I must say I was very disappointed at the lack of support from within the blogosphere to my appeal.
Link.
A mixture of law, politics, autobiography and humour. Once described as "The Devilish Advocate" (Guardian), I do have the ability to provoke a response. Sometimes it comes from someone who uses a thought process, and sometimes from jerks usually associated with the knee.
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Saturday, February 28, 2009
See you in Court Curry's, JVC, YouTube, and the Humberside Police
See you in Court Curry's, JVC, YouTube, and the Humberside Police
I could not sleep last night because my mind was racing. Therefore, I did some research on my computer. When it got light I took Rocky for a walk. I called in at my friend Kathleen's. On Monday she is giving her Inaugural Lecture on becoming a Professor of Philosophy, and I have received an invitation.
On my way back through Pearson Park there was, if not a sea, waves of Snow Drops. I thought I would video them for Cherrypie. No such luck! Seconds after I started shooting the camcorder shut down. I tried to film again, a message informed me that the video file was damaged and in need of repair.
After managing to get a few hours sleep, I went along to Curry's on Clough Road where they have a reputation for ripping off customers selling JVC Everio GZ-MS 100 memory camcorders. A clear label states YouTube one touch upload. You would expect it to do what it says on the tin. However, the claim is fraudulent. Not fit for purpose.
"Sale of Goods Act 1979:
13. Sale by description
(1) Where there is a contract for the sale of goods by description, there is an implied term that the goods will correspond with the description.
(1A) As regards England and Wales and Northern Ireland, the term implied by subsection (1) above is a condition".
So, we have a breach of contract.
"14. Implied terms about quality or fitness
(1) Except as provided by this section and section 15 below and subject to any other enactment, there is no implied term about the quality or fitness for any particular purpose of goods supplied under a contract of sale.
(2) Where the seller sells goods in the course of a business, there is an implied term that the goods supplied under the contract are of satisfactory quality.
(2A) For the purposes of this Act, goods are of satisfactory quality if they meet the standard that a reasonable person would regard as satisfactory, taking account of any description of the goods, the price (if relevant) and all the other relevant circumstances.
(2B) For the purposes of this Act, the quality of goods includes their state and condition and the following (among others) are in appropriate cases aspects of the quality of goods—
(a) fitness for all the purposes for which goods of the kind in question are commonly supplied,
(b) appearance and finish,
(c) freedom from minor defects,
(d) safety, and
(e) durability".
Hardly meeting the satisfactory test is it?
"Misrepresentation Act 1967
1 Removal of certain bars to rescission for innocent misrepresentation
Where a person has entered into a contract after a misrepresentation has been made to him, and—
(a)the misrepresentation has become a term of the contract; or
(b)the contract has been performed;
or both, then, if otherwise he would be entitled to rescind the contract without alleging fraud, he shall be so entitled, subject to the provisions of this Act, notwithstanding the matters mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section.
2 Damages for misrepresentation
(1)Where a person has entered into a contract after a misrepresentation has been made to him by another party thereto and as a result thereof he has suffered loss, then, if the person making the misrepresentation would be liable to damages in respect thereof had the misrepresentation been made fraudulently, that person shall be so liable notwithstanding that the misrepresentation was not made fraudulently, unless he proves that he had reasonable ground to believe and did believe up to the time the contract was made the facts represented were true.
(2)Where a person has entered into a contract after a misrepresentation has been made to him otherwise than fraudulently, and he would be entitled, by reason of the misrepresentation, to rescind the contract, then, if it is claimed, in any proceedings arising out of the contract, that the contract ought to be or has been rescinded, the court or arbitrator may declare the contract subsisting and award damages in lieu of rescission, if of opinion that it would be equitable to do so, having regard to the nature of the misrepresentation and the loss that would be caused by it if the contract were upheld, as well as to the loss that rescission would cause to the other party.
(3)Damages may be awarded against a person under subsection (2) of this section whether or not he is liable to damages under subsection (1) thereof, but where he is so liable any award under the said subsection (2) shall be taken into account in assessing his liability under the said subsection (1)".
The upshot of it is that Curry's refused to give me my money back. They claimed that their policy states it has to be returned within 28 days. They would not budge and neither would I so they called the police. The police asked me to leave or I would be arrested.
See you in Court Curry's, JVC, YouTube, and the Humberside Police.
I could not sleep last night because my mind was racing. Therefore, I did some research on my computer. When it got light I took Rocky for a walk. I called in at my friend Kathleen's. On Monday she is giving her Inaugural Lecture on becoming a Professor of Philosophy, and I have received an invitation.
On my way back through Pearson Park there was, if not a sea, waves of Snow Drops. I thought I would video them for Cherrypie. No such luck! Seconds after I started shooting the camcorder shut down. I tried to film again, a message informed me that the video file was damaged and in need of repair.
After managing to get a few hours sleep, I went along to Curry's on Clough Road where they have a reputation for ripping off customers selling JVC Everio GZ-MS 100 memory camcorders. A clear label states YouTube one touch upload. You would expect it to do what it says on the tin. However, the claim is fraudulent. Not fit for purpose.
"Sale of Goods Act 1979:
13. Sale by description
(1) Where there is a contract for the sale of goods by description, there is an implied term that the goods will correspond with the description.
(1A) As regards England and Wales and Northern Ireland, the term implied by subsection (1) above is a condition".
So, we have a breach of contract.
"14. Implied terms about quality or fitness
(1) Except as provided by this section and section 15 below and subject to any other enactment, there is no implied term about the quality or fitness for any particular purpose of goods supplied under a contract of sale.
(2) Where the seller sells goods in the course of a business, there is an implied term that the goods supplied under the contract are of satisfactory quality.
(2A) For the purposes of this Act, goods are of satisfactory quality if they meet the standard that a reasonable person would regard as satisfactory, taking account of any description of the goods, the price (if relevant) and all the other relevant circumstances.
(2B) For the purposes of this Act, the quality of goods includes their state and condition and the following (among others) are in appropriate cases aspects of the quality of goods—
(a) fitness for all the purposes for which goods of the kind in question are commonly supplied,
(b) appearance and finish,
(c) freedom from minor defects,
(d) safety, and
(e) durability".
Hardly meeting the satisfactory test is it?
"Misrepresentation Act 1967
1 Removal of certain bars to rescission for innocent misrepresentation
Where a person has entered into a contract after a misrepresentation has been made to him, and—
(a)the misrepresentation has become a term of the contract; or
(b)the contract has been performed;
or both, then, if otherwise he would be entitled to rescind the contract without alleging fraud, he shall be so entitled, subject to the provisions of this Act, notwithstanding the matters mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section.
2 Damages for misrepresentation
(1)Where a person has entered into a contract after a misrepresentation has been made to him by another party thereto and as a result thereof he has suffered loss, then, if the person making the misrepresentation would be liable to damages in respect thereof had the misrepresentation been made fraudulently, that person shall be so liable notwithstanding that the misrepresentation was not made fraudulently, unless he proves that he had reasonable ground to believe and did believe up to the time the contract was made the facts represented were true.
(2)Where a person has entered into a contract after a misrepresentation has been made to him otherwise than fraudulently, and he would be entitled, by reason of the misrepresentation, to rescind the contract, then, if it is claimed, in any proceedings arising out of the contract, that the contract ought to be or has been rescinded, the court or arbitrator may declare the contract subsisting and award damages in lieu of rescission, if of opinion that it would be equitable to do so, having regard to the nature of the misrepresentation and the loss that would be caused by it if the contract were upheld, as well as to the loss that rescission would cause to the other party.
(3)Damages may be awarded against a person under subsection (2) of this section whether or not he is liable to damages under subsection (1) thereof, but where he is so liable any award under the said subsection (2) shall be taken into account in assessing his liability under the said subsection (1)".
The upshot of it is that Curry's refused to give me my money back. They claimed that their policy states it has to be returned within 28 days. They would not budge and neither would I so they called the police. The police asked me to leave or I would be arrested.
See you in Court Curry's, JVC, YouTube, and the Humberside Police.
What about my bet William Hill?
What about my bet William Hill?
I have in my wallet a betting slip which reads:
"Prisoners to get the vote by the next General Election. All or Majority. 20/1 odds and £20 Total Stake".
William Hill to raise £350m in rights issue
British bookmaker plans to raise £350m through a rights issue and has scrapped its final dividend as it looks to reduce debt.
I have in my wallet a betting slip which reads:
"Prisoners to get the vote by the next General Election. All or Majority. 20/1 odds and £20 Total Stake".
William Hill to raise £350m in rights issue
British bookmaker plans to raise £350m through a rights issue and has scrapped its final dividend as it looks to reduce debt.
Knock knock who's there?
Knock knock who's there?
Them: "We're Jehovah's Witnesses..."
Jailhouselawyer: "Nah. Fuck that for a lark!". Closes the door.
Them: "We're Jehovah's Witnesses..."
Jailhouselawyer: "Nah. Fuck that for a lark!". Closes the door.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Spring has nearly sprung
Spring has nearly sprung
This morning I went along to see my friend on Salisbury Street and saw that the snow drops had flowered along Victoria Avenue and that the daffodils were in bud. In my friend's front garden it was the same picture.
This morning I went along to see my friend on Salisbury Street and saw that the snow drops had flowered along Victoria Avenue and that the daffodils were in bud. In my friend's front garden it was the same picture.
I've heard some crap in my time but this takes the biscuit
I've heard some crap in my time but this takes the biscuit
"Victim impact statements were read to the court by the prosecuting counsel, including statements from each of the younger boys' mothers.
One of the mothers said that this experience had been "absolute agony" for her son, who has since received counselling for post traumatic stress disorder.
The other mother spoke of her pride at her son's willingness to testify about what had happened. She described her son as a sensitive boy who had "lost his innocence"".
1. For God's sake missus! If the kid suffered any agony at all it was probably from you having a go at him and making him feel bad! Post traumatic stress disorder, my arse! He didn't go through the fucking Vietnam war!
2. Growing up is all about losing innocence. Your kid consented to having his little willy tickled. Get over it.
If I didn't have such a bad opinion of the care system, I might have suggested that both kids be put in care away from their overbearing and over caring mothers!
"Victim impact statements were read to the court by the prosecuting counsel, including statements from each of the younger boys' mothers.
One of the mothers said that this experience had been "absolute agony" for her son, who has since received counselling for post traumatic stress disorder.
The other mother spoke of her pride at her son's willingness to testify about what had happened. She described her son as a sensitive boy who had "lost his innocence"".
1. For God's sake missus! If the kid suffered any agony at all it was probably from you having a go at him and making him feel bad! Post traumatic stress disorder, my arse! He didn't go through the fucking Vietnam war!
2. Growing up is all about losing innocence. Your kid consented to having his little willy tickled. Get over it.
If I didn't have such a bad opinion of the care system, I might have suggested that both kids be put in care away from their overbearing and over caring mothers!
Young offenders centre criticised
Young offenders centre criticised
A Lancashire young offenders institution is failing to provide an adequately "safe and decent" environment, a report has found.
I suppose we live in hope that one day, just one day maybe, the Prison Service will get it right?
A Lancashire young offenders institution is failing to provide an adequately "safe and decent" environment, a report has found.
I suppose we live in hope that one day, just one day maybe, the Prison Service will get it right?
What price do we put on the vote?
What price do we put on the vote?
Unfortunately, Google does not appear to be able to answer this question therefore it seems reasonable to put it up for debate.
I put the question to Simon Israel of Channel 4 News, and he responded that he thought it was like asking: 'What price do we put on life'?
I disagree with Simon, because it appears that life is cheap. For example, take the case of the ex-Labour Party Peer, Lord Ahmed. He was texting on his mobile phone when he crashed into another car killing the other driver, Mr Gombar. Remarkably, he was not charged with causing death by dangerous driving, but instead with the lesser offence of driving dangerously. Just as remarkably: "The judge, Mr Justice Wilkie, said that the text messages had not contributed to the fatal collision". Am I missing something here? Driving, texting, not paying attention to the road ahead, crashes into a already crashed car, kills the other driver, establishing a causal link, and yet not blameworthy? Who do we blame, the Romans for building the road? Lord Ahmed is given a 12 weeks prison sentence, he will only serve 6 weeks in an open prison. "Lord Ahmed was also banned from driving for one year and ordered to pay £500 in costs. Outside court, Mr Gombar's family expressed dismay with the sentence. "We are not happy," said his cousin, David Cicak. "He could be out in six weeks. That's nothing." Speaking about Mr Gombar, he added: "He's left behind two small kids with only their mother". To add insult to injury: "Lord Ahmed's solicitor, Steve Smith, said his client had been used as a scapegoat and he would appeal against the sentence". Link
I am reminded of "He died that we might live". It's a sacrifical price. By the same token, I served 25 years for taking another life, so that the likes of Lord Ahmed can get off almost scott free, with only 6 weeks loss of liberty, banned from driving for 12 months, and £500 to a rich man like him, he won't even miss it!
Therefore, depending upon who you are and what influence you can wield politically, life can be dismissed relatively cheaply. It does not bode well, then, when trying to place a value on the human rtight to the franchise. I suspect that it will also depend upon one's status within society, when the question is asked: 'What price do we put on the vote?'.
There is a reason behind the question.
On 4 June 2009, the European Election of Members of the European Parliament take place in the UK. As it stands, 60,000+ citizens of the European Union will be denied their right to exercise the franchise.
Who cares?
"The turnout is an increasingly big issue for some, with some noting that in the UK, 11 million voted in the 1999 European elections while 23 million voted on the Big Brother TV show in 2002".
Link
It's a sad reflection that more people care about a single, stupid, ex-Big Brother "celebrity" about to kick the bucket, than they do about 60,000+ prisoners being denied their human right to vote.
Apologies to Google, I rephrased my question and specifically asked: "damages awarded for denial of the vote in an election by a court?", and was rewarded with the following answer: "The District Court then made its findings, awarding between $500 and $2,000 to each of seven plaintiffs".
Link
If we base the exchange rate at $2 = £1, at the bottom end it is £250 per prisoner = £15,000,000 and at the top end that's £1,000 per prisoner = £60,000,000.
And that is just for the loss of the right to vote in the European Election. To that should be added damages for the loss in the General Election, the total needs to be doubled.
I wonder if people who pay their taxes might just get a tad upset and start to care about the cost of burying their heads in the sand?
Unfortunately, Google does not appear to be able to answer this question therefore it seems reasonable to put it up for debate.
I put the question to Simon Israel of Channel 4 News, and he responded that he thought it was like asking: 'What price do we put on life'?
I disagree with Simon, because it appears that life is cheap. For example, take the case of the ex-Labour Party Peer, Lord Ahmed. He was texting on his mobile phone when he crashed into another car killing the other driver, Mr Gombar. Remarkably, he was not charged with causing death by dangerous driving, but instead with the lesser offence of driving dangerously. Just as remarkably: "The judge, Mr Justice Wilkie, said that the text messages had not contributed to the fatal collision". Am I missing something here? Driving, texting, not paying attention to the road ahead, crashes into a already crashed car, kills the other driver, establishing a causal link, and yet not blameworthy? Who do we blame, the Romans for building the road? Lord Ahmed is given a 12 weeks prison sentence, he will only serve 6 weeks in an open prison. "Lord Ahmed was also banned from driving for one year and ordered to pay £500 in costs. Outside court, Mr Gombar's family expressed dismay with the sentence. "We are not happy," said his cousin, David Cicak. "He could be out in six weeks. That's nothing." Speaking about Mr Gombar, he added: "He's left behind two small kids with only their mother". To add insult to injury: "Lord Ahmed's solicitor, Steve Smith, said his client had been used as a scapegoat and he would appeal against the sentence". Link
I am reminded of "He died that we might live". It's a sacrifical price. By the same token, I served 25 years for taking another life, so that the likes of Lord Ahmed can get off almost scott free, with only 6 weeks loss of liberty, banned from driving for 12 months, and £500 to a rich man like him, he won't even miss it!
Therefore, depending upon who you are and what influence you can wield politically, life can be dismissed relatively cheaply. It does not bode well, then, when trying to place a value on the human rtight to the franchise. I suspect that it will also depend upon one's status within society, when the question is asked: 'What price do we put on the vote?'.
There is a reason behind the question.
On 4 June 2009, the European Election of Members of the European Parliament take place in the UK. As it stands, 60,000+ citizens of the European Union will be denied their right to exercise the franchise.
Who cares?
"The turnout is an increasingly big issue for some, with some noting that in the UK, 11 million voted in the 1999 European elections while 23 million voted on the Big Brother TV show in 2002".
Link
It's a sad reflection that more people care about a single, stupid, ex-Big Brother "celebrity" about to kick the bucket, than they do about 60,000+ prisoners being denied their human right to vote.
Apologies to Google, I rephrased my question and specifically asked: "damages awarded for denial of the vote in an election by a court?", and was rewarded with the following answer: "The District Court then made its findings, awarding between $500 and $2,000 to each of seven plaintiffs".
Link
If we base the exchange rate at $2 = £1, at the bottom end it is £250 per prisoner = £15,000,000 and at the top end that's £1,000 per prisoner = £60,000,000.
And that is just for the loss of the right to vote in the European Election. To that should be added damages for the loss in the General Election, the total needs to be doubled.
I wonder if people who pay their taxes might just get a tad upset and start to care about the cost of burying their heads in the sand?
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Goodbye Firefox 3 nothing but a pain in the arse
Goodbye Firefox 3 nothing but a pain in the arse
Bye. Come again when you get your act sorted out...
Bye. Come again when you get your act sorted out...
Wanted MEPs to knock and rock on jailhouse doors
Wanted MEPs to knock and rock on jailhouse doors
Dear Knee-jerk Jack Straw
Here's a stick of Gibraltar Jailhouse Rock for you to suck on and dance to.
Sucker...
X marks the spot to go in the slot of the ballot box so pull up your socks...
And here's another thing...
You don't get me I'm part of the European Union and the prisoners union
Best wishes
Jailhouselawyer
Dear Knee-jerk Jack Straw
Here's a stick of Gibraltar Jailhouse Rock for you to suck on and dance to.
Sucker...
X marks the spot to go in the slot of the ballot box so pull up your socks...
And here's another thing...
You don't get me I'm part of the European Union and the prisoners union
Best wishes
Jailhouselawyer
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
It's tragic: But it would be even more tragic if Cameron won next election based on a sympathy vote
It's tragic: But it would be even more tragic if Cameron won the next election based on a sympathy vote
Cameron's eldest son Ivan dies
Conservative leader David Cameron's eldest son Ivan has died in hospital.
David Cameron not fit for public office
Cameron's eldest son Ivan dies
Conservative leader David Cameron's eldest son Ivan has died in hospital.
David Cameron not fit for public office
Texting death crash peer jailed
Texting death crash peer jailed
A Labour peer who sent and received text messages minutes before he was involved in a fatal crash on the M1 has been jailed for 12 weeks.
Lord Ahmed, 51, was driving his Jaguar when he hit a stationary car in the outside lane of the motorway on Christmas Day 2007.
The driver of the other vehicle, Martyn Gombar, 28, was killed.
Lord Ahmed, of Rotherham, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court. He had admitted driving dangerously.
Only 12 weeks for a life?
Justice has been denied in this case from the outset.
"The court had heard how Lord Ahmed sent and received a series of five text messages while driving in the dark at speeds of, and above, 60mph along a 17-mile stretch of the motorway...Mr Justice Wilkie made clear the texting incident had no bearing on the fatal collision...He said: "After a full and thorough police investigation it's clear the dangerous driving had no causal link to the accident".
Man texting while driving, crashes into another car killing the other driver, and there is no causal link? How come there is a casual link when a youth fires a gun and the bullet ricochets and kills Rhys Jones?
A Labour peer who sent and received text messages minutes before he was involved in a fatal crash on the M1 has been jailed for 12 weeks.
Lord Ahmed, 51, was driving his Jaguar when he hit a stationary car in the outside lane of the motorway on Christmas Day 2007.
The driver of the other vehicle, Martyn Gombar, 28, was killed.
Lord Ahmed, of Rotherham, was sentenced at Sheffield Crown Court. He had admitted driving dangerously.
Only 12 weeks for a life?
Justice has been denied in this case from the outset.
"The court had heard how Lord Ahmed sent and received a series of five text messages while driving in the dark at speeds of, and above, 60mph along a 17-mile stretch of the motorway...Mr Justice Wilkie made clear the texting incident had no bearing on the fatal collision...He said: "After a full and thorough police investigation it's clear the dangerous driving had no causal link to the accident".
Man texting while driving, crashes into another car killing the other driver, and there is no causal link? How come there is a casual link when a youth fires a gun and the bullet ricochets and kills Rhys Jones?
Press Release: UK Prisoners vote out government
Press Release:UK Prisoners vote out government
The Association of Prisoners (AoP), have surprised the government, today, by launching a legal strike last night, to the European Parliament, because of the Ministry of Justice procrastination in abiding by a ECtHR decision relating to the universal suffrage.
The AoP which was formed as a result of the Human Rights Act, allowing the move under Article 11 of the Convention, have engaged in Lawful Rebellion against the government and Parliament for the failure to pass the necessary legislation allowing all convicted prisoners to vote in the UK General Election. They have petitioned the EU to be allowed to vote in the UK, at the Elections to the European Parliament, to be held on 4 June 2009. They wish to vote for Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Under Article 194 of the EC Treaty the AoP have submitted a petition to the European Parliament to be allowed to exercise their rights as EU citizens.
The surprise legal move has caught the UK government off guard, because its erroneous legal view is that:"At present prisoners serving a custodial sentence do not have the right to vote. This ban was enshrined in section 3 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 as amended by the Representation of the People Act 1985:
3 Disfranchisement of offenders in prison etc,
(1) A convicted person during the time that he is detained in a penal institution in pursuance of his sentence [or unlawfully at large when he would otherwise be so detained] is legally incapable of voting at any parliamentary or local government election".
The AoP, in its petition, contends that the "any parliamentary" only applies to any UK parliamentary election, because under EU law the UK cannot bind the EU Parliament, but the EU parliament can bind the UK. For example, a Swedish prisoner in a UK prison is entitled to vote in the EU parliamentary election. It follows that because UK prisoners are also EU citizens they can exercise their right to vote in the forthcoming election. The prisoners are relying upon the principle of universal suffrage. To deny them this right would mean that they are being victimised, and would lead to claims for compensation costing the government many millions of pounds at a time when there is an economic downturn.
Following the landmark judgment in Hirst v UK(No2), Cyprus, Iraq, and the Republic of Ireland, have granted prisoners the vote, and now Hong Kong is to follow suit.
The petition has been filed with the Committee on Petitions, the specific point raised about the EU parliamentary election did not emerge during the above case, which is itself to be the subject of the Committee of Ministers meeting on 17-19 March 2009, when the execution of the judgment is expected. It would appear that the government is facing a double whammy, and have seriously underestimated the legal ability of the jailhouselawyers and AoP members politicisation over recent years.
UPDATE:
It is an enshrined right of any European citizen to bring forward a petition to the parliament and, if judged admissible, it will be taken very seriously indeed.
"The committee encourages the petitioners themselves to come to the meetings to present their cases...the committee can start legal proceedings in cases where European law has clearly been flouted. And it is the member state that will be in the dock".
One of the fundamental rights of European citizens:
Any citizen, acting individually or jointly with others, may at any time exercise his right of petition to the European Parliament under Article 194 of the EC Treaty.
Any citizen of the European Union, or resident in a Member State, may, individually or in association with others, submit a petition to the European Parliament on a subject which comes within the European Union's fields of activity and which affects them directly. Any company, organisation or association with its headquarters in the European Union may also exercise this right of petition, which is guaranteed by the Treaty.
A petition may take the form of a complaint or a request and may relate to issues of public or private interest.
The petition may present an individual request, a complaint or observation concerning the application of EU law or an appeal to the European Parliament to adopt a position on a specific matter. Such petitions give the European Parliament the opportunity of calling attention to any infringement of a European citizen's rights by a Member State or local authorities or other institution.
Additional information...
Who can submit a petition, and on what subjects?
Who can submit a petition?
You can submit a petition if you are:
* a citizen of the European Union,
* a resident in a European Union Member State,
* a member of an association, company, organisation (natural or legal person) with its headquarters in a European Union Member State.
What subjects can your petition deal with?
The subject of the petition must be concerned with issues of European Union interest or responsibility such as:
* your rights as a European citizen as set out in the Treaties,
* environmental matters,
* consumer protection,
* free movement of persons, goods and services, internal market,
* employment issues and social policy,
* recognition of professional qualifications,
* other problems related to the implementation of EU law.
European Parliament Guide
Background to Association of Prisoners from Daily Telegraph archive.
The AoP does not discriminate between prisoners, even this rogue if he should ever find himself in prison should get the vote.
UPDATE:
PRT press comment:
“It is embarrassing to see how far we are lagging behind other EU countries who, almost without exception, allow their imprisoned citizens to vote.”
Geoff Dobson - deputy director, Prison Reform Trust
The Association of Prisoners (AoP), have surprised the government, today, by launching a legal strike last night, to the European Parliament, because of the Ministry of Justice procrastination in abiding by a ECtHR decision relating to the universal suffrage.
The AoP which was formed as a result of the Human Rights Act, allowing the move under Article 11 of the Convention, have engaged in Lawful Rebellion against the government and Parliament for the failure to pass the necessary legislation allowing all convicted prisoners to vote in the UK General Election. They have petitioned the EU to be allowed to vote in the UK, at the Elections to the European Parliament, to be held on 4 June 2009. They wish to vote for Members of the European Parliament (MEPs). Under Article 194 of the EC Treaty the AoP have submitted a petition to the European Parliament to be allowed to exercise their rights as EU citizens.
The surprise legal move has caught the UK government off guard, because its erroneous legal view is that:"At present prisoners serving a custodial sentence do not have the right to vote. This ban was enshrined in section 3 of the Representation of the People Act 1983 as amended by the Representation of the People Act 1985:
3 Disfranchisement of offenders in prison etc,
(1) A convicted person during the time that he is detained in a penal institution in pursuance of his sentence [or unlawfully at large when he would otherwise be so detained] is legally incapable of voting at any parliamentary or local government election".
The AoP, in its petition, contends that the "any parliamentary" only applies to any UK parliamentary election, because under EU law the UK cannot bind the EU Parliament, but the EU parliament can bind the UK. For example, a Swedish prisoner in a UK prison is entitled to vote in the EU parliamentary election. It follows that because UK prisoners are also EU citizens they can exercise their right to vote in the forthcoming election. The prisoners are relying upon the principle of universal suffrage. To deny them this right would mean that they are being victimised, and would lead to claims for compensation costing the government many millions of pounds at a time when there is an economic downturn.
Following the landmark judgment in Hirst v UK(No2), Cyprus, Iraq, and the Republic of Ireland, have granted prisoners the vote, and now Hong Kong is to follow suit.
The petition has been filed with the Committee on Petitions, the specific point raised about the EU parliamentary election did not emerge during the above case, which is itself to be the subject of the Committee of Ministers meeting on 17-19 March 2009, when the execution of the judgment is expected. It would appear that the government is facing a double whammy, and have seriously underestimated the legal ability of the jailhouselawyers and AoP members politicisation over recent years.
UPDATE:
It is an enshrined right of any European citizen to bring forward a petition to the parliament and, if judged admissible, it will be taken very seriously indeed.
"The committee encourages the petitioners themselves to come to the meetings to present their cases...the committee can start legal proceedings in cases where European law has clearly been flouted. And it is the member state that will be in the dock".
One of the fundamental rights of European citizens:
Any citizen, acting individually or jointly with others, may at any time exercise his right of petition to the European Parliament under Article 194 of the EC Treaty.
Any citizen of the European Union, or resident in a Member State, may, individually or in association with others, submit a petition to the European Parliament on a subject which comes within the European Union's fields of activity and which affects them directly. Any company, organisation or association with its headquarters in the European Union may also exercise this right of petition, which is guaranteed by the Treaty.
A petition may take the form of a complaint or a request and may relate to issues of public or private interest.
The petition may present an individual request, a complaint or observation concerning the application of EU law or an appeal to the European Parliament to adopt a position on a specific matter. Such petitions give the European Parliament the opportunity of calling attention to any infringement of a European citizen's rights by a Member State or local authorities or other institution.
Additional information...
Who can submit a petition, and on what subjects?
Who can submit a petition?
You can submit a petition if you are:
* a citizen of the European Union,
* a resident in a European Union Member State,
* a member of an association, company, organisation (natural or legal person) with its headquarters in a European Union Member State.
What subjects can your petition deal with?
The subject of the petition must be concerned with issues of European Union interest or responsibility such as:
* your rights as a European citizen as set out in the Treaties,
* environmental matters,
* consumer protection,
* free movement of persons, goods and services, internal market,
* employment issues and social policy,
* recognition of professional qualifications,
* other problems related to the implementation of EU law.
European Parliament Guide
Background to Association of Prisoners from Daily Telegraph archive.
The AoP does not discriminate between prisoners, even this rogue if he should ever find himself in prison should get the vote.UPDATE:
PRT press comment:
“It is embarrassing to see how far we are lagging behind other EU countries who, almost without exception, allow their imprisoned citizens to vote.”
Geoff Dobson - deputy director, Prison Reform Trust
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
NPower and the National Grid are crap
NPower and the National Grid are crap
The day before yesterday, sometime in the late afternoon, my gas supply went off. I discovered this when I went to put a Cornish pasty in the gas oven for my tea. As I had recently put £20 on my gas card, in my view, it could not have run out that quickly. I pressed the red button on the gas meter, to see if the credit had expired, however, nothing showed up on the meter in the little plastic window. The meter had ceased. It had expired. It was a dead meter. I phoned NPower, who informed me to phone the National Grid. They said nobody could come out, even though I was with out hot water, heating, and gas to operate the gas cooker. I was livid and cold and hungry! The best they said they could do was send someone out between 8am and 2pm the next day.
The engineer from the National Grid arrived about 9.30am. Upon inspection of the meter, he said: "The batteries are dead". It's the first I knew that there were any batteries in them. And, my thought was 'What's the point in having batteries which suddenly go dead in the middle of Winter and leave you with out the service I had paid for?'. The engineer replaced the batteries, but the meter was still dead as a Dodo! He said: "The meter's dead". Followed by: "I will have to replace it with a new one". I asked: "What about the credit I have on the old meter?". He replied: "I will put you £10 credit on the new one". I said, "I am sure I had more on the old one". Then I asked: "What about my gas card?". He said it will still work with my new meter. I asked how often these meters breakdown, and he replied "all the time they are crap, crap company!". Within the last hour I had to put another £10 on my gas card, because it had eaten up £7 since yesterday. When I put the card in the meter, there was a high pitched whine and I was informed, "Card not accepted"!
I am very pissed off with both NPower and the National Grid for this shitty service. I should still not be on a meter anyway because my back debts on both gas and electric have been paid off. I phoned NPower and was not chuffed by the responses to say the least! The operator said it was not an emergency because my gas had not run out. I said it would before the evening was out going by the £7 it took out of the £10 since yesterday. He said that the National Grid would not do a wind on (put on credit until it had expired). I said that I did not expect them to come out later tonight when it has expired. And the earliest would be tomorrow. As for the new card, that would not arrive for at least 2 days! I told the operator he was winding me up and extracting the Michael. He tried to assure me that it was not the case and said I was not listening to him. I said I was listening but he was taking no notice of my situation. I told him I was going to sue NPower's arse off. And that I wanted the meter taking out. He said that it would take 28 days! I said it would take less than that as I would knock them out and throw them out the front door. He said, that would be criminal damage. I said, it's criminal that NPower has taken money from me and failed to supply me with the service! I will change supplier, but I suspect they are all as bad as each other when it comes down to emergencies and prices.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Tony Blair cashing in after launching economic advice firm
Tony Blair cashing in after launching economic advice firm
Tony Blair is to cash in on his experience as prime minister after establishing a business offering clients political and economic advice.
They used to call someone who opens doors a commissioner.
Who said crime doesn't pay?
I hope his firm goes bust very, very, quickly and he gets his comeuppance!
Tony Blair is to cash in on his experience as prime minister after establishing a business offering clients political and economic advice.
They used to call someone who opens doors a commissioner.
Who said crime doesn't pay?
I hope his firm goes bust very, very, quickly and he gets his comeuppance!
Euro MP expenses 'can reach £1m'
Euro MP expenses 'can reach £1m'
Euro MPs' expenses and pensions are so lavish that they can earn as much as £1m (1.13m euros) on top of their salaries over their five-year term in parliament, a British campaign group says.
Corruption is rife at home in our Parliament, and corruption is rife in Europe. It beggars belief that MEPs could vote not to disclose an audit report to the public, whom they are supposed to serve. It begs the question, what is the point of having an audit to monitor costs and then not be aware of the balance sheet? Imagine going to a cash point and tapping in your pin number, tapping the "balance" request button and the on screen or print out says "mind your own business, we're not telling you anything!"?
Euro MPs' expenses and pensions are so lavish that they can earn as much as £1m (1.13m euros) on top of their salaries over their five-year term in parliament, a British campaign group says.
Corruption is rife at home in our Parliament, and corruption is rife in Europe. It beggars belief that MEPs could vote not to disclose an audit report to the public, whom they are supposed to serve. It begs the question, what is the point of having an audit to monitor costs and then not be aware of the balance sheet? Imagine going to a cash point and tapping in your pin number, tapping the "balance" request button and the on screen or print out says "mind your own business, we're not telling you anything!"?
I disown this government
I disown this government
I have watched Labour compromise its principles, embrace greed and take the UK into war and recession. Torture is the last straw
That betrayal of those who looked to a Labour government to help them has seen a rapid widening of inequality and a sharp intensification of social disintegration. It is the jobs, homes and lives of ordinary people that have borne the brunt. The country is a weaker and poorer place as a result.
I have watched Labour compromise its principles, embrace greed and take the UK into war and recession. Torture is the last straw
That betrayal of those who looked to a Labour government to help them has seen a rapid widening of inequality and a sharp intensification of social disintegration. It is the jobs, homes and lives of ordinary people that have borne the brunt. The country is a weaker and poorer place as a result.
Barack Obama regime attempts to gag torture victim
Barack Obama regime attempts to gag torture victim
Why is a innocent man going to have to report to the police when he has got nothing to hide and the UK and US authorities have got something to hide?
"Binyam Mohamed has agreed to abide by several voluntary security measures including regular reports to a police station when he returns to Britain from Guantánamo Bay almost certainly later today, the Guardian has learned.
His lawyers readily agreed to the undertakings as Mohamed "has nothing to hide", said Clive Stafford Smith, director of Reprieve, the human rights group which represents the former British resident.
However, Mohamed and his lawyers rejected a gagging order the US tried to impose on him, the Guardian understands. Mohamed's return to the UK after seven years in custody, more than four of them in the US camp on Cuba, comes as pressure is building up on the British and US governments to disclose evidence of his alleged torture and what the UK agencies MI5 and MI6 allegedly knew about it".
7 years in custody for nothing, tortured by the UK and US authorities. And, they have the cheek to talk to us about terrorism? If what Binyam Mohamed has gone through is not terrorism, and I don't know what is!
Why is a innocent man going to have to report to the police when he has got nothing to hide and the UK and US authorities have got something to hide?
"Binyam Mohamed has agreed to abide by several voluntary security measures including regular reports to a police station when he returns to Britain from Guantánamo Bay almost certainly later today, the Guardian has learned.
His lawyers readily agreed to the undertakings as Mohamed "has nothing to hide", said Clive Stafford Smith, director of Reprieve, the human rights group which represents the former British resident.
However, Mohamed and his lawyers rejected a gagging order the US tried to impose on him, the Guardian understands. Mohamed's return to the UK after seven years in custody, more than four of them in the US camp on Cuba, comes as pressure is building up on the British and US governments to disclose evidence of his alleged torture and what the UK agencies MI5 and MI6 allegedly knew about it".
7 years in custody for nothing, tortured by the UK and US authorities. And, they have the cheek to talk to us about terrorism? If what Binyam Mohamed has gone through is not terrorism, and I don't know what is!
Bear pit of politics as Bearwood owner takes shit in the woods
Bear pit of politics as Bearwood owner takes shit in the woods
Tax evader Michael Ashcroft
Tories face £5m black hole after launch of inquiry into Ashcroft
David Cameron faces embarrassment and the prospect of a near £5m black hole after the electoral watchdog began a formal investigation into the Tories’ biggest donor.
The Electoral Commission has launched an inquiry into donations made by a company controlled by Lord Ashcroft, the party’s deputy chairman and key strategist. The move follows complaints that £4.7m of gifts to the Conservatives from Lord Ashcroft’s company, Bearwood Corporate Services, could have breached electoral laws.
The party could be ordered to pay back the money if it is judged to have wrongly accepted it.
Tax evader Michael AshcroftTories face £5m black hole after launch of inquiry into Ashcroft
David Cameron faces embarrassment and the prospect of a near £5m black hole after the electoral watchdog began a formal investigation into the Tories’ biggest donor.
The Electoral Commission has launched an inquiry into donations made by a company controlled by Lord Ashcroft, the party’s deputy chairman and key strategist. The move follows complaints that £4.7m of gifts to the Conservatives from Lord Ashcroft’s company, Bearwood Corporate Services, could have breached electoral laws.
The party could be ordered to pay back the money if it is judged to have wrongly accepted it.
Tory MP worth £27M steals £50,000 from taxpayers
Tory MP worth £27M steals £50,000 from taxpayers
Michael Ancram used expenses to remove moss from his country home
A Conservative grandee has been reported for claiming £50,000 in expenses to run his £1.5million country home, including having moss removed from its grounds.
Utter scoundrel
Why a man with so much wealth chooses to "serve" the public by becoming an MP is beyond me. But, to then steal £50,000 from the taxpayers just to keep his estate looking immaculate is downright dishonest and totally unacceptable conduct. He should be horsewhipped and dragged through Devizes. That he is also a QC makes matters worse. Michael Ancram MP is a utter scoundrel and should be disbarred. God help anybody if this crook ever became a judge!
Michael Ancram used expenses to remove moss from his country home
A Conservative grandee has been reported for claiming £50,000 in expenses to run his £1.5million country home, including having moss removed from its grounds.
Utter scoundrelWhy a man with so much wealth chooses to "serve" the public by becoming an MP is beyond me. But, to then steal £50,000 from the taxpayers just to keep his estate looking immaculate is downright dishonest and totally unacceptable conduct. He should be horsewhipped and dragged through Devizes. That he is also a QC makes matters worse. Michael Ancram MP is a utter scoundrel and should be disbarred. God help anybody if this crook ever became a judge!
An 11-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of his father's pregnant girlfriend in Pennsylvania.
An 11-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of his father's pregnant girlfriend in Pennsylvania.
Jordan Brown allegedly shot Kenzie Marie Houk, 26, as she lay in bed on Friday morning. He then boarded the bus and went to school, where authorities later arrested him.
Miss Houk's body was discovered by police at her isolated Wampum, Pennsylvania farmhouse after her four-year-old daughter told tree cutters on the property that she believed her mother was dead.
Jordan was charged as an adult on Saturday with criminal homicide and criminal homicide of an unborn child, and was being held in the Lawrence County Jail with a preliminary hearing scheduled for Thursday.
But a prison warden said that his 300-inmate jail could not offer proper long-term care for Jordan and asked that he be moved to a juvenile detention centre.
The child is alleged to have used his own 20-gauge shotgun to kill Miss Houk, who was eight months pregnant.
When he was initially questioned by police, he told officers that there had been a black truck on the property that morning – sending investigators to follow a false lead for about five hours.
Inconsistencies in the boy's description of the truck led police to re-interview Miss Houk's 7-year-old daughter, who implicated the boy in the killing, said John Bongivengo, the Lawrence County district attorney.
The shotgun used in the killing is specially designed for children. It has a shorter arm and such weapons do not have to be registered, Mr Bongivengo said.
Jordan Brown allegedly shot Kenzie Marie Houk, 26, as she lay in bed on Friday morning. He then boarded the bus and went to school, where authorities later arrested him.
Miss Houk's body was discovered by police at her isolated Wampum, Pennsylvania farmhouse after her four-year-old daughter told tree cutters on the property that she believed her mother was dead.
Jordan was charged as an adult on Saturday with criminal homicide and criminal homicide of an unborn child, and was being held in the Lawrence County Jail with a preliminary hearing scheduled for Thursday.
But a prison warden said that his 300-inmate jail could not offer proper long-term care for Jordan and asked that he be moved to a juvenile detention centre.
The child is alleged to have used his own 20-gauge shotgun to kill Miss Houk, who was eight months pregnant.
When he was initially questioned by police, he told officers that there had been a black truck on the property that morning – sending investigators to follow a false lead for about five hours.
Inconsistencies in the boy's description of the truck led police to re-interview Miss Houk's 7-year-old daughter, who implicated the boy in the killing, said John Bongivengo, the Lawrence County district attorney.
The shotgun used in the killing is specially designed for children. It has a shorter arm and such weapons do not have to be registered, Mr Bongivengo said.
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Web of deceit?
Web of deceit?
I don't know whether you have been following the case of 13 year old Alfie Patten? Apparently, he has applied to join Fathers 4 Justice. Asked by the Sun, "What issues he is interested in?", he is reported to have replied, "What have the issues got to do with anyfink, I'm just desperate for the Spider Man outfit!".
Hat-Tip to Bob Piper
I don't know whether you have been following the case of 13 year old Alfie Patten? Apparently, he has applied to join Fathers 4 Justice. Asked by the Sun, "What issues he is interested in?", he is reported to have replied, "What have the issues got to do with anyfink, I'm just desperate for the Spider Man outfit!".
Hat-Tip to Bob Piper
Met is 'no longer racist' - Straw
Met is 'no longer racist' - Straw
The Metropolitan Police is no longer institutionally racist, Justice Secretary Jack Straw has said.
Do you want a bag of crisps with that pinch of salt Knee-jerk Jack?
The Metropolitan Police is no longer institutionally racist, Justice Secretary Jack Straw has said.
Do you want a bag of crisps with that pinch of salt Knee-jerk Jack?
Abu Ghraib to Baghdad Central Prison
Abu Ghraib to Baghdad Central Prison
Abu Ghraib, the Iraqi prison which became notorious for detainee abuse by US forces in 2004, is being officially re-opened in a new incarnation.
A look inside the renovated Abu Ghraib prison: video link
Bullshit alert! "Along with the change of name, the Iraqi justice ministry is trying to change both image and reality, billing it as a model prison, open to random inspection by the Red Cross and other humanitarian organisations".
"Work is continuing on the prison, which will eventually be the city's main jail, holding about 12,000 inmates...There is much concern over the conditions in some Iraqi jails, where there is acute overcrowding and allegations of abuse and torture".
"American officials say the detainees they hand over are only going to prisons run by the justice ministry and which are up to international standards". It's a great shame upon America that American prisons are not up to international standards!
Long Kesh - Maze, what difference does a change of name make? I am not impressed by what I saw on the video in relation to the cells. The cells are too cramped, with too many bunk beds in them, and the doors and padlocks look like animal cages in a zoo. If a serious fire broke out unlocking all those padlocks would be too slow and dangerous, it's a fire hazard waiting to happen.
There are only two good things, Iraqi prisoners serving 5 years and under have the vote. And the computer room looked ok, if there is inmate internet access allowed.
It is still inhumane imprisonment. A humane prison, in my view, has a prison population not exceeding 250 prisoners in single room accommodation.
Abu Ghraib, the Iraqi prison which became notorious for detainee abuse by US forces in 2004, is being officially re-opened in a new incarnation.
A look inside the renovated Abu Ghraib prison: video link
Bullshit alert! "Along with the change of name, the Iraqi justice ministry is trying to change both image and reality, billing it as a model prison, open to random inspection by the Red Cross and other humanitarian organisations".
"Work is continuing on the prison, which will eventually be the city's main jail, holding about 12,000 inmates...There is much concern over the conditions in some Iraqi jails, where there is acute overcrowding and allegations of abuse and torture".
"American officials say the detainees they hand over are only going to prisons run by the justice ministry and which are up to international standards". It's a great shame upon America that American prisons are not up to international standards!
Long Kesh - Maze, what difference does a change of name make? I am not impressed by what I saw on the video in relation to the cells. The cells are too cramped, with too many bunk beds in them, and the doors and padlocks look like animal cages in a zoo. If a serious fire broke out unlocking all those padlocks would be too slow and dangerous, it's a fire hazard waiting to happen.
There are only two good things, Iraqi prisoners serving 5 years and under have the vote. And the computer room looked ok, if there is inmate internet access allowed.
It is still inhumane imprisonment. A humane prison, in my view, has a prison population not exceeding 250 prisoners in single room accommodation.
Jacqui Smith plays the race card
Jacqui Smith plays the race card
Immigrants should not be able to take a skilled job in the UK unless it has been advertised to British workers, the home secretary has said.
What was all this about avoiding protectionism?
Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, stop pandering to British workers you racist, xenophobic, cow!
Moo!
Immigrants should not be able to take a skilled job in the UK unless it has been advertised to British workers, the home secretary has said.
What was all this about avoiding protectionism?
Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, stop pandering to British workers you racist, xenophobic, cow!
Moo!
The Great Escape remake?
The Great Escape remake?
Prison break repeat shocks Greece
Two of Greece's most wanted men have staged a daring helicopter escape from Athens' highest-security prison - for the second time in three years.
This could catch on...
Coming to a cinema near you soon Gartree Prison helicopter escape 2 and Helicopter escape from French prison 2 This one would get the frogs hopping mad!
Prison break repeat shocks Greece
Two of Greece's most wanted men have staged a daring helicopter escape from Athens' highest-security prison - for the second time in three years.
This could catch on...
Coming to a cinema near you soon Gartree Prison helicopter escape 2 and Helicopter escape from French prison 2 This one would get the frogs hopping mad!
Change of URL address for Jailhouselawyer
Change of URL address for Jailhouselawyer
Change of URL address: I formerly resided at http://prisonersvoice.blogspot.com
I have moved to http://jailhouselawyersblog.blogspot.com
I hope that this does not cause too much confusion for those used to my old place.
Change of URL address: I formerly resided at http://prisonersvoice.blogspot.com
I have moved to http://jailhouselawyersblog.blogspot.com
I hope that this does not cause too much confusion for those used to my old place.
Guantánamo: the forgotten prisoner
Guantánamo: the forgotten prisoner
Finally, Binyam Mohamed is coming home. But Shaker Aamer is also a British resident – don't abandon this gentle family man
"Perhaps the most heart-breaking thing a child whose father is in prison will ever have to do is to explain to his – or her – classmates why daddy never comes to collect him from school. The very mention that daddy is in jail will, at least in some cases, elicit the puerile jeering and mockery expected in any school playground. Society – schools included – tells us that people in prison must be bad. That may be the case for those found guilty of heinous crimes. But, how does a seven-year-old – who has never seen his father, except through old photographs his tormented mother shows him – explain to his peers the iniquitous nature of the removal of habeas corpus? How does he argue his father's case when he doesn't even know what a father is? How will he explain all this to his classmates when we cannot even explain it to adults? This – and much more – is what one chid and his three older siblings in London have experienced daily since the incarceration of their father more than seven years ago".
Finally, Binyam Mohamed is coming home. But Shaker Aamer is also a British resident – don't abandon this gentle family man
"Perhaps the most heart-breaking thing a child whose father is in prison will ever have to do is to explain to his – or her – classmates why daddy never comes to collect him from school. The very mention that daddy is in jail will, at least in some cases, elicit the puerile jeering and mockery expected in any school playground. Society – schools included – tells us that people in prison must be bad. That may be the case for those found guilty of heinous crimes. But, how does a seven-year-old – who has never seen his father, except through old photographs his tormented mother shows him – explain to his peers the iniquitous nature of the removal of habeas corpus? How does he argue his father's case when he doesn't even know what a father is? How will he explain all this to his classmates when we cannot even explain it to adults? This – and much more – is what one chid and his three older siblings in London have experienced daily since the incarceration of their father more than seven years ago".
UK agents 'colluded with torture in Pakistan'
UK agents 'colluded with torture in Pakistan'
A shocking new report alleges widespread complicity between British security agents and their Pakistani counterparts who have routinely engaged in the torture of suspects.
"Britain's former chief legal adviser, Lord Goldsmith, said that the Foreign Office would want to examine any British involvement in torture allegations very carefully and, if necessary, bring individuals "to book" to ensure such behaviour was "eradicated"".
Would this be the very same Lord Goldsmith who changed his legal advice to suit Tony Blair's wish to support the Bush regime in its illegal war in Iraq? Not to mention the BAE/Saudi arms scandal. It beggars belief that the Foreign Office wants to examine its own role in this affair, given Jack Straw's and David Miliband's involvement as former and present Foreign Secretary. As for bringing to book, didn't the dodgy dossier constitute a book?
A shocking new report alleges widespread complicity between British security agents and their Pakistani counterparts who have routinely engaged in the torture of suspects.
"Britain's former chief legal adviser, Lord Goldsmith, said that the Foreign Office would want to examine any British involvement in torture allegations very carefully and, if necessary, bring individuals "to book" to ensure such behaviour was "eradicated"".
Would this be the very same Lord Goldsmith who changed his legal advice to suit Tony Blair's wish to support the Bush regime in its illegal war in Iraq? Not to mention the BAE/Saudi arms scandal. It beggars belief that the Foreign Office wants to examine its own role in this affair, given Jack Straw's and David Miliband's involvement as former and present Foreign Secretary. As for bringing to book, didn't the dodgy dossier constitute a book?
FFS: Haven't the powers that be heard about the economic downturn and that £2M can be better spent elsewhere?
FFS: Haven't the powers that be heard about the economic downturn and that £2M can be better spent elsewhere?
Sorry, Ma'am you were a dear old lady and worthy of some looking up to you. Still, effigies are really a thing of the past and we can worship your memory without the need for a bleeding bronze statue! If this keeps on, there will be calls for one to be erected to remember Jade Bloody Goody! "[T]he former Big Brother hate object has finally earned our respect, says Jenny McCartney". Speak for yourself, luv! In what way does kicking the bucket earn my respect? We all have to die at some time. In some cases, the sooner the better, if it means not having to see or hear about Jade Goody again! No sympathy in this quarter.
Sorry, Ma'am you were a dear old lady and worthy of some looking up to you. Still, effigies are really a thing of the past and we can worship your memory without the need for a bleeding bronze statue! If this keeps on, there will be calls for one to be erected to remember Jade Bloody Goody! "[T]he former Big Brother hate object has finally earned our respect, says Jenny McCartney". Speak for yourself, luv! In what way does kicking the bucket earn my respect? We all have to die at some time. In some cases, the sooner the better, if it means not having to see or hear about Jade Goody again! No sympathy in this quarter.
Not a breakdown in communication: Just going in another direction
Not a breakdown in communication: Just going in another direction
Anyone who may have wondered what has happened to Jailhouselawyer's posts over the last few days, one I have been snowed under with work associated with the Prisoners Votes Case, two I have been posting here and here. In relation to the first, it was this that got me going off in another direction in a sense.
Normal service will resume as soon as possible...
Anyone who may have wondered what has happened to Jailhouselawyer's posts over the last few days, one I have been snowed under with work associated with the Prisoners Votes Case, two I have been posting here and here. In relation to the first, it was this that got me going off in another direction in a sense.
Normal service will resume as soon as possible...
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Jack Straw artwork
Jack Straw artwork
Jack Straw spends £170,000 on artwork for his offices
Jack Straw, the Justice Secretary, has spent nearly £170,000 of taxpayers' money on artwork for his office.
Is there no end to this man's corruption?
Jack Straw spends £170,000 on artwork for his offices
Jack Straw, the Justice Secretary, has spent nearly £170,000 of taxpayers' money on artwork for his office.
Is there no end to this man's corruption?
Animal pictures of the week
Animal pictures of the week
Blanche, a five-year-old albino wallaby, is seen with her three-month-old regular-coloured joey in her pouch, at Tropical Wings Wildlife centre in Essex
A sea otter in Elkhorn Slough Estuary, California, wields a video camera. Judging by the state of the camera, which was covered in algae, it is believed the otter retrieved it from the bottom of the estuary Picture: KPA/ZUMA/REX FEATURES...At first sight I thought it was Cherrypie doing some underwater photography:-)
A carnivore keeper holds meerkat pups, the first to be born in nine years at Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia. The pups named Zanzibar and Nairobi are four weeks old, born on Jan. 23, 2009 Picture: AP
Polar bear Knut, enjoying the snow in his enclosure, at the zoo in Berlin, Germany...
Picture: AP
...Knut the polar bear plays with snow balls...Picture: AP
Kartini, the white Bengal tiger, feeds her day-old cubs at Bali Zoo park in Bali, Indonesia...Picture: AP
...All tired out after lunch, the tiger cubs have a catnap Picture: EPA
A pet fox named Miss Snooks has her belly rubbed. Steve Edgington took in Miss Snooks when she was a 10-day old cub and looks after her at his home in Ditchling, East Sussex Picture: M+Y PORTSMOUTH
A dog suckles her puppies at Halikisla village of Kars, eastern Turkey
Picture: AFP/GETTY
A bird pecks on a piece of pork fat on a tree branch, in a park in Minsk, Belarus
Picture: AP
Blanche, a five-year-old albino wallaby, is seen with her three-month-old regular-coloured joey in her pouch, at Tropical Wings Wildlife centre in Essex
A sea otter in Elkhorn Slough Estuary, California, wields a video camera. Judging by the state of the camera, which was covered in algae, it is believed the otter retrieved it from the bottom of the estuary Picture: KPA/ZUMA/REX FEATURES...At first sight I thought it was Cherrypie doing some underwater photography:-)
A carnivore keeper holds meerkat pups, the first to be born in nine years at Taronga Zoo in Sydney, Australia. The pups named Zanzibar and Nairobi are four weeks old, born on Jan. 23, 2009 Picture: AP
Polar bear Knut, enjoying the snow in his enclosure, at the zoo in Berlin, Germany...
Picture: AP
...Knut the polar bear plays with snow balls...Picture: AP
Kartini, the white Bengal tiger, feeds her day-old cubs at Bali Zoo park in Bali, Indonesia...Picture: AP
...All tired out after lunch, the tiger cubs have a catnap Picture: EPA
A pet fox named Miss Snooks has her belly rubbed. Steve Edgington took in Miss Snooks when she was a 10-day old cub and looks after her at his home in Ditchling, East Sussex Picture: M+Y PORTSMOUTH
A dog suckles her puppies at Halikisla village of Kars, eastern Turkey
Picture: AFP/GETTY
A bird pecks on a piece of pork fat on a tree branch, in a park in Minsk, Belarus
Picture: AP
Illegal immigrants set fire to a detention centre on the Italian island of Lampedusa
Illegal immigrants set fire to a detention centre on the Italian island of Lampedusa
Illegal immigrants and asylum-seekers set fire to part of their detention centre on the southern Italian island of Lampedusa after a failed escape attempt
Illegal immigrants and asylum-seekers set fire to part of their detention centre on the southern Italian island of Lampedusa after a failed escape attempt
Submerged pier in the sunset in the Lake District
Submerged pier in the sunset in the Lake District
I have the same scene in a photo/painting on my bedroom wall above my bed...
I have the same scene in a photo/painting on my bedroom wall above my bed...
Friday, February 20, 2009
Computer mouse gives elusive Chinese cat serious headache
Computer mouse gives elusive Chinese cat serious headache
Did Chinese prison guards batter a prisoner to death and then claim he died playing hide and seek?
What a pity that my blog is still banned in China by the Great Firewall of China...
Did Chinese prison guards batter a prisoner to death and then claim he died playing hide and seek?
What a pity that my blog is still banned in China by the Great Firewall of China...
Harman: I take it that's a yes then?
Harman: I take it that's a yes then?
Harriet Harman: I'm not trying to replace Gordon Brown
Labour's deputy leader Harriet Harman has dismissed reports she was positioning herself to replace Gordon Brown as Prime Minister.
Given that MPs are famous for being economical with the truth, save for when a woman says "no" to sex she means it, in this instance a negative from Harperson means exactly the opposite, that's affirmative.
Harriet Harman: I'm not trying to replace Gordon Brown
Labour's deputy leader Harriet Harman has dismissed reports she was positioning herself to replace Gordon Brown as Prime Minister.
Given that MPs are famous for being economical with the truth, save for when a woman says "no" to sex she means it, in this instance a negative from Harperson means exactly the opposite, that's affirmative.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Hilary Benn suffers torture
Hilary Benn suffers torture
Hilary Benn tortured by radio journalist.
Absolutely brilliant. Not a patch on the old man. Move over Paxo, there's a new kid on the block. I suspect that Hilary Benn's career is over after this debacle. If it isn't it should be.
Hat-Tip to Iain Dale's Diary.
Hilary Benn tortured by radio journalist.
Absolutely brilliant. Not a patch on the old man. Move over Paxo, there's a new kid on the block. I suspect that Hilary Benn's career is over after this debacle. If it isn't it should be.
Hat-Tip to Iain Dale's Diary.
Firefox why don't you sort it out?
Firefox why don't you sort it out?
Several times today I have got the message "Firefox has encountered a problem and needs to close". It is so frustrating. All I am doing is visiting my regular sites such as the Telegraph and Guardian. I tolerated this intrusion up to a point. However, I draw the line when having composed a lengthy response to whether Peter Sutcliffe should be released, hit the post comment button only to lose all my hard work when this struck again "Firefox has encountered a problem and needs to close".
The problem I have encountered is with Firefox!
Sort it!
Several times today I have got the message "Firefox has encountered a problem and needs to close". It is so frustrating. All I am doing is visiting my regular sites such as the Telegraph and Guardian. I tolerated this intrusion up to a point. However, I draw the line when having composed a lengthy response to whether Peter Sutcliffe should be released, hit the post comment button only to lose all my hard work when this struck again "Firefox has encountered a problem and needs to close".
The problem I have encountered is with Firefox!
Sort it!
Jailhouselawyer libelled by the Timesonline
Jailhouselawyer libelled by the Timesonline
Last night I sent the following email to the editor of the Timesonline...
Hi
It has come to my attention that I have been libelled by the Timesonline.
I seek that the necessary correction is made.
In addition, whilst I accept that in the offending article you have only printed the opinions of other people, nevertheless, those comments are inaccurate and mislead your readers. Therefore, as a compromise, I suggest that either you allow me to write an article of the same length, on the same topic, alternatively it can be written by Daniel Finkelstein and submitted to me for accuracy before publication.
I look forward to your response
John Hirst
So far I have received no response...
Last night I sent the following email to the editor of the Timesonline...
Hi
It has come to my attention that I have been libelled by the Timesonline.
I seek that the necessary correction is made.
In addition, whilst I accept that in the offending article you have only printed the opinions of other people, nevertheless, those comments are inaccurate and mislead your readers. Therefore, as a compromise, I suggest that either you allow me to write an article of the same length, on the same topic, alternatively it can be written by Daniel Finkelstein and submitted to me for accuracy before publication.
I look forward to your response
John Hirst
So far I have received no response...
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Curtain twitching Tory neighbours spy on Labour Home Secretary
Curtain twitching Tory neighbours spy on Labour Home Secretary
The Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, says she is confident she will be cleared by a formal sleaze inquiry into allegations that she misused her Parliamentary housing allowance while lodging with her sister.
The expenses fiddling Jacqui Smith is the subject of a Tory plot to discredit her even more than she already discredits herself and the Labour party. The nosy neighbours have offered their assistance to the Tory party and the Tory party has explained to the neighbours how to stick the boot in.
I am just wondering if the neighbours might be accused of aiding terrorists by disclosing the Home Secretary's movements? Perhaps their door should be kicked in and the house searched to discover if they are concealing any more explosive materials?
The Home Secretary, Jacqui Smith, says she is confident she will be cleared by a formal sleaze inquiry into allegations that she misused her Parliamentary housing allowance while lodging with her sister.
The expenses fiddling Jacqui Smith is the subject of a Tory plot to discredit her even more than she already discredits herself and the Labour party. The nosy neighbours have offered their assistance to the Tory party and the Tory party has explained to the neighbours how to stick the boot in.
I am just wondering if the neighbours might be accused of aiding terrorists by disclosing the Home Secretary's movements? Perhaps their door should be kicked in and the house searched to discover if they are concealing any more explosive materials?
Prime Minister in waiting
Prime Minister in waiting
And waiting, and waiting, and waiting.....Zzzzzzzzz. If anyone remembers the old battle axe below, it's one good reason not to let Harperson anywhere near the seat of power. Apparently, she is making a bid for power.
And waiting, and waiting, and waiting.....Zzzzzzzzz. If anyone remembers the old battle axe below, it's one good reason not to let Harperson anywhere near the seat of power. Apparently, she is making a bid for power.
Er?
Er?
The slimeball Mark Leech claims Mr Straw had told him: "The problem with Mr Biggs is no-one has formally asked me for his release".
However, Mr Biggs, who is an individual... A Ministry of Justice spokeswoman said: "We do not comment on individuals".
Mr Straw is Secretary of State for Justice, and it is being claimed that he did comment on an individual.
What are we to believe?
The slimeball Mark Leech claims Mr Straw had told him: "The problem with Mr Biggs is no-one has formally asked me for his release".
However, Mr Biggs, who is an individual... A Ministry of Justice spokeswoman said: "We do not comment on individuals".
Mr Straw is Secretary of State for Justice, and it is being claimed that he did comment on an individual.
What are we to believe?
Law Lords back Qatada deportation
Law Lords back Qatada deportation
The Law Lords have given the go-ahead for the deportation from the UK of the radical cleric Abu Qatada.
Five Lords unanimously threw out his appeal against returning to Jordan where he faces jail for terrorism.
Qatada had alleged that his conviction in Jordan was based on evidence extracted by torture.
The 48-year-old cleric is one of Europe's most influential extremists and is currently in Belmarsh high security prison.
Comment: It's good to see history repeating itself with the reintroduction of transportation of convicts...
The Law Lords have given the go-ahead for the deportation from the UK of the radical cleric Abu Qatada.
Five Lords unanimously threw out his appeal against returning to Jordan where he faces jail for terrorism.
Qatada had alleged that his conviction in Jordan was based on evidence extracted by torture.
The 48-year-old cleric is one of Europe's most influential extremists and is currently in Belmarsh high security prison.
Comment: It's good to see history repeating itself with the reintroduction of transportation of convicts...
Confessions of a Guantanamo guard
Female prison officer 'ran lucrative drugs racket' inside jail
Female prison officer 'ran lucrative drugs racket' inside jail
A female prison officer ran a lucrative drugs racket inside a London jail and took up to a dozen orders a day from an inmate using a smuggled mobile phone, a court heard.
Patricia Ollivierre, 30, was caught by a sniffer dog at Wormwood Scrubs and found with more than 17 grams of heroin and a large block of cannabis stashed in her car, jurors were told.
The guard, who had worked at the jail for several years, is alleged to have been in contact with an inmate arranging various drugs deals.
Southwark Crown Court heard that Miss Ollivierre has admitted misconduct in relation to making calls and text messages from an inmate's mobile telephone.
Nine Metropolitan police officers suspended over alleged property racket
Nine Metropolitan police officers have been suspended in connection with an alleged stolen property racket.
Anti-corruption officers swooped on Edmonton police station in north London yesterday, turning it into a crime scene, following an operation lasting several weeks.
Those under investigation are mainly Pcs attached to the local crime squad. Two more have been placed on restricted duties.
The investigation concerns the alleged taking of items from the property stores at the station - which hold items such as iPods recovered from robbers.
Listening probes and secret cameras are said to have been set up at the station to try and catch suspect officers.
The operation follows the recent jailing of a female civilian property officer at Edmonton who was caught setting fire to records.
The Met said there were no arrests.
Comment: It's nice to see that our forces of law and order are hard at work, even if it is only them getting involved in dishonest graft.
A female prison officer ran a lucrative drugs racket inside a London jail and took up to a dozen orders a day from an inmate using a smuggled mobile phone, a court heard.
Patricia Ollivierre, 30, was caught by a sniffer dog at Wormwood Scrubs and found with more than 17 grams of heroin and a large block of cannabis stashed in her car, jurors were told.
The guard, who had worked at the jail for several years, is alleged to have been in contact with an inmate arranging various drugs deals.
Southwark Crown Court heard that Miss Ollivierre has admitted misconduct in relation to making calls and text messages from an inmate's mobile telephone.
Nine Metropolitan police officers suspended over alleged property racket
Nine Metropolitan police officers have been suspended in connection with an alleged stolen property racket.
Anti-corruption officers swooped on Edmonton police station in north London yesterday, turning it into a crime scene, following an operation lasting several weeks.
Those under investigation are mainly Pcs attached to the local crime squad. Two more have been placed on restricted duties.
The investigation concerns the alleged taking of items from the property stores at the station - which hold items such as iPods recovered from robbers.
Listening probes and secret cameras are said to have been set up at the station to try and catch suspect officers.
The operation follows the recent jailing of a female civilian property officer at Edmonton who was caught setting fire to records.
The Met said there were no arrests.
Comment: It's nice to see that our forces of law and order are hard at work, even if it is only them getting involved in dishonest graft.
Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe 'fit to be freed from Broadmoor'
Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe 'fit to be freed from Broadmoor'
Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe is fit to be freed from Broadmoor, according to doctors at the high security hospital.
The decision is a major step towards 62-year-old Sutcliffe's aim of being freed altogether. He was jailed for life in 1981 after murdering 13 women and trying to kill seven others over a five-year period in the 1970s.
If the Ministry of Justice agrees with the doctors' verdict, he will be sent to a medium-secure unit where he could be allowed out on short release for rehabilitation. A source close to Mr Sutcliffe told The Sun he is regarded as a "model patient" at Broadmoor, and medics are more concerned about the risk the public poses to him rather than the risk he poses to the public.
Comment: The mind boggles. How he escaped being on the never to be released list is beyond me. There are quite a few on that list who have done far less serious crimes. I suspect that if he is released the Sun will hunt him down to get a front page exclusive, continuing the story on pages 2,3,4,5,6 and 7.
Convicted murderer on run after fleeing mental hospital
Convicted murderer Paul Caesar is on the run after fleeing a secure mental hospital with a record of high-profile escapes, police have warned.
The 37-year-old was last seen at Springfield Hospital in Tooting, south London, at 11am on Tuesday.
He is under a hospital order after being convicted for murder in 1996, the Metropolitan Police said.
Police described Caesar as "dangerous" and urged members of the public not to approach him, but instead to call 999 immediately.
Officers have now launched a search operation to track him down.
Yorkshire Ripper Peter Sutcliffe is fit to be freed from Broadmoor, according to doctors at the high security hospital.
The decision is a major step towards 62-year-old Sutcliffe's aim of being freed altogether. He was jailed for life in 1981 after murdering 13 women and trying to kill seven others over a five-year period in the 1970s.
If the Ministry of Justice agrees with the doctors' verdict, he will be sent to a medium-secure unit where he could be allowed out on short release for rehabilitation. A source close to Mr Sutcliffe told The Sun he is regarded as a "model patient" at Broadmoor, and medics are more concerned about the risk the public poses to him rather than the risk he poses to the public.
Comment: The mind boggles. How he escaped being on the never to be released list is beyond me. There are quite a few on that list who have done far less serious crimes. I suspect that if he is released the Sun will hunt him down to get a front page exclusive, continuing the story on pages 2,3,4,5,6 and 7.
Convicted murderer on run after fleeing mental hospital
Convicted murderer Paul Caesar is on the run after fleeing a secure mental hospital with a record of high-profile escapes, police have warned.
The 37-year-old was last seen at Springfield Hospital in Tooting, south London, at 11am on Tuesday.
He is under a hospital order after being convicted for murder in 1996, the Metropolitan Police said.
Police described Caesar as "dangerous" and urged members of the public not to approach him, but instead to call 999 immediately.
Officers have now launched a search operation to track him down.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
What did you get in your hamper from Harrods little girlie?
What did you get in your hamper from Harrods little girlie?
No sex charges for Harrods owner
Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed will not face charges over claims he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said.
Whatever the pay off, it would not have been anything like the amount paid by Michael Jackson for silence...
No sex charges for Harrods owner
Harrods owner Mohamed Al Fayed will not face charges over claims he sexually assaulted a 15-year-old girl, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said.
Whatever the pay off, it would not have been anything like the amount paid by Michael Jackson for silence...
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