council's then legal chief Terry Walsh that everyone knew she was married to the property's owner.He even made representations regarding the house to members of the council's enforcement team, it goes on to reveal.All councillors are required to declare an interest if they, or someone known to them, is affected by a decision they are involved in making - something Mr Gill failed to do at the meeting in question.The independent report found Mr Gill to have breached the members' code of conduct on five counts, including the 'use of position to confer an advantage' and 'bringing the office of the councillor into disrepute'.The council's standards committee, which met on May 28 to discuss the report's findings, said: "His (Mr Gill's) relaxed attitude to the relevant proprieties both in terms of attitude to officers and in relation to the transparency and openness of planning procedures was appalling and to be deplored."Members of the committee added that they had stopped short of suspending him from the council largely because he is due to retire at the end of his current term in 2014.But former Labour agent Noel Murphy described the sanctions as a 'disgrace' and urged the party to expel Mr Gill.Opposition leader Peter Thompson said: "I don't think it is the job of the standards committee to throw councillors off the council but many people will be asking if Councillor Gill should reconsider his position, do the decent thing and resign now."However, deputy council leader Colin Ellar called the sanctions a 'travesty' and said he expected Mr Gill to appeal.A spokesman for the London Labour Party said it would launch an internal investigation to decide whether further action was necessary.Councillor Gill has been a Labour councillor for 18 years and was mayor in 2001/2.This is not the first time his actions have been called into question.In 2007, he was part of the Heston and Cranford planning committee which was temporarily banned from taking decisions on enforcement action after a damning report from the Local Government Ombudsman.The report's findings also raise serious questions about why Mr Gill was made chair of the Sustainable Development Committee (SDC), which made planning decisions, last year, despite Labour councillors knowing about the investigation.Mr Gill was unavailable for comment.

Paul Fisher ● 4766d9 Comments ● 4762d

M4 open J1-J2, closed J2-J3 - traffic conditions

On Sunday afternoon, at the behest of the Borough, the Highways Agency agreed to reopen the M4 elevated between J1 (Chiswick) and J2 (brentford), so that traffic could bypass the Chiswick roundabout from early this morning onwards.  With extensive media coverage warning of major delays (many drivers didn’t realise that J1-J2 had reopened), a large proportion of this morning’s commuter traffic appears to have opted for the M40/A40 or M3/A316, which were very heavy.  Consequently, traffic wasn’t too horrific in Chiswick and Brentford, although there was considerable congestion around Kew Bridge junction and along the Chiswick High Road.  There was also considerable queuing westbound on the A4 between GSK and Henlys roundabout.Notwithstanding many drivers having taken different routes this morning, this afternoon’s peak is likely to be very heavy on all approaches to the Chiswick roundabout /Kew Bridge junction area, with long queues eastwards from central London (via the A4 and A315) and inwards from Heathrow/Hounslow/Brentford and Richmond, Kew and Ealing.  Eastbound queues are already building up on the A4.Traffic patterns are extremely variable:  a lot of the morning peak traffic that diverted this morning may switch back tomorrow morning, until an unhappy equilibrium is reached on Wednesday and the viaduct hopefully reopens on Thursday.The advice remains the same:  avoid the area if at all possible; walk, cycle or use the tube if you can; and if not, be patient and allow plenty of extra time for your journey.Chris Calvi-FreemanHead of TransportLondon Borough of Hounslow

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 4778d2 Comments ● 4777d

A message from Clark French, an MS sufferer who uses cannabis to treat his symptoms. Do you think Cl

Because my medicine is "Illegal", i face the choice, break the law and have a better quality of life, or respect it and suffer. I face stigma, ignorance and sometimes even hatred, for nothing more then taking a medicine that has been used by humans for thousands of years, wanting to live, wanting the same chances as everybody else, wanting to contribute to society. Is this really such a crime? Do you really consider me a criminal? I have thought about it long and hard, i am not a criminal, i am a good, honest person who wants the same chance in life as everybody else, nothing more nothing less. in two months time, by using my medicine i have saved the NHS over £30'000 on the nasty nasty treatment they wanted to put me on. Its called Tysabri and is only usually prescribed as a second line treatment after several severe relapses- it is a measure of how ill i was that i was offered a drug usually only given to people after 5-10 years of diagnosis - when i was first diagnosed. Tysabri had a chance of putting me into a coma which i will never wake up from. and thats just one of the drugs out of the cocktail i would other wise be prescribed. since coming off the prescription drugs i feel so much better and able to be myself - opiates mame me into someone im not. Because of this I feel Morally obliged to get my name out there, to share my story, and to have a voice. If i have a voice maybe i can speak for all those millions of sick people who dont have one. Cannabis is medicine - in the last two years i have met hundreds of people with a vast array of illness's like ME, Chrons Disease, Fybromialga, PTSD, Bipolar, Spinal Injuries, Depression, Autism, Parkingsons, HIV, Cancer many many people with MS and so many more illness's it would take me an age to write them all down. Cannabis helps all of them have a better quality of life. why do they face prison for wanting more from life then a permanent disability? Surely it should be everyones right to treat their own illness the way that they see fit?? especially if its backed by science, which for many illness's especially MS it is. Now i dont really ask for much, and im not one to really complain about my situation, having a chronic condition is awful- id never wish it upon anyone, not even my worst enemy. For change to happen i need my friends, my family and the people i know to help me. Please help me get my voice heard, if not for the millions of sick and disabled people who would benefit from it right NOW, then for no other reason that one day that sick person in need of safe and effective medicine might be you. - im not ashamed to say i have tears in my eyes while i write this - these tears are for all my friends in need - i will fight for our rights until the end of my days, ONE LOVE.

Philip Walsh ● 4799d6 Comments ● 4796d

Mogden Expansion.

From:  http://www.environmental-expert.com/news/the-right-formula-for-mogden-29079923-April-2012 -- Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies will design and build an extension to the existing Sludge Pasteurisation Plant at Thames Water’s Mogden Sewage Treatment Works. The work is part of a major upgrade that will see Mogden’s process capacity increased by 50%. The increased throughput means more sludge production at the works, and this will be digested to produce biogas fuel which will meet the GLA’s target of 20% energy for the entire works from a renewable source.The works extension is required to limit the quantity of partially-treated storm water discharged following heavy rain by increasing the works capacity of 1,064Ml/day flow to full treatment and to meet a revised consent. The resulting increased flow to treatment will result in a higher sludge load to the Pasteurisation Plant and then to the Digesters; the Pasteurisation Plant being a process adopted to kill pathogens before the digested sludge is taken off site for disposal.To provide the additional pasteurisation capacity needed, Principal Contractor Black & Veatch selected Veolia Water Solutions & Technologies whose experience in the field is unrivalled. Each of the four new pasteurisation streams will comprise thickened sludge transfer pumps, a pasteurisation reactor, a heat exchanger, reactor blowers and pasteurised sludge transfer pumps. Each stream of the new plant will be controlled by a local control panel which will interface with the Mogden SCADA system.  Site construction started in September 2011 and is scheduled for completion by January 2013.JL

Jim Linwood ● 4826d0 Comments ● 4826d

Live marriage debate this Monday in Chiswick...

On Monday 30th April 2012 at Gunnersbury Baptist Church in Chiswick, there will be an exciting and relevant, free public debate on the subject of the Governments recent proposals to redefine marriage to incorporate same-sex couples.Two top-class speakers with differing opinions will discuss this very important topic.1) Adrian Trett is Chair of the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender) + Liberal Democrats since the Coalition Government was formed, and the author of the original motion on Equal Marriage in the UK for Liberal Democrat Conference in 2010. His campaigning group has been working with our Liberal Democrat Ministers, in particular Lynne Featherstone MP to enable this issue to be brought on to the Government's agenda, now with the public consultation and hopefully for legislation to be passed by 2015 to enable equal marriage in the UK.2) Rev. David Robertson is the Pastor of St. Peters Free Church in Dundee. He is the Author of 'The Dawkins Letters' and regular conference speaker and debater for the Evangelical Christian Church. There will be a chance, during this debate for questions from the audience.Doors will open at 7.00 pm for a 7.30 pm start. Entrance to this debate is absolutely free although early arrival is recommended.Watch out for the formal publicity - fliers and posters!I hope you will support this important event,Many thanks,Laurence TruettDebate Coordinator

Laurence Truett ● 4854d5 Comments ● 4833d

Ball/street hockey (children and adult beginners programme)

West London Ball Hockey Club presents this exiting new sport to the local community of Ealing.  "something different"  "Important:  We play with trainers not roller blades"We have just moved into this new facility  "Elthorne Sports Centre. Westlea Road, off Boston Road, Hanwell W7 2AD".This sport is hugely famous in Canada, Czech and Slovak. Our Values are; Respect, Sportsmanship, Considering others, Affordable, Family friendly, Fun.  These values resonate in our both, children's and adult beginners programmes.We are affiliated with UK Dek (Ball) hockey association. & International street/ball hockey association. "One of our Aim is to Celebrates multiculturalism by introducing children (boys/girls age 5-14 year) and adults (male/female) to this fast & active sport which is good for fitness and health.Our Children programme costs £16 per-child for the whole term(9weeks)or £3 per-session.  New term starts on the 21st of April 2012 from 09:45am - 10:45am, Saturday mornings. Equipment provided.  Coaching followed by a game. End of term prizes awarded.Our adult 14years+ beginners programme is for male & female.  It costs £5 per-person and £3 for students and unemployed.  We play every second Monday 08:00pm-9:30pm.  Equipment provided. Coaching followed by a game.To learn more about our aims, prizes for the children, and how do we ensure safe and fun environment for children and adults.Please contact: Nicky Rae on 07906 638 612 (for children's programme), OREmail: westlondonballhockeyclub@hotmail.co.uk for further details (you can also request e-brochure).Website:  www.londonballhockey.co.uk

Waseem Nayyer ● 4834d0 Comments ● 4834d

Ball/street hockey (children and adult beginners programme)

West London Ball Hockey Club presents this exiting new sport to the local community of Ealing.  "something different"  "Important:  We play with trainers not roller blades"We have just moved into this new facility  "Elthorne Sports Centre. Westlea Road, off Boston Road, Hanwell W7 2AD".This sport is hugely famous in Canada, Czech and Slovak. Our Values are; Respect, Sportsmanship, Considering others, Affordable, Family friendly, Fun.  These values resonate in our both, children's and adult beginners programmes.We are affiliated with UK Dek (Ball) hockey association. & International street/ball hockey association. "One of our Aim is to Celebrates multiculturalism by introducing children (boys/girls age 5-14 year) and adults (male/female) to this fast & active sport which is good for fitness and health.Our Children programme costs £16 per-child for the whole term(9weeks)or £3 per-session.  New term starts on the 21st of April 2012 from 09:45am - 10:45am, Saturday mornings. Equipment provided.  Coaching followed by a game. End of term prizes awarded.Our adult beginners programme is for male & female.  It costs £5 per-person and £3 for students and unemployed.  We play every second Monday.  Next session is on Monday the 16th of April 08:30pm-10pm.  From May its going to be 8pm-9:30pm. Equipment provided. Coaching followed by a game.To learn more about our aims, prizes for the children, and how do we ensure safe and fun environment for children and adults.Please contact: Nicky Rae on 07906 638 612 (for children's programme), OREmail: westlondonballhockeyclub@hotmail.co.uk for further details (you can also request e-brochure).Website:  www.londonballhockey.co.uk

Waseem Nayyer ● 4849d0 Comments ● 4849d

New A380 at least as noisy as a 747,

Following a post on the Chiswick W4 site,I checked it out.  I've got this reply from John Stewart today - Chair of HACAN Clearskies (the community  campaign group of residents around Heathrow; do join if you havn't already).Cllr Ruth CadburyLB HounslowRuth, Rob,As it happened, I was in Brussels yesterday for the biannual meeting of theHACAN-type groups from around Europe.  It is chaired by Martin Kessel, fromthe Frankfurt Group.  He confirmed the story.  Below is an account inEnglish.JohnA380 is louder than assumedMedia: Frankfurter RundschauAuthor: Wolfgang SchubertDate: 05 November 2005Fraport and expansion opponents present results of measurements/not testedin normal every-day conditionsThe Airbus A 380 was as loud as a Boeing jumbo jet 747 during the testlanding in Frankfurt a week ago. Moreover the [A380] causes dangerous wakevortices because of its size, communicated the German aircraft noisemonitoring organization on Friday in its measurement results. Fraportconfirmed the measuring data to a large extent.Frankfurt . "The shouts of joy [about the A380] are to be referred to theland of fairytales", said Sascha Friebe, chairman of the German aircraftnoise monitoring organization (DFLD). Lufthansa managers, airport CEOWilliam Bender, Minister President Roland Koch and Chief Burgomaster ofFrankfurt Petra Roth had talked about a "quiet giant bird" after the landingbefore 10,000 spectators last Saturday, which flew in "like a glider."The measurements of the aircraft noise service in Moerfelden Walldorf, whichconsiders itself as an "independent non--governmental organization" and ispredominantly organized in the airport development opposition, show theopposite. The mega-airplane, which should have been three to four decibelsquieter than the largest passenger airplane the Boeing 747-400 according tomanufacturer data, was as loud as other large-capacity aircraft during thelanding. The measuring instrument of DFLD registered 67 decibels overNeu-Isenburg south of Frankfurt.The noise might have been even stronger. On Friday airport operator Fraportsubmitted its own results of measurement, which are even higher than thoseof the DFLD. For Offenbach-Bieber Fraport indicated 70.3 decibels, inOffenbach-Lauterborn was it 71.8, in Frankfurt-South 75.3 and at level ofthe Stadtwaldhaus just before touch down 82.3. In comparative values with a747 plane, which had landed during the same morning, were only lower at theStadtwaldhaus. In Frankfurt-South and in Offenbach-Lauterborn the A 380 wassubstantially louderDuring takeoff, Fraport registered values that were below those of the 747.The Airbus however only weighed 400 tons. If it would be fully occupied fora flight to Tokyo and would have been refueled, the plane would have weighed560 tons and would have been much louder than the 65.7 decibels overRaunheim and the 74.5 over Weilbach.Fraport emphasized however that the measured values of only one landing andone takeoff of a prototype is not representative. The test plane was evenequipped with measuring instruments at the fuselage and the wings, whichwould have caused additional surge noises.The aircraft noise monitoring organization criticized also that the A 380was not tested under everyday life conditions. The air traffic control (DFS)granted the pilots "ideal landing conditions". The distance to the next jetfor instance was with ten miles so large that the A 380 could land "with lowspeed and therefore quietly". DFS spokesperson Axel Raab said, they hadopted for a large distance for safety reasons because of possibleturbulence.Those are extremely large according to data of the DFLD. The A 380 hascaused, "a good two minute tornado with noise values of about 70 decibels,"said Friebe. Such turbulence he has "never experienced". If the plane wouldhave flown very low over Raunheim, "the roofs would have blown off".Wolfgang Schubert

Ruth Cadbury ● 7208d13 Comments ● 4850d

Livingstone uses private healthcare

According to City AM on 19th April" Ken Livingstone, the Labour candidate to be Mayor of London and a noted opponent of NHS privatisation, uses private healthcare services, City A.M. has learned. "A spokesperson for the 66-year-old Livingstone said he uses an “external provider” for annual check-ups, in an admission that is sure to lead to accusations of hypocrisy. “Like many people he has an annual check up from an external provider – if he ever needs to see a doctor for anything it is with his local GP, or with other NHS services,” a spokesperson told City A.M. last night."Private check-ups generally cost anything from several hundred pounds to several thousand, although it is not known how much Livingstone’s annual appointments cost. "In a post for the Labour Party’s Save London’s NHS petition earlier this year, Livingstone said: “The people of our capital city deserve top quality care and demand our health care should not be broken up, sold off or be privatised by the back door.”"The admission comes just weeks after Livingstone was widely criticised for channeling his income through a company to reduce his tax bills, despite describing people who use these kind of legal tax planning measures as “rich bastards”. "A spokesperson for Boris Johnson, Livingstone’s Tory opponent and the incumbent Mayor, said: “This is yet another example of Ken Livingstone’s hypocrisy – saying one thing but does another. First we discover that at the same time as attacking tax avoiders, saying they shouldn’t be allowed to vote in elections, he is avoiding tax himself and standing in an election. Now we learn that while campaigning as a defender of the NHS he uses private healthcare "It was also revealed recently that Livingstone told a meeting of Latin Americans in South London that he will instruct the police not to spend a large amount of time rounding-up and deporting illegal immigrants. It's fractionally more subtle than when he previously promised Latinos "well-paid jobs" at TfL.Someone needs to tell Livingstone that the Mayor of London is not in charge of immigration policy and enforcement.

David Giles ● 4855d15 Comments ● 4850d

Hounslow Council at its slimiest

I see that Hounslow Council have issued the following statement which looks like a thinly disguised attack on MRAG and the hard work they do in encouraging residents to make complaints against Thames WaterNo mention of course of the residents High Court victory or any information on how thousands may be entitled to claim compensation but I suppose that was to be expected considering that some senior officers would not want that mentioned"Residents living close to Mogden sewage works have been assured that the London Borough of Hounslow will continue to act on their complaints about nasty smells.The council will act on complaints made during working hours, as part of its determination to ensure a healthy environment for people who live near the Thames Water facility.The council’s pollution team will continue to carry out regular monitoring of the site to protect the public from any odour and uphold a Section 106 agreement on the redevelopment of the site, which carries penalties for Thames Water if it does not comply with the agreement.The council’s 24-7 complaints line will now operate during normal 9am-5pm office hours, with an answerphone service available outside of those times. Residents can also email mogden@hounslow.gov.uk to report issues. Mike Jordan, Hounslow’s Director of Environment, said: “Thames Water has assured us that the upgrade of the works will further reduce the need for people to complain about the smell. But residents can rest assured we will take action if problems reoccur.”A meeting of Hounslow Council’s Cabinet on Tuesday (April 17) heard that the majority of recent complaints about odour have been made via the local residents’ action group. This has sometimes made it difficult to identify the source of odour. Complaints have been falling in recent years. The water company has assured the council that an upgrade of the site and accompanying Section 106 obligations on its expansion will allow the number of complaints about odour to continue to fall.Residents can complain about Mogden through the hotline number 020 8583 2222, through the council's environment switchboard number 020 8583 5555 or through the council website: www.hounslow.gov.uk.A to Z of Services »"

Paul Fisher ● 4853d3 Comments ● 4852d

Live Kidney Donation - Please help increase awareness to save my mum and patients like her :)

Hello everyone,My mother has recently been diagnosed with end stage renal failure and is in need for a transplant. Last night I made a facebook page to try and increase awareness of live kidney donation in the hope of finding my mum a donor. I realise this is quite an unconventional approach but I have been overwhelmed by the response from my friends offering to be considered as donors and helping spread the word.I am not a regular user of Twitter but made an account today to try and spread the message even further than my Facebook network. As you can appreciate I will do anything to try and save my mum. So, I thought I would post the link on here too. We have lived in West London for about 30 years and mums renal team are based at Hammersmith Hospital. I was hoping that perhaps some of you might be willing to help increase awareness of live kidney donation by posting the FB page I have created for my mum on your own walls and Twitters (link below) or anywhere you can think of, in the hope of finding a donor for my mum and for patients like her. I think this is so important as not many people actually know they could be considered as donors and if they did, perhaps we could reduce the suffering people experience waiting for years on dialysis and save more lives. People don't realise that living with one kidney does not mean that life will be any different to what it would be with two.The link below takes you to the page I created if you are interested in helping out and I am contactable on http://www.facebook.com/TalulahDelilahhttp://www.facebook.com/pages/Help-find-a-living-kidney-donor-for-my-mum/345334168849821Thank you so much for taking time to read this.Natalia

Delilah Natalia ● 4858d0 Comments ● 4858d

New housing development Windmill Road

It was with great disappointment I read the Vicar’s piece on the website about the proposed Windmill Road development.  It is astonishing how so many people can be whipped into action to try and stop new housing development when it is on their own doorstep.  How many of these people who have these “No to Reynard Mills” stickers in their windows actually live anywhere near the development?  I live in Windmill Road and my back garden looks out on a horrible brick wall that obliterates sunshine into my little back garden in the summer.  It also shades all kinds of dodgy goings-on in the back alley behind my house.  I would dearly love it to be replaced by people in houses.The people who want to stop the new development quote the change to the skyline as a reason for stopping it.  Has anyone looked at the skyline recently?  We are surrounded by tall buildings that make the entrance to West London along the M4 look like a twenty first century city.  Do you think one more is going to make that look bad?  I don’t think so.Another objection:  queues for doctors’ surgeries.  I work in the NHS and I know that the queue to get an appointment at a given practice is not because of the demand from new people coming in but because the doctors’ surgery is unable to properly manage its list and too greedy to say “No” to new patients.  Only a few weeks ago we were leafleted by a new GP surgery at the Brentford health centre that is looking for new patients.  There is choice.The traffic flow along Windmill Road has long been a problem.  Even with the zebra crossing put in a few years ago near the Globe pub, the traffic is still too fast out of rush hour.  We have fatal accidents waiting to happen.  Both Ealing and Hounslow Councils have done little to address this.  Regulated traffic junctions in and out of the proposed development will certainly help control the traffic flow, a plus for the development.As long as the new development provides enough car parking spaces for the homes proposed, the council considers improved traffic control, and Thames Water attends to the problems with sewerage and drainage, I welcome the new development and just wish that the perpetrators of all this nimbyism, xenophobia and hysteria would stop giving people invalid information about the management of GP practice lists, how planning permission is or is not obtained, blaming the greed of Thames Water on developers.  It would be a better use of their time to lobby for Thames Water to attend to the rotten drainage problems in Brentford, surely, whether or not any new developments are proposed.I would have thought the Vicar would welcome more people into her church.

Lesley Foote ● 4970d30 Comments ● 4880d

Public Bodies Bill

British Waterways are unquestionably seeking to utilise the Public Bodies Bill as a channel for grasping at greater powers as they become a private sector body. That the new body will be the identical organisation with modified governance and funding arrangements is clear from the speech of their CEO, Robin Evans, at the 2010 Annual Meeting. He plaintively acknowledges the general enthusiasm of many for the abolition of BW – “Some of you make great play of NWC [New Waterways Charity] being ‘a completely new organisation’, one that ‘is not BW dressed up in new clothes’, ‘not BW as we know it today’. I understand why you want to make the distinction and I agree NWC has to be different in many respects but I don’t think you understand how demoralising it is to the 1,700 people who are employed by BW today and will almost entirely make up the staff of NWC”  . . . “They will be the same people on April 2012 as they were in March 2012 – don’t expect them to think BW and its employees are something different from NWC and its employees.”BW is an organisation typical of the brutish type of authority that prefers the use of force to that of persuasion when dealing with its “subjects”. The constant cry of such authorities is “I need more powers!” – and that has characterised their dealing with Parliament since 1962. The Select Committee reports on BW’s private Bills [those that became the BW Acts of 1971, 1975, 1983 and 1995] make sobering reading. Had Parliament not spoken out so strongly in condemnation of the draconian and inappropriate levels of powers that BW constantly sought, the waterways would have become subject to an intolerable dictatorship. Even so, BW regularly exercises such powers on a bluff basis, asserting their rights to violate the public rights in the confidence that anyone foolhardy enough to challenge them could be easily seen off in local county courts.It was only an unbroken continuation of this approach that led the present Board of British Waterways, as recently as January 27th this year, to discuss “The possibility of introducing greater enforcement powers for BW as part of the new legislation . . . Mr Johnson agreed to report back on the subject to the May Board meeting.”BW have stalled on FoI requests for the May minutes, which has understandably given rise to much consternation in the boating fraternity – especially in light of the HL Select Committee Report damning the subsequent amendment to the Public Bodies Bill relating to BW and the Environment Agency.I am not altogether sure that the boating websites are correct to see the amendment as granting new powers in so direct a form as they are thinking. What the Select Committee objected to was any exception being made to the general clause in the Bill that outlawed the transference of powers that, however appropriately exercised by a body with powers of public governance, would be highly inappropriate for a new, private sector body. Understood in those terms, BW would be correct in asserting that [in the amendment as presently under discussion] they only want to retain powers already possessed by them. The danger is, of course, that this Amendment 99A is but a step in what BW see as the right direction!If I am correct in this, then there IS some hope for improvement after all – the objectionable behaviour of BW in pursuing so many boaters and waterside businesses [even where they are in fact empowered to take the particular course of action] would be definitively curtailed. They have shown themselves to have total disregard for human rights and consultative process; having the same people shorn of any excuse to violate those would indeed be a step forward, and I for one am grateful to the Select Committee for flagging up to government just how FURTHER INAPPROPRIATE it would be to have such powers exercised by a body without the same degree of even nominal oversight that the present organisation 'suffers' under [as BW see it].If the Public Bodies Bill is to be of any benefit to users of the waterways and to those living and working alongside [the powers affect riparian owners & occupiers also, not just boaters, walkers, cyclists anglers etc.], then it is essential that the amendment is voted against come July 12th. If it is passed, then not only will the chance for reform have been lost, but BW will see their way clear to indeed obtaining greater powers. Some of those powers are already 'waiting in the wings' in the form of their new proposed Byelaws, that incorporate powers identical to those BW have been refused before. BW are just waiting for Amendment 99A to be passed before pushing these through for approval, in time for transference to their new structure.

Nigel Moore ● 5148d15 Comments ● 4886d

Tate Hindle/Invista:- Massive Development Plans for Chiswick High Road / Sainsburys

On ChiswickW4 website, there is an article about planned huge development involving Sainsburys on Chiswick High Road.  See also the Chiswick forum postings "Developing this part of CHR..."I would also like to point out that this is the same land agents & architect partnership (Invista & Tate Hindle) that are trying to build the Reynard Mills tower blocks off Windmill Road on Brentford/Ealing borders that we all should already know about. When I saw this architect's impression image this morning, I had a bad feeling of déja vue.In short, the plans are to demolish Sainsburys and rebuild with shopfront on the high road facing Turnham Green Church & Green. Huge glass personality-void monstrosity - same as so many other high streets, Croydon was mentioned on the Chiswick forum!  And where the car park currently stands, there are plans for housing and, yes tower blocks! And where are the Sainsbury's shoppers meant to park?Why do Invista want to build tower blocks everywhere?  Where is the community consultation? and finally .... I bet this is only outline planning with the view of selling on the land once planning is approved, to a developer for big bucks?   But nothing to be found on Hounslows website yet?Its all about money - nothing is ever done for the "best of the community".  I am fairly sure that current Chiswick residents would not like their high road to look every other high street. Here we go again.....

Natasha Manganaro ● 4897d3 Comments ● 4894d

http://www.world-war-d.com/2012/02/28/petition-in-support-of-guatemalan-presidents-call-for-drug-le

Underneath, I will give you some hints of actions you can take to help spread the word. You can find more tips and links at: http://www.world-war-d.com/2012/02/28/petition-in-support-of-guatemalan-presidents-call-for-drug-legalization/. Feel free to be as creative as you want and come up with your own strategy. Let me know what worked for you, to share with others.LEAP endorsed today the petition in support of the Perez Molina initiative. People can now sign directly from LEAP website http://www.leap.cc/. It will be broadcasted to their 50,000 + members over the next few days, so we should expect some amazing bumps in the numbers.The petition is also posted on the ENCOD website (European Coalition for Just and Effective Drug Policies)http://www.encod.de/info/SUPPORT-GUATEMALA-S-PRESIDENT-S.html. Thank you to whoever posted it there.I encourage everybody to contact any groups or forums that may promote the petition.I contacted AVAAZ and could use your help to get their attention. You can go to http://www.avaaz.org/en/contact/ and fill up the form. The more request they get to support the petition, the more likely they are to take it over. There is the option to create a new petition on http://www.avaaz.org/en/contact/, but that wouldn’t give us just the AVAAZ platform, not the AVAAZ logistical support. It might be best to be consistent when we contact them. Underneath are the title and copy of my message:Support the Guatemalan President Perez Molina Initiative for drug legalization You may be aware of the recent developments on the drug policy reform front in Latin America, starting with the Tuxtla declaration on December 6th, and the recent proposal put forward by Guatemalan president Perez Molina, to raise the issue of legalization at the sixth Summit of the Americas on April 14-15, 2012. For the first time ever, legalization will be debated at a major international Summit, with the leaders of the 34 countries of the Americas in attendance! This is an unprecedented event. All activists should take advantage of this opportunity to generate massive mobilization of support for significant and meaningful debate on drug policy reform, especially as obstruction can be expected from the US.In support of this action, was initiated on Monday February 27, 2012, a petition in support of Guatemalan president's call for drug legalization http://signon.org/sign/support-guatemalan-president.?source=s.em.cr&r_by=2727050&mailing_id=2370 Considering your history of support for drug policy reform, I kindly request your help for its promotion. Having the logistical support of AVAAZ would give this action the exposure it deserves. This can and should be one of the largest AVAAZ campaign ever, similar in scope to the action you had last year on drug policy reform.Please feel free to contact me for any clarification you may need. Thank you for your consideration.You may also contact AVAAZ founder Ricken Patel on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/rickenpatel77Update on the Perez Molina Initiative Despite the hurried dispatch, one day ahead of Roxana Baldetti’s own tour, of Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano on a tour of the region on February 28th to drum up support for the War on Drugs, Guatemala managed to get the support of Costa Rica so far. http://telenoticias7.com/detalle.php?id=122813The UK government quickly aligned behind the US position, but the powerful British Inter-parliamentary group on drug policy reform was just as quick to warmly embrace the Perez Molina initiative. http://www.guatemala.gob.gt/index.php/2011-06-30-23-44-4/agenda/item/74-parlamento-brit%C3%A1nico-apoya-%E2%80%9Ciniciativa-p%C3%A9rez-molina%E2%80%9DColombia and Mexico are still on the sidelines and haven’t reacted yet to the Guatemalan proposal. A lot will depend on the attitude of these two most influential countries in the region. Should these countries decide to seriously explore alternatives to the War on Drugs and move resolutely towards more pragmatic and realistic policies, the balance of power would be drastically altered and other countries could be persuaded to align behind them, but nothing can happen without Colombia and Mexico onboard. Therefore, if you live in Colombia or Mexico, or if you have friends and contact there, please sign and diffuse the petition. Reach out as much as you can in Latin America. Perez Molina talked about a regional meeting to discuss his proposal on March 6 and 7. Between now and then, we must drum up as much support as we can.Finally, I have been sending press releases and 2 have been published so far. Feel free to send as many press-releases as you want. You can also write opinion pieces or letters to the editor. Feel free to use the material found on my blog (www.world-war-d.com) or write your own. If you could help me translate some of this material in Spanish, that would be great. You can reach me at jd@world-war-d.com http://colombiareports.com/opinion/157-guests/22546-drug-legalization-must-on-the-summit-of-the-americas-agenda.htmlhttp://www.guatemala-times.com/news/guatemala/2966-support-guatemalan-drug-legalization-initiative-at-oea-meeting.htmlFeedback from signers I got a lot of wonderful feedback and I apologize for not being able to reply to everybody.LEAP co-founder and chair, Jack Cole wrote: “I am the co-founder and Board chair of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP). I am also a retired detective lieutenant—26 years with the New Jersey State Police and 14 in their Narcotic Bureau, mostly undercover. I bear witness to the abject failure of the U.S. war on drugs and to the horrors produced by this self-perpetuating, constantly expanding policy disaster. You have the backing of LEAP's 50,000 police, judges, prosecutors and supporters in 86 countries.”Neill Franklin: “As the executive director of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP), our organization of over 50,000 supporters worldwide, support this petition.”Jude Hider, from the UK, summed up the sentiment of many: “Dear President Otto Perez Molina & Vice-President Roxana Baldetti thank you very much for this courageous action.”

Philip Walsh ● 4907d0 Comments ● 4907d

http://www.world-war-d.com/2012/02/28/petition-in-support-of-guatemalan-presidents-call-for-drug-l

Underneath, I will give you some hints of actions you can take to help spread the word. You can find more tips and links at: http://www.world-war-d.com/2012/02/28/petition-in-support-of-guatemalan-presidents-call-for-drug-legalization/. Feel free to be as creative as you want and come up with your own strategy. Let me know what worked for you, to share with others.LEAP endorsed today the petition in support of the Perez Molina initiative. People can now sign directly from LEAP website http://www.leap.cc/. It will be broadcasted to their 50,000 + members over the next few days, so we should expect some amazing bumps in the numbers.The petition is also posted on the ENCOD website (European Coalition for Just and Effective Drug Policies)http://www.encod.de/info/SUPPORT-GUATEMALA-S-PRESIDENT-S.html. Thank you to whoever posted it there.I encourage everybody to contact any groups or forums that may promote the petition.I contacted AVAAZ and could use your help to get their attention. You can go to http://www.avaaz.org/en/contact/ and fill up the form. The more request they get to support the petition, the more likely they are to take it over. There is the option to create a new petition on http://www.avaaz.org/en/contact/, but that wouldn’t give us just the AVAAZ platform, not the AVAAZ logistical support. It might be best to be consistent when we contact them. Underneath are the title and copy of my message:Support the Guatemalan President Perez Molina Initiative for drug legalization You may be aware of the recent developments on the drug policy reform front in Latin America, starting with the Tuxtla declaration on December 6th, and the recent proposal put forward by Guatemalan president Perez Molina, to raise the issue of legalization at the sixth Summit of the Americas on April 14-15, 2012. For the first time ever, legalization will be debated at a major international Summit, with the leaders of the 34 countries of the Americas in attendance! This is an unprecedented event. All activists should take advantage of this opportunity to generate massive mobilization of support for significant and meaningful debate on drug policy reform, especially as obstruction can be expected from the US.In support of this action, was initiated on Monday February 27, 2012, a petition in support of Guatemalan president's call for drug legalization http://signon.org/sign/support-guatemalan-president.?source=s.em.cr&r_by=2727050&mailing_id=2370 Considering your history of support for drug policy reform, I kindly request your help for its promotion. Having the logistical support of AVAAZ would give this action the exposure it deserves. This can and should be one of the largest AVAAZ campaign ever, similar in scope to the action you had last year on drug policy reform.Please feel free to contact me for any clarification you may need. Thank you for your consideration.You may also contact AVAAZ founder Ricken Patel on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/#!/rickenpatel77Update on the Perez Molina Initiative Despite the hurried dispatch, one day ahead of Roxana Baldetti’s own tour, of Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano on a tour of the region on February 28th to drum up support for the War on Drugs, Guatemala managed to get the support of Costa Rica so far. http://telenoticias7.com/detalle.php?id=122813The UK government quickly aligned behind the US position, but the powerful British Inter-parliamentary group on drug policy reform was just as quick to warmly embrace the Perez Molina initiative. http://www.guatemala.gob.gt/index.php/2011-06-30-23-44-4/agenda/item/74-parlamento-brit%C3%A1nico-apoya-%E2%80%9Ciniciativa-p%C3%A9rez-molina%E2%80%9DColombia and Mexico are still on the sidelines and haven’t reacted yet to the Guatemalan proposal. A lot will depend on the attitude of these two most influential countries in the region. Should these countries decide to seriously explore alternatives to the War on Drugs and move resolutely towards more pragmatic and realistic policies, the balance of power would be drastically altered and other countries could be persuaded to align behind them, but nothing can happen without Colombia and Mexico onboard. Therefore, if you live in Colombia or Mexico, or if you have friends and contact there, please sign and diffuse the petition. Reach out as much as you can in Latin America. Perez Molina talked about a regional meeting to discuss his proposal on March 6 and 7. Between now and then, we must drum up as much support as we can.Finally, I have been sending press releases and 2 have been published so far. Feel free to send as many press-releases as you want. You can also write opinion pieces or letters to the editor. Feel free to use the material found on my blog (www.world-war-d.com) or write your own. If you could help me translate some of this material in Spanish, that would be great. You can reach me at jd@world-war-d.com http://colombiareports.com/opinion/157-guests/22546-drug-legalization-must-on-the-summit-of-the-americas-agenda.htmlhttp://www.guatemala-times.com/news/guatemala/2966-support-guatemalan-drug-legalization-initiative-at-oea-meeting.htmlFeedback from signers I got a lot of wonderful feedback and I apologize for not being able to reply to everybody.LEAP co-founder and chair, Jack Cole wrote: “I am the co-founder and Board chair of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP). I am also a retired detective lieutenant—26 years with the New Jersey State Police and 14 in their Narcotic Bureau, mostly undercover. I bear witness to the abject failure of the U.S. war on drugs and to the horrors produced by this self-perpetuating, constantly expanding policy disaster. You have the backing of LEAP's 50,000 police, judges, prosecutors and supporters in 86 countries.”Neill Franklin: “As the executive director of Law Enforcement Against Prohibition (LEAP), our organization of over 50,000 supporters worldwide, support this petition.”Jude Hider, from the UK, summed up the sentiment of many: “Dear President Otto Perez Molina & Vice-President Roxana Baldetti thank you very much for this courageous action

Philip Walsh ● 4907d0 Comments ● 4907d

Why would you?

Just perusing the Chronicle whilst still bleary-eyed this morning for some reaason I looked at the Public Notices when I spied something about Mogden Lane. It seems for some obscure reason known only to the people who inhabit planet Traffic there are to be 4 - yes, 4 more speed humps installed in Mogden Lane at the junctions with Beaumont Close, Trevor Close, Briar Close and Manns Close (this one complete with apostrophe?!!) The longest of these humps is to be 9.5 metres. This part of Mogden Lane is often backed up with traffic caused by the daft arragement at the junction with Twickenham Rd. because traffic that wants to turn left on the filter light cannot do so because of the traffic waiting to turn right being down to one lane only. There is an ambulance station nearby also of course Twickenham Stadium, plus this is a bus route too. So why do there need to be traffic calming measures? If Hounslow has money to burn can't they do something about the increasingly poor state of the road surface in Whitton Dene, or even the cycle track which is pretty poor, or even somewhere for the delivery lorries for Tesco to park up as they often cause a problem. Or what we could do with is for the road layout at the junction with Twickenham Road to be looked at to avoid the back ups. Objections to these proposed Traffic Orders can be sent to the Director of Environment Michael Jordan, Ref: TMO/P002/12 by March 16th. The existing speed humps in Whitton Dene must be the biggest waste of money ever, as they do nothing and most people drive around them, but is there anything to enable pedestrians to cross to Tesco? - no, of course not. If anyone can explain to me why this is necessary I'd love to hear as I use Mogden Lane frequently and I just cannot see any rhyme or reason for this ridiculous colossal waste of money.

Vanessa Smith ● 4912d15 Comments ● 4910d

Shopping, Customer Service GRRRR

One of my daughters bought me some M & S suede moccasin slippers at Christmas along with the receipt should I wish to exchange or return them.  Last week I finally got round to wearing them so threw away the receipt.  Yesterday my toe poked through the top of them where the stitching appeared to have vanished and the suede appeared to have perished.  Today I returned them to M&S and was told it looked like "wear & tear".  I pointed out that it was obvious these were brand new as they were spotless inside and out and a weeks wear was not acceptable for slippers that cost £19.  The assistant went off to speak to a manager (who remained out of sight) and came back saying they would have to go off for examination as it looked as though the damage was deliberate!Needless to say I was extremely put out and have already emailed & written to M&S to express my feelings.  Who knows what the response will be but I know I will be giving the wonderful M&S a wide berth from now on.  Having been probably one of their best customers for too many years to mention I have never ever been accused of deliberately destroying something that may have been faulty.I then stopped to look at watches in H Samuel's window - within seconds a gentleman came out of the shop to ask me if I was alright and could he help me with anything".  Since I was already annoyed I let him have it both barrels.  I asked weather I was allowed to look in the window and told him if I wanted help with anything I would ask for it.  He apologised and said "we have been told to approach customers".  I said I was not a customer I was merely looking inI e window.  I pointed out that in my opinion that was the surest to scare off any potential customer and flounced off where the experience was repeated when I looked in Ernest Jones' window and where I repeated my feelings to the female assistant that came out of the shop to drag me in.I have long been suppressing the urge to tongue lash the many hapless shop assistants that have for some time now been driving me bonkers in shops by approaching me with the immortal words "are you alright".  The last time was in Monsoon and I said "no - please call me an ambulance I can't be well because in every shop I have been in someone has asked if I am alright".  Needless to say the assistant was flumoxed.Last week my two sisters and me stopped to look at the menu in the window of the Greyhound pub in Kew only for the barmaid to appear asking if she could get us anything? I know we are in a recession and times are hard for shops but I wont be responsible for my actions if this gets any worse or.... is it just me?The final straw was when I discovered that my brand of cigarettes has been discontinued after 40 odd years of smoking St Moritz - woe betide anyone that upsets me now.

Bernadette Paul ● 4924d14 Comments ● 4920d

Christmas Lights and Funding

The Brentford High Street Christmas Lights were officially switched on last night from the Watermans.  The evening was a great success with children from St Pauls singing carols, a gorgeous merry-go-round gave rides to the children and lots of mulled wine drank by us older ones.  We sold some Brentford Christmas cards (proceeds go towards the lights) and collected donations of just over £50 which was great.  Thank you to everyone.The fund raising is going really well for the lights this year.  We did want to improve on last year's lights but unfortunately there was a shortfall of £2,068 owed to the Council from last year which we had to find first.  This year the Council is charging us £3,200 to erect and take down the lights as well as for storage when not in use.  However we were able to apply to the Council's Area Committee for a grant towards the lights and were awarded £500.  Together with proceeds from the Fund Raising Auction in September, donations made by local residents and businesses and the sale of Christmas cards we have now raised £2,906 which is very close to our target.For anyone who hasn't bought their Christmas cards we still have plenty left at 206 High Street.  We are also selling some cards for Boston Manor Park.  For anyone wishing to make a small or large donation we have a collection box at the office.Thank you to everyone who has helped make the Christmas lights possible this year.Julia QuilliamQuilliam Property Services020 8847 4737

Julia Quilliam ● 6096d6 Comments ● 4928d

Claims against Thames Water

Following the recent High Court judgement finding Thames Water liable for causing an odour nuisance from  Mogden at various times between 1999 and  2007, more than 1000 families'  claims for compensation are being processed by Hugh James Solicitors. The Judge ruled that between 1999 and 2009 Thames Water could have run the works to a higher standard and has awarded damages until 2007.  When preparing the litigation it was estimated by experts that approximately  36,000 residents could be affected by nuisance from Mogden. Residents who did not sign up to the Group Litigation may still be entitled to claim compensation for odour and/or nuisance from 2006 onwards on a no win no fee arrangement.Residents who think they have a claim should contact the Environmental Team at Hugh James Solicitors for further information and/or to register their claim.Tel 029 2039 1118email  environmentgroup@hughjames.com Residents will be aware that the last Tory regime at Hounslow Council approved the massive expansion of Mogden which is currently half way to completion. The Judge therefore found that until the expansion is complete, an injunction to restrain further odour would not be practical. It is therefore important that victims of  continuing odour from Mogden register their interest with Hugh James Solicitors so that further action can be considered after completion of the expansion next year if the odour off site has not been eliminated.

Steve Taylor ● 4933d3 Comments ● 4932d

U.S. Government Repressed Marijuana-Tumor Research

Alternet, May 31, 2000Title: Pot Shrinks Tumors; Government Knew in ‘74Author: Raymond Cushinghttp://www.alternet.org/print.html?StoryID=9257Faculty Evaluator: Mary King M.D.Student researchers: Jennifer Swift, Licia Marshall,Corporate media coverage: AP and UPI news wires 2/29/00A Spanish medical team’s study released in Madrid in February 2000 has shown that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active chemical in marijuana, destroys tumors in lab rats. These findings, however, are not news to the U.S. government. A study in Virginia in 1974 yielded similar results but was suppressed by the DEA, and in 1983 the Reagan/Bush administration tried to persuade U.S. universities and researchers to destroy all cannabis research work done between 1966 and 1976, including compendiums in libraries.The research was conducted by a medical team led by Dr. Manuel Guzman of Complutence University in Madrid. In the study, brains of 45 lab rats were injected with a cancer cell, which produced tumors. On the twelfth day of the experiment, 15 of the rats were injected with THC and 15 with Win-55, 212-2, a synthetic compound similar to THC. The untreated rats died 12-18 days after the development of the tumors. THC treated rats lived significantly longer than the control group. Although three were unaffected by the THC, nine lived 19-35 days, while tumors were completely eradicated in three others. The rats treated with Win-55,212-2 showed similar results.In an e-mail interview for this story, the Madrid researcher said he had heard of the Virginia study, but had never been able to locate literature on it. “I am aware of the existence of that research. In fact I have attempted many times to obtain the journal article on the original investigation by theses people, but it has proven impossible,” Guzman said. His response wasn’t surprising, considering that in 1983 the Reagan/Bush administration tried to persuade American universities and researchers to destroy all 1966/76 cannabis research work, including compendiums in libraries, reports Jack Herer. “We know that large amounts of information have since disappeared,” he says.Guzman provided the title of the work-”Antineoplastic Activity of Cannabinoids,” an article in a 1975 Journal of the National Cancer Institute-and author Raymond Cushing obtained a copy at the UC Medical School Library in Davis, California, and faxed it to Madrid. The 1975 article does not mention breast cancer tumors, which were featured in the only newspaper story ever to appear about the 1974 study in the local section of the Washington Post on August 18, 1974. The headline read, “Cancer Curb Is Studied,” and was followed in part by, “The active chemical agent in marijuana curbs the growth of three kinds of cancer in mice and may also suppress the immunity reaction that causes rejection of organ transplants, a Medical College of Virginia team has discovered. The researchers found that THC slowed the growth of lung cancers, breast cancers, and a virus-induced leukemia in laboratory mice, and prolonged their lives by as much as 36 percent.”Drug Enforcement Agency officials shut down the Virginia study and all further cannabis research, according to Jack Herer, who reports on these events in his book, The Emperor Wears No Clothes. In 1976, President Gerald Ford put an end to all public cannabis research and granted exclusive research rights to major pharmaceutical companies. These companies set out-unsuccessfully-to develop synthetic forms of THC that would deliver all the medical benefits without the “high.”Update by Raymond CushingWhen I was a cub reporter twenty-eight years ago at the daily Advocate in Stamford, Connecticut, my first city editor-a white-haired veteran of the International Herald Tribune named Marian Campbell-told me that the cure for cancer was the holy grail of all news stories.“Unless they discover the cure for cancer,” she would say over the clackety-clack of the manual typewriters, “this paper goes to press on time.”What I found out a quarter-century later is that not even the cure for cancer is a big enough story to crack the Berlin Wall of media censorship in this country. Toss in the facts that the cure appears to be a benign substance that has been illegal for 63 years, and that the government knowingly suppressed evidence of its curative powers 25 years, and you get twice the storyæand twice the censorship.I won’t name the “investigative journalists” who didn’t respond when I sent them this story. I won’t list the numerous “progressive” publications that ignored it. I won’t describe the forbidding sense of professional isolation I endured in the months I tried to place the story.Suffice it to say that it’s what one would expect in a society that has criminalized its own young for two generations around the cannabis issue simply because we were told to do so.Thousands of innocent people who are in U.S. prisons for possessing or selling “the cure for cancer” await liberation and reparations. Someday our grandchildren will look back and ask, “What did you do to set the cannabis prisoners free?”Here’s what any responsible journalist should be doing:Go to primary sources when evaluating cannabis research. The AP and other news organizations love to elevate “bad science” and suppress “good science” when it comes to cannabis. You have to read the original research articles yourself and make your own judgments.Investigate and report on the war on children that is a major component of the war on drugs. The marijuana laws are the main tool the police use to persecute minors. No other policy affects more families in more insidious and devastating ways than cannabis prohibition.Learn about the history of cannabis prohibition and about the pharmaceutical, liquor, and tobacco giants that are behind it. If you don’t know the history of cannabis and hemp prohibition, you’re too ignorant to justifiably call yourself a journalist.If it turns out-as my story would seem to indicate-that cannabis is the cure for cancer and the government suppressed this information for 25 years (and continues to suppress it), then the body count alone will make this the biggest holocaust in recorded history. Virtually all federal drug policy makers of both parties since 1975-including legislators, presidents and the DEA-will be complicit and criminally liable.That’s why they don’t want this story covered.To learn the history of cannabis prohibition, read http://www.jackherer.com. To read my story, type in the address at the beginning of this segment.Raymond Cushing: raymondcushing@ireland.com

Philip Walsh ● 4938d0 Comments ● 4938d

Brentford 'improvements'

Quoting from the front page article, for £1,000,000 Brentford will receive the following "improvements" :"In Brentford, the funding will see a range of projects taking place to connect the Great West Road and Brentford High Street through: A launch event along the Grand Union Canal with the Royal Opera House during the Olympics.Improving access from the Great West Road to Brentford Lock through a new cycling and pedestrian junction via the canal’s towpath and new bespoke signage on the Golden Mile.A project to improve signage in and around Brentford town centre.A bespoke lighting scheme linking up the Great West Road with the towpath, bridge underpass, towpath, Piazza, High Street and Market Place.Development of a new cycling junction outside Holiday Inn.Improvements to entrances to St George’s Piazza, new lighting and signage and bringing empty retail units back into use.Improvements to the north side of High Street, with new street furniture, lighting and further shop frontage improvements.A one year long community programme to develop a spectacular performance for a celebration event in March 2014."How much of that does Brentford actually need or will benefit from in the long-term ?.  The "launch event" - what has the Royal Opera House or the Olympics for that matter got to do with Brentford ?.  Waste of money.Access from GWR to Brentford Lock - is a new cycle/pedestrian junction really needed ?.  Bespoke signage on the Golden Mile ? - why can't this be left to private companies/developers ?.Improving signage - is Brentford that much of a maze to get round ?.Bespoke lighting scheme - the towpath does need to be better lit in places, but no need for anything OTT.New cycling junction outside Holiday Inn - is that particular spot a hotbed for cyclists ?.  Has a guest at the Inn ever arrived/departed by bike ?!.  Ok so some staff might, but is it really needed ?.Bring empty retail units back into use - how ?.  By reducing rents or offering similar incentives ?.Improvements to the north side of the High Street - presumably afew new benches or such like.Community programme/celebration event - hmmm...No doubt I'll be accused of being cynical again, but this seems an utter waste of £1,000,000 to me.

Adam Beamish ● 4951d18 Comments ● 4938d

CONGRATULATIONS TO DAVID CAMERON!!!.A VERY WELL DONE!!!

David Cameron has held on to his beliefs and safe guarded both our Sovereignty and Financial institutions, he has taken the only decision that was open to him, we have to understand that Nicolas Sarkozy now has to explain to his people that he has given away their sovereignty you can imagine the French populace response the same goes for all other 15 EU countries.However he now has a scapegoat absolutely NO insult intended to David Cameron the little man arranged the treaty so that David Cameron would have no alternative but to veto it.Angela Merkel has safe guarded her position so at this moment in time has no problems,although Mr.Sarkozy is not a very happy bunny about the sovereignty issue, he knows how his people will react when given the whole story, never the less this treaty may have been initially signed but once the directives for budgetary control and taxes to be put in place start coming out from Brussels I do believe that the whole thing will fall apart. We now have the ECB somewhat half heartedly promising a ceiling of a 500 Billion bail out fund for countries with a debt crisis,whilst the commission fine them for over spending.When you consider the state of some of these countries just how long will this amount of money last and when it is used will it indeed be bolstered bit doubtful that! the IMF have also been promised 200 Billion, where and when will this be utilized and to what cost to the country receiving funds. If Mr Cameron had signed this treaty then today would have seen the start of an Exodus of our markets moving over to Hong Kong, USA etc, an awful lot of money comes from the City already and it helps a great many of our institutions already. No one in their right mind would deal in London knowing full well that each transaction would cost greatly in a "Tobin"tax introduced by Brussels at the instigation of the Empress of Europe who will diligently lead from the sidelines.Also bear in mind that this tax would straight away go into the Brussels piggy bank.And of course David Cameron will undoubtedly have those Europhile critics plus of course Red Ed Miliband who lost no time in trying to broad side Mr Cameron, if he had signed can you imagine what Red Ed would have said. Our Prime Minister did the right thing at the right time and people saying that we will be outside of what is decided in future need to realise that we were already outside and had no say in matters even then when important decisions on our fate were taking place. 

Dawn Hardy ● 4991d309 Comments ● 4939d

The Weir

I am really peeved - having spent fortunes in the market today buying stuff I largely did not want but feeling obliged to support anyone and everyone - my sister and I dropped into the Weir.  I asked for a bottle of wine and then asked whether they had stopped serving food.  They had not.  We bought a bottle of wine for £21 (which we could have got in any other pub for £16) but I was not allowed to carry it to the table (about 4ft from the bar) nor was I allowed to pay for it!  The menu boasted something along the lines of buy a main meal and have a starter or desert on us.  I ordered a ham/mushroom/cheese omelette which was minus the ham when it arrived but again I said nothing.  We were not offered a starter.  We ate the food but no-one attempted to clear the table until we were leaving therefore no one offered a dessert.  I was therefore surprised when I went to the bar to pay to discover a service charge on the bill.  The staff very all very pleasant but the only service we had which was different from any other pub just about anywhere was their insistence on carrying the wine to our table and refusing money at the point of purchase.  Sorry but I can just about accept a service charge in a pub if I actually get what I ordered and have actually received some service.  I paid the bill and I admit I said nothing which I should have done but the staff seemed to have changed shifts and it really wasn't the fault of the new barmaid.  However how up itself does a pub have to be to insist on delivering a screw top bottle of wine in a cooler rather than allowing you to purchase and pay for this at the bar just so they can charge you a service charge thereby increasing the cost of an already overpriced wine by a further £2.10 not to mention the fact that we never received the benefit of their offer of a starter/dessert.What exactly is The Weir a pub or a restaurant?  I have never before paid a service charge in a pub for buying a bottle of wine.  They didn't even have to open it I unscrewed the lid and frankly I have never paid a service charge for an omelette after all it's hardly haute cuisine particularly with it's main ingredient missing.

Bernadette Paul ● 4990d21 Comments ● 4939d

Nadine  Dorries MP mad, bad and dangerous?

Quite a few things about this government get my goat, but this woman practically reduces me to incredulity. This lunatic known as 'Mad Nad' for good reason, under the 10 minute rule has managed to get a bill through to its second reading in the House that girls, and only girls, are taught "the benefits of abstinence from sexual activity" at school. This bill links up with the anti-abortion legislation that this nutcase and her sympathisers have been banging on about. A reporter in the "i" writes that "It's part of the cultural backlash against female sexual freedom that incorporates attacks on abortion, contraception and sexual education across Britain and the U.S., where at least one candidate in favour of outlawing contraception is considered a serious contender in the Republican race". The article goes on to say that although this bill is unlikely to pass into law this time it is "sinister because the effect of proposals like this is that they move the boundaries of what is considered culturally acceptable. They make abstinence education for girls a serious topic for political debate rather than a reactionary, misogynist affront to half a century's worth of struggle by women's rights campaigners around the globe. The fact this venal little piece of legislative indoctrination is supposed to apply to girls only betrays the prejudices of the conservative cultural lobby, large parts of which still believe that decent women are incapable of sexual agency".This only leads me to the conclusion that anyone who wants to be an M.P. should submit themselves for a psychological review. It's bad enough they have crackpots wanting to get elected across the pond and there was I thinking we were far too sensible to listen to this "moral tubthumping of the Christian right", apprarently not.

Vanessa Smith ● 4944d3 Comments ● 4940d

Mayor Boris and the Development Millions.

Thursday, 26 January 2012.…. Thanks Boris.At last real investment in this Borough from the Mayor of London’s Outer London Development Fund, not many Boroughs receive this particular accolade and we hope this funding is used for all concerned.By this I mean addressing what is seen as the biggest eyesore in rural suburbia and yet one of the most worth while engineering successes in West London after Heathrow. Yes! It’s the A4 Flyover, a Brutalist Structure if there ever was one, strong, sturdy, defiant, and yet totally ignored, its dirty underneath full of brake lining dust dark and dripping and quite frankly the neglect is an insult to Barrett’s who took the chance on us and built the housing complex in an area no other would probably look at let alone devote 2 million to.If this was a 40 year old structure in Italy only the very best lighting and architectural designers would get a chance to bring this brilliant structure back to life and what a job they would make of it and the surrounding areas including stripping that awful ill thought out so called brick coloured paint of that Bridge and point it up as should have done in the first place, GSK’s gardener how and where to culture those square box hedge laurel tree’s that they are now famous for and dig them in beside the pathways along side the underpass, real Victorian Lamppost’s to surround the entire A4-Windmill Rd South Junction, we do not have many access routes into this Borough but this is the principle one and it has been long forgotten, it is not supposed to be akin to going into Mordor, it’s the ancient meadows of Brentford Syon Isleworth {Island of} and of course Hounslow.Oh! Don’t even get me started on the DIY abuse of the very rare example of Town and Country shopping parades that line the A4, rare in anyone’s money but here,left to decay.Its Olympic and Election year and you have your hands full but you still found time and funds to improve our lives. Thanxs B.k/.©

K Kelly ● 4943d0 Comments ● 4943d

con man ?

A man was ringing my doorbell yesterday morning about 10.40, as if there was an emergency.  I opened the up stairs window and he shouted up "Oh just checking that your gutters are OK". As I looked puzzled he continued, "We did them, our company did them"  I asked which company would that be and he  responded with " We did the soffits and gutters. I informed him that the owner wasn't at home and I asked why would it be necessary for him to ring the door bell, as the guttering is clearly visible from the street and asked again which company was he from and he replied " Just checking them - that they aren't leaking or anything" ( as if I stand outside checking them when it rains! )  I asked again which company was he from, he responded with "When will the owner be back" and I told him tomorrow.  "I'll call then" he replied.   I asked if I could have the name of the company that had called, he replied "I'll come over and check them to-morrow then". ( I shall wait with baited breath, for his return ). Meanwhile, his passenger had moved over to the drivers seat and drove up the road a bit, (so I could not see the number plate), then when our master builder, was getting back into his small white van, the driver moved back to the passenger seat and they drove very slowly down the road ( possibly looking out for other guttering/fascias or windows that looked as if they had been finished recently. Either a con man or a very sloppy supervisor, as the guttering had been done in 2009!  However he did show some potential as a (bad) politician!

Mari Austin ● 4954d2 Comments ● 4953d

Con-man or sloppy supervisor?

A man was ringing my doorbell yesterday morning about 10.40, as if there was an emergency.  I opened the up stairs window and he shouted up "Oh just checking that your gutters are OK". As I looked puzzled he continued, "We did them, our company did them"  I asked which company would that be and he  responded with " We did the soffits and gutters. I informed him that the owner wasn't at home and I asked why would it be necessary for him to ring the door bell, as the guttering is clearly visible from the street and asked again which company was he from and he replied " Just checking them - that they aren't leaking or anything" ( as if I stand outside checking them when it rains! )  I asked again which company was he from, he responded with "When will the owner be back" and I told him tomorrow.  "I'll call then" he replied.   I asked if I could have the name of the company that had called, he replied "I'll come over and check them to-morrow then". ( I shall wait with baited breath, for his return ). Meanwhile, his passenger had moved over to the drivers seat and drove up the road a bit, then when our master builder, was getting back into his small white van, the driver moved back to the passenger seat and they drove very slowly down the road ( possibly looking out for other guttering/fascias or windows that looked as if they had been finished recently. Either a con man or a very sloppy supervisor, as the guttering had been done in 2009!  However he did show some potential as a (bad) politician!

Mari Austin ● 4955d0 Comments ● 4955d

CANNABIS TREATMENT THREATENS DEADLY PAINKILLER INDUSTRY

Pharmaceutical painkillers are now responsible for more deaths in the United States than heroin and cocaine combined. The pharmaceuticals are  responsible for more than 15,000 deaths conservatively in 2008 alone. With no sign of slowing down, the painkiller industry is becoming wildly popular among Americans — as a result, so is the high rate of painkiller abuse. Classified as dangerous by the U.S. government, cannabis (even in THC-free form, or free of psychoactive effects) has been identified as a powerful pain reliever in more than 80 peer-reviewed studies.You may be aware of the fact that marijuana is usually quite high in THC (delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol), which is the compound responsible for the psychoactive effect of cannabis. In contrast, it is also low in CBD (cannabidiol) content. Both THC and CBD are known as cannabinoids, however, which interacts with your body in a very unique way. In fact, cannabinoids are key when it comes to pain relief. While this information alone is enough to shatter the traditional beliefs on government marijuana regulation, the relationship between CBD and THC is even more revealing.What you may not be familiar with is how CBD has been shown to block the effect of THC in the nervous system. This allows for marijuana to be used with little or no psychoactive effects. Hemp, on the other hand, ishigh in CBD and low in THC. This is due to the fact that it is bred to maximize its fiber, seeds, and oil. Of course these key properties are what it is most commonly used for.Trials Indicate Cannabis as an Effective Treatment for Chronic PainIn a 2011 study published in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, researchers examined the effects of cannabinoids on chronic pain and proper sleep. What they found in their trials challenges federal government claims that cannabis has ‘no accepted medical use’. The researchers conducted 18 trials using cannabinoids in the treatment of chronic pain, and found that cannabinoids demonstrated a significant painkilling effect as well as noticeable improvements in sleep in 15 of trials. Compared, to placebo, the cannabinoids were extremely effective.Most importantly, there were no adverse effects.Another study, performed in 2002, reached similar conclusions. Finding cannabis to aid in pain relief as well as quality of sleep, researchers from the McGill University Health Centre stated in summary that cannabis can be used as an effective way of improving pain, mood, and sleep in some patients with chronic pain.There are many forms of the cannabis plant, many without mind-altering properties, many of which can be utilized without adverse reactions as detailed in the peer-reviewed research. It is also quite clear that the painkiller industry simply cannot continue to wreak havoc on the lives of many, and a natural alternative must soon emerge to prevent another 15,000 plus deaths this year. Why is the federal government refusing to admit the medicinal properties of cannabis and the unique ability of this substance to curb pain, insomnia, and impaired mood? This is only one example of how the government decides what is and what is not good for your health.

Philip Walsh ● 4958d0 Comments ● 4958d

Pot smoking not so harmful to the lungs, study finds  Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/artic

(01-10) 12:55 PST SAN FRANCISCO -- Smoking a joint or a bowl from time to time appears to cause no long-term damage to the lungs, according to a UCSF study that disproves one of the major concerns about marijuana use - that inhaling anything other than air on a regular basis must be harmful.The study, results of which were published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association, found that the lung capacity of people who smoked marijuana was not diminished by lighting up, even among those who smoked once or twice a week.Smoking 20 or more joints a month did have a negative impact on the pulmonary system, but that level of marijuana use is unusual. For occasional users, smoking marijuana was actually associated with a small but statistically significant increase in lung capacity - perhaps caused by the deep-breathing pot smokers use to draw the drug into their lungs.Researchers were reluctant to give the all clear to anyone who wants to smoke pot, but the results - and the fact that they were published in a major medical journal - should reassure doctors and patients who are tempted to use marijuana for treatment, primarily to ease pain and nausea, said Dr. Mark Pletcher, a UCSF epidemiologist and lead author of the study."Moderate levels of exposure to marijuana don't seem to have any adverse effects in terms of pulmonary function," Pletcher said. "That was a little surprising to me, honestly. I thought we were going to find a small decline in pulmonary function, similar to what we'd find with tobacco."Smoking cigarettes has such dramatic, long-term health consequences - including emphysema and lung cancer - that doctors have long assumed that marijuana smoking, too, must be detrimental.The study, which looked at 5,115 men and women over a 20-year period, found that people were just about as likely to smoke marijuana as cigarettes, and many participants smoked both. People who smoked cigarettes, however, were more likely to be heavy users - on average about eight cigarettes a day - than marijuana smokers, who lit up on average two or three times a month.It's likely that the main reason that marijuana smoke doesn't seem to affect lung function the way tobacco does is because people simply don't use the drug as much as they use tobacco. But it's also possible, scientists said, that marijuana smoke just isn't as damaging as tobacco smoke."No one would ever claim that drinking water has the same effect as drinking vodka, even though they're both liquids and you're ingesting them the same way. But for some reason we have assumed that because we know the negative outcomes with cigarettes, inhaling any plant material is going to have the same outcomes," said Amanda Reiman, a UC Berkeley lecturer and director of research at the Berkeley Patients Group, a medical marijuana dispensary."This study is challenging the preconceived notions we've had for some time about the dangers of smoking cannabis and the similarities to smoking tobacco," she said.E-mail Erin Allday at eallday@sfchronicle.com.Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2012/01/10/BA6G1MNA0G.DTL#ixzz1j6eCRFHf

Philip Walsh ● 4958d0 Comments ● 4958d

Cannabidiol inhibits lung cancer cell invasion and metastasis via intercellular adhesion molecule-1

Cannabidiol inhibits lung cancer cell invasion and metastasis via intercellular adhesion molecule-1Robert Ramer*, Katharina Bublitz*, Nadine Freimuth*, Jutta Merkord*, Helga Rohde*, Maria Haustein*, Philipp Borchert*, Ellen Schmuhl*, Michael Linnebacher† and Burkhard Hinz*,1+ Author Affiliations*Institute of Toxicology and Pharmacology and†Section of Molecular Oncology and Immunotherapy, Department of General Surgery, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany↵1Correspondence: Institute of Toxicology and Pharmacology, University of Rostock, Schillingallee 70, D-18057 Rostock, Germany. E-mail: burkhard.hinz@med.uni-rostock.deAbstractCannabinoids inhibit cancer cell invasion via increasing tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1). This study investigates the role of intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) within this action. In the lung cancer cell lines A549, H358, and H460, cannabidiol (CBD; 0.001–3 μM) elicited concentration-dependent ICAM-1 up-regulation compared to vehicle via cannabinoid receptors, transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, and p42/44 mitogen-activated protein kinase. Up-regulation of ICAM-1 mRNA by CBD in A549 was 4-fold at 3 μM, with significant effects already evident at 0.01 μM. ICAM-1 induction became significant after 2 h, whereas significant TIMP-1 mRNA increases were observed only after 48 h. Inhibition of ICAM-1 by antibody or siRNA approaches reversed the anti-invasive and TIMP-1-upregulating action of CBD and the likewise ICAM-1-inducing cannabinoids Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and R(+)-methanandamide when compared to isotype or nonsilencing siRNA controls. ICAM-1-dependent anti-invasive cannabinoid effects were confirmed in primary tumor cells from a lung cancer patient. In athymic nude mice, CBD elicited a 2.6- and 3.0-fold increase of ICAM-1 and TIMP-1 protein in A549 xenografts, as compared to vehicle-treated animals, and an antimetastatic effect that was fully reversed by a neutralizing antibody against ICAM-1 [% metastatic lung nodules vs. isotype control (100%): 47.7% for CBD + isotype antibody and 106.6% for CBD + ICAM-1 antibody]. Overall, our data indicate that cannabinoids induce ICAM-1, thereby conferring TIMP-1 induction and subsequent decreased cancer cell invasiveness.—Ramer, R., Bublitz, K., Freimuth, N., Merkord, J., Rohde, H., Haustein, M., Borchert, P., Schmuhl, E., Linnebacher, M., Hinz, B. Cannabidiol inhibits lung cancer cell invasion and metastasis via intercellular adhesion molecule-1.cannabinoids tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 experimental metastasis ICAM-1Received October 17, 2011.Accepted December 5, 2011.© FASEB

Philip Walsh ● 4961d2 Comments ● 4960d

STOP PRESS - Victory for Residents against Thames Water!

Already posted by Steve but deserves a thread of its own...PRESS RELEASEEmbargo: 8 December 2011VICTORY FOR RESIDENTS AGAINST THAMES WATERResidents successful in ‘David & Goliath’ battleAfter a long and arduous fight, 1,350 residents living near Mogden Sewage Treatment Works in Isleworth, Middlesex have won their mammoth battle against Thames Water Utilities Limited in relation to odour nuisance.  The residents live in an area which comprises Hounslow, Whitton, Twickenham and St Margarets as well as Isleworth.At the High Court today (8 December), Judge Mr Justice Ramsay handed down the judgment which holds Thames Water liable for breach of duty in relation to nuisance caused by odour from the Mogden plant.  In relation to allegations of negligence surrounding their management and operation at the Works, Mr Justice Ramsey significantly found that Thames Water had, since 1990, failed to have a long term odour management and investment strategy to deal with odour from the site.Mr Steve Taylor, one of the lead claimants, says: “I hope this case shows that David can take on Goliath in our legal system and win.  The case was never about money; it was about holding Thames Water to account for the problems that it has caused us over the last 10 years.  The huge impact on ordinary people's lives and on the environment cannot be underestimated. I am extremely grateful to Neil Stockdale and the Environment team at Hugh James as well as our Counsel, Stephen Hockman QC and John Bates, for relentlessly pursuing this case  on our behalf.  I believe this case is the first of its kind in the UK and the judgment in our favour will have a major influence on the way the managers and owners of sewage treatment works in England and Wales run their businesses"Although this is a significant victory for the residents, the stark warning is that happy endings like this one might not be possible in the future.  The Government plans to change legislation, effectively ending the current ‘no win no fee’ system, exposing claimants to huge upfront financial risks rather than being allowed to recover fees at the end if successful.  This will lead to claimants having to take responsibility for both their own expenses and the other side’s costs.Mr Taylor continues: “I’m shocked and very disappointed about the Government’s plans to change this legislation.  The stature and financial clout of Thames Water meant we were only able to take this case forward because of the current ‘no win no fee’ system.  Changing this system will deter others in similar situations to ours from bringing cases against big companies and will be a real obstacle for ordinary people to access justice.  I would ask the government to think very carefully about the effect that this might have on people’s lives.”Neil Stockdale, the partner at Hugh James who led the team dealing with the case said, “This result is a vindication of the residents’ genuine desire to protect their environment from blight. Unfortunately however, cases like this will no longer be possible in the future if the Government’s proposed reforms to the funding of litigation are enacted next year.“The Government is proposing that individuals take cases like this at their own risk; people just can’t afford to take such risks, particularly when they are up against the likes of Thames Water. If people don’t stand up now and oppose the Government's bill they will forever be powerless to take action to protect their legal rights in all sorts of cases. What the Government is suggesting is a real scandal and the biggest threat to access to justice we have ever witnessed in the UK.”Damages were sought against Thames Water for nuisance caused by odour and mosquitoes but claimants also sought for an injunction to prevent continuing nuisance. Today, the Judge has accepted 18 of the 30 allegations of negligence that were made in addition to finding that Thames Water had breached the claimants’ rights under the Human Rights Act, specifically Article 8 of the convention which protects the enjoyment of home and family life.The Judge said that the claimants had been caused to suffer significant inconvenience and annoyance from odour over and above that which was inevitable.In relation to Human Rights, High Court Judge Mr Justice Ramsay says of his decision: "Because I have held that Thames Water failed to carry out the work and conduct the operation at Mogden Sewage Treatment Works with all reasonable regard and care for the interests of other persons, including the claimants, it follows in my view that Thames Water failed properly to respect the rights of claimants and did not do all they reasonably could to prevent odour from migrating from the Mogden Sewage Treatment Works. They did not do what they should have done as a public authority in relation to the rights of the claimants".ends

Phil Andrews ● 4991d22 Comments ● 4978d

Any change to the Lisbon Treaty will affect the UK Mr.Cameron!!

David Cameron has once again let us down of course with Europhile Nick Clegg as his second in command what can we expect, a whole lot better than we are going to get.17 Countries make up the EU another 10 countries including ourselves sit way back and yet pay lots of monies into it, we also have to adhere to rules laid out by the EU Commission, David Cameron says that the new treaty will be discussed at the Summit this coming Friday, yet has not the decision for a new treaty and what it beholds for all of the EU already been taken by Angela Merkel and Nicolas Sarkozy.They have decided that Brussels with Ms.Merkel at the head will in effect have complete budgetary control also when to implement new  taxes etc,and when smaller countries get into financial trouble "Fine" them thus causing even greater monetary problems. Can wehonestly see the populations of these 27 countries calmly accepting this, already although our media do not publicize it not a day goes by without demonstrations by the people objecting.These changes will have a great effect on us and we will have nothing to say about it, we are going to be even more under EU control than ever before, as it is we look ridiculous at EU meetings because we have no say, we appear to have cap in hand like a schoolboy.Well David Cameron has to give us our right to vote as a nation as to whether we find this acceptable or not, otherwise if he calmly accepts this new treaty he will probably not be in power for very much longer.  

Dawn Hardy ● 4994d4 Comments ● 4989d

Mark Bowen. The Man for the job.

Friday, 02 December 2011..... Mark Bowen a real chance for F+H.No! Not the footie star the other rising Political Star rising in the West, Feltham and Heston to be exact, a man from his own turf known by many and will become known by many more once he is finally where he should have been years ago in Westminster Village fighting with his dogged determination for his constituents... that’s you with the leaking roof, broken dialogue or ASBO problems  every night,  not to say the many families who have sent their sons and daughters out to defend our rights in the world who now need representation in Westminster or those that chose us as their new way of life when they could have easily picked up their families and their inheritance and chose any other European destination and along with it a unique contribution to our country that even now others are trying again to poach.This is a fine honest determined man who will stop at nothing for all of his constituents and all you have to do for this solid back up in your own lives is walk down the road and place a cross next to his name right there your life and that of your family just became safer, be brave enough to follow your own conviction you know what is happening and even those that do not, suspect something we need strong men right now with articulation MB is that man.Life as we know it is changing rapidly and we in West London need all of the help we can get we need our Politicians in their not meat in the room.Vote for this good solid man on December 15th and then support him no matter what you will not be disappointed.Rgds .kk.

K Kelly ● 4998d9 Comments ● 4990d

Select Committee Inquiry into Public Library Closures (in England)

Select Committee Inquiry into Public Library Closures (in England)Send your contributions to contact@voicesforthelibrary.org.ukCall for Contributions to Voices for the Library We need your help in order to draft an effective response to the inquiry by the Select Committee on Culture, Media and Sport into library closures. We are looking for evidence that planned closures have had an impact on  your library service as per the Public Library And Museums Act 1964. •Have library cuts and closures affected your community? •Have they had an effect on staffing, opening hours, services provided, IT provisions and/or book/DVD/CD/printed music  etc. selection? •Have you set up or joined a Friends group in response? Your experience is invaluable. Please contact us via our website Call for Contributions We need your help in order to draft an effective response to the inquiry by the Select Committee on Culture, Media and Sport into library closures. We are looking for evidence that planned closures have had an impact on  your library service as per the Public Library And Museums Act 1964. •Have library cuts and closures affected your community? •Have they had an effect on staffing, opening hours, services provided, IT provisions and/or book/DVD/CD/printed music  etc. selection? •Have you set up or joined a Friends group in response? Your experience is invaluable. Please contact us via our website www.voicesforthelibrary.org.uk/ or our Facebook page, on Twitter @ukpling, or email us at contact@voicesforthelibrary.org.uk. Please make sure your evidence gets to us by 20th December

Hazel Dakers ● 4991d0 Comments ● 4991d

Chris Huhne to give 1 Billion Pounds to African Countries to Aid the fight of  Climate Change

This guy shrugs his shoulder's when asked about our Electric and Gas Bills going up by 18% this year, says he is sorry but there is nothing he can do. Well actually yes there is put this 1 Billion to good use in our own environment. South Africa for instance is the most economically advanced country in Africa also has a better economy than we do,last year their economy grew by 2.8% whilst ours grew by just 1.8%.This money is supposedly to improve access to low carbon energy in 7000 rural households also allow 1.2 Million small farmers to use climate-resilient agriculture practices, no disrespect intended but the poor people in these countries are still living in brick-mud houses they do not know what running water and electricity is they have never had the luxury. This is worse than Gordon Brown giving Vietnam 15 Million Pounds for toilets, once again the politicos will get richer and those poor people will continue to die. We already distribute 12.5 Billion in aid to countries all around the world. Do the people who are in really dire straits receive it,shamefully they do not!Incidentally our Carbon Emission is running below 2% and yet each household contributes at least £750.00 per year toward climate change, nature will do it's job much better if countries such as China,India,USA also Russia would be more in control of their emission programmes.

Dawn Hardy ● 5002d0 Comments ● 5002d

US President George W Bush and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair guilty of committing crimes

The Kuala Lumpur War Crimes Tribunal found the former heads of state guilty after a four-day hearing. A seven-member panel chaired by former Malaysian Federal Court judge Abdul Kadir Sulaiman presided over the trial. The five panel tribunal unanimously decided that the former US and British leaders had committed crimes against peace and humanity, and also violated international law when they ordered the invasion of Iraq in March 2003. The prosecutors at the hearing ruled that the invasion of Iraq was a flagrant abuse of law, and act of aggression which amounted to a mass murder of the Iraqi people. “Bush and Blair are found guilty under the same law that applied to the Nazis after the end of the World War II. So, they are international (war) criminals guilty of Nuremberg crimes against peace; and they should be prosecuted by any state in the world that gets a hold of them. We will continue our efforts to bring Bush and Blair to justice and put them in jail,” Francis Boyle, an international law expert and prosecutor, told Press TV. The judges in the verdict said that that the United States, under the leadership of Bush, forged documents to claim that Iraq had weapons of mass destruction. Bush and Blair were tried in absentia by the Kuala Lumpur War Crimes Tribunal at the end of the hearing. The participants also demanded that the findings of the tribunal be made available to members of the Rome Statute and that the names of the two former officials be entered in the register of war criminals. “There is also a recommendation that this (the findings) be circulated to the states because all states have universal jurisdiction. Therefore, whenever Bush or Blair appear within their shores there is an obligation on the international law to commit these international war criminals through the justice system,” Gurdial Singh Nijar, a prosecutor, told Press TV. Lawyers and human rights activists in Malaysia have described the verdict issued by the Kuala Lumpur War Crimes Tribunal against Bush and Blair as “a landmark decision.” They say that they would lobby the International Criminal Court to charge the pair for war crimes. The Kuala Lumpur War Crimes Tribunal is scheduled to hold a separate hearing next year on charges of torture linked to the Iraq war against former US officials including ex-Vice President Dick Cheney, former Secretary of State Donald Rumsfeld and ex-Attorney General Alberto Gonzales.

Philip Walsh ● 5006d13 Comments ● 5005d

KEELE RESEARCHERS HIT INTERNATIONAL HEADLINES

Research by a team from the School of Pharmacy, the Department of Psychiatry and the Research Institute for Primary Care and Health Sciences, commissioned by the Government's Advisory Committee on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) to investigate trends in schizophrenia, has been widely reported in the national and international media.  The ACMD wanted to ascertain whether the rate of schizophrenia in the UK had changed in recent years, possibly due to cannabis use. A recent systematic review concluded that cannabis use increases risk of psychotic outcomes independently of confounding and transient intoxication effects. Furthermore, a model of the association between cannabis use and schizophrenia indicated that the incidence and prevalence of schizophrenia would increase from 1990 onwards.The Keele paper investigates whether this has occurred in the UK by examining trends in the annual prevalence and incidence of schizophrenia and psychoses, as measured by diagnosed cases from 1996 to 2005. The study cohort comprised almost 600,000 patients each year, representing approximately 2.3% of the UK population, aged 16 to 44. Between 1996 and 2005 the incidence and prevalence of schizophrenia and psychoses were either stable or declining. Explanations other than a genuine stability or decline were considered, but appeared less plausible. In conclusion, the study, by Dr Martin Frisher, Professor Ilana Crome, Orsolina Martino and Professor Peter Croft, did not find any evidence of increasing schizophrenia or psychoses in the general population from 1996 to 2005.Gee does this mean all those reports in the Daily Mail, The Standard And telegraph are false or at least overstated YES IT DOES!!!

Philip Walsh ● 5007d0 Comments ● 5007d

Spring Gathering of the Tory Party cancelled can David Cameron no longer stand criticism.

This is a disgrace this event(known as Central Council) has taken place forever only stopping during World War Two, the feeble excuse given is a lack of funds what a load of codswallop. I thought that a PM needed the opinion of his MP's, you cannot pick and choose what to hear, the bad goes with the good. I never thought the day would come when I would say this however on a daily basis David Cameron seems to have become a clone of Tony Blair, we had such faith in you and we have had so many disappointments.You have a meeting with Angela Merkel this week does this mean that you are going to do as she wishes and not what is best for the UK, you need to stop and listen to the voice of the nation. Today on the box apparently our work situation is blamed on the Euro Crisis well a newsflash our unemployment has been going on for years we need an input of money into our Industries not Europe help us to help ourselves. For goodness sake don't go doing a Gordon Brown on us and signing us to anymore agreements, we need the repatriation of powers now.Germany and France are only interested in what is best for the own countries, they will in the not to distant future breakdown Europe to a tier basis,probably the 4 richest countries with of course Germany leading the next tier the other 13 countries then the dreaded Euro-zone who do not have a voice and if they do it is totally ineffectual, which will be ruled by Mrs Merkel,this lady has to be admired, she has achieved with her policies what Hitler could not do with his might,  we do not need or want this, remember any change to a treaty has to be put before parliament and the country.  

Dawn Hardy ● 5016d0 Comments ● 5016d

Emperor & Empress Maroczy operate the biggest" STING" in History

I have watched the news and read different newspapers ever since Mr.Papandreou the Greek Prime Minister made his announcement of giving his people a referendum on whether to take this wonderful bail out package given by the aforementioned illustrious couple, remember that this deal has not been written yet so agreement could involve many years of austarity for Greece.Obviously the world was aghast at such a dangerous thought, Markets lost a great deal of money,Governments told dire stories of what would happen if Greece were to default,how things have changed within a few day's we now have the Marcozy Duo demanding that Mr.Papandreou attend them at Cannes, poor guy is told off in the most extreme way and then makes an idiot of himself by saying that he most definatly wants Europe to work.We then have the dynamic duo(did I think that there were 17 Member States in Europe)come on the TV saying that Greece cannot vote on whether they accept the bailout but that they would have to vote on whether to stay in Europe, so where is the worry of Europe and Markets collapsing when a demand such as this has taken place.Just heard on the box Mr.Papandreou has offered his resignation "Job Done"the referendum will quitely disappear and all the other countries will now follow the lead of doing as they are told by the Marcozy Duo. I mean after all we had the Italian Government rushing a Cabinet meeting forward yesterday who have more debt than Greece, so the ploy appears to have been very effective does it not.

Dawn Hardy ● 5027d14 Comments ● 5018d

Dear Baroness browning - Minister for crime and anti social behaviour 

Baroness BrowningMinister for crime and anti social behaviourMarsham StreetLondon Airstrip 1SW1P 4DF 3rd November 2011CTS Reference M8259/11Dear Baroness Browning.Thank you for your letter of the 27th July 2011 in response to my letter requesting a meeting between Mr Peter Reynolds of Clear and the Prime Minister to enable Mr Reynolds to give the Prime Minister the factual truth about cannabis, as he appears to have become more than slightly confused over this issue; despite his own (non criminalised) use of this substance (along with so many parliamentarians) and his own speeches prior to becoming leader of the Conservatives. The words from Mr Cameron’s  first speech in parliament “fresh thinking and a new approach” to drug policy comes to mind, as does “Politicians attempt to appeal to the lowest common denominator by posturing with tough policies and calling for crackdown after crackdown” and then there is “Drugs policy has been failing for decades”;  I believe as a member of the Home Affairs Select Committee  he stated that the government at the time should initiate a discussion at the United Nations to consider alternative ways ,including the possibility of legalisation and regulation, to tackle the global drugs problem; all of which glow as beacons of hypocrisy in the light of recent claims over “very very toxic cannabis”.   This leaves many of us wondering if some agency other than the elected government and its Prime Minister decide our nation’s drug policy.I have also sent you emails with regard to my freedom of information request lodged with the Home Office and James Brokenshire’s reluctance to reply.   I believe an email was sent to you on the day you were appointed, I didn’t get any replies until now and I note it still fails to answer the questions over Hortipharm NL Hortipharm NL, it’s ‘licence’ and its Directors.  I was however gladdened to read that your officials are working hard to “formulate a response to my other representations” as the responses I have had, even to Freedom of Information requests, have been incomplete and inaccurate.  Indeed one FOI become lost for a few months and had to be reissued, I still await a full reply to all the questions contained within my FOI requests the most recent of these are contained in emails sent on the 12th and 16th of May 2011, proper responses are now overdue.I am hoping someone will explain why the British government gave millions of pounds to GW Pharmaceuticals.  I believe it is illegal for the government to ‘gift’ public money to fund a private company with a market share above 80%, and then actively promote and protect that company; let alone the 100% protected by criminalising the sick that the government currently favours.  Unfortunately the Department of Trade tell me they can’t look into ‘dodgy dealing’ in other governmental departments, not exactly a reissuance of governmental commitment to free and open government or honesty.I am also hoping some one might tell me how much of that £10 million was given to ‘Sam the skunk man’ as he was known to the criminal underworld of Holland’s cannabis growers and cannabis seed producers, of which he was a major player.  One who used his ‘licence’ to provide seeds to most of the cannabis seed companies in the Netherlands for around thirty years.  He was the only seed breeder who could guarantee the safety of the crop due to his ‘licence’ other breeders, his contemporaries being routinely arrested and their crops seized.  AKA Sam Selezny the name on the passport he used when he ‘apparently’ fled the USA and their Drug Enforcement Agency to avoid criminal prosecution.  It is publicly claimed he was carrying with him the dubiously obtained Cannabis genetics (250,000 cannabis seeds) and the research of the Sacred seed collective, Santa Cruz, California of which he had been a ‘junior member’ when it was raided by the DEA.  AKA David Watson, which is his real name and the one that the DEA was ‘apparently’ looking for him under although for reasons best known to themselves, they never applied to extradite him under, (a DEA undercover employee perhaps) David Watson who introduced Cannabis skunk to Europe.  David Watson the director of the discredited Hortipharm NL, who’s claimed licence, was apparently fraudulently obtained.  It was withdrawn by the Dutch Government as a consequence and this was ‘prior’ to the UK Governments financing of GW Pharmaceuticals and their attempt to privatise and monopolise the medical cannabis industry by handing over £10 million of taxpayer’s money to obtain these ‘stolen’ genetics; Money from taxpayers who still can’t access this ‘contaminated’ Cannabis medicine but can and are arrested for using natural cannabis medicine.I believe Hortipharms other director is RC Clarke; author of Marijuana Botany – a guide to breeding distinctive cannabis strains, a book that has ‘informed’ most other illegal cannabis seed breeders worldwide. I look forward to some one justifying the lying to the public over our government’s role in handing over millions of taxpayers pounds to two people who could fairly be described as the grandfathers of the illegal indoor cannabis market.  Such blatant hypocrisy and double dealing/double standards could only come from British parliamentarians. I am still hoping that someone will tell me; who in Government knew the true nature of the company ‘Hortipharm NL’ it’s illegally obtained and withdrawn licence and  also who was aware of the possible criminal nature of this companies directors in particular, David Watson.  Unless of course he was/is in fact a DEA agent; (which would explain many things about this ‘Teflon coated’ criminal);  who has gone ‘freelance’ and privatised the possibilities of utilising the drug his and every other government, including our own has signed up to destroying in the Opiates act!!  An act that makes possession or production of Sativex as illegal as any other type of/ ether of/ ester of/ compound of/ oil of or preparation of cannabis in any form! Licensed or not, as does the British Muse use of Drugs Act!Earl Howe has indeed responded and confirmed that there is essentially no difference in the cannabis contained in Sativex and natural uncontaminated herbal cannabis. Both are cannabis, and cannabis is confirmed as the only ingredient of any medicinal value in O’Shaughnessy tincture or to use it’s rebranded, at great expense to the taxpayer name, Sativex.  Which is strange as cannabis apparently has no medical value according to the misuse of drugs act; yet Earl Howe clearly accepts that cannabis is the active ingredient in Sativex and that no medicinal claims are or can be made for any of the other ingredients.  I can only presume that either Earl Howe is mistaken or lying about cannabis the only effective medical content in Sativex; something I find hard to believe, considering his positions, by which I mean; Parliamentary under Secretary for Standards (Lords) and the Minister responsible for pharmacy policy at the NHS.  The only other conclusion possible is that you are mistaken or lying.  The feeble attempt to justify the government’s position that Sativex is a ‘different product’ is ridiculous as is the claimed reason for it to be considered so.  By which I mean it is a medicine of quantifiable ingredients, only 5 of the 83 ingredients being at a measured dose which leaves 78 cannabinoids at an unregulated, unquantifiable level. You state in your letter that cannabis is a harmful drug that should not be taken. Am I to deduce from this statement, that the government will continue to refuse to follow the requirements of the UN Opiate act of 1963 to deal with the social and health issues surrounding drug use?  That the governments misuse of the UK’s misuse of drugs act, an act that is supposed to be used for the regulation and control of dangerous drugs; not the prohibition of drugs coupled with the criminalisation of some people (over a million and climbing) will continue regardless of common decency and respect for UK citizens who use ‘some’ drugs.  That our government will continue to claim that criminalising its citizens without any proper basis in law is, some how, being done to protect people; protecting people being the true basis for and the intension of the UN Opiates Act and the UK’s Misuse of Drugs Act.Perhaps you can give me some credible information over the harms as the Cannabis psychosis theory was found ‘not proven’ by the Keel University study which was funded by the Government and the ACMD.  I would also love to see the information upon which your dependences claim is made as cannabis is and always has been considered a drug of non dependence with no withdrawal symptoms.You go on to claim that the ACMD provide independent advice!!  This is the same ACMD who’s chair the government sacked for refusing to entertain the official policy of lying to the public over drugs, the same ACMD that had a rash of resignations in protest at Professor Nutts sacking and governmental misrepresentation of the facts.  The same ACMD who’s current Chair Professor Les Iverson is on record as stating in an article in 2003 that “cannabis had been incorrectly classified for nearly 50 years and stated that cannabis was one of the safer recreational drugs”.  It’s certainly safer than the parliamentarians drugs of ‘snout in the trough’ self interest, alcohol and tobacco, both of which cause death, no deaths have ever been recorded from cannabis, both are harmful to heath, both are addictive and do course irreversible brain damage.  You further claim that the supposedly independent ACMD issued the statement in their report that “the use of cannabis is a significant public health issue, cannabis can unquestionably course harm to individuals and society”. I can only presume that you have never read this report and that this quote was furnished you by an advisor as anyone who has read this report would know that your chosen quote goes against the grain of the rest of the report; which does not contain any evidence to back up this statement.   Indeed I believe this was included on the insistence of the representative from ACPO who seems to be confusing his responsibilities to factual evidence with ACPO’s desire to protect and preserve the honey pot of funding to the institutions of the state, (Police, Courts and prisons).  Cannabis represents a very large portion of the £16 billion dedicated to ruining the lives of some people who use some drugs, via the ‘War on some people who use some drugs’ AKA state sponsored ‘social conformity terrorism’ with the catchy tag ‘War on Drugs’ to disguise the fact it is a war on some people!!The claim that keeping cannabis illegal is to protect the public is farcical. How is allowing free reign to organised crime to pollute / contaminate the drug supply with dangerous adulterants in order to increase their profit, supposed to help protect anyone let alone the vulnerable.  My brother died after many years of opiate addiction his body wasn’t destroyed / impaired by the drugs he took but by the contaminate that clogged his veins, destroyed his liver, kidneys and caused abscesses in much of his body.  What ID does a modern ten year old need to buy a bag of Heroin or cannabis contaminated with ground glass that can burn a hole in your lung if inhaled hot from a joint?  Answer a note with a picture of the Queen on. A regulated drug supply would save the lives of countless people, save countless others from contaminate based harms and consequently save the NHS from long term costs treating these harms.  Cannabis properly regulated and taxed as suggested by Cannabis Law Reform in the document on Taxing the UK cannabis market compiled by the Independent Drug Monitoring Unit would offer more protection to the individual, children and society as a whole, than the current policy of feeding the monster of failed prohibition. You claim that the Government balances the rights of the individual on one hand and the greater health and welfare considerations on the other.  This statement flies in the face of reality; the harms caused by drug use stem directly from prohibition.  From people dying from contaminates to those that die due to suddenly finding some thing pure. From those that are robbed to feed a habit to the child with a note with the Queen on to buy a habit, they are not having their health and welfare considered or their rights as individuals protected.  The children even parents of cannabis user’s whether sick or well are not having the rights protected  by Police Officers smashing their way into peoples home at all times of the day or night in pointless raids that do nothing to boost respect for the authorities or its institutions,( I have enclosed a letter from my daughter to the courthearing a case against me to further your understanding of this matter, she is from the third generation of my family to suffer state/police home invasion).  In fact I suspect cannabis arrests and raids are the single most destructive act that the authorities undertake in the UK today. It cost’s billions when it should be making them, wastes enormous sums of public money in a war on our own population and the only things it generates is growing resentment and mistrust in both democracy and politician’s ‘truths’!Politicians truths brings me nicely to your statements that cannabis has no medical value.Why was £10 million handed over again; the absurdity of this claim is with out comparison, as is the hypocrisy.  The UK Government are to put it blatantly engaged in an attempt to privatise and illegally monopolise the  medical cannabis industry here in the UK and beyond, they are hand in glove with GW pharmaceuticals who are ‘housed’ at Porton Down and still, I believe involved with the criminals of Hortipharm NL.Our government is willing to allow citizens of all the countries that signed the Schengen agreement to consume natural cannabis as a medicine in the UK yet criminalise UK residents to protect commercial interest; ‘Politicians truths’ appear to be great big fat stinking lies! Perpetuated to protect the vested interest of their partners in a criminal conspiracy to control medical cannabis whilst denying cannabis is a medicine or has any medical properties, then using that augment as an excuse for destroying the lives of the sick and needy via criminalisation, a sicker, sadder conspiracy is hard to imagine but then again we are talking about British politicians aren’t we!The most worrying aspect of this whole situation is that you may already know all this and are still prepared to continue the lie, while I will spend the rest of my life, as the last twenty years, being prosecuted for producing the kinds of seeds bought from Hortipharm NL and hence prevented from doing my own research, earning a living and having a life.I am in court again tomorrow and may not be going home to my wife and family! Yours SincerelyMr P.S.WalshCannabis Criminal

Philip Walsh ● 5026d0 Comments ● 5026d

Check your bill at Morrisons Brentford.

Morriso's is a pretty good shop, my daughter and I shop there maybe 4 or 5 times a week however this last week we have experienced two misrepresentations of pricing that we are aware of just by checking our bill they were as follows:-Platinum Fairy Liquid on offer @ 2 for £2.50 on bill shown as £3.60 a difference of £1.10.Body Form all sizes on offer @ £1 per pack shown on bill as £1.55 a difference of 0.55.If it comes up on the bill then the main frame has been updated and to continue showing previous pricing on the shelves is wrong, just how much money is made on a weekly basis with misreprentation of prices, on both occasions the product was given back and the money refunded with no appology!Now this morning we go again to shop there and yes I know very well that it is wrong to smoke, eat cakes,sweets etc,etc however there is only one thing certain in life that as soon as you are born the clock is ticking towards oblivion a long time coming one hopes.However back to my moaning I wanted to buy 2 x 50grm packs of Golden Virginia for a guy down the street who cannot get out, the price stated £12.98 unfortunately all they had was 25gm packs @ £7.47 per pack, that is £14.74 verses £12.98 it is outrageous that such a vast difference can occur, when I complained to a supervisor appologies were made this time and excuses being that the 50 grm had been ordered, the amount of 25gm packs showed a different story.

Dawn Hardy ● 5029d10 Comments ● 5027d

Isleworth Baroque sings Handel's Solomon, 26-28 October

ISLEWORTH BAROQUE, Isleworth's own baroque opera company, presentsGeorge Frederic Handel's "Solomon"Wednesday 26 - Friday 28th October 2011 at 7:30 pmFree pre-performance talk at 6.30 pm in the foyer areaWest Thames College TheatreLondon Road, IsleworthTW7 4HSAll tickets £12Box Office: 020-8943 5261or visit  www.isleworthbaroque.co.uk for online bookingsor call in person at Deli-cacies, 14 South Street (next door to Isleworth Public HallProduction conceived and directed by Simon Pike Conducted by Leslie Anne LewisSolomon was composed as an oratorio in three acts reflecting episodes from the life of King Solomon. Isleworth Baroque will be providing a dramatic interpretation of the oratorio as a semi-staged production. The ‘story’ is as follows: •  Act 1 deals with the inauguration of the newly completed temple, and ends with Solomon beckoning his Queen toward the cedar grove INTERVAL•  Act II is based around the well known story of two women arguing over who is the mother of the new-born baby, and Solomon's sharp thinking to find a solution •  Act III portrays the visit of the Queen of Sheba (also known as the Queen of Egypt and Ethiopia), and her amazement at the glory and splendour of Solomon's court, and is entertained by a masque performed by Solomon's players. Footnotes1  The venue is different from previous years - don't buy a ticket and then turn up at Isleworth Public Hall !2   Tickets are for numbered seats (again, different from earlier years)3   This theatre has raked seating so the view is excellent from all parts of the auditorium.Isleworth Baroque is a Registered Charity: No. 1127803

Tom Beaton ● 5037d1 Comments ● 5031d

Political Correctness gone mad?

Hounslow High Street will be lit up this week, when the new festive lights are turned on. The lights have been designed in collaboration with students from Hounslow Manor School, and with support from the University of West London.As well as switching on the lights, the High Street will be packed with entertainment organised by Waterman’s Arts Centre, including: DJ Ritu - BBC DJ Bollywood Brass Band FlameOz Fire Show - Fire artistry, circus, martial arts and dance There will also be a pop-up drive-in cinema, showing Bollywood classic Devdas, in the Holloway Street car park behind the High Street. Parking is free, but spaces are limited to 100 cars on a first come first served basis.Cllr Ruth Cadbury, deputy leader of the council, said: "We have plans to make Hounslow High Street the best in West London and we are starting to invest in its future. Events like this are great ways to attract people to our town centre."This will be the biggest event seen there for some time, so it will be great to see as many local people coming along to enjoy the entertainment."The events are part of a range of projects being run in Hounslow over the next few months thanks to £499,000 of funding from the Outer London Fund. This is a Mayor of London initiative to help promote town centres, which also saw Brentford receive £226,500.The fun begins at 4pm on Friday 28 October, and the lights will be switched on at 6pm by the Mayor of Hounslow, Cllr Amrit Mann.A to Z of Services »

Paul Fisher ● 5037d10 Comments ● 5036d

Locata and Allocating Housing Stock

Jon HardyI couldn’t believe your post about increasing the amount of people that view a property at one time. Back in 2003, there were three candidates that viewed a property together, each candidate had a letter say that you were either the first person, 2nd or 3rd.I witnessed a candidate who had a letter saying they would be the first candidates to be offered the property. As the property wasn’t fit for human occupation it took that person some while to make up their mind, but all the while they were getting harassment and abuse from the 2nd and 3rd candidates. The HH officer finally had to escort the first candidate into the kitchen, shut the door and go and have a really harsh words with the other two candidates, which eventually forced the hand of the first candidate to agree to take the property.Just recently there were five candidates viewing housing In Feltham and I was told it was quite obvious who was going to be allocated them by the way they viewed the property, that could have easily started an argument. Did I read it right? You want 10 candidates to view each property to save time, that’s a recipe for a riot with the attitude of the under forties now days, this will put the HH officer at risk, and one of these days being hurt if an argument gets out of hand.Something else springs to mind about allocating of property Allegedly there are no properties for Disabled residents.When a property has been converted for a disabled resident, like wet rooms, chair lifts, extra grab rails and possible slopes outside, when that resident moves on for whatever reason the property is open for all residents to bid for, as it’s no longer a disabled person home.So if an able-bodied family is offered the property, allegedly HH will not fit a bath to the wet room or other alterations.So if that property has been allocated and a disabled resident is offered a property with no alterations, means that some how either HH or the council through grants has to adapt this property for them.Locator and HH know whom the disabled residents who are biding for properties, why then don’t the disabled get a property already converted? Doesn’t this save HH or the Council money?          

Paul Allen ● 5064d14 Comments ● 5036d

Libraries - why can't politicians be straight with people and not treat us like idiots?

According to the article on the main site LBH's new Hounslow Library Strategy intends to "retain our high standards against the background of huge cuts from central government".The council's strategy for "retaining (its) high standards" would appear to include reducing the book fund by either £240,000 or £540,000 (depending on which part of the article you read), cutting back on opening hours and "tiering" the structure by "reducing skills of staff at smaller libraries".I was particularly interested in the last one - how, exactly, does the local authority envisage "reducing the skills" of existing library staff?  Does it propose to chop off their arms so that they will find it more difficult and time-consuming to populate the bookshelves?  Will it be performing a lobotomies to ensure that they forget the skills that they have picked up through years of training and experience?What it means, of course, is that staff of a certain ability will be removed from post and replaced by staff of a lesser ability, on a lower wage.So why not say so?This exercise in spin is a sad indictment of the priorities and demands of the system of adversarial party politics as it operates in this country.Everybody knows that government cuts are the cause of these cuts having to be made, notwithstanding the argument as to whether or not areas other than libraries should take the hit instead, which is for another debate.And yet the local authority feels the need to spin what is essentially a savage cuts package into something bordering on cause for celebration because it is scared that it will get the blame and that the ruling party will lose votes as a result.  All that was missing from the press statement, it would seem, was an audio file comprising a fanfare of trumpets and a virtual slice of party cake.In this age of information technology it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep us "ordinary" people in the dark and to take us for fools, but politicians would seem very slow to cotton on to this.If it is a government cut then say it is a government cut.  We are not stupid.

Phil Andrews ● 5069d12 Comments ● 5059d

Parking Fine (PCN)

On the 11 June 11 I parked my car in the Butts and paid for parking with RINGGO (the phone based parking payment system).  On returning to my car I found I had a PCN.   Later the same week I emailed the Council with the PCN number and an electronic copy of the receipt for parking that covered the period of the parking ticket.  That was that I thought.Six weeks later I received an email telling me to pay up because I had parked in a Residents bay... fair enough I thought ... that is possible.   I asked them to send me a copy of the photo of my parked car.   They did and I checked the location... sure enough it was an appropriate pay at metre bay.  I emailed the Council.  That was that I thought.Two weeks later I received an email telling me to pay up because I had not paid for the parking.   I emailed back the receipt. That was that I thought.One week later I received an email telling me that the Offence was 6 November 2011, and the 6 June Receipt did not cover this period... well this made no sense to me... and I guess not much sense to you dear reader.I emailed the Council and told them I would not pay and they should summons me to the Magistrates Court.  That was, definitely not that, I thought.Two days later I received an email from the Council,  mistake they said, training issue they said, sorry they did not say and that was that they thought.So my advice is, if you get a ticket, send one mail of proof if you have a receipt and tell them you wish to go to court.  That will force a manager to look at the problem and it will get sorted... well I hope it will.My abiding concern is that the Council were just trying to make me pay... that of course would be Theft and I am sure they did not mean to do that or that is part of some unwritten policy to throw the thing back and back in some parking ticked tennis match in the hope that the citizen will be bored and just pay.I may still make a claim against them for my costs.

John Coulthard ● 5096d3 Comments ● 5071d

NHS under threat

I've just had this drop into my Inbox and it is extremely worrying.It's a long post but everyone who uses the NHS should read this to the end and make up their own mind.  I know what I am going to do.Mary MacLeod - Please would you let us know your views on this important matter. (and how you might vote.)"In just one week, your MP has to vote on massive changes to our NHS. But 38 Degrees members now have something our MPs don’t – thorough, independent legal advice about what these changes really mean.Our expert legal advice is sobering. Despite the “listening exercise”, the government’s changes to the NHS plans could still pave the way for a shift towards a US-style health system, where private companies profit at the expense of patient care.Conservative MPs like yours are being told by their bosses these changes fit with party ideology. But many would be horrified to know that the NHS would be subject to European competition laws and front-line services could be held up with procurement red tape. Let’s work together to show them the evidence right now!If enough of us email now, it could tip the balance:https://secure.38degrees.org.uk/email-your-conservative-mpOur independent lawyers identified two major problems in the new legislation:  The Secretary of State’s legal duty to provide a health service will be scrapped. On top of that, a new “hands-off clause” removes the government's powers to oversee local consortia and guarantee the level of service wherever we live. We can expect increases in postcode lotteries – and less ways to hold the government to account if the service deteriorates.The NHS will almost certainly be subject to UK and EU competition law and the reach of procurement law rules will extend across all NHS commissioners. Private health companies will be able to take new NHS commissioning groups to court if they don’t win contracts. Scarce public money could be tied up in legal wrangles instead of hospital beds. Meanwhile, the legislation lifts the cap on NHS hospitals filling beds with private patients.So who are MPs going to listen to when casting their vote – you, or lobbyists from private health companies? This is our NHS, and it’s up to us to defend it. Email your MP now:https://secure.38degrees.org.uk/email-your-conservative-mpIt’s pretty extraordinary what we’ve managed to achieve together already. Nearly half a million of us have signed the petition to save the NHS. And after Andrew Lansley announced the last round of changes, thousands of 38 Degrees members immediately chipped in to get top independent legal advice on the new plans.Barrister Rebecca Haynes found that the government's plans could pave the way for private healthcare companies and their lawyers to benefit most from changes, not patients. Another barrister, Stephen Cragg, found that we were right to be worried that Andrew Lansley was planning to remove his duty to provide our NHS.This is the conclusion of a top legal team paid to have no other interest at heart but yours.MPs vote in just seven days. Seven days to not only get the evidence, but be convinced there’s way too much public concern to ignore it. The good news is, with over 800,000 of us now armed with expert legal advice, we are just the people to speak up. Our message is clear: we have the facts, so politicians can’t hide behind spin. Let’s give MPs from all parties the mandate they need to think again and vote against these changes to the NHS.

Jon Hardy ● 5092d11 Comments ● 5083d

Is our queen a 'Legal' Monarch

Sorry for such a long cut and past, but its a very interesting subject.U.K.: Landmark Case Could Stymie Legal System - Queen not valid monarch Landmark Case Could Stymie Legal SystemWritten by Debra Siddons   Friday, 27 May 2011 07:51 If everyone began using this defence tomorrow, in all of the Commonwealth courts and in the United States, the entire legal system could be brought to its knees in a matter of weeks if not days."For those of you who have been following the John Anthony Hill (JAH) Case, it is great to be able to share that he was acquitted, on the 12th of May 2011, of the ridiculous and politically-motivated charge of attempting to "pervert the course of justice". For those of you less familiar with this landmark case, John Anthony Hill is the Producer of the documentary film "7/7 Ripple Effect". For more details about this extraordinary case and the trial itself, please visit the following links:-http://mtrial.org http://jamesfetzer.blogspot.com http://terroronthetube.co.uk/2011/05/12/muaddib-acquitted/7/7/ Ripple effect http://jforjustice.co.uk/77/There are two very important precedents that were established with this case that need to be studied in detail. There was a preliminary argument presented to the court to challenge both the jurisdiction and the sovereignty of Elizabeth Battenberg/Mountbatten, which was based on two distinct points. The first point being she was knowingly, and with malice aforethought, coronated on a fake stone in 1953 and thus has never been lawfully crowned.There are those who may wish to argue that this point is irrelevant, as Judge Jeffrey Vincent Pegden did at the trial, wrongly thinking the Coronation is just a ceremony because she has been pretending to be the monarch for over 58 years. In actual fact the Coronation is a binding oath and a contract, requiring the monarch's signature. Which brings us to the second point.At that Coronation ceremony, Elizabeth signed a binding contract, before God and the British people, that she would do her utmost to maintain The Laws of God. This she solemnly swore to do, with her hand placed on the Sovereign's Bible, before kissing The Bible and signing the contract. Please note well that in The Law of God, found in the first five books of The Bible, man-made legislation is strictly prohibited.The very first time that she gave "royal assent" to any piece of man-made legislation, she broke her solemn oath with God and with the British people and she ceased to be the monarch with immediate effect. To date, she has broken her oath thousands and thousands of times, which is a water-proof, iron-clad, undeniable FACT. She is therefore without question not the monarch, but instead is a criminal guilty of high treason among her other numerous crimes.All of the courts in the U.K. are referred to as HM courts or "her majesty's" courts, which means every judge draws their authority from her. All cases brought by the state are "Regina vs. Xxxxxxx", which means they are all brought in the name of the queen. So if she isn't really the monarch, then she doesn't have the authority or the jurisdiction to bring a case against anyone else. And neither do any of "her majesty's" courts or judges.Bearing in mind the legal maxim that no man can judge in his own cause, it should be crystal clear that no judge in the Commonwealth could lawfully rule on a challenge to the jurisdiction and sovereignty of the monarch. It is a question of their own authority, so they are obviously not impartial to the outcome. That is why the ONLY way the question of jurisdiction can lawfully and impartially be decided is by a jury. And that is exactly why John Anthony Hill requested a jury trial to decide his challenge to the jurisdiction and sovereignty of Elizabeth.No judge under any circumstances can deny someone their right to request a jury trial. No judge can lawfully rule in their own cause. That doesn't mean they won't try, it only means that when they do, they are committing a criminal act (just as Judge Jeffrey Vincent Pegden did at John Anthony Hill's trial) and that their decision is immediate grounds for an appeal and for a citizen's arrest. The fact that the court and its corrupt judge tried to ignore this particular point is proof that they are well aware they have no lawful authority. That is one of the reasons why this is a landmark case. If everyone began using this defence tomorrow, in all of the Commonwealth courts and in the United States, the entire legal system could be brought to its knees in a matter of weeks if not days.The signed by E2 coronation oath (Exhibit 1) and the Bible she swore on at that Coronation (Exhibit 2) clearly orders judges and lawyers to obey the Laws of God.These two factual pieces of evidence ought to be presented at the start, as defence in every single victimless case, or those in progress, where you have been wrongfully charged, and to proceed forth Lawfully.To make this perfectly clear, the way is available with the two pieces of evidence to shift the cases to begin to use only God's Laws which demands a trial by jury, to proceed forth maintaining only God's Laws with judges roles clearly defined.Whilst E2 is committing treason, explained in full detail in the Lawful Argument, the signed oath orders obedience to all subjects to maintain only the Laws of God.Judges/lawyers have taken an oath (B.A.R.), thus ordered to comply to Exhibit 1, and Exhibit 2 (Bible), and it is as simple as that. People lacked awareness of that which was in place, and there for people to use, but didn't know. We know now.For those of you in the United States who may be thinking "hey, we aren't a Commonwealth country, why would this affect us?" all you really need to know is that these three little letters:- B.A.R., stand for the British Accreditation Registry. It doesn't matter whether it is the Australian BAR or the Canadian BAR or the American BAR association; they ALL report to the British monarch, who is the head of the BAR.So thanks to John Anthony Hill and this amazing precedent, we now all know a peaceful way to bring the system down. If enough people ACT and use this simple, bullet-proof defence, we can put an end to this insanity and injustice. All that is required now is for YOU to spread the word to as many as possible so that this peaceful rebellion can begin immediately. Or you can watch the last remnants of your freedoms swept away as the Global Elite plunge the entire world into bankruptcy and WW3 to usher in their "New World Order".For additional details about this bullet-proof defence, please visit: http://jahtruth.net/britmon.htm#crimesBy now some of you may be beginning to see the Light at the end of this very dark tunnel and are so enthusiastic about putting this simple plan into motion that you may have forgotten there was a second precedent set during this landmark case.While the official reason for this trial was to address this trumped-up and frivolous charge of attempting to "pervert the course of justice", the real reason for this trial was so the authorities could punish John Anthony Hill for making the "7/7 Ripple Effect" which, in less than an hour and using strictly mainstream media reports, completely dismantles the official government conspiracy theory. The film is so credible that even the prosecution at the trial, after showing it in its entirety to the jurors, admitted that the film was made in such a way that it "changes the minds of people who see it." That's how powerful the truth really is.This was the first time this information was shown at an official proceeding and the results were impressive. At least 83% of the jurors felt the film accurately depicted what happened in London on July 7th, 2005 and that John Anthony Hill did the right thing. For those unfamiliar with the case, JAH forwarded copies of the "7/7 Ripple Effect" to the Kingston Crown court in 2008 in the hope of correcting misleading statements made by the judge and the QC at the outset of the first trial of the supposed "7/7 helpers" (who were also found not guilty).John Anthony Hill was also able to enter into the official record his testimony about what happened on September 11th, 2001 in the United States and that both 9/11 and 7/7 were false flag attacks. He went on to show the jurors the now infamous BBC report of the collapse of the Salomon Brothers building (WTC7) by Jane Standley on 9/11/2001. She reported the collapse 25 minutes before it actually occurred, and with the building clearly visible and still standing in the window behind Jane Standley's left shoulder, leaving no doubt that the BBC had foreknowledge of the event.As a result of the "7/7 Ripple Effect" being shown to the jurors by the prosecution and John Anthony Hill's testimony about 9/11, the truth that those two events were false flag attacks and that the mainstream media is nothing more than a government propaganda machine is now officially on record.And the "Not Guilty" verdict by the jury is a ringing endorsement of that official record.This case brings with it a New Hope and the opportunity for a new beginning, where liberty, justice, and peace aren't just nice sounding words, but a reality. This could be heaven on earth instead of the hell we have let it become by allowing all of this evil to grow up around us. Just as John Anthony Hill has shown us by example, all it takes is a dauntless faith that good will always triumph over evil and the courage to take action to do the right thing, regardless of the personal cost."All that is required for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing." - Edmund Burkeby Debra Siddons REGINA/THE QUEENVJAH LAWFUL ARGUMENT AGAINST JURISDICTION & SOVEREIGNTY 1.  Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg’s Fraudulent Coronation.The person who purports to be the queen has never, in fact, rightfully or Lawfully been crowned as the Sovereign. This knowledge stems from the fact that the Coronation Stone / The Stone of Destiny / Bethel / Jacob’s Pillar that Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg was crowned upon is a fake. The real Coronation Stone; made from Bethel porphyry, weighing more than 4cwt. (458lbs.) according to the BBC telex in the film “The Coronation Stone”, (Covenant Recordings), and Ian R. Hamilton Q.C. in three of his books: “No Stone Unturned” (pages 36, 44), “A Touch of Treason” (page 50) and “The Taking of The Stone of Destiny” (pages 27, 35); was removed from Westminster Abbey at 04:00 hrs on the 25th of December in 1950, by his group of four Scottish Nationalist students, which included and was led by Ian Robertson Hamilton himself.  The other three were Alan Stuart, Gavin Vernon and Kay Matheson, as stated in his books. Further details at:  http://jahtruth.net/stone.htm .The real Coronation Stone (“National Treasure No. 1”), was taken to Scotland where, in Glasgow, it was handed over to Bertie Gray to repair it, and was later hidden by industrialist and philanthropist John Rollo in his factory, under his office-floor, according to Ian R. Hamilton’s books – “No Stone Unturned” and “The Taking of The Stone of Destiny”, and the factory-manager, when I visited him.A fake stone copy had previously been made in 1920 by stone-mason, Bertie Gray, for a prior plan to repatriate the Coronation Stone, and it was made of Scottish sandstone from a quarry near Scone in Perthshire, weighing 3cwt. (336lbs.). The conspirators had used it to practice with, before going to London to Westminster Abbey to remove the real Coronation Stone from the abbey. It was that fake stone copy which was placed on the High Altar Stone at Arbroath Abbey, at Midday on the 11th April of 1951, wrapped in a Scottish Saltyre (St. Andrew’s Flag – Dark blue with white diagonal cross on it) and found by the authorities, then transported to England, where it was used for the “queen’s” coronation, according to Bertie Gray’s children in a Daily Record Newspaper article.Link to Daily Record articleThe stone upon which Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg was crowned weighs exactly 3cwt (336lbs.) as attested to by Historic Scotland in their official booklet titled “The Stone of Destiny”, “Symbol of Nationhood”, obtainable from Edinburgh Castle, published by Historic Scotland, (ISBN 1 900168 44 8), who have had the stone that she was crowned on in their care, in Edinburgh Castle, since it was returned to Scotland by John Major’s Conservative government in 1996.As previously stated, the genuine Coronation Stone weighs more than 4 cwt. (458lbs.), but the one that Elizabeth A. M. Battenberg was crowned on, that has been on display in Edinburgh Castle since 1996, weighs 336lbs, not 458lbs., and thus cannot be the genuine Coronation Stone, for that and other reasons, that I will go into in great and minute detail later, during the hearing on 9th May 2011.Therefore, never having been Lawfully crowned, she has NO authority to put the defendant on trial and the judge has NO authority to try him, because the judge’s “authority” comes from her.Further, and without prejudice to the above...2.  Some of Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg’s other Crimes.Sample Crimes/Points of Law:-1.      Mrs. Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg/Mountbatten; un-Lawfully residing in Buckingham Palace, London; also known by the criminal aliases Windsor and QE2, was knowingly and willfully, with malice-aforethought, fraudulently crowned on a fake Coronation Stone / Lia Fail / Stone of Destiny / Bethel / Jacob’s Pillar on June 2nd in 1953, and has been fraudulently masquerading as the rightful British Sovereign/Crown for the last 58 years, which the Defendant can prove beyond doubt, and is a major part of why the fraudulent British so-called “crown” is attacking the Defendant with this false, malicious, frivolous, ridiculous and politically motivated charge. It is Mrs. Elizabeth A. M. Battenberg who should be arrested and charged; for her innumerable acts of high-treason against God and Christ, Whose church she falsely claims to head and in defiance of Whom she had herself fraudulently crowned, and Whom she has continued to rule in defiance of, and in opposition to, ever since; not the Defendant.2.      Allowing people to legislate in defiance of God’s Law (Deuteronomy 4:2, 12:32) that she swore and affirmed, in writing, to maintain to the utmost of her power (Exhibit 1), and, in many cases, actually reversing what The Law states into being the very opposite of it.  She has fraudulently imprisoned and punished people for enforcing The Law themselves as God commands them to do, and thus un-Lawfully prevented or deterred others from doing so.  She has given Royal-Assent to 3,401 Acts of Parliament (as of 24/03/2011) and thus broken The Law against legislating 3,401 times. The very first time she gave “Royal-Assent” to ANY “Act of Parliament”, or any other piece of legislation, or allowed Parliament or anyone to legislate, she broke her Coronation Oath and was thus no longer the monarch, with immediate effect, even if she had been Lawfully crowned in the first-place, which she most definitely was not.Deuteronomy 4:2 Ye shall not add to the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish ought from it, that ye may keep the Commandments of the Lord your God which I COMMAND you.11:1 Therefore thou shalt love the Lord thy God, and keep His charge, and His Statutes, and His Judgments, and His Commandments, always.12:8 Ye shall not do after all the things that we do here this day, every man whatsoever is right in his own eyes.12:32 What thing soever I command you, observe to do it: thou shalt not add thereto, nor diminish from it.A Bill MUST have Royal Assent before it can become an Act of Parliament (law). http://www.parliament.uk/about/how/laws/passage-bill/lords/lrds-royal-assent/  3.      Allowing the forming of political parties and demon-crazy (democracy) to divide, weaken, conquer and ruin the people (Deuteronomy 5:32, 17:20; Matthew 12:25).Deuteronomy 5:32 Ye shall observe to do therefore as the Lord your God hath commanded you: ye shall not turn aside to the right hand or to the left.17:20 That his (the Sovereign’s) heart be NOT lifted up ABOVE his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the Commandment, [to] the right hand, or [to] the left…Matthew 12:25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:4.      Removal of the death-penalty that is prescribed as the deterrent for capital crimes in The Law that she swore to maintain to the utmost of her power; e.g. Sodomy (Deuteronomy 23:17; Leviticus 20:13); Pedophilia; Rape; Murder; Adultery; etc., thus encouraging these crimes, that are now legion.Deuteronomy 23:17 There shall be no whore of the daughters of Israel, nor a sodomite of the sons of Israel.Leviticus 20:13 If a man lie also with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them.Etc., etc., etc.5.      Actually encouraging and promoting sodomy, by legalizing it, then further enacting un-Lawful anti-discrimination legislation, promoting it in schools, and giving knighthoods to high-profile sodomites in the music, film and fashion industries, instead of having them Lawfully executed as a deterrent to others.Music - Elton John Film - Ian McKellen of Stonewall; John Gielgud Fashion – Norman Hartnell knighted 1977 and Hardy Amies knighted 1989.6.      Enriching herself in defiance of God’s Law that she swore to uphold, at the expense of her subjects, driving them into debt-slavery (Egypt), poverty and homelessness (Deuteronomy 17:14-20).  Including the collecting of graven-images and expensive jewellery (her famous art and Fabergé collections, etc.)Deuteronomy 17:14 When thou art come unto the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that are about me;17:15 Thou shalt in any wise set him king over thee, WHOM THE LORD THY GOD SHALL CHOOSE (see Psalm 2): [one] from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest not set a stranger over thee, which is not thy brother.17:16 But he shall not multiply horses to himself, nor cause the people to return to Egypt (slavery under man-made laws), to the end that he should multiply horses: forasmuch as the Lord hath said unto you, Ye shall henceforth return no more that way.17:17 Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold.17:18 And it shall be, when he sitteth upon the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write him a copy of this Law in a book out of that which is before the priests the Levites:17:19 And it shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this Law and these Statutes, to DO them:17:20 That his heart be NOT lifted up ABOVE his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the Commandment, to the right hand, or to the left…7.      Legalising, facilitating and engaging in usury/interest, that has caused the ruin, bankruptcy and debt-slavery of the entire nation.http://jahtruth.net/greeneco.htmDeuteronomy 23:19 Thou shalt not lend upon usury/interest to thy brother; usury of money, usury of victuals, usury of any thing that is lent upon usury:8.      Ignoring the “Year of Release,” where all debts are forgiven/cancelled every seven years, and the “Year of Jubilee” every fifty years, where all property is redistributed back to its owner and the wealth shared out, so that there will be no poor amongst the people.Deuteronomy 15:1 At the end of every seven years thou shalt make a release.15:2 And this is the manner of the release: Every creditor that lendeth ought unto his neighbour shall release it; he shall not exact it of his neighbour, or of his brother; because it is called the Lord's release.15:4 Save when (to the end that) there be no poor among you; …Leviticus 25:10 And ye shall hallow the fiftieth year, and proclaim Liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof: it shall be a Jubilee unto you; and ye shall return every man unto his possession, and ye shall return every man unto his family.9.      Elizabeth A. M. Battenberg has also broken God’s Law by allowing the EU, which is not the British people’s racial brother, but is a stranger, to rule over you / us, in contravention of Deuteronomy 17:15.Deuteronomy 17:14 When thou art come unto the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, and shalt possess it, and shalt dwell therein, and shalt say, I will set a king over me, like as all the nations that [are] about me;17:15 Thou shalt in any wise set [him] king over thee, whom the Lord thy God shall choose: [one] from among thy brethren shalt thou set king over thee: thou mayest NOT set a stranger over thee, which [is] not thy brother.Deuteronomy 7:2 And when the Lord thy God shall deliver them before thee; thou shalt smite them, [and] utterly destroy them; thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor show mercy unto them:7:3 Neither shalt thou make marriages with them; thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son.7:4 For they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly.7:5 But thus shall ye deal with them; ye shall destroy their altars, and break down their images, and cut down their groves, and burn their graven images with fire.7:6 For thou [art] an holy people unto the Lord thy God: the Lord thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto Himself, above all people that [are] upon the face of the earth.7:7 The Lord did not set His love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye [were] the fewest of all people:7:8 But because the Lord loved you, and because He would keep the Oath which He had sworn unto your fathers, hath the Lord brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.7:9 Know therefore that the Lord thy God, He [is] God, the faithful God, which keepeth Covenant and mercy with them that love Him and keep His Commandments to a thousand generations;7:10 And repayeth them that hate (or disobey) Him to their face, to destroy them: He will not be slack to him that hateth (or disobeyeth) Him, He will repay him to his face.7:11 Thou shalt therefore KEEP the Commandments, and the Statutes, and the Judgments, which I command thee this day, to DOthem. 7:12 Wherefore it shall come to pass, if ye hearken to these Judgments, and keep, and do them, that the Lord thy God shall keep unto thee The Covenant and the mercy which He sware unto thy fathers:7:13 And He will love thee, and bless thee, and multiply thee: He will also bless the fruit of thy womb, and the fruit of thy land, thy corn, and thy wine, and thine oil, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep, in the land which He sware unto thy fathers to give thee.7:14 Thou shalt be blessed above all people: there shall not be male or female barren among you, or among your cattle.7:15 And the Lord will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all [them] that hate thee.7:16 And thou shalt consume all the people which the Lord thy God shall deliver thee; thine eye shall have no pity upon them: neither shalt thou serve their gods; for that [will be] a snare unto thee.7:17 If thou shalt say in thine heart, These nations [are] more than I; how can I dispossess them?7:18 Thou shalt not be afraid of them: [but] shalt well remember what the Lord thy God did unto Pharaoh, and unto all Egypt (and pharaoh ruled the whole known world at that time);7:19 The great temptations which thine eyes saw, and the signs, and the wonders, and the mighty hand, and the stretched out arm, whereby the Lord thy God brought thee out: so shall the Lord thy God do unto all the people of whom thou art afraid.7:20 Moreover the Lord thy God will send the hornet among them, until they that are left, and hide themselves from thee, be destroyed.7:21 Thou shalt not be affrighted at them: for the Lord thy God [is] among you, a mighty God and terrible.7:22 And the Lord thy God will put out those nations before thee by little and little: thou mayest not consume them at once, lest the beasts of the field increase upon thee.7:23 But the Lord thy God shall deliver them unto thee, and shall destroy them with a mighty destruction, until they be destroyed.7:24 And He shall deliver their kings into thine hand, and thou shalt destroy their name from under heaven: there shall no man be able to stand before thee, until thou have destroyed them.7:25 The graven images of their gods shall ye burn with fire: thou shalt not desire the silver or gold [that is] on them, nor take [it] unto thee, lest thou be snared therein: for it [is] an abomination to the Lord thy God.7:26 Neither shalt thou bring an abomination into thine house, lest thou be a cursed thing like it: [but] thou shalt utterly detest it, and thou shalt utterly abhor it; for it [is] a cursed thing.8:1 All the Commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the Lord sware unto your fathers.8:2 And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, [and] to test thee, to know what [was] in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep His Commandments (Law), or not.God warned His people, YOU, the British-Israel people ( http://jahtruth.net/britca.htm ), in the Revelation/Apocalypse to John, to come out of the Mother of Harlots’, abominable (Rev. 17:5) Babylonian ( http://jahtruth.net/robab.htm ) Market System:-Revelation/Apocalypse 18:4 And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, COME OUT of her, MY people, that ye take not part in her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues (punishment).10.  She has allowed Witchcraft and condoned it - http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1284449/100-UK-servicemen-class-pagans-MoD-reveals.html - and Satanism - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/3948329.stm - in her/the realm and in her/the armed forces.Exodus 22:18 Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.Deuteronomy 18:9 When thou art come into the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations.18:10 There shall not be found among you [any one] that maketh his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, [or] that useth divination, [or] an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a WITCH,18:11 Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a WIZARD, or a necromancer (medium).18:12 For all that do these things [are] an abomination unto the Lord: and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out from before thee.18:13 Thou shalt be perfect with the Lord thy God (Matt. 5:48).Matthew 5:48 Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven IS perfect.Deuteronomy 32:15 But the Beloved waxed fat, and rebelled: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered [withfatness]; then he forsook God [which] made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.32:16 They provoked Him to jealousy with strange [gods], with abominations provoked they Him to anger.32:17 They sacrificed unto devils, not to God; to gods whom they knew not, to new [gods that] came newly up, whom your fathers feared not.Revelation/Apocalypse 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my (adopted) son.21:8 But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and SORCERERS, and idolaters, and ALL LIARS, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with Fire and brimstone: which is the second death.She has given an O.B.E. to Joanne "Jo" Rowling (J. K. Rowling), who promotes witchcraft, thus herself condoning the promotion of witchcraft, and the poisoning of the minds of the nation and its children.The other and major part of witchcraft/sorcery, that she has also allowed, and probably actually invested in, is the chemical and pharmaceutical industry that is slowly poisoning the nation through chemical-fertilizers, pesticides, chemtrails, vaccines, etc., and other pharmaceutical products/medicines/poisons (witches’ brews / potions) in order to maximize their profits, because they do not make any money from healthy people. That is why there are more sick people every year and a correspondingly higher NHS budget, rather than less sick people and a correspondingly shrinking NHS budget. The NHS, doctors and pharmacists are therefore obviously harming the population, not healing it. http://www.rense.com/general34/quotes.htm http://jahtruth.net/heal.htmNote well that it states in Revelation/Apocalypse 21:8 “ALL LIARS shall have their part in the lake which burneth with Fire and Brimstone . . .” and the word Parliament means “Speaking Lies” from the French words Parler which means to speak, and mentir which means to tell lies. Also the word Politics, poly meaning many; tics are blood-sucking parasites; thus politics means many blood-sucking parasites.11.  Each and every single one of the above crimes carries the death-penalty, with public execution; under The Law that she swore to maintain to the utmost of her power; for not doing so, along with all those who likewise reject The Law of God — Deuteronomy 17:8-13, 27:26; Malachi chapter 4.Deuteronomy 17:8 If there arise a matter too hard for thee in Judgment, between blood and blood, between plea and plea, and between stroke and stroke, being matters of controversy within thy gates: then shalt thou arise, and get thee up into the place which the Lord thy God shall choose;17:9 And thou shalt come unto the priests the Levites, and unto the judge that shall be in those days, and enquire; and they shall show thee The Sentence of Judgment:17:10 And thou shalt do according to The Sentence, which they of that place which the Lord shall choose shall show thee; and thou shalt observe to do according to all that they inform thee:17:11 According to The Sentence of The Law which they shall teach thee, and according to the Judgment which they shall tell thee, thou shalt do: thou shalt not decline to do The Sentence which they shall show thee, and turn not away from it to the right hand, nor to the left.17:12 And the man that will do presumptuously, and will not hearken unto the priest that standeth to minister there before the Lord thy God, or unto the judge, even that man shall die: and thus thou shalt put away the evil from Israel.17:13 And all the people shall hear, and fear, and do no more presumptuously (in thinking they are a law unto themselves).27:26 Cursed be he (like Elizabeth) that confirmeth not all the words of this Law to DO them.Matthew 5:17 Think not that I am come to destroy The Law, or the Prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfill (in the Greek Original – pleroo = to fully preach it).5:18 For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no way pass from The Law, till ALL (the Prophecies) be fulfilled.5:19 Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least Commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the Kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the Kingdom of heaven.5:20 For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes (lawyers) and Pharisees (politicians), ye shall in no case enter into the Kingdom of heaven.James 2:10 He who breaks the least of these Commandments and teaches others to do so is guilty of all.The renowned English jurist Sir William Blackstone famously stated, “No enactment of man can be considered law unless it conforms to the law of God.”All of The Law references quoted are copied from the Sovereign’s Bible (Exhibit 2) upon which Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg’sCoronation Oath (Exhibit 1) was sworn (all emphasis mine), containing God’s Law that she swore to maintain to the utmost of her power. It is a special large print and specially bound edition of the king James Authorised Version (1611) of the Holy Bible, that she placed her right hand upon, swore the Coronation Oath upon and then kissed, before she signed the Coronation Oath (Exhibit 1).12.  Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg is therefore not only massively in breach of contract, but also massively in breach of The Law, and thus is not only NOT the Lawful Sovereign, never has been, and thus has NO jurisdiction to prosecute me, but is also a criminal, guilty of capital crimes, that carry the death-penalty, according to The Law she swore to maintain to the utmost of her power. That Perfect Royal Law of Liberty was given by God to the British-Israel peoples to protect the British-Israel peoples from exploitation, oppression, poverty and harm, and which God has warned the British-Israel peoples to return to, with dire consequences for failure to do so. Her obscene wealth and that of her relatives, cronies and accomplices must be seized and shared out amongst the poor and homeless.Malachi 4:1 For, behold, the Day cometh, that shall burn like an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave of them neither root nor branch(nothing).4:2 But unto you that fear My name shall the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.4:3 And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in The Day that I shall do [this], saith the Lord of hosts.4:4 Remember ye (and return to) The Law of Moses My servant, which I commanded unto him in Horeb for all Israel, [with] the Statutes and Judgments.4:5 Behold, I will send you Elijah the Prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful Day of the Lord:4:6 And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse (see verse 1).13.  The person who purports to be queen was, in fact, as proven above, never rightfully nor Lawfully the Sovereign/Crown. Therefore the Crown/Prosecution/Regina has NO authority to put the defendant on trial and the judge has NO authority to try him, because the judge’s authority comes from her.14.  In addition, without prejudice to the above, based on God’s Law that she swore to maintain to the utmost of her power (Exhibit 1) the “queen” is in breach of contract. She has amongst other things accumulated a large amount of personal wealth and done many other things that are expressly forbidden, some of which are listed above, and so she has breached her contract with God and the British-Israel people. Therefore, even if, which is not admitted, the “queen” was genuinely crowned, the breach of contract disqualifies her from sitting and renders null and void proceedings instituted in her name.It is therefore of the utmost importance that Elizabeth Alexandra Mary Battenberg and the Sovereign’s Bible, that is kept in Lambeth Palace*, be present in court on May 9th for my challenge to her jurisdiction and sovereignty to be heard, and for me to face my false-accuser, examine her and have her arrested. * Class-Mark Ref. No.: E185 1953 [**] Signed: _______________________ Date:  31/03/2011 Source: http://wfs.me/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=112%3Alandmark-case-could-stymie-legal-system&catid=1%3Alatest-news&Itemid=1

Philip Walsh ● 5086d3 Comments ● 5083d

Beautiful young dog looking for home

I am fostering a dog on behalf of www.prodogsdirect.org.uk until a lovely new home is found for him.  I am in Isleworth.Harvey is 16 months old and is a very large dog with very short legs and very long luxuriant hair (photos on next post hopefully).  He is allegedly the result of a short term affair between a female cairn terrier and a male labrador!  Harvey is full of youthful exuberance and would love to live with an active family with a garden, children over 5 (he might send littler ones flying with his enthusiasm!) and maybe another playful dog companion.  He can also live with cats and is allegedly also fine with rabbits!  He doesn't seem to have a nasty bone in his body, is very affectionate and loves his walks particularly if there are other dogs to play with.  He is in good health and by the end of this week will have had his booster injections, a new microchip, and a top up of flea and worm treatment.  He has already been neutered.He has come from a loving family but was just too much for the disabled mum who had to walk him beside her mobility scooter.  He has sent her flying a few times so they made the hard decision to let him go.  He is learning new things like travelling in a car (fine on the hour's journey from his old home) and being left alone in the house for short periods from time to time.Anyone who adopts him will need to be a keen dog groomer and also have a good hoover!Send me a PM if you would like to know more about Harvey or arrange to meet him.  As PMs do not always work you can email me on sarah.sharp08@gmail.comYou could also apply to adopt him via www.prodogsdirect.org.ukHe has had some interest already but we want to make sure he goes to the perfect home for a large young active dog.

Sarah Sharp ● 5091d1 Comments ● 5091d

Andrew Gilligan

In view of a recent thread concerning Mr Gilligan this press release caught my eye since there are some similarities between our Borough and Tower Hamlets:"Tuesday 2 March 2010Channel 4 's Dispatches programme, ' Britain's Islamic Republic', presented a picture of Tower Hamlets which many who live and work in the borough fail to recognise. Supposition and innuendo replaced the facts about a place with a proud tradition of anti-racism and where social cohesion is evident. Mr Gilligan presented little of substance and nothing that demonstrated that Tower Hamlets Council has acted improperly.Some of the comments made during last night's programme are familiar to us and have already been investigated. We will examine any evidence of illegal or inappropriate activity by council officers or councillors, should any evidence be provided to us. We accept that there will always be some members of the community who are unhappy about losing grant funding and urge people to come forward with any proof they may have that grants have been provided unfairly, either to the Council or the appropriate complaints/government body.We will continue to assess and appraise rigorously all of the groups we fund, to ensure that their aims and objectives are in line with our own - to deliver excellent, cost-effective services based upon the needs of our communities. In the early 1990s, Tower Hamlets faced the challenge of the far-right making in-roads into the borough. The response from the Council was to reflect on what these divisions, usually seen as racial, meant for the borough and particularly how to create a place that could appreciate its diversity, tackle the inequality which often results and shapes a cohesive community. Anchored in this anti-racist work, the Council has developed its equalities practice so that, thirteen years later, in 2006, we became the first Council to reach Level 5 of the Equality Standard for Local Government. This journey is the real story of Tower Hamlets.The simplistic, selective and unsubstantiated narrative produced by Mr Gilligan fails to recognise the efforts of the community and the Council to engage all of our residents in local democracy. It did not acknowledge that, far from serving only some sections of the community, our priorities are the elderly, the young, those living in over-crowded conditions, carers - all those who need help and support, irrespective of their personal views.Our You Decide! programme, now in its second year, allocated £4.76 million to local people across the borough who chose how the money should be spent. Grants in the borough are subject to rigorous external audit and scrutiny and we have yet to see any evidence of the 'wrongdoing' in this area implied by Mr Gilligan.Far from shifting our grant-giving to fund only 'non-secular '  groups, we fund over a hundred local  groups covering all aspects of social welfare.  These groups provide valued and diverse services, and are run by people from all sections of the community, who believe that Tower Hamlets is a place where people of different faiths, political views, and cultures can and do live and work together. We have not given the East London Mosque £10 million of funding, and we and refute any unfounded allegations against council officers unreservedly.Tower Hamlets Council is not oblivious to the make-up of its communities and the tensions which can arise in response to the kind of allegations made in monday night's programme.  Nor are we complacent about the kinds of activities we acknowledge would concern our residents were they proven to be accurate.  We have made huge efforts to pull Tower Hamlets away from a position where those who might seek to divide our community are able to find support. We hope that Mr Gilligan's efforts do not assist those who would take us back there. "

Jon Hardy ● 5102d1 Comments ● 5102d

Tottenham Riot

It is a tragedy that the grief felt by Mr & Mrs Duggan for the loss of a son  has been overwhelmed by the dreadful actions of mindless young men &  young women who set fire to buildings,police cars, a bus also looted shops even took a cash machine out and robbed it. The criminal element saw a main chance and took over a peaceful demonstration for there own ends.Did the police initially mishandle the situation yes of course they did they should have shown the Duggan family respect and spoken with them,explained that the investigation ongoing was into both there son's death and the police by independent investigators. Because of there thoughtlessness a whole community has suffered, we have homeless families who could have died in these fires, also businesses who have set up in Tottenham and have been burnt down, the question is will they risk it again? would you?It is no good blaming cut's and jobloss, all over the UK we face this on a daily basis, do we resort to the kind of violence that was perpetrated by these gang's, no we don't. I must admit that I did wonder why? the police & fire brigade did not control the violence and put out the fires, however the police are damned either way, 350 police officer's were allocated if more had been given the violence would have been said to be  because of Police brutality, whichever way you look at it the police are damned.What we must not forget is that this young man was alleged to be armed and allegedly shot at police, this does not excuse his death however we keep a proper perspective until the independent investigation is completed.

Dawn Hardy ● 5114d147 Comments ● 5103d

Kew Bridge Road/Kew Road closure

Reading the little yellow signs on the roads, I now see thar Kew Bridge Road will be closed for several days/nights from Saturday 13th August, and also Kew Road at the junction with Mortlake Road will be closed for longer from Monday 15th August.Whilst I'm aware it isn't legally required, I've seen absolutely no publicity surrounding this apart from the small yellow signs.  How are we supposed to make alternative plans when we don't actually know exactly what the closures mean, how the diversions will work etc ?.I live where Kew Bridge Road meets Brentford High Street, so I can only presume to get home from work (Teddington) I'll have to come up Twickenham Road to Busch Corner then along London Road through Brentford.  Otherwise, I presume, I'll get diverted over Chiswick Bridge (as Kew Road will be closed) then have to go on the A205 towards Chiswick Roundabout, turn left to join the A4 and then go down Ealing Road.  I keep saying presume because there's no publicity.And of course, the never ending TW works are still taking place on London Road/the High Street, coupled with the new set of 'temporary' roadworks about halfway along London Road between Busch Corner and Brentford.  So the closure of Kew Road/Kew Bridge Road will only lead to more queues along London Road.I joke about it, but it is a fact that I cannot remember a time since moving to Brentford/Kew Bridge in September 2002 that there hasn't been roadworks on either the A315, Twickenham Road, Kew Bridge Road or Kew Bridge itself taking place.  It really is beyond a joke.I know CCF is away until 18th August (because I've emailed him directly about the new light sequencing at the Ealing Road junction, which I'm guessing is to avoid potential conflict but come the return of the schools etc. I suspect will create long queues) but why are we reliant upon one person to tell us what the **** is going on with roadworks in the vicinity of Brentford ?.Utter farce :-(

Adam Beamish ● 5112d8 Comments ● 5105d

What's the betting the "Poor Little Rich Girl Thief" gets off?

As the rioters are taken to court we see again the old adage that "money talks" still rules in England.A millionaire's daughter, arrested driving a car alleged to contain £2000 of loot from Comets, pleads not guilty and is released on bail. The case is set for 21st September. Meanwhile, the 2 boys in the car with her are remanded in custody as all plead not guilty.  Stupid boys! Why didn't you have a rich daddy too?No doubt daddy will be out today seeking to find the best liar money can buy (a barrister of course) to ensure that his poor little misunderstood tea-leaf daughter is able to invent a story blaming the 2 locked up boys for everything that happened. Out on bail, she has over five weeks to rehearse and perfect the lies.I can see it now - "I justed wanted to go home. They forced me to drive them. I'm a nice little rich girl and we don't do things like this."Apart from the unfairness of locking the boys up and letting her out on bail, for me this reinforces my belief that my refusal to serve on a jury at Isleworth last summer because of the blatantly unfair nature of the class-ridden English legal system was the correct call.Children of the wealthy have less justification for taking part in roiting and looting than anyone else, but I bet they will be the ones who get off most lightly. Pleas of mitigation - "He/She is from a good home" - Response from rich judge with little contact with real life - "I accept that - community service/suspended sentence. Don't worry about jail - that's for the poor whites, ethnics and other scum."We should also not forget that many of the biggest thieves in the Parliamentary expenses scandal are still in office and a few are even in Government. As usual, the streetwise paid their ill-gotten gains back and got off with a warning while a few of the dopes were prosecuted and sent down. This is demonstrated clearly when we read Tory Lord Hanningfield's protests that he only made the claims he did because others told him it was OK, and the unbelievable stupidity of Labour's Elliot Morley taking a £3000 Rolex into prison and being robbed of it.Until we have a legal system free of class prejudice and a parliament made up of honest people I fear that the "let's get something for nothing" mentality will continue to rule the streets.

John Connelly ● 5111d16 Comments ● 5109d

Is Theresa May in charge of Immigration???

I cannot believe what I have just read, Mrs Rashida Chapti age 54 a resident of Malawi before coming to England(just how long has it been since Malawi has been a British Colony) Mrs Chapti traveled on a British protected passport first issued when the family lived in Malawi then a British Colony. She moved here with her Mum & Dad 6 years ago,she applied and was granted naturalization and became a British Citizen(why on earth did this happen when she had a husband and 5 grown sons plus 2 daughters at home)Theresa May quite rightly has said no to her 5 boys,2 daughters and husband gaining the right to live in our country!! She hasn't seen her husband but once in 6 years also one of her sons,and yet 2 live in Africa!! The rest live in India this gets more confusing.Yet we as a Nation are being accused of being "racist & discriminatory" for saying no!Bloody European Law Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights, which protects the right to a "private and family life" also Article 12, the right to marry! Well lets get rid of the interference of Europe once and for all, this guy does not even speak English and is not prepared to learn, If the courts reverse Mrs Mays decision that will automatically mean 7 Council houses plus Benefit straight away allocated to people who have never contributed to our society.Mrs Chapti has said that she is fighting for her husband and all the others who deserve the chance to come to the UK to be with their partners. If she loses she will go to the European Court!!!In future Check!!! We already are over crowded it is time to say NO!! If that doesn't work, then lets have a Referendum!!

Dawn Hardy ● 5118d16 Comments ● 5113d

Young Boy Raped behind Nat West Bank yesterday evening

This is the gossip being passed out at the moment,that a young boy of 11 years of age was brutally raped yesterday evening yes!!in the alley way behind Nat West Bank this alley way has been cordoned off all day, if this dreadful crime has occurred than we as parents and grandparents have a right to this knowledge so that we can ensure that our youngsters take greater care. I really don't take a lot of notice of gossip however this is such a dreadful thing to have happened if the allegations are true, that we as parents and grandparents have to be even more vigilant. I have a lovely 12 year old grand-daughter who is the idol of my life. Scum who rape young boy's will have no compunction about raping young girls.Incidentally I did phone our local PSCO Unit for verification at 4.35pm. I do realize that I have not given the unit much time to respond, however the thought of a brutal raping bar-steward at large in my home town is frightening and I feel that we should all be made aware.PLEASE GOD IT IS JUST PURILE GOSSIP!!! If it is true than the Police have a duty to inform us a.s.a.p. We as a community need the Police to patrol our streets and to be seen to be protecting us, in a space of 8 weeks this unfortunately  has not been the case in a 100 yard's of Brent Lea and the surrounding area we have had a young man badly beaten with a baseball bat and hospitalized for a short period of time, the same young man was glassed in the face 2 Fridays back and his van smashed up on the Sunday, in between these events another young man was set upon by 4 brutes again badly beaten. Do you know what is so disgraceful there were NO witnesses to any of these incidents, whilst I do appreciate the police have to be given a hand, a more tender approach would reap them benefits. We cannot live with terror tactics in our local community, when we as a nation refuse to accept outside terrorism why!!! should we put up with bully boy's, Commander Bilton we need your hand's on as quickly as you can.

Dawn Hardy ● 5181d47 Comments ● 5137d

Another Vicious Attack!!What is our town coming too!!

Yesterday evening 3 youths were stopped from stealing a bicycle this side of Brentford Bridge outside the Northumberland, one was believed to have been bitten by a dog that was nearby, they ran! 5 minutes later 2 of the youths returned armed with Knives and Baseball Bats, the chap who owned the bike was then beaten around the head with the baseball bats and stabbed 3 times the cowards then ran away, fortunately a Police Car was going by and was hailed down, the 2 Constables did not hesitate out came a medical bag and they helped the stabbed victim whilst awaiting an ambulance they then went to St Mary's Hospital Paddington and kept company with the victim, these 2 constables are to be commended for there speedy action and our heartfelt thanks go to them. If anyone reading this thread has any information or knows anyone who wears a brown hoody then please!!! do not hesitate to tell the Police.Without your help this kind of behavior will go unpunished and eventually another death will occur. We as a community need to back our Police Force and for goodness sake if you have information give it don't think it is grassing because it isn't, it is making sure that animals like this are locked away for a long time and also ensuring that our loved ones are safe. We have to stand up and be counted not hide away in fear these little *rseholes are cowards one to one in a pack they are murderous and must be stopped.

Dawn Hardy ● 5153d10 Comments ● 5144d

This is why people are reluctant to help the police

Yesterday evening while driving through Brentford, I saw two well built men cross the road towards a youth, they pounced on him and began frog marching him down the road and into a dead end street.  I had no idea what was happening but it didn't look good the youth clearly didn't want to go, both his arms were put up his back to stop him struggling. I had a few minutes earlier seen at least 9 officers surrounding a young women at Brentford station she was being frisked by a WPC; at the top of the bridge over the railway another 3 police cars were parked and at least two more officers were present so I didn't expect to wait long.However the operator found herself having to chase the police up as she felt the delay was to long the first police car that come along the high road has its siren on but went passed; a few minute later another car came with 4 officers in it there was no sense of urgency dispite the nature of the call.  I explained what I had seen and told them that a women had, since my call said the young man was drunk and that the people marching him off were not abducting him just 'taking care of him.  I had left all my details with the police operator as well as descriptions of all three people, so I got in my car and left. I got less then 300 yards when the police car that was supposed to be attending the situation came up behind me and put on its siren; I stopped and found my self being accused of smelling of alcohol when I lent into the car to give details of what I had seen, The officer TX361 then decided to start searching my car and then accused me of drinking from a bottle in the car. The bottle was a root growth promoter which I was taking to a customer along with some other goods; it did not in any way look like alcohol and was clearly unopened with the fairly chunky seal still being in place.  In the end the officers 2 of; (the other 2 presumably dealing with what ever had coursed my to phone them) did not have a working breathalyser so had to let me go.  No apology was offered over the accusation or the illegal search or the general bad attitude displayed by TX361.  I told the officers that the next time I see some one being possibly abducted I would mind my own business and let whatever was happening happen; I was told not to be cheeky in a manner that was clearly and deliberately threatening, I would be arrested for complaining about my treatment!!!!!!!I did not smell of alcohol as I had not drunk any for at least 21 hours, if anything I would have smelt of Garlic and basmatic vinegar which had been on the salad I had eaten earlier with some very spicy and hence smelly Fajitas, none of which could possibly be confused for the smell of alcohol, unless one had little or no sense of smell.  Personally I believe that this was just another example of the on going harrasement of myself and family, unless of course this oficer TX361 treats all witnesses as badly as he did me.  I phoned to make a complaint around 10 am this morning and am waiting for the duty officer to get back in touch, I wont be holding my breathe as I expect a long wait!

Philip Walsh ● 5149d6 Comments ● 5146d

Calling All Volunteers! The Orangery, Gunnersbury Park this Saturday 12noon-4pm

ORANGE ROCKCORPS: Gunnersbury Park Project Saturday 25th June 2011, 12 noon – 4pmGunnersbury Park, The Orangery, W5 4NECalling All Volunteers!Gunnersbury Park is a beautiful 75 hectare (186 acres) landscape of exceptional mature trees, open grass spaces and historic buildingsregistered as Grade 2* by English Heritage with 21 separately listed buildings.Orange and RockCorps have come together to help you to give something back to the community. Take part in Orange RockCorps and help transform the Orangery in Gunnersbury Park. Big old buildings don't come better than this!If you are free on Saturday 25th June 2011 between 12 noon - 4pm and would like to help the Orange RockCorps team to renovate the Orangery by painting, washing, scrubbing, varnishing and just generally having a jolly good old time, then all you need to do is register as a volunteer online at:  http://www.orangerockcorps.co.uk/ or call 0800 954 7625. After you give your 4 hours, you'll get given 1 ticket to see some great musical artists.RockCorps is a pro-social production company. RockCorps uses music to inspire people to volunteer and get involved in their community. To date, over 45,000 volunteers have attended more than 20 amazing live music events. This is an opportunity not to be missed out on!!  This park exudes history, beauty and culture and this project will see the transformation of a currently disused building into a beautiful space. We guarantee you won't be disappointed. So come down and join the Orange RockCorps team as we take a step back in time! Note:• Registering online is essential: Only confirmed volunteers get all the details and a reserved place on the project.• You must be at least 16 years of age to participate in an Orange RockCorps project.

Rishi Joshi ● 5162d0 Comments ● 5162d

BAA/Everest replacement window scheme

I posted this the other day.BAA Everest window scheme is fast proving a disaster for us.A huge number of the windows are scratched.  The french door is still in the back garden as one of the two doors was missing a fortnight ago and hasn't been tracked down yet.  Taking advantage of the time it has lain in the garden meant we could check it over and the hinges are scratched.One window installed upstairs is meant for downstairs and the one downstairs is not meant to be so they have re ordered.The 'machine cut' window sill for the downstairs bay was the wrong size so a piece of wood arrived on site without the tools to cut it to size - so it split and now has to be re ordered and I haven't a clue how they will get the other one out without damaging the frame ...   ?The man had to work without scaffolding taking huge pieces of glass backwards down a ladder (lots of questions from us about this I can tell you).  The one piece of scaffolding that was ordered,over the porch, didn't have an access point so they had to climb over the top of the bars and it was installed 'under' the window ledges to our porch which has bent the UPVC sills and split the sealant.Everest was supposed to be back this week to confirm a list of the work and didn't turn up so after phone calls they are supposed to be here on Monday - I suppose that means nothing has been reordered?  Hubby suggested that they might like to forget the visit and just re order the lot.

Sarah Felstead ● 5387d45 Comments ● 5165d

Does Cannabis Make You Mad? Reefer Madness Or A Cause For Concern?  By Derek Williams, UKCIA

This was posted on the news page of CLEAR / Cannabis Law reform (the new name for the Legalise Cannabis Alliance)It is a copy and paste and is quite long, but more importantly it is a very good article no matter what side of the drugs debate you sit:Are the claims of a link between cannabis and mental illness prohibition inspired hype, or a genuine issue that needs serious consideration? The answer is, perhaps strangely; both.The term “Reefer Madness” was coined in the 1930′s by a film of that name which claimed to be based on a factual account which supposedly exposed the “truth” about cannabis and mental illness. Reefer Madness wasn’t a true film and the claims it made look somewhat stupid today, they were pure propaganda and a part of the emerging war on drugs. It would be nice to think that media coverage of the whole issue has improved since those days, but it hasn’t.More recently new claims of a link between cannabis and mental illness were made following the reclassification of cannabis which happened in 2003. On the first anniversary of that downgrading the mental health charity “RETHINK” launched a campaign to highlight the claimed risks of using cannabis.The RETHINK campaign was, some would say, hijacked by the prohibition movement who saw the whole issue as a reason to oppose any form of cannabis law reform and the media was only too happy to help spread the alarmist stories.Even supposedly quality newspapers joined in, perhaps the worst example being the Independent on Sunday which ran an “apology” for having previously run a “Decriminalise cannabis” campaign in 1997. The paper made some simply outlandish claims [1] including “Record numbers of teenagers are requiring drug treatment as a result of smoking skunk, the highly potent cannabis strain that is 25 times stronger than resin sold a decade ago“. This sort of rubbish became known as “Reefer madness V2″There is a correlation between cannabis use and serious mental illness however which several studies have demonstrated; people with mental illness do tend to use a lot of cannabis and people who use a lot of cannabis seem to develop the illness more than those who don’t.Now the subject of mental illness is one which frightens a lot of people and it’s one of the few remaining taboos – subjects we don’t like talking about. As such the claim that cannabis makes you mad was a very powerful campaigning weapon for the prohibition movement. In truth it’s a complicated issue which has been grossly oversimplified. That said a case can be made for assuming the worst and guarding against a potential causal link by protecting people who might be at risk. But it isn’t the big prohibition supporting argument we have so often been led to believe, indeed the whole issue is perhaps the strongest case for a properly regulated and controlled cannabis trade – which means legalisation.To summarise the case made by the prohibition lobby:1: Cannabis strength has increased massively in recent years2: The increased strength has lead to more cases of serious mental illness3: The age people use cannabis has dropped and now it’s common for children to be heavy users4: The younger users start, the bigger the risk of developing serious mental illness.5: Lax attitudes to cannabis use have increased the number of users, therefore increasing the rates of the illness.6: Prohibition is the best way to protect people from the dangers of cannabis use.We will look at these claims in detail here and return to them at the end.Cannabis The DrugAll drugs used for fun or escapism “do things” in the brain, they are essentially chemicals which change or interact with the brain’s chemistry. All drugs do something along those lines, including alcohol and tobacco. Cannabis is different to most “drugs” in an important way however.Most drug taking essentially involves the interaction of one active chemical on the brain, but the cannabis experience is the result of two major constituents known as THC and CBD. These two chemicals are very similar in structure, but the small difference means they have very different effects in the brain. Cannabis also contains a range of minor active chemicals which also “tweak” the overall experience, but THC and CBD are the most important for the issue of its effect on mental health.THC produces psychotropic effects, whereas CBD is totally the opposite and has anti-psychotic properties. “psychotropic ” means perception altering, which is of course the reason people enjoy cannabis. The CBD is thought to moderate the workings of the THC, reducing the potential for undesirable psychotic like effects.Research by Dr Zerrin Atakan and Prof Philip McGuire [2] concluded: “These studies show that THC and CBD have distinct effects on brain function in humans, and these may underlie their correspondingly different effects on cognition and psychiatric symptoms. Determining how the constituents of cannabis act on the brain is fundamental to understanding the role of cannabis use in the aetiology of psychiatric disorders.”It is important to understand that the cannabis effect is not the result of just one drug, but the combined effect of the two major drugs and that cannabis can have very different effects depending on the variety or “strain” of the plant because the ratio of active chemicals is different for each strain. Although there are differences between strains, each type of cannabis can be grown to very high tolerances.As the quote from the Independent on Sunday above shows, the media has spread a lot of misleading and downright stupid claims about the “strength” of cannabis in recent years. The difference between strains is possibly very important when it comes to the effect cannabis might have on the mental state of a person and therefore a simple measurement of strength is pointless to the degree of being misleading.The government has always spoken of “potency”  in terms of % THC content alone when describing cannabis. This is also misleading as it takes no account of the CBD content, so let’s define the terms properly.Strength Vs PotencyStrength is simple, it’s how much of the active chemicals you get per gram of sample. If you have a strong sample, you don’t need as much of it to get the same effect as a large amount of weak stuff, but the effect will be the pretty much same overall providing you don’t slam too much too fast.Potency is the ratio of THC to CBD. Therefore if a potency figure is going to be quoted it needs two values: %THC and %CBD, or perhaps as a simple ratio of THC:CBD. High potency cannabis would mean a large THC figure combined with a small CBD figure.Now, it’s easily possible for a sample of cannabis to have lot or a little of the active chemicals, so we can have strong, low potency cannabis and weak, high potency cannabis [3].Because of prohibition it is impossible to know either the strength or the potency of cannabis being sold.Has Cannabis Potency And/Or Strength Changed?There has always been a range of strengths and potencies available and because of prohibition there have never been proper records kept of what people were actually buying. Therefore it’s next to impossible to be sure of how, if at all, they may have changed over time.Some reports claim certain strains (so called “skunk”) contain a lot of THC but very little CBD, whereas the traditional forms of hash we used to get a lot of before the war on drugs seem to have had close to equal amounts of both chemicals.It should be stressed again that it’s impossible to be certain about any changes in potency or strength over the past 30 or so years because proper records of strength and potency have simply not been made. CBD content was rarely measured in fact.A study ordered by the UK government looked (as best it could) at the changes in cannabis and reported in 2008 [4]. The Home Office study claimed to have found a doubling of “strength” over the past few years, a far cry from the claims of 25 fold of the Independent on Sunday story.However, this study – official as it was – comes close to the definition of “cod science” due to the way they collected the data. Samples analysed came from police seizures and used a very dubious sampling method: “For operational reasons some forces chose to send in material from only one Borough Command Unit or from one of several forces collection points. Some forces experienced internal logistics problems; others were very enthusiastic and sent in everything received during the trial period”. A scientific study is only as good as the data it collects and the old adage is always true: garbage in = garbage out. This data was garbage because of the sampling method used and therefore its conclusions should be treated with caution.Fact is then we don’t really know what’s happened to the strength or potency of cannabis over the period of prohibition, but it might have got stronger and more potent. That said there has always been very strong cannabis – Thai stick, anyone?There has been a general change however. Cannabis in the UK used to come mainly from North Africa in the form of hashish grown naturally in the sunshine. Because of prohibition these supplies were greatly reduced which lead to the growth of the cannabis farms industry which produces herbal cannabis grown intensively under lights. The strains of plants selected for these intensive grow ops were picked because they gave a high yield of strong cannabis grown under the artificial conditions. It is entirely possible that the CBD content has decreased due to this market change.It is important to note however that if this change has occurred, it happened because of the workings of cannabis prohibition. Worse, it went unnoticed by the authorities for nearly 10 years until the study in 2008 because the illegal trade is totally unregulated.What Is Mental Illness?Mental illness is a wide term meaning illness that affects your perception of the world and your place in it.SchizophreniaPerhaps the worst of the brain problems, it’s often called a “split personality” but that’s wrong. It’s better to think of schizophrenia as meaning “split from reality”; ill people hear voices which aren’t there, suffer hallucinations and, put simply, don’t always experience the real world around them correctly.Schizophrenia is what is usually understood by the colloquial term “madness” and it was claimed by prohibition supporters, large sections of the media and some scientists that cannabis caused this terrible illness.Schizophrenia is not a new illness, it’s always existed and usually affects young (mostly male) adults in their late teens and early 20′s, there is also a form which affects old people known as “late onset schizophrenia”, which is usually less serious and doesn’t concern us here.People can suffer degrees of the illness and no two people’s illness are the same. Most people recover but others, for whatever reason, do not.The symptoms of schizophrenia are called a “psychosis”, which means ill people experience paranoia attacks; sometimes feeling they are being watched and people are talking about them. They can suffer auditory and visual hallucinations, seeing and hearing things that aren’t there. Hearing voices is very common.Treatment for serious mental illness, unlike for any other forms of illness, is compulsory. If an ill person is sectioned he or she can be given medicine and be detained in hospital against their will. Ill people often suffer social exclusion and many end up in prison because the mental health services in the UK are badly under resourced.Something like 1 in 100 people in the USA are thought to develop schizophrenia to some extent [5] and rates are probably similar here.Does Cannabis Cause Schizophrenia?Some of the effects of cannabis appear similar to some aspects of psychosis – such effects as changed perception – and are the reasons people find cannabis use enjoyable. Less enjoyably, occasionally cannabis can induce attacks of paranoia which again is not unlike the symptoms of schizophrenia. While not pleasant, these bouts of paranoia are mostly short lived and vanish when the drug wears off. Quite a few people who experience this effect decide cannabis is not for them – after all no-one wants to take a drug for its unpleasant effects.However it is this similarity which has made the claims of a link between cannabis and mental illness seem plausible.The easy way to see if cannabis is a cause of serious mental illness is to look at the rates of psychosis over the years and to see if they’ve changed along with the massive increase there has been in cannabis use. Because of the concerns raised about the use of cannabis on mental health, the UK government commissioned a study to do just that from researchers at Keele university [6].The study carried out by researchers from Keele University for the UK government failed to show any increase in rates of psychosis which would have been expected if cannabis did cause the illness. The study concluded their data is “not consistent with the hypothesis that increasing cannabis use in earlier decades is associated with increasing schizophrenia or psychoses from the mid-1990s onwards.” [7]As rates of serious mental illness have not changed despite cannabis use becoming widespread it is fair to conclude that cannabis is not a significant cause of schizophrenia.What Does Cause Schizophrenia?There isn’t a simple answer to that question, although to some extent it seems to be inherited [5] According to the US National Institute for Mental Health “Schizophrenia occurs in one percent of the general population, but is seen in 10 percent of people with a first-degree relative (a parent, brother, or sister) with the disorder. The identical twin of a person with the disorder is most at risk, with a 40 to 65 percent chance of developing the disease”.No single, clear cut, cause of schizophrenia has ever been identified. The fact it seems to be inherited suggests a genetic link (the COMT gene) and it was proposed that cannabis may impact through this route, although some recent work hasn’t supported this [8]. Some people put birth complications as the main factor, stress and trauma are also risk factors and there are many others.In all honestly it’s still not known what makes schizophrenia happen. It’s better to think of “risk factors” rather than simple causes – factors which increase the risk of psychosis developing. If more than one risk factor is present, the chances of developing a psychotic condition goes up, or as researchers put it, the risk factors interact.THC might be one of these risk factors for those at risk of developing the illness, although CBD is likely to reduce the risk, therefore it is claimed high potency cannabis may increase the risk of serious mental illness developing in someone liable to it. This could go some way to explain the apparent correlation between cannabis use and mental illness.One large study carried out in Denmark in 2008 [9] concluded: “The results agree with those of other studies that show that cannabis predominantly causes psychotic symptoms in those persons who are predisposed to develop psychosis or show signs of psychosis in the absence of cannabis use”.Although there is no way to tell if someone is at risk of serious mental illness, a bad reaction to cannabis might be an early warning that a person is likely to develop schizophrenia.What is undoubtedly true is that people who have schizophrenia are more likely to use cannabis at a higher rate than the population in general. They also smoke tobacco, drink alcohol and use other drugs at higher rates than the general population and this heavy drug use often makes the illness much worse.People suffering from serious mental illness are clearly a vulnerable minority who need the protection of society. Prohibition does nothing to protect these people and much to put them at far greater risk, not just from uncertain potencies and also from violence due to encountering a criminal supply industry and of course, they may get a criminal record for drug use.As we’ve seen, the two main constituents of cannabis – THC and CBD – have very different, almost totally opposite effects on schizophrenia. CBD is actually anti-psychotic and may even be beneficial to ill people, whereas high THC cannabis may make things worse. If the theory that high THC content cannabis is detrimental to people suffering from mental illness is true then it is important to properly regulate the trade to either allow them access to low potency supplies or restrict their access to the trade entirely, as we do with problem drinkers who can be banned from off licences or pubs. No-one would suggest that gifting the alcohol trade to the mob and supplying the trade with moonshine or bathtub gin would help problem drinkers, so why use that logic for cannabis?Would preventing adult cannabis use reduce the incidence of serious mental illness? The answer to that is “probably not”. A study by Stan Zammit and others [10] concluded that if cannabis did cause schizophrenia then to prevent just one case in adults over 20 or so, we would have to prevent around 3,000 heavy cannabis users, or 150,000 light users.Therefore if the aim of prohibition is to reduce the number of adult cannabis users in an effort to reduce the rates of serious mental illness, it isn’t going to work. Indeed, by making adult cannabis use illegal, all that happened was a massive uncontrolled illegal trade developed and that has spilled over to children.Young People – Children And TeenagersProhibition supporters have drawn attention to the fact that the age of first use of cannabis has decreased over recent decades, and in this they are correct. When prohibition was introduced, cannabis was seen as an adult pastime. Now it’s not uncommon for children to be regular smokers in some areas. If prohibition is supposed to prevent young people getting involved in the drug trade, it has obviously failed badly. Quite how this is used to justify continued prohibition isn’t clear but it is typical of the twisted logic of prohibition supporters.Cannabis and drug use in general presents a far bigger risk to children than to adults. A young brain develops as it learns, a process called “plasticity” [11]. If the learning process is disrupted by drug use then the brain’s ability to grow and develop properly will also be disrupted. This is true for all drugs, not just cannabis – and maybe some things that aren’t drugs such as too much TV watching or internet use.There is some research which seems to indicate that children under 15 or so run a far higher risk of developing serious mental illness if they use cannabis and several studies seem to support this. For example one carried out by Jouko Miettunen and others and published in 2008 looked at early symptoms indicating the onset of an attack (prodromal symptoms) of psychosis in adolescence amongst young cannabis users [12]. They concluded that “cannabis use is associated with prodromal symptoms of psychosis in adolescence.”However it should be noted that some other research [13] into children’s cannabis use carried out in Holland, where cannabis use is more open and can be properly assessed seems to indicate a far less clear association “Cannabis use, in individuals who did not have psychotic symptoms before they began using cannabis, predicted future psychotic symptoms. However, psychotic symptoms in those who had never used cannabis before the onset of psychotic symptoms also predicted future cannabis use”.One of the features of schizophrenia is what psychiatrists call “premorbid indications”. A pre morbid indication is a bit like a consequence of an illness that hasn’t happened yet. It may be that heavy cannabis use in a young person could be one of these premorbid indicators [14] and so should be a cause for concern. All the cases of young people highlighted by the media have shown this unusual pattern of heavy use before they developed their illness.Regardless of whether or not drug use leads to schizophrenia, it makes sense actively to protect all children under the age of 15 or so from drug use of all kinds including cannabis. That should be the primary aim of any sensible drugs policy and, indeed it’s what prohibition claims to do and is the main reason used by the government to justify its drugs policy. However, as prohibition supporters have pointed out, children have easy access to prohibited drugs under the current regime and it clearly doesn’t work.An age limit of 18 for sales – similar to that for alcohol and tobacco – would be sensible and is urgently needed. Under prohibition the age limit for cannabis is £10, there is no protection for children.TobaccoIn the UK, cannabis is usually smoked mixed with tobacco. It is known that tobacco is intensely addictive and that people with psychosis tend to be heavy tobacco smokers. If they are used to smoking cannabis with tobacco their tobacco habit could lead to them smoking far more cannabis than otherwise.It is interesting to note that whereas many of the studies into cannabis and mental illness claim to control for other drug use, very few of them take any account of tobacco use.A safer use campaign aimed at separating the use of cannabis from tobacco would be useful in reducing the risk to people at risk of psychosis. It would also give wider health benefits to all cannabis users. [15]Conclusion: Cannabis And Mental Health, The Case For ReformConcerns of a link between cannabis and mental illness areperhaps the strongest argument for cannabis law reform.Prohibition claim 1: Cannabis strength has increased massively in recent yearsIt may have done, but we don’t know for sure because prohibition makes proper monitoring of the trade impossible. If it has increased, the change was brought about by the workings of prohibition. Certainly a market shift did occur and went unnoticed for nearly 10 years because of the lack of proper control. If the fears that high THC levels impact on mental health are true, prohibition has made things worse. Under prohibition, cannabis is not a controlled drug.Prohibition claim 2: The increased strength has lead to more cases of serious mental illnessThere has been no increase in the rates of mental illness. But if increased potency (not strength) has taken place, it might make existing illness worse and be bad for those at risk. The need for a better understanding of the issues of potency and strength is obvious and proper regulation of the trade would address this.Prohibition claim 3: The age people use cannabis has dropped and now it’s common for children to be heavy usersThis is true, but it’s hardly an issue to support the workings of prohibition. That children have become ensnared in the unregulated and uncontrolled cannabis trade is entirely caused by prohibition.Prohibition claim 4: The younger users start, the bigger the risk of developing serious mental illnessWe might as well assume this is true, whether true or not. Children deserve the protection of the law which only a regulated trade could provide, prohibition treats them as criminals and drives all use – including problematic use – underground.Prohibition claim 5: Lax attitudes to cannabis use have increased the number of users, therefore increasing the rates of the illnessAs rates of serious mental illness have not increased in line with the increase in cannabis use, there is no evidence to support this, but the “lax attitudes” have come about through the failure of prohibition. Proper legal control and regulation would mean an end to “lax attitudes” and the introduction of proper, workable laws.Prohibition claim 6: Prohibition is the best way to protect people from the dangers of cannabis use.Prohibition means we don’t know what is sold as cannabis, how strong it is or how potent it is. We don’t know if it’s contaminated either after harvest or in the growing process through overuse of pesticides for example. We don’t know who sells it, where from or in what amounts. The only qualification to be a dealer is unaccountability. Cannabis users have no recourse to the law when things go wrong and sometimes violence is used. When this happens it will be those least able to defend themselves – such as ill people – who suffer most.Prohibition is a con, it is not drug control. The only way to achieve drug control is to control the commercial supply industry, which means proper legalisation, licensing of dealers and premises, age restrictions and strength/potency information.Treating those you claim to want to help as criminals is, well, simply mad.________________________________________________References[1] Independent on Sunday – “Cannabis Apology”http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/health-news/cannabis-an-apology-440730.html[2] Institute of Psychiatry News – New research reveals how cannabis alters brain functionhttp://www.iop.kcl.ac.uk/news/default.aspx?id=274&[3] THC, CBD and the misleading concept of “Potency”.http://ukcia.org/wordpress/?p=50[4] Home Office Cannabis potency studyhttp://www.drugslibrary.stir.ac.uk/documents/potency.pdfCommenthttp://ukcia.org/wordpress/?p=49[5] Mental Illness – Source: USA National Institute of Mental Health. Facts about Schizophreniahttp://www.infoplease.com/spot/mental5.html[6] Keele Study – Assessing the impact of cannabis use on trends in diagnosed schizophrenia in the United Kingdom from 1996 to 2005Martin Frisher, Ilana Crome, Orsolina Martino, Peter Crofthttp://www.ukcia.org/research/keele_study/Assessing-the-impact-of-cannabis.pdf[7] Further reading: Cannabis and mental illness – the Keele Studyhttp://ukcia.org/wordpress/?p=76[8] – Cannabis and smoking gene links to schizophrenia ‘unfounded’http://www.medwire-news.md/47/71003/Psychiatry/Cannabis_and_smoking_gene_links_to_schizophrenia_%E2%80%98unfounded%E2%80%99.html[9] Familial Predisposition for Psychiatric DisorderComparison of Subjects Treated for Cannabis-Induced Psychosis and SchizophreniaMikkel Arendt, MScPsych, PhD; Preben B. Mortensen, DrMedSc; Raben Rosenberg, DrMedSc; Carsten B. Pedersen, MSc; Berit L. Waltoft, MSchttp://www.ukcia.org/research/familial-predisposition-for-psychiatric-disorder.pdf[10] If cannabis caused schizophrenia—how many cannabis users may need to be prevented in order to prevent one case of schizophrenia? England and Wales calculationsMatt Hickman, Peter Vickerman, John Macleod, Glyn Lewis, Stan Zammit, James Kirkbride, Peter JonesComment: http://ukcia.org/wordpress/?p=91[11] Plasticityhttp://www.positscience.com/human-brain/brain-plasticity/about-brain-plasticity[12] Association of cannabis use with prodromal symptoms of psychosis in adolescenceJouko Miettunen, Sari Tormanen, Graham K. Murray, Peter B. Jones, Pirjo, Maki, Hanna Ebeling, Irma Moilanen, Anja Taanila, Markus Heinimaa, Matti, Joukamaa and Juha Veijolahttp://www.ukcia.org/research/young/prodromalsymptoms.php[13] Cannabis use predicts future psychotic symptoms, and vice versaRobert F. Ferdinand, Frouke Sondeijker, Jan van der Ende, Jean-Paul Selten, Anja Huizink & Frank C. Verhulsthttp://www.ukcia.org/research/PredictsFuturePsychoticSymptomsViceVersa/PredictsFuturePsychoticSymptomsViceVersa.pdf[14] Pre-morbid Conduct Disorder symptoms are associated with cannabis use among individuals with a first episode of psychosis.Malcolm CP, Picchioni MM, DiForti M, Sugranyes G, Cooke E, Joseph C, McQueen G, Paparelli A, Stilo S, O’Connor J, Morgan C, Murray RM, Hodgins S.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21186097[15] Toke pure – UKCIA anti tobacco campaign: http://www.ukcia.org/activism/tokepure.php

Philip Walsh ● 5197d26 Comments ● 5183d

The Worlds most senseless war - Avaaz petition

Below is an email, I received from Avaaz.Dear friends, In days, a group of powerful world leaders will ask the UN to end the war on drugs and move towards regulation. But politicians say that the public will not support alternative drug policies. Let's give this unique opportunity massive public support and get urgent action. Sign below, and tell everyone:   In days, we could finally see the beginning of the end of the ‘war on drugs’. This expensive war has completely failed to curb the plague of drug addiction, while costing countless lives, devastating communities, and funneling trillions of dollars into violent organized crime networks. Experts all agree that the most sensible policy is to regulate, but politicians are afraid to touch the issue. In days, a global commission including former heads of state and foreign policy chiefs of the UN, EU, US, Brazil, Mexico and more will break the taboo and publicly call for new approaches including decriminalization and regulation of drugs.This could be a once-in-a-generation tipping-point moment -- if enough of us call for an end to this madness. Politicians say they understand that the war on drugs has failed, but claim the public isn't ready for an alternative. Let's show them we not only accept a sane and humane policy -- we demand it. Click below to sign the petition and share with everyone --if we reach 1 million voices, it will be personally delivered to world leaders by the global commission: http://www.avaaz.org/en/end_the_war_on_drugs/?vl For 50 years current drug policies have failed everyone, everywhere but public debate is stuck in the mud of fear and misinformation. Everyone, even the UN Office on Drugs and Crime which is responsible for enforcing this approach agrees -- deploying militaries and police to burn drug farms, hunting down traffickers, and imprisoning dealers and addicts – is an expensive mistake. And with massive human cost -- from Afghanistan, to Mexico, to the USA the illegal drug trade is destroying countries around the world, while addiction, overdose deaths, and HIV/AIDS infections continue to rise.Meanwhile, countries with less-harsh enforcement -- like Switzerland, Portugal, the Netherlands, and Australia -- have not seen the explosion in drug use that proponents of the drug war have darkly predicted. Instead, they have seen significant reductions in drug-related crime, addiction and deaths, and are able to focus squarely on dismantling criminal empires. Powerful lobbies still stand in the way of change, including military, law enforcement, and prison departments whose budgets are at stake. And politicians fear that voters will throw them out of office if they support alternative approaches, as they will appear weak on law and order. But many former drug Ministers and Heads of State have come out in favour of reform since leaving office, and polls show that citizens across the world know the current approach is a catastrophe. Momentum is gathering towards new improved policies, particularly in regions that are ravaged by the drug trade. If we can create a worldwide outcry in the next few days to support the bold calls of the Global Commission on Drug Policy, we can overpower the stale excuses for the status quo. Our voices hold the key to change -- Sign the petition and spread the word:http://www.avaaz.org/en/end_the_war_on_drugs/?vl We have a chance to enter the closing chapter of this brutal 'war' that has destroyed millions of lives. Global public opinion will determine if this catastrophic policy is stopped or if politicians shy away from reform. Let's rally urgently to push our hesitating leaders from doubt and fear, over the edge, and into reason. With hope and determination, Alice, Laura, Ricken, Maria Paz, Shibayan and the whole Avaaz team SOURCES: Reports that show the war on drugs has failed: http://idpc.net/publications/failure-regime-selected-publications Reports that show alternative approaches of decriminalisation and regulation are working:http://idpc.net/publications/alternative-strategies-selected-publications What Can We Learn From The Portuguese Decriminalization of Illicit Drugs?http://bjc.oxfordjournals.org/content/50/6/999.abstract General report on drug law reform in practice:http://www.tni.org/report/legislative-innovation-drug-policy The Global Comission on Drug Policy that will call on the UN to end the war on drugshttp://www.globalcommissionondrugs.org/Documents.aspxDrug War by the Numbershttp://www.drugpolicy.org/facts/drug-war-numbersFinal Report of the Latin American Comission on Drugs and Democracyhttp://www.drogasedemocracia.org/English/Destaques.asp?IdRegistro=8General report on drug law reform in practice:http://www.tni.org/report/legislative-innovation-drug-policySupport the Avaaz community! We're entirely funded by donations and receive no money from governments or corporations. Our dedicated team ensures even the smallest contributions go a long way -- donate here.

Philip Walsh ● 5189d1 Comments ● 5187d

Security Alert!!!!

ALERTS TO THREATS IN 2011 EUROPEThe English are feeling the pinch in relation to recent events in Libya and have therefore raised their security level from "Miffed" to "Peeved." Soon, though, security levels may be raised yet again to "Irritated" or even "A Bit Cross." The English have not been "A Bit Cross" since the blitz in 1940 when tea supplies nearly ran out. Terrorists have been re-categorized from "Tiresome" to "A Bloody Nuisance." The last time the British issued a "Bloody Nuisance" warning level was in 1588, when threatened by the Spanish Armada.  The Scots have raised their threat level from "Pissed Off" to "Let's get the Bastards." They don't have any other levels. This is the reason they have been used on the front line of the British army for the last 300 years.  The French government announced yesterday that it has raised its terror alert level from "Run" to "Hide." The only two higher levels in France are "Collaborate" and "Surrender." The rise was precipitated by a recent fire that destroyed France's white flag factory, effectively paralyzing the country's military capability.  Italy has increased the alert level from "Shout Loudly and Excitedly" to "Elaborate Military Posturing." Two more levels remain: "Ineffective Combat Operations" and "Change Sides."  The Germans have increased their alert state from "Disdainful Arrogance" to "Dress in Uniform and Sing Marching Songs." They also have two higher levels: "Invade a Neighbor" and "Lose." Belgians, on the other hand, are all on holiday as usual; the only threat they are worried about is NATO pulling out of Brussels . The Spanish are all excited to see their new submarines ready to deploy. These beautifully designed subs have glass bottoms so the new Spanish navy can get a really good look at the old Spanish  navy.Australia , meanwhile, has raised its security level from "No worries" to "She'll be alright, Mate." Two more escalation levels remain: "Crikey! I think we'll need to cancel the barbie this weekend!" and "The barbie is canceled." So far no situation has ever warranted use of the final escalation level. The great alliance is at work again.

Vanessa Smith ● 5201d0 Comments ● 5201d

Pubs & Lemonade

I have to admit I rarely frequent pubs and therefore have scant knowledge of their prices.  However, I recently found myself at the refurbished Coach & Horses in London Road, Isleworth the other day for lunch, which was ok.  Not great but the pub itself is very nice.  Last time I was in it was probably 30 years aqo and I liked it then.Anyway, I took my two grandchildren there for lunch on Thursday last as it was a sunny day and they have a nice outside area.  I bought a bottle of their Chilean Sauvignon Blanc which according to the menu was £17.95 and my granddaughter wanted a lemonade (thankfully my grandson only wanted tap water).  When the barman rang up £18 + for the wine and then £2.40 for the lemonade, I naturally queried it.  It seemed he had overcharged for the wine but lemonade was £2.40 for less than half a pint (since the glass was full of ice)out of a gun (which is just syrup and soda) therefore presumably lemonade would be £4.80 a pint!  Since most of their beers there seem to be £4 a pint (which I am told is quite a lot anyway) can anyone tell me if £2.40 for a small lemonade is normal in pubs?  If so, How the heck can anyone afford to go out?  Last night I was in the Plough in Northfields where I ate probably the worst meal I have had out in a very long time.  Barnsley lamb chop with mash £12.95.  My nephew had the same.  Neither of us could chew the meat at all whether it was the cooking or the quality of the meat I do not know but it should have been in stew not served as a pub meal at a restaurant price.  I asked the barman how much lemonade was in there and got a very bizarre price structure.  Evidently he decided a splash of lemonade was £1.25, half pint would be £2.25 and a pint £2.65?  I am old enough to remember the days when soda and lemonade was free on the bars of most pubs. I am now on a mission to discover where it may be affordable in the area to take children not to mention somewhere that serves decent edible food that you do not need to take out a mortgage to buy so any ideas would be gratefully received.  I am well aware that pubs make their profits from the mixers and soft drinks but hey, there's profit and then there's plain robbery!

Bernadette Paul ● 5220d12 Comments ● 5202d

BBC. FAO: Mark Thompson. Director General

Saturday, 30 April 2011.http://www.bbc.co.ukFAO: Mark Thompson. Director General.  BBC UK... Dear Mr Thompson after reading this request would you forward this to the appropriate department or circulate the proposition amongst the writers who are presently finishing up for their production departments.Last Wednesday as I was watching a channel 2 programme it suddenly struck me that you and the fellow members of the beeb could help in educating the elderly in a crucial social change that could without being too dramatic help to keep the elderly and infirmed in their homes for just that little extra time that it would take to come to terms with what most fear.Over the years I have personally seen residents in their own homes badgered out of their own properties because the television is too loud, and over prolonged periods of time and without even realizing that they where even disturbing their neighbours or were having hearing problems at all, the decision is made to approach the in-laws and of course the inevitable ensues, as I have witnessed at first hand and found that in almost all circumstances that ‘arrangements ‘ have been made and it is too late to rethink the situation.Hearing aids just do not cut it ,not with all of that surround sound and no instant reduction without  having to search around your ears first, a simple comfortable head phone and a hand held control and suddenly your on top of noise fluctuation and this terrible overlooked injustice that it seems no one has even recognised exists just goes away.Mr Thompson with your help and just a very simple insertion into a programme story line a person watching TV too loud is given a set of comfortable headphones plugged directly into the set  and has a substantial lead to allow movement some distance from the set, the ear cups would show as being very generous and comfortable to wear with a  simple junction splitter that would give other users the ability to join in[plug in] and in my own experience it is a very comfortable and personal way to enjoy television in a group dwelling built without extensive modern sound proofing that can handle HD transmitting equipment with engaged surround sound already switched on when it is delivered from the store..We  have used Technique HP with the large padded ear cup and 5m lead for years not because we have hearing problems but because it brings an extra private dimension to the television watching experience especially late at night and the headphones are just sitting around full on, and should you manage to make the take up of head phones look more fashion functional, then the possible usual  stigma’s would not even be an issue just a progressional  upgrade in user functionality to include those with diminishing hearing.Mark, please do this for Marie, Mr Gardner Flt 1, and the lovely Pippa who would always greet you with a word perfect passage from the book, her last one to me was Mark: Chapter One. Blessed are the peacemakers.That’s you!Thank you all at the beeb....Yrskk.

K Kelly ● 5214d1 Comments ● 5204d

Help out in the community and earn a free ticket to Brentford FC

Help out in the local community and receive a COMPLIMENTARY ticket to watch Brentford Vs Swindon Town on Saturday 9th AprilFootball Clear-Up has once again teamed up with Brentford FC Community Sports Trust to give Brentford FC fans the chance to take part in their second ‘Football Clear-Up’ event.The community based event offers football fans the opportunity to represent their club in the local community by volunteering for two hours on the morning of the match.  As a reward for their hard work, the volunteers will receive a complimentary ticket for them and a Junior Bee to the afternoons’ match against Swindon, where hopefully The Bees will be parading the JPT Trophy.To take part in Football Clear-Up and earn a free ticket, fans eighteen years and over, need to register at www.footballclearup.com.The ‘Clear-Up’ will be taking place at Riverside Lands, Chiswick. The event will see participants clearing debris and generally tidying up the area around the Chiswick Rugby Clubs Clubhouse in preparation for the all new 567’s Youth Football Tournament. The tournament is open to U7 to U14s and is being designed and delivered in partnership with Chiswick Community School, Old Meadonians FC and Lovell Partnerships LtdBrentford FC Manager Nicky Forster said, "The Football Club is delighted with this scheme, which reinforces our reputation in the community as a family club. Those taking part in Football Clear-Up will be rewarded for their hard work and commitment to the community, and I hope that the boys will put in a performance to make them proud”Andrew Bell, Managing Director of Football Clear-Up said, “We are pleased to be holding a second Football Clear-Up event with Brentford FC Community Sports Trust. We held a fantastic event last year where we helped to ‘Clear-Up’ the boating arches under Kew Bridge. We are offering fans an alternative way of watching live football which for a family can be expensive”BFCCST Chief Executive Lee Doyle said, "The Football Clear-Up ethos is about being fan inclusive, irrespective of age, gender or social background. The Trust has always maintained its commitment to promoting inclusion and accessibility to the club. Football Clear-Up offers fans and families a fantastic and rewarding opportunity to show their support for both the Bees and their community”

Andrew Bell ● 5244d5 Comments ● 5236d

Is it a cold shoulder or something more serious!

http://www.brentfordtw8.com    ... If you could take the time to print this off and pass it onto your GP for reference only... just in case!It's a 'Big Society' Community thing only we would understand.k.Fibromyalgia — An Elusive IllnessMillions of Americans are affected by fibromyalgia, a mysterious debilitating disorder. Here's what is known so far about its symptoms, causes, and risk factors.By Katherine LeeMedically reviewed by Ed Zimney, MDFibromyalgia is a widely misunderstood and sometimes misdiagnosed chronic condition, commonly characterized by widespread muscle pain, fatigue, concentration issues, and sleep problems. According to the National Fibromyalgia Association, it affects an estimated 10 million people, mainly women, in the United States alone. The severity of fibromyalgia symptoms can vary from one person to the next and may fluctuate even in a single individual, depending on such factors as time of day or the weather. Because it is a chronic condition, in most cases fibromyalgia symptoms never disappear entirely. The good news is that fibromyalgia isn't progressive or life-threatening, and treatments can help alleviate many symptoms.Fibromyalgia: The SymptomsThe symptoms of fibromyalgia and their severity vary widely, although pain and fatigue are nearly always present. Major symptoms of fibromyalgia include:Pain. Some fibromyalgia patients report discomfort in one or more specific areas of their body, while others may experience overall pain in their muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Certain areas, such as the back of the head, upper back and neck, elbows, hips, and knees may be particularly sensitive to touch or pressure and are described clinically as tender points. The degree and type of pain can range from aching, tenderness, and throbbing to sharper shooting and stabbing sensations. Intense burning, numbness, and tingling may also be present.Fatigue. If you've ever been knocked off your feet by a bad case of the flu, you have a general idea of how tired some people with fibromyalgia can feel. Though some fibromyalgia patients experience only mild fatigue, many report feeling completely drained of energy, both physically and mentally, to the point that exhaustion interferes with all daily activities.Memory problems. Difficulty concentrating and remembering are common cognitive symptoms in people with fibromyalgia.Sleep disturbances. Research has shown that the deepest stages of sleep in patients with fibromyalgia are constantly interrupted by bursts of brain activity, causing feelings of exhaustion even after a seemingly good night's rest. Other problems such as sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome, and teeth grinding (bruxism) are also common among fibromyalgia sufferers.Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Symptoms of IBS, including diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and bloating, are present in many people with fibromyalgia.Other common symptomsHeadaches, migraines, and facial painDepression, anxiety, or mood changesPainful menstrual periodsDizzinessDry mouth, eyes, and skinHeightened sensitivity to noise, odors, bright lights, and touchSymptom TriggersThe following factors can worsen the symptoms of fibromyalgia:Changes in weather (too cold or too humid)Too much or too little exerciseToo much or too little restStress and anxietyDepressionSome patients also report that pain and stiffness are worse in the morning.Causes of FibromyalgiaWhile the exact cause of fibromyalgia remains a mystery, doctors do know that patients with the disorder experience an increased sensation of pain due to a glitch in the central nervous system's processing of pain information. Studies have shown that people with fibromyalgia also have certain physiological abnormalities, such as elevated levels of certain chemicals called nuerotransmitters that help transmit pain signals (thus amplifying, or "turning up," the signals in the brain's pain-processing areas).In some cases, an injury or trauma, especially to the cervical spine, or a bacterial or viral illness, may precede a diagnosis of fibromyalgia. This has caused researchers to speculate that infections may be triggers as well.Fibromyalgia Risk FactorsA number of factors can increase the odds that you may develop fibromyalgia. These include:Gender. Fibromyalgia is more common among women than men.Age. Symptoms usually appear during middle age, but can also manifest in children and older adults.History of rheumatic disease. People who have been diagnosed with a rheumatic disorder — chronic inflammatory conditions — such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus are at increased risk of also developing fibromyalgia.Family history. Having a relative who suffers from fibromyalgia puts you at increased risk.Sleep problems. Doctors aren't sure whether sleep disturbances are a cause or a symptom of fibromyalgia — but sleep disorders, including restless legs syndrome and sleep apnea have been cited as possible fibromyalgia triggers.When to Seek Help for FibromyalgiaIf you experience pain in your muscles that lasts for several months and is accompanied by significant fatigue, see your doctor. For more information, check out these Web sites:National Fibromyalgia Association American College of Rheumatology Fibromyalgia Network National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin DiseasesLast Updated: 08/15/2008More on FibromyalgiaFibromyalgiaFibromyalgiaFibromyalgia ManagementFibromyalgia SupportFibromyalgia TreatmentArticles in Fibromyalgia 101Fibromyalgia: An Elusive IllnessWhat Causes Fibromyalgia?Fibromyalgia and SleepFibromyalgia: Making the DiagnosisNew Research May Be Clue to Fibromyalgia Diagnosis and TreatmentGetting the Right Doctors on Your SideThe Role of Gender in FibromyalgiaLinking Fibromyalgia to Depression and AnxietyNavigating the Disability Process If You Have FibromyalgiaThe Common Threads of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue SyndromeFibromyalgia Pain During Your PeriodAre You at Risk for Fibromyalgia?Ads by GoogleBedwetting ProblemsEverything you need to know aboutbedwetting & how to approach itwww.drynites.co.ukOsteopathy in BrightonLate Appointments, Online bookingBack care at Natural Balance, Hovewww.anaturalbalance.co.ukNail Fungus Gone for GoodNew Treatment Destroys Nail Fungus100% Organic With Guranteed ResultsPureHealing-EU.com/Stop-Nail-FungusDoctor Of OsteopathyFinchleyGolderGrn Region.Effective Osteopath In Your Areakineticosteopathy.com/Ads by GoogleFibromyalgia ClinicWe use scientific medicaltreatments for FMS (Fibromyalgia).www.fmsclinic.co.ukFibromyalgia Crystals15 crystals for ME, ChronicFatigue and Fibromyalgia.www.spiritwalkercrystals.comGlucosamine - Top Quality40% More Glucosamine - We Use OnlyTop Grade Ingredients. Buy Now.www.Healthspan.co.uk/GlucosamineSuffering Chronic Pain?Find Out Further Information OnlineBrought To You By Pfizerwww.Nerve-Pain.co.uk/Chronic-PainAds by GoogleFibromyalgia ClinicWe use scientific medicaltreatments for FMS (Fibromyalgia).www.fmsclinic.co.ukFibromyalgia Crystals15 crystals for ME, ChronicFatigue and Fibromyalgia.www.spiritwalkercrystals.comGlucosamine - Top Quality40% More Glucosamine - We Use OnlyTop Grade Ingredients. Buy Now.www.Healthspan.co.uk/GlucosamineSuffering Chronic Pain?Find Out Further Information OnlineBrought To You By Pfizerwww.Nerve-Pain.co.uk/Chronic-PainSearch Everyday Health   Back to Top

K Kelly ● 5238d1 Comments ● 5238d

Ferry Quays Vandal

Most Monday mornings between 4 and 5am a vandal paints either a while or yellow line along the pathway at Ferry Quays along the river where the Grand Union canal starts, east of Thames Lock. Sometimes he paints one in the early hours of Sunday morning and the other colour the next morning.Apparently some years ago, a boat owner who I am given to understand was mooring illegally alongside the canal bank before Ferry Quays was built was evicted and Ferry Quays was then built. When the development was finished he started vandalising the walkways by the painting of the lines.He was caught and the case took some years to come to court and again I am given to understand that the case was thrown out over something to do with No Mans Land.Since this victory he has returned to the scene of his crime and every week has painted his little white or yellow line.The cost to the residents to remove is £1,000 per time. He uses masonsry paint to ensure that the paint soaks into the conecrete.He may think his crime is against the devleopers but it is the residents who are paying. The £1.000 removal costs will ultimately come out of site charges made to owners.As a resident I am getting fed up of seeing this man's pathetic crime and I ask him through this forum to stop. He is not hurting the people that evicted him but he is spoiling my enjoyment of Ferry Quays.If anyone knows who this man is would they ask him to stop?If you know anymore of this story I would be very interested to know his side or it or yours.Thank you

Verification required ● 6569d123 Comments ● 5244d

2 tickets for sale, New York Dolls, tonight at the Old Vic Tunnels

Anyone interested? It's their last night in this unique venue, and yesterday's gig was great. Bought the tickets for £70, but I'll take £50 for both, or best offer.From the website:"The Old Vic Tunnels is a network of Victorian red brick tunnels hidden beneath the unassuming main train station. With the rumble of trains overhead, the dimly lit atmosphere does not get more underground than these secret city vaults.We are teaming up with The Old Vic to produce a series of events in the tunnels, showcasing exclusive performances from a wide range of high profile artists, with one off shows, album releases, secret gigs & afterparties, expertly produced in a small pop up venue of only 500 capacity.To launch our unique event series, we are excited to present,original punk/glam instigators The New York Dolls promoting the UK release of their new album: "Dancing Backwards in High Heels" (produced by Jason Hill of the Killers, released Monday, March 14th) These intimate shows are the only London dates of their short UK tour.(their last small venue show in London's 100 Club sold out in 4 minutes)Legendary guitarist Earl Slick, best known for his spectacular guitar work on David Bowie's albums David Live (1974), Young Americans (1975) and Station To Station (1976), has officially joined the New York Dolls as the bands new guitarist on their exclusive London shows.Support comes from London-based band The Shoestrung with their infectious blend of dirty rhythm & blues and foot stomping British rock and roll."

Holly Hodges ● 5244d0 Comments ● 5244d

War on drugs has failed, say former heads of MI5, CPS and BBC

Wow! something in the Telegraph on drugs that's not just a Peter Hitchings non factual rant!  The "war on drugs" has failed and should be abandoned in favour of evidence-based policies that treat addiction as a health problem, according to prominent public figures including former heads of MI5 and the Crown Prosecution Service.Duug availability and use has increased with up to 250 million people worldwide using narcotics such as cannabis, cocaine and heroin  Photo: PABy Martin Beckford, Health Correspondent 12:01AM GMT 21 Mar 2011Leading peers – including prominent Tories – say that despite governments worldwide drawing up tough laws against dealers and users over the past 50 years, illegal drugs have become more accessible.Vast amounts of money have been wasted on unsuccessful crackdowns, while criminals have made fortunes importing drugs into this country.The increasing use of the most harmful drugs such as heroin has also led to “enormous health problems”, according to the group.The MPs and members of the House of Lords, who have formed a new All-Party Parliamentary Group on Drug Policy Reform, are calling for new policies to be drawn up on the basis of scientific evidence.It could lead to calls for the British government to decriminalise drugs, or at least for the police and Crown Prosecution Service not to jail people for possession of small amounts of banned substances.Their intervention could receive a sympathetic audience in Whitehall, where ministers and civil servants are trying to cut the numbers and cost of the prison population. The Justice Secretary, Ken Clarke, has already announced plans to help offenders kick drug habits rather than keeping them behind bars.The former Labour government changed its mind repeatedly on the risks posed by cannabis use and was criticised for sacking its chief drug adviser, Prof David Nutt, when he claimed that ecstasy and LSD were less dangerous than alcohol.The chairman of the new group, Baroness Meacher – who is also chairman of an NHS trust – told The Daily Telegraph: “Criminalising drug users has been an expensive catastrophe for individuals and communities.“In the UK the time has come for a review of our 1971 Misuse of Drugs Act. I call on our Government to heed the advice of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime that drug addiction should be recognised as a health problem and not punished.“We have the example of other countries to follow. The best is Portugal which has decriminalised drug use for 10 years. Portugal still has one of the lowest drug addiction rates in Europe, the trend of Young people's drug addiction is falling in Portugal against an upward trend in the surrounding countries, and the Portuguese prison population has fallen over time.”Lord Lawson, who was Chancellor of the Exchequer between 1983 and 1989, said: “I have no doubt that the present policy is a disaster.“This is an important issue, which I have thought about for many years. But I still don't know what the right answer is – I have joined the APPG in the hope that it may help us to find the right answer.”Other high-profile figures in the group include Baroness Manningham-Buller, who served as Director General of MI5, the security service, between 2002 and 2007; Lord Birt, the former Director-General of the BBC who went on to become a “blue-sky thinker” for Tony Blair; Lord Macdonald of River Glaven, until recently the Director of Public Prosecutions; and Lord Walton of Detchant, a former president of the British Medical Association and the General Medical Council.Current MPs on the group include Peter Bottomley, who served as a junior minister under Margaret Thatcher; Mike Weatherley, the newly elected Tory MP for Hove and Portslade; and Julian Huppert, the Liberal Democrat MP for Cambridge.The group’s formation coincides with the 50th anniversary of the United Nations Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs, which paved the way for a war on drugs by describing addiction as a “serious evil”, attempting to limit production for medicinal and scientific uses only, and coordinating international action against traffickers.The peers and MPs say that despite governments “pouring vast resources” into the attempt to control drug markets, availability and use has increased, with up to 250 million people worldwide using narcotics such as cannabis, cocaine and heroin in 2008.They believe the trade in illegal drugs makes more than £200 billion a year for criminals and terrorists, as well as destabilising entire nations such as Afghanistan and Mexico.As a result, the all-party group is working with the Beckley Foundation, a charitable trust, to review current policies and scientific evidence in order to draw up proposed new ways to deal with the problem.I guess the independent thought alert has been sounded in Westminster, we can't have truth and reality in the war on people that use drugs can we; before we know where we are it will have to be evidence based!!!

Philip Walsh ● 5254d1 Comments ● 5253d

Legalisation of drugs could save UK £14bn, says study

The regulated legalisation of drugs would have major benefits for taxpayers, victims of crime, local communities and the criminal justice system, according to the first comprehensive comparison between the cost-effectiveness of legalisation and prohibition. The authors of the report, which is due to be published today, suggest that a legalised, regulated market could save the country around £14bn.For many years the government has been under pressure to conduct an objective cost-benefit analysis of the current drugs policy, but has failed to do so despite calls from MPs. Now the drugs reform charity, Transform, has commissioned its own report, examining all aspects of prohibition from the costs of policing and investigating drugs users and dealers to processing them through the courts and their eventual incarceration.As well as such savings is the likely taxation revenue in a regulated market. However, there are also the potential costs of increased drug treatment, education and public information campaigns about the risks and dangers of drugs, similar to those for tobacco and alcohol, and the costs of running a regulated system.The report looked at four potential scenarios, ranging from no increase in drugs use to a 100% rise as they become more readily available."The conclusion is that regulating the drugs market is a dramatically more cost-effective policy than prohibition and that moving from prohibition to regulated drugs markets in England and Wales would provide a net saving to taxpayers, victims of crime, communities, the criminal justice system and drug users of somewhere within the range of, for the four scenarios, £13.9bn, £10.8bn, £7.7bn, £4.6bn."Titled a Comparison of the Cost-effectiveness of the Prohibition and Regulation of Drugs, the report uses government figures on the costs of crime to assess the potential benefits and disadvantages of change. The document, co-written by Steve Rolles, head of research at Transform, uses home office and No 10 strategy unit reports to form its conclusions.It finds: "The government specifically claims the benefits of any move away from prohibition towards legal regulation would be outweighed by the costs. No such cost-benefit analysis, or even a proper impact assessment of existing enforcement policy and legislation has ever been carried out here or anywhere else in the world."Taxing drugs would also provide big revenue gains, says the survey. An Independent Drug Monitoring Unit estimate, quoted in the report, suggests up to £1.3bn could be generated by a £1 per gram tax on cannabis resin and £2 per gram on skunk.The report follows calls for legalisation or a full debate on reform. Last month, the Economist concluded: "Prohibition has failed; legalisation is the least bad solution."

Philip Walsh ● 5272d2 Comments ● 5266d

Letter the Home office won't answer

This is an email sent twice to Claire Harmon, once to James Brokenshire and once to Mary McCleod. The first two still haven't responded despite a month elapsing, Mary McCleod has responded (03/02/2011) that she has asked the Home Office to respond, they still havn't For the attention of James Brokenshire MP.Dear Mr Brokenshire I have sent two emails to Claire Harmon which have so far not been acknowledged or answered, I have recently been informed that they should have been sent to you so I am sending them to you now and look forward to your response.Email 1:Dear Clair could you please confirm the home offices intention to re- classify cannabis as a schedule four drug, to enable the full use of Sativex AKA Cannabis tincture as it was known and available from any chemist as pre 1968. This was of course before the handing over  of £10 of taxpayers money to re- brand it.Or is it the case that only Cannabis mixed with alcohol and peppermint that can be deemed as having medical benefits.(Odd as any stoner will tell you not to mix the two). This seems some what odd as Sativex has exactly the same cannabidoils as other forms of cannabis approximately 400 of them or has the home office thought up some kind of new name for cannabis when mixed with alcohol in order to falsify its downgrading whilst not admitting its CANNABIS. Can you also confirm that peppermint is now banned from medical preparations within the EU and as such must now be removed from the Cannabis, peppermint, alcohol cocktail that cost I believe 10x as much as Good quality cannabis that has no patents attached.Just one area left that I would like clarification on; Their are millions of Muslims in this country who are banned from ingesting alcohol, is their an alcohol free form of medicinal cannabis that Muslims can take that does not lead to arrest, criminal conviction, and the destruction of home and family life or is it still Government policy to keep access to cannabis prohibited for certain religious groups.Email 2: this is the same but with an additional paragraph that reads as follows:Dear Clair I am resending this email originally sent 21/01/2011 as it would appear you have not yet acknowledged its receipt let alone replied to it. These are important questions deserving of an answer. I do realise that your Government would dearly wish to pretend questions like this did not exist but they do and even those worthless taxpayers like myself and those that use cannabis whether medicinally or because its less dangerous / more pleasant than alcohol, do expect and deserve an answer.Yours hoping for an responsePhilip WalshFor Applewwods Hydroponica Limitedwww.hydroponica.co.uk

Philip Walsh ● 5291d4 Comments ● 5272d

Dear Prime Minister Re meeting with the leader of LCA

Below is a letter based on an original one sent to David Cameron by the leader of the LCA this version has been made available by myself for interested parties to use, it is in support of meeting Peter Reynolds the Leader of the Legalise Cannabis Alliance and the Prime Minister over the continued war on our own taxpaying people which is the reality of the war on drugs;Dear Mr Cameron,I am writing about your answer to the question about Cannabis during the recent Al Jazeera World View YouTube interview.Recently the Legalise Cannabis Alliance (LCA) elected a new leader Peter Reynolds. Who represent the interests of at least two million regular users of cannabis (Many of these are medical need users) and perhaps as many as 10 million occasional users in Britain?  This is a huge proportion of the population and I understand Peter Reynolds; on their/our/my behalf has requesting a meeting with you and I am writing in support of this request.I in common with the millions of educated, well informed, intelligent taxpaying medicinal and chosen pleasure users of cannabis, were/are dismayed, shocked even, at your answer to the question in respect to cannabis legalisation.  With respect, clearly it is you who are in ‘great need of’ education about cannabis.  The information you gave was inaccurate and false.  While we must all respect different opinions, your answer was factually wrong and I believe you must correct it.  Cannabis is not “incredibly damaging”, nor “very, very toxic”.  It is a myth that there is anything significantly different about the cannabis on sale today and the cannabis you and so many of your fellow MPs used in your youth; indeed a recent study has revealed that seized cannabis from the last decade does not differ significantly in strength from cannabis seized during the previous decade and the idea that it causes “in many cases, huge mental health problems” has been comprehensively disproved many times over by scientists all over the world. Here in Britain the Keele University report puts these claims into clear perspective and the LCA can provide you with scientific information which proves that these ideas are false.Recently the LCA have been pursuing various newspapers through the Press Complaints Commission for publishing the same inaccuracies.  I am seriously alarmed when I see the prime minster of my country distributing such untruths.Two key facts:The Therapeutic Ratio of cannabis (ED50:LD50) is 1:40000 (Alcohol = 1:10, Paracetamol = 1:30).Even potatoes are more toxic than cannabis.Professor Glyn Lewis of the University of Bristol reviewed all published research on cannabis and Psychosis in 2009 and concluded that 96% of people have no risk whatsoever and in the remaining 4% the risk is “statistically tiny”.Your suggestion that legalising drugs increases use is also not supported by the evidence. In both Holland and Portugal where cannabis use is not prosecuted, consumption is much lower than in Britain.Finally, on medicinal use it is simply not true that the scientific and medical authorities are free to make independent determinations, the farce of Sativex (rebranded tincture) still not being made available due to scheduling medical truths/fact not fitting drug lies/propaganda clearly underlines that.  The Home Office stamps on any medicinal cannabis use even when prescribed by a doctor. People from other European countries can bring medicinal cannabis to Britain and use it legally under the Schengen agreement but you can’t if you’re British. Here, sick and disabled people are being prosecuted every day for use of a medicine which is scientifically and medically proven; surely you cannot be unaware of this? It is a cruel and evil Policy which shames our nation by legitimising discrimination and promoting hatred; the war on drugs is a war on people and choice.So please, Mr Cameron, will you meet with my representative Peter Reynolds in order that he may show you the evidence and the facts about cannabis? Remember, this was the second most popular question you were asked on Friday and he represent the interests of millions of British citizens many of whom voted for your coalition partners based on manifesto promises. Please make time for him in your diary.I look forward to hearing from you or at the very least, hearing that our request for a meeting has been granted so as fairness and democracy based on truth can be established in our country which has for to long; abused its people due to laws based on fear, racism, bigotry and drug ignorance backed up with lies/mis-information.Yours sincerely,

Philip Walsh ● 5274d0 Comments ● 5274d

Brentford Library - Freedom of Information Request

Here is the reply from the council in response to a request for details of the J. Laing contract and also details of the accounts of Brentford Library..........not particularly enlightening (unsurprisingly !!!)Environment Directorate Libraries (Environment Department, Leisure & Cultural Services)Civic CentreLampton RoadHounslow TW3 4DNFOI/EIR reference 001330 Date 21 February 2011Dear Mr Silver, RE: Your Request for Information (FOI/EIR)-Brentford LibraryI am writing to provide you with the information you requested under FOI that was received by e-mail on 24- Jan- 11.  Your request has been dealt with by Environment and we have recorded your request as being about Brentford Library (Environment, Leisure). Your FOI reference number is 001330.The information you requested was to get a breakdown of the running costs of the Brentford Library over a year? Are accounts published? Along with, what is the contractual situation with Laing’s if the library were to be closed?In answer to your questions the breakdown of the individual library costs are commercially sensitive.If the libraries were to close there is provision within the contract for this to occur. We would be required to compensate John Laing under the contract. This may include loss of profit and redundancy costs. This is commercially sensitive information and can not be disclosed and is exempt under Section 43 of the Freedom of Information Act.Any information that has been provided to you pursuant to your request may be utilised for your own use, including for non-commercial research purposes. The information may also be used for purpose of news reporting. However, any other type of re-us, for example, by publishing information, using it for marketing or issuing copies to the public will require the permission of the copyright owner, namely the London Borough of Hounslow.Should you feel that I have not dealt with your request appropriately or failed to take action within a reasonable timescale you are entitled to ask for a review to be undertaken by any of the following methods:By post to : FOI Review Officer Environment Civic Centre Lampton RoadHounslowTW3 4DNBy email : FOI@hounslow.gov.ukShould you remain dissatisfied following a formal review under the complaints procedure you have the right to complain to the Information Commissioner under Section 50 of the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The contact details for the Information Commissioner are as follows:Information Commissioners OfficeWycliffe HouseWater LaneWilmslowCheshireSK9 5AFFax 01625 524 510DX 20819Web www.ico.org.ukThe Information Commissioner has also produced a guide “Your Right to Know; How to complain” which can be downloaded from www.ico.org.uk.Yours sincerely,Tim DouglasService Improvement ManagerLeisure & Cultural ServicesEnvironment Department

Ian Silver ● 5281d14 Comments ● 5277d

Massive turn out on Isleworth march to Save Our Library and Public Hall in spite of rain!

When I woke up this morning and looked out of the window I would have settled for a couple of dozen hardy souls turning out.In the event at least 300 people (estimates ranged from this figure up to nearly 500) marched from Isleworth Library to Isleworth Public Hall in the rain to demonstrate their opposition to closures.  When the front of the march reached the Public Hall marchers at the rear were still turning into South Street by the War Memorial.This community-led activity was backed by the (Conservative) MP for Brentford & Isleworth, Mary Macleod, and by all three (Labour) ward councillors for Isleworth.  We are grateful for their participation and support, and the sight of the four of them alongside ICG leader Ian Speed and Christine Diwell of The Isleworth Society (TIS) at the head of the march sends a potent message about the capacity our community has now developed to organise across political boundaries when the occasion demands.The march finished at the Public Hall and we had quite deliberately adopted a "play it by ear" approach to what was to happen when we got there.  In the event the numbers involved were so hugely beyond everybody's expectations that we could only squeeze people into the various rooms and refresh them with tea, coffee and biscuits as even the hall would have been nowhere near large enough to have staged any kind of meeting.I am so intensely proud of my community today.  I hope I am not being presumptuous nor tempting fate when I say that I cannot see anybody threatening to close or restrict these facilities any time soon, not next year nor the year after that.A big well done and thank you to everybody who supported this wonderful event, to those who helped by leafleting and spreading the message, and to the SNT PS Charles Ehikioya whom I know went the extra mile, along with his excellent team of officers, to make this work.  Also to the St. John's Residents' Association and the Four Roads Residents' Association, to Delicacies and Jospeh's Patisserie who both supplied refreshments, and to everybody else involved.The message from Isleworth reverberated loud and clear today - Hands Off Our Community!!

Phil Andrews ● 5284d4 Comments ● 5280d

Fatally Flawed and or misleading?    Hounslow's Public Budget Consultation Document  2011

Hounslow's Public Budget Consultation Document 2011 At a meeting of the LBH  Executive held on the 8th February 2011 (see page 143) the closure of Chiswick Day Centre and Bedfont was agreed along with other financial cuts. The savings title was; Ref CS13-15;  Redesign of Day Opportunities for older people The 'Description of Saving' as '£790k efficiency by reducing the nuimber of sites used for day services. Chiswick and Bedfont to close' Summary of relevant consultation results; Approximately 55% of respondents to the General Resident Survey agreed with the closure and 32% disagreed' However in the  Budget Consultation Document 2011 circulated throughout the borough Item  reference number CS13-15 was  as follows, REF;       CS 13-15  SAVINGS PROPOSAL; Reconfiguration of day care services Service Impact; This proposal would see an ongoing commitment to increased choice with services  provided to the most vulnerable service users and those requiring specialist services. Seven day coverage  would be retained with front line services being redeployed into existing  care vacancies. Two management and 17 other posts  would be deleted or  redeployed. POTENTIAL FOR SAVINGS 2011/2012   Up to  £790k. Finally Residents were asked to 'please indicate how strongly you agree that savings should be made in then following areas' with a range of five marking boxes  beginning at  'Strongly Agree'  and ending  'Strongly Disagree' In my view no one would be able to interpret this item in this publicly circulated document with the  closure of the Chiswick Day Centre . It follows too that the collated interpretation of the residents returned consultation views/ preferences in respect of CS 13-15 mentioned above was  fatally flawed. Post the receipt of the  public's response, LBH Executive made some adjustments to their proposed cuts including Library closures,  Youth services and other matters. I believe too that if the  closure of the CDC had been properly and clearly stated in the publicly circulated consultation document, the public response would have been overwhelming against its closure. My view is not speculative. The current LBH  E Petition against closure and a paper based one provides corroborative evidence of the public's anger and desire that this Centre remain open. Disingenous is the word that comes to mind. John Cllr John Todd

John Todd ● 5282d0 Comments ● 5282d

Why The Legalise Cannabis Alliance is NOT a single issue party

Below is a letter (not by me or the LCA) prepared for sending to our PM&MPs by an interested Person, its for printing and signing and is doing the rounds on facebook. It sums up the issue well;DearI am writing to state my view that continuing prohibition of all private interests in cannabis is not in the best interest of society or the individual. Current policy is in many regards counter-productive and a drain on the country’s resources.  The administration of Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 is mandated to be under constant review & evidence based; it's concern is solely to reduce social harm caused by drug misuse.  I submit that there can be no justification in law for the blanket ban on accessing a substance that many persons use responsibly, and many use to experience the amelioration of symptoms caused by various medical disorders. The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 seeks to regulate human action re any harmful drug, it does not provide a mandate for prohibition, indeed when one examines the obligations of the ACMD one can see that the law seeks to make arrangements for the supply of controlled drugs.  The legislative aim is to control responsible human action and property interests through the regulation of the production, distribution and possession of any harmful drug; this being proportionate and targeted to address the mischief of social harm occasioned by misuse.  I note that the law does not prohibit the use of cannabis at all, and this often ignored fact was Parliament's way of opening the door to facilitate a suitable and rational regulatory structure.  I place it on record that I wish the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 to be used properly, and neutrally; specifically; (under Section 1) -“(2) (a) for restricting the availability of such drugs or supervising the arrangements for their supply.”The prohibition of all private interests in cannabis & the denial of the possibility of responsible use has failed: The estimated expenditure of £19 billion on the judicial ‘controls’ over UK drug policy is a large sum that cannot be justified in the current fiscal climate.  I do not believe it can be proven to be a valid policy even if the nation could easily afford it; it has a high price on liberty, and a paradoxical effect upon the health of all drug users - it has proved futile in almost every way, save for the government's blind adherence to the international treaties it chooses to fetter it's discretion to. There is an estimated street value of £5 billion profit going directly to gangs and cartels, and this in turn funds organised crime, human trafficking, and all manner of hard-line criminality.Children have easy & ready access to cannabis.  Children are dealing cannabis and using cannabis with relative ease.There is an estimated 165 million responsible and non-problematic cannabis users worldwide.  There is anything from 2 - 10 million adult users in the UK.  There is no societal benefit to criminalising such a large portion of society, these are generally law-abiding persons who wish to use a substance that is comparatively safer than many drugs that government choose to exclude users of from the operation of the MoDA 1971 (despite the Act being neutral as to what drug misusers are controlled, the most harmful drugs such as alcohol and tobacco are excluded by policy, but this is not reflected in the Act itself).Under prohibition, as in 1920’s America, quality control has suffered giving way to hastily harvested cannabis which acts as the modern day equivalent of the infamous Moonshine & Hooch. The UK media terms this bad product simply as “Skunk”. Cannabis is now being cut with harmful drugs, glass, metal fillings, and chemicals to give false potency, and to add weight for profit motivations. To criminalise personal actions that do not harm others within the confines of privately owned property is at best draconian, and at worst futile & irresponsible.I wish to encourage the adoption of a regulatory system that provides: An age-check system to prevent the young and vulnerable from obtaining cannabis with the ease they currently have.The partial saving from the £19 billion drug enforcement budget, alongside the estimated street worth of £5 billion potentially collected from cannabis.  This would be a considerable sum in aiding the country in fiscal crisis.Quality control that can be accorded to cannabis production and sale, thus ensuring that there are no dangerous impurities and that the correct balance of cannabinoids are present (according to the needs of the user) to minimise potential harms.Potency & harm reduction information can be provided to adults, ensuring education is the forefront of the regulatory model.A restriction on marketing and the creation of designated discreet outlets. As seen in many countries, given a place of legitimacy, the cache of cannabis is lessened in favour of responsibility.The freedoms and rights for non-problematic users to be respected.I do hope that you will give this matter the urgent attention it warrants.Yours

Philip Walsh ● 5288d4 Comments ● 5283d

Isleworth Residents March to Save Our Library and Public Hall - Saturday, 19th February, 10.45 am

Dear FriendYou may be aware that as part of a massive programme of budget cuts it has been proposed that Isleworth Library, along with up to seven others, may be closed.Isleworth only reopened a couple of weeks ago!!!As if that wasn't enough, Isleworth Public Hall is also under serious threat.  In fact anywhere where members of the community can get together and speak to one another seems to be very much on the hit list.The London Borough of Hounslow is now saying that it will delay any cuts to the library service and will also push back its plans for the Public Hall.  BUT NEITHER ARE SAFE !!!!Hounslow still wishes to make a saving in excess of £800k and has yet to think of an alternative to the library closures.That is why members and friends of our community will be holding a MARCH from Isleworth Library to Isleworth Public Hall on Saturday, 19th February 2011 at 10.45 am.This friendly and good-natured activity is being supported across the community by people of all age groups and all backgrounds.  It has been organised by a cross-section of residents from The Isleworth Society (TIS), the Community Group (ICG) and Friends of Isleworth Public Hall, as well as many freelance campaigners and well-wishers.  It is intended as a short but potent demonstration of our community's robust opposition to the proposed cuts.Meet up outside Isleworth Library at 10.45 am.  We will be staging a brief celebration of the opening of the new library before the march.Refreshments will be available at the Public Hall from 11.30 am, where you will also be able to sign a petition.  If for any reason you are unable to attend the march, please make your way straight to the Public Hall.We want to put on a real show of strength.  Please do your very best to join us on the march at 10.45 on February 19th.See you there!Phil Andrewson behalf of Save Our Libraries LBH

Phil Andrews ● 5295d21 Comments ● 5284d

Major tube disruption this weekend (19/20 February 2011)

Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 February Due to track or signal replacement works, the Underground and Overground services within Hounslow Borough are severely affected this weekend:District line: The District line is suspended between Ealing Broadway and West Kensington and between Richmond and West Kensington all weekend.Piccadilly line: The Piccadilly line is suspended between Northfields and Hammersmith and between Ealing Common and Hammersmith all weekendRail replacement buses:• Service A:  Boston Manor – South Ealing – Ealing Broadway – Ealing Common – Acton Town – Gunnersbury – Chiswick Park – Turnham Green – Stamford Brook – Ravenscourt Park – Hammersmith.• Service B:  Ealing Broadway – Boston Manor.• Service C: Osterley – Hammersmith.• Service D:  Richmond – Kew Gardens – Gunnersbury – Chiswick Park – Turnham Green –  Stamford Brook – Ravenscourt Park –  Hammersmith.Piccadilly line passengers should transfer to/from rail replacement buses at Boston Manor and Hammersmith.  District line passengers should transfer to/from the Piccadilly line at Earls Court.Chiswick residents for Heathrow may also take an E3 bus to Northfields or an H91 bus to Osterley or Hounslow West to transfer to a Piccadilly Line train.  Brentford residents for Heathrow should take an E2 bus to Northfields or an E8 or 195 bus to Boston Manor (but not the 65 bus to South Ealing) to transfer to a Piccadilly Line train.London Overground: On Saturday 19 February, no service will operate between Richmond and Camden Road. On Sunday 20 February, no service will operate between Richmond and Stratford.Use the rail replacement bus service D shown above, or the special bus service below:• Gunnersbury – Acton Central (for South Acton) – Willesden Junction – Kensal Rise – Brondesbury Park – Brondesbury – West Hampstead – Finchley Road & Frognal (bus stops at Finchley Road Tube) – Hampstead Heath (change here for buses to/from Stratford) – Gospel Oak (bus stops at station.Other lines:Other lines are also affected by track replacement works this weekend, including the West London Overground line.For more information:  www.tfl.gov.uk

Chris Calvi-Freeman ● 5284d0 Comments ● 5284d

Thames Water bills amnesty..clarification required!

You may have read in the Press that people living in households that have never been paying Water Rates for some reason or other are being given an opportunity to register/or own up before 3rd March... and if they do so, they will have previous possible liabilities waived.One has in mind houses that have been converted into self contained flats..and, more sensitively in certain parts of the London Borough of Hounslow, where back gardens buildings are being let out by house-owners.It's a grey area. The Thames Water Board website invites those wishing to apply for an Amnesty to phone an 0800 number which happens to be a call centre in Belfast and who surprisingly could offer no clarification. So what are they there for!!!I recall conversations with the TV Licencing people when I discontinued having a TV, then not renewing the Licence and 6 weeks later getting house visit from an investigater. I enquired of the of the chap who called..what was the score with TVs in independent households at the bottom of the garden. He said they could only knock on the front door of the main house and not snoop over garden walls! So, what's the Water Board doing to clarify the situation prior to the deadline? Their website is vague. Clarification in needed.The Community, especially people living on their own and paying the full whack to TV Licence people, Council Tax people and the Water Rates Authorities need to see fairness and fairplay. What's the score?

Jim Lawes ● 5288d5 Comments ● 5285d

Permission Awaited to Judicially Review ACMD and SSHD Regarding Alcohol and Tobacco Policy

s it time to criminalise the users of the drugs tobacco and alcohol?Time to refer to them as drug misuser's!Time to invade their homes, destroy their lives, employment, home and family life, or is it time to equalise the law, life, liberty, happiness, Health! All documents are now before the High Court in Casey Hardison's applications for permission to judicially review the separate decisions by the Home Secretary and the Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) to abdicate power and duty under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (the Act) with regards to alcohol and tobacco control. Permission to proceed to full judicial review is now in the hands of the law as applied by the High Court judges. The decision is entirely for them.The cases, brought by the imprisoned 'cognitive liberty' advocate and entheogenic chemist, US citizen Casey William Hardison, set out how the Home Secretary has failed in her legal duty to actively consult the ACMD on the possibility of bringing drinkers and smokers under the protection and control of the Act and how the ACMD have failed in their legal duty to actively recommend to the Home Secretary that possibility.Currently, drinkers and smokers are accorded special status by government and the ACMD through the mistaken belief that alcohol and tobacco are exempted from the operation of the Act. This error of law leads the Home Secretary to another false notion: that the Act is 'not a suitable mechanism for regulating alcohol and tobacco [users]', and the ACMD to a similar false notion: that 'the Misuse of Drugs framework is not appropriate for the regulation of alcohol and tobacco [users]'. These false notions are themselves provided for by a pernicious public belief that the Act mandates the 'prohibition' of non-medical and non- scientific commerce and use of controlled drugs. This belief couldn't be further from legal truth. But it is a belief the Government does not want undermined.The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 requires the Home Secretary and the ACMD apply relevant criteria and disregard irrelevant criteria concerning drugs misuse and social harm to their decision making process; yet the Home Secretary and the ACMD have allowed irrelevant criteria to impact their respective decisions not to speak directly to each other about controlling alcohol and tobacco under the Act.This 'hear no, see no, speak no' control policy has lead to a collective decision to exclude alcohol and tobacco from the Act's protections on the grounds of 'historic and cultural [factors/precedents] that lack a consistent and objective basis'. And even though both the ACMD and the Home Secretary recognise 'that alcohol and tobacco do pose health risks and may have anti-social effects' when misused, they accord these dangerous drugs special status because 'their use is embedded in society and their responsible use is possible and commonplace'. These irrelevant factors have led the ACMD to acquiesce in, and the government to institute, a separate system for regulating the commerce and use of the drugs alcohol and tobacco.This 'artificial divide' between drugs defined as 'controlled' under the Act, and the so- called 'legal' drugs is arbitrary and unreasonable. It favours the non-medical and non-scientific misuse of alcohol and tobacco relative to any non-medical or non- scientific use of any controlled drug – a poisoned chalice not provided for by the Act. This policy is biased in favour of producers and consumers of these socially- problematic products, and ignorant of statutory duty.Again, the control and classification of alcohol and tobacco alongside other dangerous drugs 'controlled' under the Act would not of necessity equate to prohibition; a full range of regulatory options are available under the Act for a lawful and rational commerce of any controlled drug for peaceful use purposes. Said another way, the Act is not a blunt instrument intended to 'prohibit' drugs, rather it is a beautifully nuanced 'mechanism' or 'framework' for the 'suitable' or 'appropriate' regulation of the import, export, production, supply and possession of dangerous or otherwise harmful drugs so as to reduce harm from their potential misuse.Hardison shows that the Act is a well- crafted and intricate tool that can easily regulate the lawful, responsible commerce and use of alcohol and tobacco.The decisions under challenge are the Home Secretary's refusal to consult the ACMD on the 'possibility' of bringing alcohol and tobacco users under the Act's control, and the ACMD's refusal to recommend that possibility. This refusal is based on overly-rigid policies that have prevented the ACMD and the Home Secretary from considering even the merits of the possibility. Hardison finds this unacceptable; will the Court?

Philip Walsh ● 5286d2 Comments ● 5286d

Civic Centre Council Meetings: Watching the webcasts?

http://www.hounslow.ukcouncil.net/site/One wonders how many residents watch the various meetings that are webcast, view their Councillors in action, and follow the discussions and action. It's one way of checking out who's who and having perhaps a better idea of what goes on in the comfort of one's own home.I found myself watching some of it on my telephone today(!) and was impressed at the clarity of the pictures and of the sound..and the ease with which the broadcasts kicked off. These were broadcasts of some recent past meetings.  It all seems much more efficient and workable than before. Do you agree?We used to highlight and discuss the Webcam broadcasts on this Forum many years ago...so maybe it's time for us to be better informed and see and hear whats happening. I mean there's no Brentford and Chiswick Times these days..or Hounslow Matters...so we are reliant on the Hounslow Chronicle and TW8.com!. Have we ben forgetting about these webcams?"So Cllr Paul Lynch reports that he has raised over £3000 in his Mayoral year and the sum is still rising..hoping to achieve £3300 to share between his three Charities. Mayor Cllr Colin Ellars explained that a new mayoral robe had been designed for him by local schoolchildren (following an inter-school competition)and that it was soon to be made up!That Quiz Night sounded good fun too..raising over £3000 for his Charities...with teams from around the Borough competing. Did you know about that?Wasn't the cost of the Webcam service being reviewed? Maybe it's for the chop!  Lot's of hours of viewing for those interested. The Brentford Variety Club must up it's game!So giving the Webcasts a plug. http://www.hounslow.ukcouncil.net/site/

Jim Lawes ● 5292d0 Comments ● 5292d

Cool people 2010

could not log on in time but sent the email before midnight show details 11:59 PM (6 minutes ago) These are some of the people in Brentford who also make it happen.Claudia Bartosik is a local resident. Claudia is a chef and runs her own catering company. She has spent countless hours helping young people find their own personal expression through inspiring young men and women to take up cooking as a passion.She has donated loads of hours to young people in this area and others without any recognition or praise. A few years in Brentford and before in the west London area, Claudia has managed to get jobs for mums that were thought unemployable, connect people with her mentoring with jobs in catering and most of the time teaching them how to get off the system and on their own two feet.Claudia has given loads of advise and encouragement to so many people, that she is known as mum to many. She has a knack for easing the toughest of pain and challenges with her practical approach to problems and a positive outlook on life.She is a part of a local charity theBRIDGE-UK and her efforts for the local community has been far reaching and she has shown her interest in Brentford since her arrival from participating on the High Street Steering Group to supporting many of the locals and their events!Eileen Henderson, is a person who gives countless hours of help and assist in the town of Brentford with moments of relentless hours in the background. Eileen having been a major part of the former charity Grand Union, has given countless hours beyond her pay to help the charity keep its footing and mange the administrative details of many demands.Now Eileen over the months has volunteered her time during the rebirth of the charity as theBRDIGE-UK. Once again she has been intrumental in participating with several ventures and helping with the back office support and behind the scenes involvement with many new young artist in music and entertainment.  Eileen's perseverance to help and be in the background has made many new solutions possible. She is an administrative wiz, still finding time to help officials to others as an enterprise and volunteer her time.Kevin Wilsher, is amongst the best in customer service of Brentford, but he is really a guru of service excellence. Many times over, you will find Kevin in the Dew Drop Inn, on the high street doing what few others can do with the ease of a summer's breeze.He has captured many of hearts as he helps the cities' pensioners with respect and eagerness. He makes their place and time an experience to be second to none. He has been said to have some seniors look forward to their time at the Dew just because Kevin is there.Many have witness him getting the coffee just right to the tea just perfect and more times than not, always finding a smile to share and a kind word to give, even when times have been tough. He and the family at Dew Drop have been a Brentford staple of service and great atmosphere for food on a budget, for the whole family.Michael Elia, the owner & mezzie chef, of the Dew Drop Inn finds a special place in keeping his shop open to the public and thriving because so many depend on it to be open. The morning hang out place to meet and greet. Michael and family seem to find a happy moment to come out and share a laugh and a smile and the odd banter to make the visit to the Dew Drop like home.Michael lost his wife of 45 years a year ago and then managed to keep his little place on the corner alive with family and community support. He has mange to help many young people who were working in the area with a place to get good food on a budget and allow some training of a few to apprentice, all with no reward to the Dew.Cain Gerrod, yet another American to find a home in Brentford from history's John Quincy Adams - US President, and Pocohantas - Native American Indian. Cain has been giving his time to help young people and others in west London for several years during his traveling.He volunteers his time with the charity theBridgeUK, teaching others how to reach their dreams and using media, entertainment and culinary talents to succeed.This past year amongst many hardships, he still found time to train young people to be accountable to creating a plan and making it happen right there in Brentford. One of his projects saw a few local artist get a boost in launching their new music careers and developing new products to promote their craft in December.Over in this time he has transform a derelict building from incubation into to a growing functional community enterprise.  Using his immense knowledge, skills, intellect & compassion to realise his dream of helping 2nd & 3rd  generation unemployed people focus on improving their lives, not only on a personal but also on a professional level.  He has opened up possibilities by giving them the foundations and foresight to help them to realise their dreams and aspirations.One example of this was taking a sample of this generation,  transforming them from unskilled to skilled in a matter of months to produce media marketing tools for charities. Another is coaching and mentoring the young ‘wannabe artists’ in the music and media industry and taking them their present situation and going nowhere to realising their potential and showing them it is possible to have a dream and make it into a reality. It would be incredible if he and his team could achieve recognition of his dedication to add further credibility to his tireless efforts.His abundance of energy, enthusiasm, passion, and dedication to see a project through from initial concept to completion is outstanding, what he has done thus far is commendable, he has the ability to bring out the best in people, raising self esteem and self confidence and helping people to believe in their abilities and helping them move from the status quo with a can do attitude.

J SMith ● 5302d2 Comments ● 5293d

Services reprieved

This has been pasted on W4 by David McLoughlin:Here's the latest Council press release:Hounslow Council works with residents to minimise cuts to frontline services- Majority of youth services to be retained- Street cleansing services to be fully maintained - Library savings postponed- Community halls savings also postponed to develop planHounslow Council has announced it intends to minimise cuts to frontline services after residents offered their views in the public budget consultation.Nearly 7,000 residents completed the consultation, which offered people in Hounslow the opportunity to share their views on the council services they felt needed saving the most after central government cut funding to the borough by £60m over four years. As a result of public views, the council’s Executive has put forward revised proposals that would ensure youth centre activities in Hanworth, Hogarth, Southville and the Hub will remain open and fully functional, with scaled-down savings taken from administrative roles instead. Street cleansing services will also be retained in their entirety after residents declared how much they valued these services, with 58% disagreeing with the proposal to reduce levels. The public response to libraries was also positive, with 57% of residents wanting to retain all the sites. As a result of the public budget consultation, Hounslow Council has proposed that immediate savings can be delivered by deferring some book purchases, minimising the risk of library closure. In the meantime, a more specific library consultation is underway which will inform the longer term strategy. Following the consultation, the Executive also recommended that cuts to community halls were delayed. This will allow detailed options for transferring the halls to community groups to be developed.To view the report and a full rundown of the public budget consultation results, click here.The full list of proposals, including the revised options, will be put forward to the meeting of executive members on 8 February at the Civic Centre in Hounslow, with the final budget decision being made by all councillors on 1 March.Cllr Jagdish Sharma, leader of Hounslow Council said: “The near 7,000 responses we received were vital in helping us to make the tough choices about where we can save money after central government cut £60 million from our budget over the next four years."The strong responses offered about a number of the necessary savings proposals have shown us areas where our residents simply don’t want to see cuts or a reduction in services. We are committed to listening to the people of Hounslow and making sure your views are heard and these services are protected as much as possible. “I wish we didn’t have to make these cuts to services, but the response we have received from residents has been staggering. I would like to thank each and every person who returned the form and let you know your views have been heard and we are trying our hardest to protect the services which clearly matter to you. “We are committed to protecting the most vulnerable residents in Hounslow, and with the public’s help I believe we can do this, despite the huge cuts to government funding we are faced with.”ENDSFor media enquiries contact:James David SmithCorporate Communications OfficerLondon Borough of Hounslow020 8583 6590www.hounslow.gov.uk --------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vanessa Smith ● 5301d9 Comments ● 5300d

Brentford Transition Town report + film screening info.

The first meeting to discuss the initiation of a Transition Town project in Brentford got off to a lively and exciting start with over 20 local people converging on a meeting room at 108 High Street Brentford last Tuesday.  For a brief description of the event please see the end of this post.At the meeting we agreed our next activity would be a free film showing of  ‘In Transition’ : 'the first detailed film about the Transition movement. The Transition movement is about communities around the world responding to peak oil and climate change with creativity, imagination and humour, and setting about rebuilding their local economies and communities. It is positive, solutions focused, viral and fun.'  This film is good for those who want to find out more about what a Transition project means.  There will be a discussion following the film as well as refreshments.  'In Transition' will be showing free at 108 High Street (next to Paddy Power) on Tuesday 8th February at 7PM.  Please come along and invite anyone you like.   We hope to see you at the film screening.  Should you have any questions or ideas, please contact us on the email: communityfoodgrowers@gmail.com.  There will also be a meeting on the 22nd February to organise the Transition Town project in Brentford (More details TBC). Best regards Brentford Transitioners! PS:  If you want to be put on the mailing list, please email:  Communityfoodgrowers@gmail.com Summary of 1st meeting Following a brief go-around where participants said their name and where they were from as well as their interests, we had a short presentation from Lou Almond, who explained what a Transition Town Project was.  We then heard from Carrie from Transition Town Ealing who gave us a run through of the history of TTE, as well as a description of the sorts of activities that they have been engaging in. This was followed by a Q&A.  At this point, the group divided up into 5 smaller groups to engage in a discussion based on two questions:  'What would you like the objectives of TT Brentford to be?' and 'How would you like to achieve the objectives?'  After 15 minutes or so, the small groups came back into the main group and one person from each delivered a summary of what the group had come up with.  The diversity in the responses, views and opinions of the groups reflected the diverse backgrounds of the participants. Responses included a desired aim to localise food production through community gardens, working with the council and guerrilla gardening!  Others expressed interest in stimulating the local economy through the creation of a local currency, and rejuvenating the High Street in Brentford.  The meeting produced an excellent range of exciting and visionary ideas which if carried through would definitely have a positive and profound effect on the local area in the years to come. If you are interested in taking part, please look out for more messages concerning our meeting on Feb 22nd. 

Simon Moore ● 5304d0 Comments ● 5304d

The ultimate herbal remedy: Can cannabis improve autism?

This is a brilliant article from the Independant and a real must read /must be read one!!!The debate over its risks has split political and scientific opinion in Britain. But American mother Marie Myung-Ok Lee says cannabis isn't only safe enough for her autistic son – it's dramatically improved his conditionThursday, 5 November 2009My son, J, has autism. He's also had two serious operations for a spinal cord tumour and has an inflammatory bowel condition, all of which may be causing him pain, if he could tell us. He can say words, but many of them – "duck in the water, duck in the water", for instance – don't convey what he means. For a time, anti-inflammatory medication seemed to control his pain. But in the last year, it stopped working. He began to bite and to smack the glasses off my face. If you were in that much pain, you'd probably want to hit someone, too.J's school called my husband and me in for a meeting about J's tantrums, which were affecting his ability to learn. The teachers were wearing Tae Kwon Do arm pads to protect themselves against his biting. Their solution was to hand us a list of child psychiatrists. As autistic children can't exactly do talk therapy, this meant using sedating, antipsychotic drugs like Risperdal.Last year, Risperdal was prescribed for more than 389,000 children in the US – 240,000 of them under the age of 12 – for bipolar disorder, ADHD, autism and other disorders. Yet the drug has never been tested for long-term safety in children and carries a severe warning of side-effects. From 2000 to 2004, Risperdal, or one of five other popular drugs also classified as "atypical antipsychotics", was the "primary suspect" in 45 paediatric deaths, according to a review of US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) data by USA Today. When I canvassed parents of autistic children who take Risperdal, I didn't hear a single story of an improvement that seemed worth the risks. A 2002 study on the use of Risperdal for autism, in The New England Journal of Medicine, showed moderate improvements in "autistic irritation" – but the study followed only 49 children over eight weeks, which limits the inferences that can be drawn from it.Related articlesMinister gives warning over strong cannabisSearch the news archive for more storiesWe met with J's doctor, who'd read the studies and agreed: No Risperdal or its kin. The school called us in again. What were we going to do, they asked. As an occasional health writer and blogger, I was intrigued when a homeopath suggested medical marijuana. Cannabis has long-documented effects as an analgesic and an anxiety modulator. Best of all, it is safe. The homeopath referred me to a publication by the Autism Research Institute describing cases of reduced aggression, with no permanent side- effects. Rats given 40 times the psychoactive level merely fall sleep. Dr Lester Grinspoon, an emeritus professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School who has been researching cannabis for 40 years, says he has yet to encounter a case of marijuana causing a death, even from lung cancer.A prescription drug called Marinol, which contains a synthetic cannabinoid, seemed mainstream enough to bring up with J's doctor. I cannot say that with a few little pills everything turned around. But after about a week of fiddling with the dosage, J began garnering a few glowing school reports: "J was a pleasure have in speech class," instead of "J had 300 aggressions today."But J tends to build tolerance to synthetics, and in a few months we could see the aggressive behaviour coming back. One night, I went to the meeting of a medical marijuana patient advocacy group on the campus of the college where I teach. The patients told me that Marinol couldn't compare to marijuana, the plant, which has at least 60 cannabinoids to Marinol's one.***Rhode Island, where we live, is one of 13 states where the use of medical marijuana is legal. But I was resistant. My late father was an anaesthesiologist, and compared with the precise drugs he worked with, I know he would think marijuana to be ridiculously imprecise and unscientific. I looked at my son's tie-dye socks (his avowed favourite). At his school, I was already the weirdo mom who packed lunches with organic kale and kimchi and wouldn't let him eat any "fun" foods with artificial dyes. Now, I'd be the mom who shunned the standard operating procedure and gave her kid pot instead.I thought back to when J was 18 months old. We were vacationing on the Cape, and, although he just had the slightest hitch in his gait, I was sure there was something wrong. His paediatrician laughed. I called back repeatedly until a different doctor agreed to see us. J was taken in for emergency surgery, to remove a tumour that was on the verge of inflicting irreparable damage. Sometimes, you just have to go with your gut.And yet, I still hesitated. The Marinol had been disorienting enough – no protocol to follow, just trying varying numbers of pills and hoping for the best. Now we were dealing with an illegal drug, one for which few evidence-based scientific studies existed, precisely because it is an illegal drug. But when I sent J's doctor the physician's form that is mandatory for medical marijuana licensing, it came back signed. We underwent a background check with the Rhode Island Bureau of Criminal Identification, and J became the state's youngest licensee.Having a licence, however, is different from having access to marijuana. While California has a network of "compassion centres," basically pharmacy-like storefronts that provide quality product from registered growers, Rhode Island's Republican governor has consistently vetoed that idea, despite the local stories of frail patients being mugged in downtown Providence as they go in search of pot. We weren't about to purchase street marijuana, which could be contaminated with other drugs, so we looked into growing the pot ourselves. But by law, medical marijuana must be grown indoors, and it requires a separate room with a complex system of hydroponics, fans and precise lighting schedules. (This made me wonder how much THC, the main psychoactive substance found in cannabis, was actually in the spindly plants the high school goofballs I knew grew in their closets).The coordinator of our patient group introduced us to a licensed grower. A recent horticulture school graduate, he'd figured out how to cultivate marijuana using a custom organic soil mix. His e-mail signature even quoted Rudolf Steiner. The grower arrived at our house with a knapsack containing jars of herbs. We opened the jars to sniff the different strains of "bud" – Blueberry, which did smell fleetingly of wild blueberries, and Sour Diesel, which had a rich, winey scent. The grower had also cured some leaves for tea, and he brought a glycerine tincture, a marijuana distillate in olive oil (yes, organic), cookies (ditto), and a strange machine that looked, fittingly, like a lava lamp. Basically an almost-bong, this vaporiser heated the cannabis without producing carcinogenic smoke.For most adults, the vaporiser is the delivery method of choice, as it allows the patient to feel the effects immediately and adjust the dose precisely. J gamely put his mouth on the valve and let us squeeze a little smoke into him. It shot right back out of his nose. He looked like Puff the Magic Dragon. The grower left us with a month's worth of marijuana tea, glycerine, and olive oil – and a cookie recipe. No buds. We paid $80 (£50).We made the cookies with the marijuana olive oil, starting J off with half a small cookie, eaten after dinner. J normally goes to bed around 7.30pm; by 6.30 he declared he was tired and conked out. We checked on him hourly. As we anxiously peeked in, half-expecting some red-eyed ogre from Reefer Madness to come leaping out at us, we saw instead that he was sleeping peacefully. Usually, his sleep is shallow and restless. J also woke up happy.But in a few days, J decided he didn't like the cookie anymore and smashed it with his fist. We brewed him the tea, which smelled funky and grassy. He slurped it down, but it didn't seem to do much. Many of the psychoactive compounds in marijuana are fat soluble, so I added a dropperful of the oil that we used in the cookies. That made him sleepy-looking but still aggressive. It became clear that when J ingested pot orally, it took two hours to see the results, and by then there wasn't much we could do to dial the dose up or down. The grower visited us again to give J another try at the bong, but with little success.Perhaps J needed a little time to get off the Marinol. After two weeks, we noticed a slight but consistent lessening of aggression. And he wasn't nervously chewing holes in his shirts.***A month or so into the treatment, it was still too early to know if we could find a dose and mode of delivery that would give us consistent results. Even if J could learn to use the vaporiser, it costs $600 and would leave the house reeking of pot. And we didn't want to get too dependent, because of the inherent limitations. Though we'd love to calm J with pot so that he can visit his grandmother in Minnesota, bringing a controlled substance on the plane isn't the best idea.But since we started him on his "special tea," J's little face, which is sometimes a mask of pain, has softened. He's smiled more. For most of the last year, his individual education plan at his special-needs school was full of blanks, recording "no progress" because he spent his whole day an irritated, frustrated mess. But soon after starting on the tea, his reports began to show real progress, including "two community outings with the absence of aggressions".My husband and I are both academics and writers (me, novelist and essayist; he, historian), given to close observation and note taking. It was these habits that finally helped us see our son's allergic sensitivity to certain foods and seek advice from a gastroenterologist for his behaviours – aggression and chronic diarrhoea – instead of the recommended psychiatrist. (Gut pain and digestive problems, coined as "autistic entercolitis", are now considered a common biological affliction of many autistic children).At first we weren't sure if we were seeing results from the cannabis, but after about three months, which included weekly consultations with our grower as we experimented with different strains, we observed a much happier and outgoing child – who did not act or appear "stoned" in any way. Four months in, J came home from school and I noticed something different. Pre-pot, J ate the collars of his shirts, teasing his clothes apart and swallowing the threads. There's a name for this disorder – pica (pregnant women sometimes chew on chalk). It got so bad he ate his pyjamas and we had to start dressing him in organic cotton shirts. Then one day he came home from school wearing a whole shirt.J's school reports improved too. At one parent meeting, his teacher produced the latest "aggression" chart, showing attempts or instances of hitting, kicking biting or pinching other people. For a year he had scored an average of 30 to 50 aggressions a day, with a high of 300. The latest data showed days, sometimes consecutive, with zero aggressions. And on the school bus, J has transformed from a child who has hit the driver in the face and bitten people into a sparkly eyed boy who says hi and quietly takes his seat.***There's a twist to this happy story, though. The aggression has eased but J's autism has become more distinct. His vocal outbursts – screams, barks, yips of happiness – still happen and while our home is no longer full of thrown food, broken dishes and scratched faces, we still see people in the local area react to a family that remains different – and not always to their liking. There's a father on the next street who stops playing ball with his son when we approach. A mother won't make eye contact and ignored a party invitation. Most people responded well to J but sometimes we feel we're being shunned.Marijuana isn't a miracle cure for autism. But in our son's case it eases his pain and inflammation so dramatically that he can participate in life and learning again. It also protects him from the sometimes dangerous side-effects of pharmaceutical drugs. We have settled on a good strain (White Russian, a favourite pain-reliever for end-stage cancer patients) and a good dose. And now he's not in pain, J can go to school instead of a children's psychiatric hospital, where all too many of his peers end up as a result of violent behaviour.When I think of the embarrassment I may feel if my colleagues see this article, or teachers or parents at J's school, or his less open-minded doctors, I pause. Although I occasionally smoked pot as a teenager (believe me, in northern Minnesota, there was not much else to do), now that I'm a law-abiding adult, all the scary anti-drug messages are flashing in my brain. But when I researched cannabis the way I did conventional drugs, it seemed clear that marijuana wouldn't harm J, and might help. It's strange that the virtues of such a useful and harmless botanical have been so clouded by stigma. Even the limited studies that have been done suggest marijuana's potential as an adjunctive therapy for cancer. Marijuana, you need some re-branding. Maybe a cool new name.One of the biggest tests for J through this journey was a visit from Grandma. The last time she came, over Christmas, J hit her during a tantrum. This time, we gave him his tea, mixing it with goji berries to mask any odour, although it occurs to me that my mother, a Korean immigrant, probably doesn't even know what pot smells like (it actually smells a lot like ssuk, a Korean medicinal herb). She remarked that J seemed calmer. As we were preparing for a trip to the park, J disappeared, and we wondered if he was going to throw one of his tantrums. Instead, he returned with Grandma's shoes, laying them in front of her, even carefully adjusting them so that they were parallel and easy to step into. He looked into her face, and smiled.What are the downsides to this experiment?By Jeremy Laurance, Health EditorThe first reaction of most parents to Marie Myung-Ok Lee's story is likely to be one of surprise, shock, even horror. What is she doing turning her nine-year-old son into a pot-head? Has she not heard of the dangers of cannabis smoking to the mental health of adolescents, never mind the disorienting effects of an intoxicating substance on one so young?Possibly this will be their second and third reactions, too. Ms Myung-Ok Lee was giving her son, J, cannabis to relieve pain (from his spinal tumour and inflamed gut), not just to treat his autism. Even so, the stigma that surrounds illegal drugs is so deeply entrenched, just because they are illegal, that many people are simply not prepared to weigh up their benefits and harms.We have seen in the row this week over the sacking of the UK Government's chief drugs adviser, Professor David Nutt, how the debate over drugs is driven more by fear, emotion and political calculation than by scientific evidence. The Labour Government, facing possible annihilation at the next election, is anxious to be seen to be tough on drugs – so the outspoken Professor Nutt had to go.As an academic, Ms Myung-Ok Lee is perhaps better placed than many to resist the voices of unreason and take a cool look at the evidence. Cannabis, as she points out, is already prescribed as a pain killer, as an anti-nausea agent for cancer sufferers and as a treatment for multiple sclerosis. In all these areas it has been shown to be effective, though there is debate about just how effective. In the UK, it is available as Sativex, a spray taken under the tongue, which contains a cannabis extract. More than 1,200 patients in the UK have received it for relief of symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis. It is not, however, prescribed to nine-year-olds (or anyone under 18).Ms Myung-Ok Lee started her son on medicinal cannabis, and then went a step further by giving him the herbal kind, as a tincture or baked in a cookie. This, too, is not without precedent – among adults. There have been frequent reports of patients smoking cannabis and gaining relief from pain or the spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis, and in the UK when they have been prosecuted for possession of a controlled drug, the courts have shown leniency.But in trying herbal cannabis on her son, Ms Myung-Ok Lee and her doctor have stepped beyond even the anecdotal evidence, into the unknown. J became Rhode Island's youngest ever patient licensed to use marijuana for medical reasons.She acknowledges it is an experiment, but she reasons that as cannabis has low toxicity and is safer than most other drugs, the risks are low. Any parent, confronted with a screaming, suffering child who is so distressed that he smashes things, hits people and tears at his clothing with his teeth, must feel sympathy for her. In that situation, which of us would not try anything to ease our child's pain? Moreover, the experiment appears to have worked – at least for the first few months.The difficult questions are: will the effect last? Will there be a downside to using the drug in one so young? Is the effect real? The last question is the trickiest. Children grow and change and those with autism are no different from the rest. The changes his parents have noticed in J might have happened anyway, as part of his natural development. The cannabis could turn out to be a coincidental factor, with zero impact on his condition. It was coincidence that led to the scare over MMR and autism – because the first symptoms of the condition typically occur around 14 months which is the age at which babies receive their first MMR jab.It would be a disaster if cannabis came to be seen as a panacea for children in the same situation, on the basis of this anecdotal report. As always in science, we need more evidence.

Philip Walsh ● 5305d1 Comments ● 5304d

Medicinal Herbs Will Disappear in EU and we are the only ones who can stop this.

This is not a post about Cannabis but it would be included; this is a post from/to a facebook group. If you use any herbal remedy or preparation you should read on as they are about to be made illegal!!!Posted By: Heidi Stevenson  To: Members in Medicinal Herbs Will Disappear in EU and we are the only ones who can stop this  We're becoming known! And e-mail interview. I have just been interviewed by the French newspaper, l'Avenir, regarding the THMPD petition and also about just who I am to be pressing it. Here's my response, in full. Hello Marine, I hope the following explains the opposition to Directive 2004/24/EC and my role in it: The wording of Directive 2004/24/EC (The Herbal Medicinal Products Directive - THMPD) demonstrates a lack of good intentions, insofar as the herbal industry is concerned. It refers (in paragraph 7) to a "simplified registration", but no requirement for herbal registration has been applied before this time. How can a non-existent protocol be simplified? A completely new and draconian system of registration has been put in place for herbal products. Why? Harm from these products has been extremely minimal. They are now expected to meet the same standards as pharmaceutical drugs--but they aren't drugs. The fact that many drugs were originally derived from them does not make a herb in its natural form a drug, other than by the most twisted logic. To expect herbs to meet the same standards as drugs completely misunderstands their heritage and use. The systems by which they're applied do not operate under the same logic as pharmaceutical drugs. For this, we should be grateful, since the history of Big Pharma's products is one of devastation and death. Just look to Vioxx and thalidomide to see the truth. Nothing in the ancient history of herbal use comes close, yet THMPD insists that they be expected to meet the same standards. If they did, we should worry! It's obvious that THMPD does not serve the needs of the public. Rather, it serves the will of multinational corporate interests to limit competition. The "harmonisation" referenced does nothing to benefit the needs of the people. The requirement that safety be proven, as specified in item 5, is unneeded, unreasonable, and draconian. If THMPD were innocuous, then why will all non-EU based herbal systems be banned as of next April Fool's Day? All Chinese, Ayurvedic, and other herbal systems that many Europeans rely on will become unavailable once stocks have been depleted. How can this benefit the thousands of people who rely on them and other herbal systems to maintain their health? European based herbs will be severely restricted, with few being able to meet the expensive and confusing requirements. Most manufacturers are small businesses and do not have the resources. This has been clearly demonstrated by the fact that only a handful of them have been able to maneuver the system set in place by THMPD, even though it's been in effect since 2004. It's painfully obvious that THMPD will clear the field of competition for Big Pharma. It will also remove the people's right to use nature's bounty. I am a homeopath in Scotland, practicing as Gaia Therapy and I produce the website Gaia Health (http://gaia-health.com). I do not use herbs in my practice and have no financial interest in these products. My background includes research and technical writing, especially in computer science. My interest in this campaign is human rights. The right to manage one's health, freely using personally chosen methods and products, is so obvious that it has never been considered necessary to specify it as a separate right along with the right of free speech. The EU is abrogating that unwritten right with THMPD, along with the supplements Directive 2002/46/EC. It's interesting to note that Thomas Jefferson, the author of the United States' Declaration of Independence, stated, "Was the government to prescribe to us our medicine and diet, our bodies would be in such keeping as our souls are now." That is precisely what the EU is attempting to do. If successful, it will result in the utter destruction of our health: the deliverance of our bodies to multinational corporations to do with as they wish. The more I learned, the more outraged I became. The Alliance for Natural Health has taken up the banner for this issue. Their approach is to institute a lawsuit (http://www.anh-usa.org/traditional-medicines-to-become-illegal-in-europe/). My belief is that this is an issue that the people need to address. There did not appear to be an existing petition that could do the job. I contacted Avaaz and asked them to take it on, but they refused, saying that they were booked for months in advance. It became clear that, if I didn't take this on, then THMPD would probably come to pass. I hope to be able to carry it forward. Regards, Heidi Stevenson Please, everyone - Invite your friends to join the Cause and to sign the petition!

Philip Walsh ● 5384d10 Comments ● 5305d

End the fisheries discard disgrace - Write to your MP

Dear Ms Macleod - ( email mary.macleod.mp@parliament.uk  ) As one of your constituents, I am writing to ask you to sign Early Day Motion 1123: Fish Fight campaign, which calls on the new government to eliminate discards from our fisheries. Discarding is an environmentally and economically damaging practice: up to half of the fish trawled from the North Sea are thrown back dead or dying because of the current quota system imposed by the EU’s disastrous Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) which is due for reform.I am supporting the Fish Fight campaign because I am deeply concerned about this senseless waste of food and I want this shameful practice to end. The campaign is backed by the fishing industry, environmental groups (including environmental law organisation ClientEarth and the Marine Conservation Society among others), and fast-growing numbers of the general public. Now it needs all-party government support.As my representative to parliament, I urge you to add your signature to this Early Day Motion, to show the UK has a united ask for the CFP: end discards. For your convenience, the text of the Early Day Motion is reproduced below this emailr. More information on the campaign can be found at the Fish Fight website.Thank you for your support,Kind regardsName & addressFISH FIGHT CAMPAIGNGoldsmith, Zac That this House welcomes the resolution of the `Fish Fight' campaign to eliminate the environmentally and economically damaging practice of discarding fish before landing; is concerned that up to half of all fish trawled in the North Sea are thrown back either dead or dying; further welcomes the campaign's support for the sustainable use of discard species by retailers, suppliers and restaurants to stimulate the creation of new markets for lesser known species; and calls on the Government to demand strong reform of the European Union Common Fisheries Policy to institute a regionalised, ecosystems-based management framework which incentivises the use of selective gear, uses real-time management, including temporary closures, and establishes ecosystem catch quotas rather than single-species landing quotas.

Steve Taylor ● 5309d9 Comments ● 5308d

Brentford Waterways

Though I am not at all a supporter of the developer, particularly the half century desolation of the area, the misinformed stance of the Brentford community council demands correction.To state my credentials, I knew the cut, as this part of the canal is known, when it was still working and I live aboard a barge in Brentford, When the cut was in use, no tugs navigated it, the lighters and barges were left, unmanned , to drift, either up or down with the appropriate tidal flow, to be collected at each end by either river or canal tugs, two very different machines, making the cut too dangerous for the narrow boats to 'overnight' in the cut. The lighters would crash and clatter up and down it.This is why all of the cut was a clear navigation, though there is more than adequate room for moorings and passage of the largest barges that can navigate the Grand Union canal.The way to 'develop' the Brentford waterways is to inhabit them but the constant resistance and enmity of the local authority, to residential boats, prevents and inhibits this. To cite 'future commercial use' of the canals, is wrong headed. to repeat my self, there is more than adequate room for both. I have talked to the British waterways Board (B.W.B) official in charge of commercial development of the canals; a very nice and well informed man and he confirmed that the only commercial activity these last few years, barring BWB maintenance, was the one passage a year of the narrow boat that supplies coal and heating fuel to the residential boats.The only income sources on the canals and the river is tourism or habitation.If the desire to reinstall commercial use of the canals is genuine, then there would have to be enormous investment in the infrastructure, the canals would have to be widened and there is no foreseeable future where that sort of investment would be viable.Were the navigation restricted, to a dangerous degree, by any development, the Port of London Authority (P.L.A.) and the BWB both have statutory authority to remove the obstruction and would do so, with costs being born by the 'obstructor'.Finally the thought of any skipper towing lighters, two abreast, up the cut, as pictured on the map is risible and pointless, the locks are not wide enough and he'd not get round the corner. What he would do, as his predecessors did,  is to leave the lighters on the roads in the river and transfer the  cargo to canal barges before entering the canal system.So many developments by the water have empty moorings that stay empty. This may be what the Brentford Community are really trying to achieve. If so they should come clean.

J. kenton ● 5680d43 Comments ● 5313d

Cannabis Embarrassment At The Home Office

Those interested in reality and what happened to £10m of tax payers money, invested in a drug of 'no medicinal value' according to the law might be interested in this! Peter ReynoldsThe life and times of Peter ReynoldsCannabis Embarrassment At The Home OfficeThe re-scheduling of Sativex, the cannabis tincture marketed by GW Pharmaceuticals is causing huge embarrassment at the Home  Office.Everybody’s been able to go along with the white lie up to now that Sativex is some sort of highly complex, super scientific, super medicine containing cannabinoids. True enough, GW Pharma has put millions into development and testing in order to jump through the hoops the government has demanded.  At the end of the day though, all Sativex consists of is a tincture, an alcohol extract of herbal cannabis.  It’s made simply by gently heating a blend of herbal cannabis in ethanol and then adding a little peppermint oil to taste.An Honourable Man?The Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has approved Sativex for the treatment of muscle spasticity in MS.  I understand that an approval for the treatment of cancer pain is expected shortly.  The problem for the Home Office is that Sativex now has to be re-scheduled under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.   Cannabis is presently in schedule one as having no medicinal value.  The Advisory Council on the Misuse of  Drugs (ACMD) has recommended this week that Sativex be in schedule four, alongside  a variety of minor tranquilisers.  However, as the ACMD says, “it will not be appropriate to refer to “Sativex”, which is a proprietary name, in any amendment to the misuse of drugs regulations, and that a suitable description of the relevant component(s) of “Sativex” will have to be scheduled.”This is going to be tough for James Brokenshire to face up to.  GW specifies that Sativex contains approximately equal proportions of THC and CBD but that’s not the whole truth.  It also contains as many as  400 other cannabinoids which occur naturally in the plant (nobody is exactly sure how many cannabinoids there are and what their effects are).  You see there’s not really any other accurate way of describing Sativex except to call it cannabis.  So how can Mr Brokenshire possibly move it to schedule four?  He endlessly repeats the propaganda that “there are no medicinal benefits in cannabis”.Either Mr Brokenshire has to come clean and accept that his past position was incorrect or he has to promote some further deception.I trust he will prove to be an honourable man.

Philip Walsh ● 5315d1 Comments ● 5315d

New book launch: Who Jack the Stripper?

My second True Crime Story: Who was Jack the Stripper? will be launched at Abertillery Library sometime in March/April 2011. The book launch will coincide with a 1 hour drama/documentary to be aired throughout Britain and Europe focusing on Harold Jones, the killer of 2 school children in Abertillery, South Wales in 1921. (Google Harold Jones - The Welsh Killer, or Neil Milkins, or Jack the Stripper.)The documentary will be presented by television presenter and Kray Twins biographer Fred Dineage MBE and top British criminologist and criminal profiler Professor David Wilson. Jones was 15 when he murdered 8 year-old Freda Elsie Maud Burnell and 11 year-old Florence Irene Little in 1921. Jones was released from prison in 1941 having served 20 years for his crimes and owing to the turmoil of World War 11 he went off the police radar. During the times of the unsolved murders of 8 women in the Hammersmith district of London between 1959 and 1965, Jones lived in the Hammersmith district using various aliases. (He lived in Fulham, Putney and Hammersmith between 1947 and 1971 when he died.) Who was Jack the Stripper? examines the amazing links between Jones and the murdered women!Professor Bernard Knight who recovered and conducted the post mortems on all of Fred and Rosemary West's murder victims and "Taggart" creator Glenn Chandler have both read the manuscript for Who was Jack the Stripper? and have made positive comments on the amazing and startling coincidences linking Jones to the Hammersmith murders.Who was Jack the Stripper? is a follow up to Neil Milkins' top selling 2008 book: Every Mother's Nightmare - Abertillery in Mourning, which dealt in depth with the Harold Jones murders of Freda Burnell and Florence Little.Who was Jack the Stripper? will be distributed by:Neil Milkins, Rose Heyworth Press, 67 Arael View, Abertillery, Gwent NP13 1SU. Tel: 01495213744. n.milkin@sky.comemails and feedback welcomed.

neil milkins ● 5318d0 Comments ● 5318d

Latest Research On Pot and Schizophrenia Runs Contrary to Mainstream Media Hype

More research you wont find in the British press /main stream media (MSM). Sorry its more cut and paste but you can ignore it if it frightens you to read the truth.Latest Research On Pot and Schizophrenia Runs Contrary to Mainstream Media HypeMay 26th, 2010 By: Paul Armentano, NORML Deputy Director Share this Article               The mainstream media loves to spill ink hyping the allegation that marijuana causes mental illness, particularly schizophrenia. In fact, it was in March when international media outlets declared that cannabis use ‘doubled’ one’s risk of developing the disease. Yet when research appears in scientific journals rebuking just this sort of ‘reefer madness,’ it generally goes unreported.Such is the case with a pair of just-published studies slated to appear in the journal Schizophrenia Research. The first study, conducted by a team of researchers at various New York state hospitals, the Yale University School of Medicine, and the National Institutes of Mental Health assessed whether there exists a causal association between cannabis use and the age of onset of psychosis in patients hospitalized for the first time for an episode of schizophrenia.Despite previous media claims to the contrary, researchers concluded:“Although the onset of cannabis use disorder preceded the onset of illness in most patients, our findings suggest that age at onset of psychosis was not associated with cannabis use disorders. Previous studies implicating cannabis use disorders in schizophrenia may need to more comprehensively assess the relationship between cannabis use disorders and schizophrenia, and take into account the additional variables that we found associated with cannabis use disorders.”A separate study slated for publication in the same journal assessed the cognitive skills of schizophrenic patients with a history of cannabis use compared to non-users. Authors reported that patients with a history of marijuana use “demonstrated significantly better performance on measures of processing speed, verbal fluency, and verbal learning and memory” compared to abstainers. Marijuana use was also associated with better overall GAF (Global Assessment of Functioning) scores compared to those of non-users.Authors concluded: “The results of the present analysis suggest that (cannabis use) in patients with SZ (schizophrenia) is associated with better performance on measures of processing speed and verbal skills. These data are consistent with prior reports indicating that SZ patients with a history of CUD (cannabis use disorders) have less severe cognitive deficits than SZ patients without comorbid CUD. … The present findings also suggest that CUD in patients with SZ may not differentially affect the severity of illness as measured by clinical symptomatology.”Both study’s findings are in line with previous (though virtually unreported) research indicating that marijuana is unlikely to instigate incidences of schizophrenia in the general population, that cannabis use among patients with the disease is associated with higher cognitive function, and that at least some schizophrenics find subjective relief from symptoms of the illness by using pot. Nonetheless, odds are the nobody from the mainstream media will be champing at the bit to report on them.Bottom line: marijuana’s complex relationship with schizophrenia is far from understood, and likely won’t be for some time. But that doesn’t give the MSM a free pass to only promote one side of the story.

Philip Walsh ● 5319d0 Comments ● 5319d

Cannabinoids Kill Cancer and Our Government Has Known for 36 Years

Sorry to cut and paste but you don't have to read it;Below is a repost of an article published on Americans for Safe Access website: www.safeaccessnow.org in November of 2003. The article describes how cannabinoids, the active components of marijuana, inhibit tumor growth in laboratory animals and also kill cancer cells. Then it finishes off by saying that the US government has known for more than 35 years and that the media which would normally go crazy about a cancer cure story like this, doesn’t at all and in fact seem to be burying the story rather than promote it in any way. I for one am amazed at the government’s stance on marijuana and their failed war on drugs, which is more like a war on it’s own country. I guess too many people get rich off of the war on drugs. Read the full story after the break.by Steve Kubby, Sierra TimesNovember 10th, 2003A new study published in Nature Reviews-Cancer provides an historic and detailed explanation about how THC and natural cannabinoids counteract cancer, but preserve normal cells.The study by Manuel Guzmán of Madrid Spain found that cannabinoids, the active components of marijuana, inhibit tumor growth in laboratory animals. They do so by modulating key cell-signalling pathways, thereby inducing direct growth arrest and death of tumor cells, as well as by inhibiting the growth of blood vessels that supply the tumor.The Guzman study is very important according to Dr. Ethan Russo , a neurologist and world authority on medical cannabis: “Cancer occurs because cells become immortalized; they fail to heed normal signals to turn off growth. A normal function of remodelling in the body requires that cells die on cue. This is called apoptosis, or programmed cell death. That process fails to work in tumors. THC promotes its reappearance so that gliomas, leukemias, melanomas and other cell types will in fact heed the signals, stop dividing, and die.”“But, that is not all,” explains Dr. Russo: “The other way that tumors grow is by ensuring that they are nourished: they send out signals to promote angiogenesis, the growth of new blood vessels. Cannabinoids turn off these signals as well. It is truly incredible, and elegant.”In other words, this article explains several ways in which cannabinoids might be used to fight cancer, and, as the article says, “Cannabinoids are usually well tolerated, and do not produce the generalized toxic effects of conventional chemotherapies.Usually, any story that even suggests the possibility of a new treatment for cancer is greeted with headlines about a “cancer cure” – however remote in the future and improbable in fact it might be. But if marijuana is involved, don’t expect any coverage from mainstream media, especially since mainstream editors have been quietly killing this story for the past thirty years…That’s right, news about the abilility of pot to shrink tumors first surfaced, way back in 1974. Researchers at the Medical College of Virginia, who had been funded by the National Institutes of Health to find evidence that marijuana damages the immune system, found instead that THC slowed the growth of three kinds of cancer in mice — lung and breast cancer, and a virus-induced leukemia.The Washington Post reported on the 1974 study — in the “Local” section — on Aug. 18, 1974. Under the headline, “Cancer Curb Is Studied,” it read in part: “The active chemical agent in marijuana curbs the growth of three kinds of cancer in mice and may also suppress the immunity reaction that causes rejection of organ transplants, a Medical College of Virginia team has discovered.” The researchers “found that THC slowed the growth of lung cancers, breast cancers, and a virus-induced leukemia in laboratory mice, and prolonged their lives by as much as 36 percent.”“News coverage of the Madrid discovery has been virtually nonexistent in this country. The news broke quietly on Feb. 29, 2000 with a story that ran once on the UPI wire about the Nature Medicine article,” complained MarijuanaNews.com editor Richard Cowan , who said he was only able to find the article through a link that appeared briefly on the Drudge Report Web page. “The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times all ignored the story, even though its newsworthiness is indisputable: a benign substance occurring in nature destroys deadly brain tumors,” added Cowan.On March 29, 2001, the San Antonio Current printed a carefully researched, bombshell of a story by Raymond Cushing titled, “POT SHRINKS TUMORS; GOVERNMENT KNEW IN ‘74.” Media coverage since then has been nonexistant, except for a copy of the story on Alternet.It is hard to believe that the knowledge that cannabis can be used to fight cancer has been suppressed for almost thirty years , yet it seems likely that it will continue to be suppressed. Why?According to Cowan, the answer is because it is a threat to cannabis prohibition . “If this article and its predecessors from 2000 and 1974 were the only evidence of the suppression of medical cannabis, then one might perhaps be able to rationalize it in some herniated way. However, there really is massive proof that the suppression of medical cannabis represents the greatest failure of the institutions of a free society, medicine, journalism, science, and our fundamental values,” Cowan notes.Millions of people have died horrible deaths and in many cases, familes exhausted their savings on dangerous, toxic and expensive drugs. Now we are just beginning to realize that while marijuana has never killed anyone, marijuana prohibition has killed millions.Share|

Philip Walsh ● 5365d6 Comments ● 5319d

Opportunity for young people in sound recording

Deep Recording Studios have announced a unique opportunity for over-16s who might be interested in studying on an industry Level 1 course this January 2011.Deep are running a special project to promote and attract 16-19 year old students alongside KCC college to study within a real working environment during the enrolment period January 2011.All the courses are for two days per week and can be completed in conjunction with work or other study. They are limited placements via online enrolment and interviews.   Please visit http://www.deeprecordingstudios.co.uk/apply-online to download an enrolment form.  Individuals can also apply online.Deep Recording Studios are the only FE fully accredited centre approved by City & Guilds & Industry - JAMES (Joint Audio Media Education Services), whose patron is Sir George Martin.Deep are also the main partner for this subject field with KCC college and are national EVs for the professional study of Audio. Pass rates are in excess of 95%.Small classes of students are able to learn within an APRS grade A recording facility alongside working producers and engineers.Please e-mail enrol@deeprecordingstudios.co.uk should you have any queries, or call 020 8206 5850 or Course SMS/Text: 07824 600792.[NB Please note that I have no personal interest nor involvement either in Deep Recording Studios or in this project.  I am drawing it to the attention of forum readers as I believe it to be a valuable opportunity for young people].

Phil Andrews ● 5331d0 Comments ● 5331d

POMO! What POMO.

17 December 2010FAO:  Civic Finance Directors.… Sirs,  6am Monday 27th December, that’s the time of the alert that should be in all your phones this Christmas, and if the Hang Seng is one point off above 700 in the red on that morning then prepare your selves for a dizzy ride into the new year.It will be the ping pong game of your lives and the winners will ride this recession out in moderate ease, those that are asleep at the switch will consign this Borough into financial oblivion.So have the chain of decision in place and alternative bank accounts available and make sure your brokers are also where you can find them and that would be behind their screens ready to take your instructions, on the 27th, this is no time to be boarding flights or telling us if it all goes Iceland again that you thought it was the other chaps responsibility.POMO, is not working and the ‘Bond Vigilantes’ have stated that it is the investor that will take the loss this time not the tax payer, that would be you, and that is us. Even Gordon has tried to warn us.Remember! America had its turkey in November, Thanksgiving Day to them is Christmas ‘just’ a 2 day event now; plus the 25th thro to the 27th December, although I would not think for one moment that any global financial decisions would be taken that crossed the gentlemen’s agreement line, but we live in strange times and the Procter and Gamble, gamble has not been forgotten, so now is no time for snoozing.This is where you earn your money, working the situation not watching it, and please do not think the Westpac is any sort of safe haven, Hawaii just defaulted on it’s national debt nothing to normally concern anyone it is such a small amount, but in time’s such as these it is everything to worry about, sitting out there in the middle of the Pacific staked out like some form of tempting  lamb!Look out for the diversionary news story, which should give you a good indication that it’s game on or not.Rather you than me .Good luck, our future is in your hands now.KK.Is there room for the Euro and the Yuan now?Source -By Jenna Voigt and Ainsley Thomson, Dow Jones Newswires; 44 20 7842 9318; ainsley.thomson@dowjones.com[ The National Audit Office report said the maximum the taxpayer could now pay out, were the supported banks to fail, to GBP512 billion from GBP955 billion at the peak of the financial crisis in 2008. The report said the most likely scenario is that there will be no loss to taxpayers on the main guarantees--the Asset Protection, Special Liquidity or Credit Guarantee schemes. "Optimism on this score should be tempered, however, with the realization that the risk of further shocks to the financial markets and of significant loss to the taxpayer has not gone away," Amyas  Morse, head of the NAO, said. The NAO, which scrutinizes public spending on behalf of parliament, said U.K. banks were stable despite facing further external shocks this year.]

K Kelly ● 5348d3 Comments ● 5335d

Cannabis destroys cancer cells... reveals research at Barts and The London, Queen Mary's School of M

The kind of information not being reported;Researchers investigating the role of cannabis in cancer therapy reveal it has the potential to destroy leukaemia cells, in a paper published in the March 2006 edition of Letters in Drug Design & Discovery.  Led by Dr Wai Man Liu, at Barts and the London, Queen Mary’s School of Medicine and Dentistry, the team has followed up on their findings of 2005 which showed that the main active ingredient in cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, has the potential to be used effectively against some forms of cancer.  Dr Liu has since moved to the Institute of Cancer in Sutton where he continues his work into investigating the potential therapeutic benefit of new anti-cancer agents. It has previously been acknowledged that cannabis-based medicines have merit in the treatment of cancer patients as a painkiller; appetite stimulant and in reducing nausea, but recently evidence has been growing of its potential as an anti-tumour agent.  The widely reported psychoactive side effects and consequent legal status of cannabis have, however, complicated its use in this capacity.  Although THC and its related compounds have been shown to attack cancer cells by interfering with important growth-processing pathways, it has not hitherto been established exactly how this is achieved. Now Dr Liu and his colleagues, using highly sophisticated microarray technology – allowing them to simultaneously detect changes in more than 25,000 genes in cells treated with THC – have begun to uncover further the existence of crucial processes through which THC can kill cancer cells and potentially promote survival.  Further, Dr Liu found that the mechanism of cannabis may be independent of the presence of receptors – proteins found on the surface of cells to which other signalling molecules bind.  Binding of molecules to receptors elicits a response in the cell, be it growth or death.  The finding that cannabis action may not require the presence of these receptors introduces the possibility that the drug may be used more widely as the cancer cell’s dependence on the cannabis receptor is removed.Whilst leukaemia treatment is on the whole successful, some people cannot be treated with conventional therapy - 25 per cent of children with leukaemia fail to respond to traditional treatment leaving their prognosis outcome poor.  Dr Liu’s research findings provide a crucial first step towards the development of new therapies that can eradicate a deadly disease which affects millions of children and adults worldwide.Dr Liu said: “It is important to stress that these cannabis-like substances are far removed from the cannabis that is smoked. These novel compounds have been specifically designed to be free of the psychoactive features, whilst maintaining anti-cancer action. Ultimately, understanding the fundamental mechanisms of these compounds will provide us with insights into developing new drugs that can be used to effectively treat cancers.”Ends-For further information, please contact:Alexandra FernandesDeputy Head of CommunicationsQueen Mary, University of LondonTel: +44 (0) 20 7882 7910

Philip Walsh ● 5394d26 Comments ● 5343d

Thames Water and the High Street/London Road

On behalf of the Leader of the Council and local Councillors, I met with Thames Water yesterday morning to let them explain the background to the two bursts on the London Road/Brentford High Street (and one in July which forced the Council to close the Civc Centre for and afternoon), their response, and the likelihood of it happening again.  TW head of external relations, Richard Aylard, and their local government link person, Hilary Murgatroyd were there plus 3 senior Council officers.   1          I expressed how serious the impact of the 2 bursts had been on people living and running businesses in the area.  That those who have suffered go far beyond those whose homes or businesses were flooded - these include: residents of Danehurst sheltered unit having to walk a mile to get a bus or pay for taxis, and of course businesses losing trade. 2          TW explained the teckie stuff (but full details at Housing and Environment Scrutiny Panel on 30th.)  The pipe is one of 4 old mains (1890s) running the length of the High St/London Road.  The main mains (lets call them the arteries) are more robust, and have been better maintained over the years, than the “capillary” mains going down side roads that were replaced as part of the recent Victorian water main replacement scheme.  That is why this main was not replaced then.  TW’s risk assessment did not put it high on the risk register, yet it burst twice in less than 4 weeks.  Now this has happened, they are investigating it for leaks - hence the plant remaining at the scene with nothing apparently happening.  They are putting a probe along and listening for minute leaks, and installing a real-time surge monitor. 3          From now on TW will monitor for leaks and manage the pressure in the pipe so it does not build up as it did before the burst.  It’s now on the risk register.  The implication being that it’s likely that we’ll have the hassle of its replacement before long . . . 4          On compensation, they are leaving it all to their loss adjusters Douglas Jackson, but implied it’s an insurance issue ie they’re not going to be dishing out stuff/funds unless there is a viable insurance claim.  Distress, inconvenience etc are not issues they show any interest in. 5          I asked if they would compensate businesses for lost trade and reputation – their response was - if you can prove loss of takings connected to the flooding etc you may be able to claim on our Insurance. On my suggestion, they said they would organise a meeting of local businesses to discuss this issue.Watch this spaceRuth CadburyBrentford Ward CouncillorDeputy Leader - LB Hounslow

Ruth Cadbury ● 5434d36 Comments ● 5347d

what would you do?

I live in a small development of 14 flats.  We have a car park which can take approx 10 cars.  Most of the residents do not own cars however, someone living here has a fixation about the car park and who parks there.  There have been aggressive notes left on cars, interference with tyres (letting down/slashing) once when my daughter's car was left in the car park for a couple of days because it had broken down, there was a note left on it threatening all sorts.  I in turn placed a note on it warning what would happen to anyone arranging to have it removed etc.  Then, someone who lives in the front of the flats, who does not own a car but who evidently has his own cctv trained on the car park (and who knows where else) came to my door and warned me not to let my daughter drive the car as it had been interfered with and wheel nuts loosened or removed.  Naturally at that time I was grateful for this information as without it my daughter could have been killed.  I was new to this flat at the time and was not fully conversant with the workings and paranoia of the self elected car park vigilante.About 10 weeks ago a friend of my daughter came to stay at my flat.  She had just finished uni and had a training contract with a London firm.  She is staying with me until she finds somewhere of her own.  Her car was parked in the car park.  No notes were put on it but when she went to drive home to Swindon for the weekend two front tyres were totally flat and it turned out they had been cut - not just let down.  Her boyfriend was in the process of putting on the spare when the cctv chap appears his first words are "Do you live here?" she of course said yes and his tone became slightly more conciliatory.  The point is,I cannot prove this man is responsible for the miscellaneous damage that has occurred to cars in the car park BUT he is always first on the scene to challenge anyone he does not know (he verbally attacked my second daughter for parking in the car park) he was also the one who KNEW about the wheel nuts on my daughter's car and he is without doubt my number one suspect for the vandalism that has occurred to this and other cars.Needless to say my lodger was extremely upset.  I had all manner of crying and hysteria etc.  I called the police.  I was given a crime number and was told someone would visit to take a statement.  The person on the phone took my lodger's mobile number and said they would arrange a time to call.  The next evening she told me she had received a call from the police at Chiswick I think, who had virtually said there was nothing they could do and wait to see if it happened again!I didn't think that was good enough so I went to Brentford police station and spoke to the officer on duty who listened whilst I reeled off the list of previous occurrences that I had experienced or knew about and I made the point that I personally thought that whilst I did not expect them to actually solve the crime, on the balance of probabilities I thought it may be suitable for them to at least knock on this person's door and question him which may possibly result in a cessation of the vandalism.  He appeared to agree with me and called the person that had telephoned my lodger the day before, they had a conversation (which appeared to be in code) and he assured me that someone would attend at the flat but it could take a day or so.  Virtually the next day my lodger received a PRE-PRINTED UNSIGNED letter from the police basically saying TOUGH there was no further action to be taken.I'm sorry but I still don't think that's good enough.  The cars of known residents in the car park have never been vandalised to my knowledge but, whenever there is a new car which is unknown to our vigilante car park attendant there are notes and damage caused.  In the light of the above WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

Bernadette Paul ● 5356d27 Comments ● 5352d

Cannabis May Protect the Brain Against Alcohol Damage

Warning this post may contain information some of you are not able to accept due to forty two years of brain washing and lies.It also contains an article cut and pasted please do not read if this offends you or taxes your mental reasoning.Compounds in cannabis may protect the human brain against alcohol-induced damage, according to clinical trial data published online by the journalNeurotoxicology and Teratology.Investigators at the University of California at San Diego examined white matter integrity in adolescents with histories of binge drinking and marijuana use.They reported that binge drinkers (defined as boys who consumed five or more drinks in one sitting, or girls who consumed four or more drinks at one time) showed signs of white matter damage in eight separate regions of the brain.By contrast, the binge drinkers who also used marijuana experienced less damage in seven out of the eight brain regions.“Binge drinkers who also use marijuana did not show as consistent a divergence from non-users as did the binge drink-only group,” authors concluded. “[It is] possible that marijuana may have some neuroprotective properties in mitigating alcohol-related oxidative stress or excitotoxic cell death.”In 2005, researchers at the National Institutes of Mental Health reported that the administration of the non-psychoactive cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) reduced alcohol-induced cell death in the hippocampus and etorhinal cortex of the brain in a dose-dependent manner by up to 60 percent. “This study provides the first demonstration of CBD as an in vivo neuroprotectant … in preventing binge ethanol-induced brain injury,” investigators concluded in The Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics.Commenting on the findings, NORML Deputy Director Paul Armentano said, “Alcohol and cannabis appear to have contrasting effects on the body,” he said. “Ethanol is clearly toxic to healthy and developing cells whereas cannabinoids appear to be relatively non-toxic and possibly even neuroprotective.”San Diego, CA–(ENEWSPF)August 27, 2009.Source: norml.org

Philip Walsh ● 5376d13 Comments ● 5365d

COMPULSORY REDUNDANCIES FOR OUR POLICE IN HOUNSLOW WHILST OUR COUNCIL WASTE 109,000 POUNDS

Hounslow Councillor's are certainly carrying on Gordon Brown's Poilcy of wasting we the Taxpayer's hard earned money. It cost you and myself approx. 109,000 Pounds last year for "wait for it" 3 not 1 but 3 Political Advisor's, what our Council should understand is that they are supposed to be A-Political, unbiased and working wholeheartedly for we the people of this community. Councillor's have to remember that they are just ordinary Mr & Mrs who were elected to do just that, get the best for our community not waste money on Advisor's. Our Police Force is necessary for without them we would have anarchy on the street's, now Hounslow Police are having to face COMPULSORY REDUNDANCIES through LACK OF FUNDS it is downright outrageous that Hounslow Council can happily waste money when the need is so much greater just metres from the Civic Centre in my mind 109K of money equates to at least 4 Policemen keeping there job's which will keep us a lot safer. Are the Council under the mishaprehension that CRIME has decreased in our district, therefore it really is no concern to reduce the size of our Police through lack of funds.Hounslow Council can save an additional 74,000 Pounds by making these 2 Diversity Officers Redundant,apparently these 2 persons are employed to ensure that the Council follow the Government Guidelines. What!! a load of rubbish 37,000 Pounds per Diversity Officer is a lot more than our local bobbies earn and there job is essential.Obviously the Climate Change Office is astronomical because the costing is not available to us, therefore just on these 3 supercilious titled job's I have negated the need to make our much needed Police redundant.When Hounslow Council along with other Councils and our Government condemn countries like China who had to close down Business's for 3 week's before the Olympics so that Atheletes could breath safely also India who concentrate more on there Space Programme than on there enviroment or the USA who the only Governor out there who has put in place strict rules against pollution, would you believe it Arnold Schwarcheniga(wrong spelling)ex-actor.Our emmissions in the UK are below one and a half% negligable!!! so you Councillor's get helping our Police with money that I have saved you to enable them to help us.

Dawn Hardy ● 5381d28 Comments ● 5373d

History :  Duke of Cumberland in Brentford? Inverness Lodge?

Inverness Lodge, Boston Manor Road is topical at the moment..having, as you may know, opened their doors,socially for one night, to Forum readers and all!!There is a history there...worthy of investigating I believe and I'm wondering if the Forum's very capable researchers are able to help. Kevin thinks it was built in the 1830's for a toff. I've read that it was built for a top toff(!) the Duke of Cumberland.... but which one..there were several of them over the years?One Duke of Cumberland led the King's Army in defeating the Scots at Culloden in 1746. When did he die?  CULLODEN is close to INVERNESS and Inverness is close to the area/Glen called STRATHERRICK.STRATHERRICK was the home too of Lord LOVAT (Simon Fraser) who had property in Chiswick apparently and in Heston also (according to Andrea Cameron)..indeed they is an estate of houses in Cranford Lane called LOVAT WALK.Lord Lovatt was active at CULLODEN..wasn't he on both sides? He finished up being painted by William Hogarth (there's a Hogarth Court also in Cranford Lane)..before being beheaded at the Tower of London.One of the Dukes of Cumberland was a top Mason in the UK too..who wasn't it seems!!  So: INVERNESS LODGE so named because of?And: Which Duke of Cumberland and dates?Then we can extend the story with pictures and URL's no doubt..so that we have a chance to be better informed about dear BRENTFORD and the INVERNESS LODGE!  

Jim Lawes ● 6451d23 Comments ● 5379d

Human Rights not if your British

The continued Human Rights violations / persecution of local business man Phil Walsh and his business Applewoods Hydroponica Limited took a dramatic turn with an orgy of destruction carried out on the morning 22.10.2010.on Brentford High Street, when a warrant was served.Police smashed through doors to gain access to Applewoods Hydroponica Limited’s warehouse and four other unconnected business units in an orgy of violent destruction.Police also raided Mr Walsh’s home address and seized cannabis and growing equipment used for cultivation despite the equipment not being illegal and in clear contempt of the fact that the last raid on Mr Walsh’s home when equipment was seized Chiswick police (then under the control of Jeff “I want to be the new Drug Czar” Harris were forced into an embarrassing letter of apology and had to hand over £5,000 in compensation due to the illegal seizer and destruction of similar equipment and in similar circumstances in 2003.Mr Walsh was at home however looking after his partner at the time of the raid on his storage facility and his home was raided in what Mr Walsh described as “a far more civilised manner than the four premises forced by the police in Brentford”. Mr Walsh who suffers from well documented spinal injuries and ocular pressure (glaucoma) was taken to Hounslow police Station and had to leave his partner suffering from the effects of chemotherapy alone at home until his son came home from college and made her some food.Mr Walsh has always claimed his Rights over cannabis are enshrined in the both the EU and UN Human Rights Acts; under EU articles 3.5,6,8.10,13.14,17&18 under UN articles 1,2,3,5,6,7,8,10,!7,!8,19,22,23,26,27,28’29&30 UN.  Mr Walsh has stated he understands that the UN Declaration on Human Rights written by the UK, adopted and proclaimed as universal by the UN has only ever been a stick with which to beat the third world and. has never been ratified into UK laws. However the EU act is based mostly on the UN one and that is UK law.

Philip Walsh ● 5402d6 Comments ● 5394d

CANNABIS PROHIBITION - A VERY SERIOUS CRIME

www.phoenixtears.ca/Please distribute widelyCannabis is safeINTRODUCTION.Cannabis has been misrepresented and mis-classified in both national and international law, as a "drug" that is:dangerous to health, andof no therapeutic value.Herein, I indicate and present some of the hard scientific that reveals the falsity of those beliefs and hence the very 'wrongness' and injustice of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, UK, and other cannabis prohibition legislation world-wide. At best that prohibition is a grievous error, at worst a deep-rooted conspiracy amongst profit-motivated tyrants and businessmen (believed by many).Consider this:the UK Government has already been presented with some of this evidence - why have they ignored it?the press have reported the safety aspects and medical benefits of cannabis many times,the UK Government have refused to comment on this information,the UK Government have rejected reports from experts in health, in medicine and in law,Does this not suggest 'False Law' is favoured over justice? That is, a law that is anti-health, anti-public order, anti-justice, anti-environment that enables and ensures the profits of many massive multi-national cooperations that produce damaging synthetic alternatives to hemp.In any case a False Law based upon false information, is a CRIME. That the Governments of this world mostly so stubbornly support a law that, we claim, they KNOW to be a false law makes the guilt ten fold heavier.That many Governments yet refuse to grant legal access to this beneficial plant for the many sick and dying of this world, refuse therein to enable the production of food from the seed and pollution-free fuel from the biomass, is indeed a VERY SERIOUS CRIME - A CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY.THE EVIDENCE.In the light of the Rulings of DEA Judge Francis Young (1988) and the Articles of both the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human rights and the European Convention for The Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms, the denial of an effective medicine to people is a very serious CRIME AGAINST HUMANITY. All Governments and authorities that participate in this denial are guilty of very serious crimes.This information should be distributed widely so that the Heads of States and Governments, and the courts, are aware that it is in the public domain.Here is some of the important SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE. It is followed by an excerpt from the rulings of Judge Young and the Articles of the International treaties.Pot Smokers Just As Healthy - Study: National Post (Canada), 11 June 2001UK: Natural Cannabis Better Than Extracts: BBC News (UK Web), 5 April 2001Cannabis Found to be Less Harmful than Pharmaceutical DrugsTopNews, 25 Sept 20101) Cannabis may help prevent lung cancer"Marijuana Use and Mortality", American Journal of Public Health, April 1997.Table 2 provides data on the relative risk of death for ever users and current users of marijuana, by sex and cause of death: Kaiser Permanente Medical care Program, Oakland and San Francisco, June 1979 to December 1985 (n=65,171), section regarding cancer (Neoplasms) as the cause of death. The table shows that men and women who are or have smoked cannabis but not tobacco have a lesser risk of developing cancer than those who were non-smokers of both marijuana and tobacco. see: http://ccguide.org/cancdata.phpLarge Study Finds No Link between Marijuana and Lung Cancer: Scientific American, 3 Sept 2010 Ireland: Cannabis Eases Cancer Sickness, Study Finds: Irish Examiner, 6 July 20012) Cannabis may help slow down natural cognitive decline"Cannabis use and cognitive decline in persons under 65 years of age", American Journal of Epidemiology, Vol 149, No 9 pages 794-800, 1999.Table 3 shows the mean change in Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score between wave 2 (1982) and wave 3 (1993-1996) in men and women, by level of cannabis use, Baltimore Epidemiologic Catchment Area study follow-up.A deterioration in Mental Functioning occurs in all age groups as a natural function of ageing and exposure to toxins. We see less cognitive decline among marijuana smokers than non-users. The authors also acknowledge alcohol and tobacco as two of the prime causes of cognitive decline. They did not publish their conclusion that cannabis caused a significant difference because the measured values were close, the difference between cannabis smokers and tobacco /alcohol users is undeniable. seeMarijuana is "anti-aging" and "curative" drug, speakers say at Kalamazoo seminar: mlive, 11 July 2010http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v99.n1330.a12.html3) Cannabis ma