Reform

[Hibrandenburg]

The social media right wing presence is alarming me just now.

My Facebook feed is full of ordinary right wing, anti immigrant, posts which are lapped up by the public. I suspect many "people" are not actually real, but who knows. It's all about war, fighting back etc

Not sure how you buy space on the likes of Facebook, but I noted the same in the weeks before and after Trump was elected and the same again at the onset of the genocide in Gaza.

There's been a dramatic increase in the last few months. The Americans have now entered the fray and as well as the St Petersburg Troll Factory we now also have Miami Meme Machine filling social media with destabilising right wing fake news. The virtual war is well underway.

[Jones28]

The social media right wing presence is alarming me just now.

My Facebook feed is full of ordinary right wing, anti immigrant, posts which are lapped up by the public. I suspect many "people" are not actually real, but who knows. It's all about war, fighting back etc

Not sure how you buy space on the likes of Facebook, but I noted the same in the weeks before and after Trump was elected and the same again at the onset of the genocide in Gaza.

Do yourself a favour and bin it.

It's not what Social Media was meant to be, it's just another part of the right-wing grift.

All of it is a nonsense of Temu adverts, Ben Shapiro, Jordan Peterson and all the other shills that flood the space with their content.

I use Youtube and even that is becoming unbearable with adverts.

I signed up for Bluesky but I can count on 1 hand the number of times I've used it in the 8 weeks or so since I got it.

[jamie_1875]

:confused:

If we have an election and Scotland votes in 100 Indy supporting MSPs how would that be a travesty for democracy?

Would it reflect the political landscape in Scotland? Obviously no as we don't have a majority for Independence, that would be around 75% of MSPs supporting Independence but support for Indy is not at 75%. If we are around 50/50 I would like to see a parliament that reflects that.

I guess from your comment you are comfortable with that but it wouldn't work for me personally and would rather the parliament reflected society.

[Jones28]

Most Trump voters have negative opinions about him as well but he is offering (but not really) simple solutions and giving them someone to blame.


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I don't get how people can look at someone like Trump from the UK and say "yeah, we could do with someone like him".

He's not offering anything, he's ****ing over his own base, he's sacking Trump voters from jobs in the Government, he's increasing the cost of living for Americans, he's coming across a trumpet on the World stage, Russia are laughing at him and his regular social media ramblings are nonsensical.

In short, why are people so ****ing stupid?

[Andy Bee]

Would it reflect the political landscape in Scotland? Obviously no as we don't have a majority for Independence, that would be around 75% of MSPs supporting Independence but support for Indy is not at 75%. If we are around 50/50 I would like to see a parliament that reflects that.

I guess from your comment you are comfortable with that but it wouldn't work for me personally and would rather the parliament reflected society.

The Labour regional vote is consistently lower than their constituency vote and the Tory regional vote is consistently higher than their constituency vote, why is that? It's because Labour voters are gaming the system and voting Tory in areas they can beat the SNP. That results in a disproportionate amount of Tory MSPs. Reform will enter with policies like raising the Income Tax threshold to £20k, no basic rate tax for NHS and care workers for three years, tax companies like Amazon 4% and wipe out tax for High St businesses, immigration, £500 saving on energy bills and the bread and butter like make Brexit work. Of course they'll not do any of it but Nigel Farage parroting this lot in the lead up to the election will convince many, certainly enough to hoover up list seats. We have two choices here, either stick with the Status Quo and introduce Farage into Scottish politics or start gaming the system ourselves and end up with a vast amount of MSPs that take no direction from Westminster.

[cabbageandribs1875]

oh dear, a charity thief

Reform UK candidate resigns after admitting £28k charity fraud (https://www.spottednews.com/news/reform-uk-candidate-resigns-after-admitting-28k-charity-fraud/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJJJHVleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZD_bSrrCBlU FYyDF4mqLixYun_1-csQERM64OS7a2DDq5-Fsxy5r-BAsQ_aem_Y0Fbjg7Su4jEJLW7t3wkVQ)

A Reform UK (https://x.com/reformparty_uk) candidate for the upcoming Lincolnshire county council elections has stepped down after admitting to stealing more than £28,000 from a local charity.
Dan Turner was announced as Reform’s candidate for Louth North just last month. However, he pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and abuse of position at Boston Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Reform UK has now suspended his party membership. Turner will be sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court at a later date.

Turner’s resignation raises more questions about Reform UK’s candidate vetting process. The party has faced repeated issues with poor candidate choices, including appointing Jack Aaron — who previously praised Hitler and Assad — as head of vetting.
Turner also has ties to Dame Andrea Jenkyns, the former Tory and Reform mayoral candidate for Greater Lincolnshire.

[MKHIBEE]

oh dear, a charity thief

Reform UK candidate resigns after admitting £28k charity fraud (https://www.spottednews.com/news/reform-uk-candidate-resigns-after-admitting-28k-charity-fraud/?fbclid=IwY2xjawJJJHVleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHZD_bSrrCBlU FYyDF4mqLixYun_1-csQERM64OS7a2DDq5-Fsxy5r-BAsQ_aem_Y0Fbjg7Su4jEJLW7t3wkVQ)

A Reform UK (https://x.com/reformparty_uk) candidate for the upcoming Lincolnshire county council elections has stepped down after admitting to stealing more than £28,000 from a local charity.
Dan Turner was announced as Reform’s candidate for Louth North just last month. However, he pleaded guilty to fraud by false representation and abuse of position at Boston Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
Reform UK has now suspended his party membership. Turner will be sentenced at Lincoln Crown Court at a later date.

Turner’s resignation raises more questions about Reform UK’s candidate vetting process. The party has faced repeated issues with poor candidate choices, including appointing Jack Aaron — who previously praised Hitler and Assad — as head of vetting.
Turner also has ties to Dame Andrea Jenkyns, the former Tory and Reform mayoral candidate for Greater Lincolnshire.

Cardigan wearing, Rover driver?

[cabbageandribs1875]

more good work from the Led By Donkeys team Led By Donkeys (@ledbydonkeys.org) — Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/ledbydonkeys.org)

[silverhibee]

I don't get how people can look at someone like Trump from the UK and say "yeah, we could do with someone like him".

He's not offering anything, he's ****ing over his own base, he's sacking Trump voters from jobs in the Government, he's increasing the cost of living for Americans, he's coming across a trumpet on the World stage, Russia are laughing at him and his regular social media ramblings are nonsensical.

In short, why are people so ****ing stupid?

And Farage will do the same if he gets to be PM, promise the world to these clown patriots in England and Wales and hire immigrants to do there jobs, how Europe has not banned X I don’t know, it’s a horrible place now.

[JimBHibees]

And Farage will do the same if he gets to be PM, promise the world to these clown patriots in England and Wales and hire immigrants to do there jobs, how Europe has not banned X I don’t know, it’s a horrible place now.

Scared of annoying Trump but it absolutely should be done

[JimBHibees]

more good work from the Led By Donkeys team Led By Donkeys (@ledbydonkeys.org) — Bluesky (https://bsky.app/profile/ledbydonkeys.org)

That is brilliant 🤩

[grunt]

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:5mqpgxjffcckasqv7h6g7itu/bafkreihpkqoprw4qsvwwirgekb3zqo4uihmrquyoipbuinefy luaraajcq@jpeg

[Hiber-nation]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cm2xey4m2ygo

Pretty much standard for that bunch.

[Jack]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cm2xey4m2ygo

Pretty much standard for that bunch.

I suspect you're more likely to be subject to a stricter recruitment process being the local drug dealer than a local or national politician for Reform Ltd.

[Moulin Yarns]

https://news.stv.tv/politics/celtic-legends-son-to-run-as-candidate-for-nigel-farages-reform-party


Reduce council tax and increase local authorities services?!

[Bostonhibby]

https://news.stv.tv/politics/celtic-legends-son-to-run-as-candidate-for-nigel-farages-reform-party


Reduce council tax and increase local authorities services?!There's nothing wee Nige can't do, he's Trumps UK Governor General.

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[grunt]

https://news.stv.tv/politics/celtic-legends-son-to-run-as-candidate-for-nigel-farages-reform-party


Reduce council tax and increase local authorities services?!You forgot about cutting out all that wasteful spending. That'll do the trick.

[Bostonhibby]

You forgot about cutting out all that wasteful spending. That'll do the trick.He's certainly wasteful down here, I got 30 odd leaflets with his Mr Toad style smirk on them stuffed in my post box, endorsing a beaming Reform lady in our local mayoral election.

They seem to think Keir Starmer is responsible for all the local issues that have been presided over by our right wing councils for decades.

Put them all in the bin except the one with their matching Hitler tache, haircut and swastika which I'll keep for nearer election day when they come canvassing.

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[grunt]

He's certainly wasteful down here, I got 30 odd leaflets with his Mr Toad style smirk on them stuffed in my post box, endorsing a beaming Reform lady in our local mayoral election.
I just wondered who she might be, so I looked and to my complete lack of surprise find that your Reform Mayoral candidate is none other than this charming Dame, arch Brexiter and former Lying Tory Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Skills (!) under Johnson. Maybe put this photo up in your window.

https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/048253d834c24d43af4d21412eea3abeec9439a5/0_40_852_511/master/852.jpg?width=1300&dpr=2&s=none&crop=none

[Bostonhibby]

I just wondered who she might be, so I looked and to my complete lack of surprise find that your Reform Mayoral candidate is none other than this charming Dame, arch Brexiter and former Lying Tory Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Skills (!) under Johnson. Maybe put this photo up in your window.

https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/048253d834c24d43af4d21412eea3abeec9439a5/0_40_852_511/master/852.jpg?width=1300&dpr=2&s=none&crop=noneNah, here she is.

That's what they've got on the leaflets. No mention of the actual candidate!

The actual mayoral candidate, who they fail to publicise on the leaflet is the equally toxic Tory defector Andrea Jenkyns.


[emoji16]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20250410/32badbec946987e47de86ffdf574f68e.jpg

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[grunt]

The actual mayoral candidate, who they fail to publicise on the leaflet is the equally toxic Tory defector Andrea Jenkyns.
That's the Dame in my post.

[Bostonhibby]

That's the Dame in my post.[emoji106]

Not identifying her on their leaflet could be a deliberate tactic then



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[Bostonhibby]

That's the Dame in my post.https://bsky.app/profile/eddwilson.bsky.social/post/3ln3oict4bd2b

Andrea Jenkyn telling lies? Whodathunkit

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[Moulin Yarns]

OK, just a local by-election but reform came a close 3rd behind Labour in Glenrothes.

[Hibs4185]

OK, just a local by-election but reform came a close 3rd behind Labour in Glenrothes.

Where did the Tories come? It could be that the reform support is coming from them? If the Tories maintained there vote and reform increased then that could be worrying

[Keith_M]

Where did the Tories come? It could be that the reform support is coming from them? If the Tories maintained there vote and reform increased then that could be worrying


Tories and Labour both had reduced numbers.


However, turnout was 24.2%, with 3,050 actual votes, so not sure we can read too much into this (at least in isolation)

[Scorrie]

Reform win the Runcorn by election by 6 votes. A bit depressing as it’s just along the road from me. Reform also win Lincolnshire Mayoralty, not a huge surprise really

[Ozyhibby]

Reform win the Runcorn by election by 6 votes. A bit depressing as it’s just along the road from me. Reform also win Lincolnshire Mayoralty, not a huge surprise really

I would have thought Labour trying to be like reform would be enough to win these seats for them?


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[Bostonhibby]

Reform win the Runcorn by election by 6 votes. A bit depressing as it’s just along the road from me. Reform also win Lincolnshire Mayoralty, not a huge surprise reallyIn this county Reform could have stuck a rosette on a fridge freezer and as long as it was promising to take us back to the glory days of empire and deport all "foreigners" it would be our new mayor.

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[Hibs4185]

Sorry to bring it back to independence as I do on most political threads but Farage doing well in England is gold dust for independence so although I despise Farage and Reform, I’m not crying my eyes out.

If we vote no to independence and get Farage as prime minister then I will be crying

[Pretty Boy]

How many times can the same people be conned by the same people?

Farage lied about Brexit, all the big promises about the land of milk and honey post EU (and I'm no real fan of the EU) was wind and pish. Jenkyns was up there as both one of the most incompetent and nastiest members of the previous governments and that takes some doing.

I genuinely want to see the best in a lot of people. I know huge swathes of the population are disenfranchised, struggling, let down, not listened to, condescended to, have been repeatedly failed by the party masquerading as Labour etc etc but putting your faith in the same failures again and again is just stupidity really.

[jamie_1875]

Sorry to bring it back to independence as I do on most political threads but Farage doing well in England is gold dust for independence so although I despise Farage and Reform, I’m not crying my eyes out.

If we vote no to independence and get Farage as prime minister then I will be crying

I get what you are saying but don't underestimate the people of Scotland, they aren't stupid enough (I think) to simply switch to Indy because of who is in number 10. I remember hearing how Brexit, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss etc would all drive increased support for Independence and have we really seen that at all? I think Farage as PM will certainly help (personally don't think he ever will be PM) but the SNP also need a plan to deliver and take advantage of any change of mood, not sure they have that in them from what I see just now.

Reform are a gift to John Swinney and the SNP though, he must say it through gritted teeth when he goes on about eradicating them etc as they increase support for him and his party.

[Hibs4185]

I get what you are saying but don't underestimate the people of Scotland, they aren't stupid enough (I think) to simply switch to Indy because of who is in number 10. I remember hearing how Brexit, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss etc would all drive increased support for Independence and have we really seen that at all? I think Farage as PM will certainly help (personally don't think he ever will be PM) but the SNP also need a plan to deliver and take advantage of any change of mood, not sure they have that in them from what I see just now.

I agree regarding the SNP but if they want the yes vote to sustain their political ambitions then they will have to start listening to the voters

[Keith_M]

Sorry to bring it back to independence as I do on most political threads but Farage doing well in England is gold dust for independence so although I despise Farage and Reform, I’m not crying my eyes out.

If we vote no to independence and get Farage as prime minister then I will be crying


I don't think there will be another vote on independence, so it's a moot point.

We're basically in the situation where we'll get whichever party England votes for, so we'll just have to take what we're given.

[JimBHibees]

I don't think there will be another vote on independence, so it's a moot point.

We're basically in the situation where we'll get whichever party England votes for, so we'll just have to take what we're given.

Yep the 2014 is looking like our only chance. As every day goes past the more and more that seems such a wrong decision. Every chance in the not so distant future we will be out of Europe and have an even more than Tory far right gov

[Scorrie]

In this county Reform could have stuck a rosette on a fridge freezer and as long as it was promising to take us back to the glory days of empire and deport all "foreigners" it would be our new mayor.

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Will be interesting to see how it pans out for Lincolnshire. Jenkins is launching “Doge” Lincolnshire a la Musk so will be interesting to see how your public services do, unless she’s talking pish and her plans won’t survive the first contact with reality

[Bostonhibby]

Will be interesting to see how it pans out for Lincolnshire. Jenkins is launching “Doge” Lincolnshire a la Musk so will be interesting to see how your public services do, unless she’s talking pish and her plans won’t survive the first contact with realityBig towns in and around south Lincs have been heading further and further right, services and social aspects generally come second to rhetoric around big generalisations like taking back control, sending foreigners home etc. Amongst people who are generally better off there remains a lot of anger around not getting a fuel allowance anymore.

These tend to be the same people who want to cut benefits/hand outs for poorer people-maybe Labour is the real party for them?

Jenkins will be looking to relaunch Jenkins and will use this platform for doing just that, what she has now is influence, hopefully that won't be used like in Teesside where it appears the Mayors pals have done very well indeed....

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[tamig]

In this county Reform could have stuck a rosette on a fridge freezer and as long as it was promising to take us back to the glory days of empire and deport all "foreigners" it would be our new mayor.

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I used to like going to Skegness for my holidays back in the 70s. It seems like the county has turned into the stereotypical Reform heartland. Maybe it was always thus and I just never noticed in the innocence of my youth.

[Bostonhibby]

I used to like going to Skegness for my holidays back in the 70s. It seems like the county has turned into the stereotypical Reform heartland. Maybe it was always thus and I just never noticed in the innocence of my youth.Not been for a while and can't say I'm missing out, I think a lot of what we are seeing and definitely hearing comes from large bitter and hateful groups, in my experience of the older generation and usually with a chip on their shoulder and happy to source scapegoats for their own shortcomings.

Anyway, enough of that I'm off to Hunstanton[emoji16]

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[Pretty Boy]

Not been for a while and can't say I'm missing out, I think a lot of what we are seeing and definitely hearing comes from large bitter and hateful groups, in my experience of the older generation and usually with a chip on their shoulder and happy to source scapegoats for their own shortcomings.

Anyway, enough of that I'm off to Hunstanton[emoji16]

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My father in law lives in Woodhall Spa and for a pretty affluent place, one of the main watering holes being the Conservative Club says it all, there always seems a lot of bitterness and discontent with their lot. I suspect one aspect is the village has changed beyond all recognition in the 13 or so years I have been visiting. I think the population has close to quadrupled, new houses everywhere but still a shabby bus service, one doctor, one dentist and a high school 2 towns away. It always seems to be middle class white people buying the new homes rather than pesky immigrants in my experience though.

I've not frequented Boston often but Lincoln itself is a weird city. The old town bit up by the cathedral and castle si almost picture postcard perfect. Literally cross the tracks at the level crossing and it's a total ****hole. So run down and the general air of poverty is everywhere. I can almost get why those people are seduced by Reform and their scapegoats, less so the more affluent types mentioned above.

When I was in the pub last year a guy who had been one of the biggest Brexit cheerleaders (he had an unhealthy distaste for the Portuguese for some reason) was bemoaning the fact he had no workers to harvest on his farm. He genuinely seemed unable to join the dots and was still blaming immigrants for 'driving the English workers away'. My FIL has worked in agriculture all his days and knows it's hard work, pretty crap hours and low paid but he seems able to avoid a weird inherent bitterness towards people actually willing to do the work for the crap wage Mr Brexit offers.

At it's root I wonder if the whole 'Bomber County' thing is partly to blame. There was an annual 40s weekend in the village until recently, I attended once and it can only be described as ****ing bizarre, total League of Gentlemen stuff. I always recall seeing signs for loads more elsewhere in the area as well. The local hotel was the home of the 617 Squadron during the war and plaster is everywhere, the other hotel is called the Lancaster etc etc. It's like these guys have been spoonfed on stories of the County being at the heart of fighting the Nazis (and laudable their efforts were too). They yearn for a perfect golden age that never existed there or anywhere. The irony is they have managed to sleepwalk into spouting the same rhetoric the Dambusters and millions more fought to defeat.

[Smartie]

My father in law lives in Woodhall Spa and for a pretty affluent place, one of the main watering holes being the Conservative Club says it all, there always seems a lot of bitterness and discontent with their lot. I suspect one aspect is the village has changed beyond all recognition in the 13 or so years I have been visiting. I think the population has close to quadrupled, new houses everywhere but still a shabby bus service, one doctor, one dentist and a high school 2 towns away. It always seems to be middle class white people buying the new homes rather than pesky immigrants in my experience though.

I've not frequented Boston often but Lincoln itself is a weird city. The old town bit up by the cathedral and castle si almost picture postcard perfect. Literally cross the tracks at the level crossing and it's a total ****hole. So run down and the general air of poverty is everywhere. I can almost get why those people are seduced by Reform and their scapegoats, less so the more affluent types mentioned above.

When I was in the pub last year a guy who had been one of the biggest Brexit cheerleaders (he had an unhealthy distaste for the Portuguese for some reason) was bemoaning the fact he had no workers to harvest on his farm. He genuinely seemed unable to join the dots and was still blaming immigrants for 'driving the English workers away'. My FIL has worked in agriculture all his days and knows it's hard work, pretty crap hours and low paid but he seems able to avoid a weird inherent bitterness towards people actually willing to do the work for the crap wage Mr Brexit offers.

At it's root I wonder if the whole 'Bomber County' thing is partly to blame. There was an annual 40s weekend in the village until recently, I attended once and it can only be described as ****ing bizarre, total League of Gentlemen stuff. I always recall seeing signs for loads more elsewhere in the area as well. The local hotel was the home of the 617 Squadron during the war and plaster is everywhere, the other hotel is called the Lancaster etc etc. It's like these guys have been spoonfed on stories of the County being at the heart of fighting the Nazis (and laudable their efforts were too). They yearn for a perfect golden age that never existed there or anywhere. The irony is they have managed to sleepwalk into spouting the same rhetoric the Dambusters and millions more fought to defeat.

There’s a bit of me thinks we need to get our dose of F.A.F.O, let the mentalists get their way for a while, get the damage from it over and done with and then rebuild afterwards.

America seems to be going through this right now - let’s see what riches the tariffs, bringing back the manufacturing jobs etc bring to your American man in the street, the average MAGA voter, the American working class. My guess is it will get worse for a while, then it will continue to get worse. It will then get worse, then it will get worse still.

We need to go through similar, I feel. We need a dose of the nasty, unproductive, crap politics for a while and have to bear the consequences. The light at the end of the tunnel for these dicks simply doesn’t exist. I can’t help but think a trip down that rabbit hole has to be endured before it can be put to bed for a while. Even then, it’s only ever “for a while”.


Personally I think there’s a problem with “the cursed incumbent” right now. It’s hard for anyone in power to make meaningful change, the downward spiral and doom and gloom narrative continues and there’s always somebody seductive and better waiting in the wings. The problem that everyone from the Tories to Labour, the Dems to Trump, from the SNP to reform have is that they have to make the lives of people better once voted in - and not just do that but make it feel like that and control the narrative that that is exactly what has happened. Trump is finding out right now just how tough that is - and it’s only going to get tougher for him.

[Bostonhibby]

My father in law lives in Woodhall Spa and for a pretty affluent place, one of the main watering holes being the Conservative Club says it all, there always seems a lot of bitterness and discontent with their lot. I suspect one aspect is the village has changed beyond all recognition in the 13 or so years I have been visiting. I think the population has close to quadrupled, new houses everywhere but still a shabby bus service, one doctor, one dentist and a high school 2 towns away. It always seems to be middle class white people buying the new homes rather than pesky immigrants in my experience though.

I've not frequented Boston often but Lincoln itself is a weird city. The old town bit up by the cathedral and castle si almost picture postcard perfect. Literally cross the tracks at the level crossing and it's a total ****hole. So run down and the general air of poverty is everywhere. I can almost get why those people are seduced by Reform and their scapegoats, less so the more affluent types mentioned above.

When I was in the pub last year a guy who had been one of the biggest Brexit cheerleaders (he had an unhealthy distaste for the Portuguese for some reason) was bemoaning the fact he had no workers to harvest on his farm. He genuinely seemed unable to join the dots and was still blaming immigrants for 'driving the English workers away'. My FIL has worked in agriculture all his days and knows it's hard work, pretty crap hours and low paid but he seems able to avoid a weird inherent bitterness towards people actually willing to do the work for the crap wage Mr Brexit offers.

At it's root I wonder if the whole 'Bomber County' thing is partly to blame. There was an annual 40s weekend in the village until recently, I attended once and it can only be described as ****ing bizarre, total League of Gentlemen stuff. I always recall seeing signs for loads more elsewhere in the area as well. The local hotel was the home of the 617 Squadron during the war and plaster is everywhere, the other hotel is called the Lancaster etc etc. It's like these guys have been spoonfed on stories of the County being at the heart of fighting the Nazis (and laudable their efforts were too). They yearn for a perfect golden age that never existed there or anywhere. The irony is they have managed to sleepwalk into spouting the same rhetoric the Dambusters and millions more fought to defeat.

I can readily identify with what you say and have observed, I think we've had a similar exchange before.

I'm very pro our service people and what they've done but the narrative now seems to be if you're not one of the more recent outwardly showy types you are automatically against/lefty/woke etc etc. It's offensive but not really worth the debate.

On the agricultural worker point I know for a fact that farmers, one of whom I talk with, are missing the cheaper and more willing EU labour. Locals simply won't do it in numbers or work for the money. Ironic when you consider we need workers to generate tax to pay current and future pensioners......I think you can see where this is going.

Boston is in my name simply because a long time back we used to go to boston united, rather than any affinity to what has always been a bit of a tired run down town, I'm over an hour south but was up there recently expecting great things now that they are firmly living the Reform Dream and have an MP who seems to live anywhere but Boston, and mostly Dubai, all I can say is it's deteriorated a bit but maybe the new mayor will sort it out.

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[Kato]

My father in law lives in Woodhall Spa and for a pretty affluent place, one of the main watering holes being the Conservative Club says it all, there always seems a lot of bitterness and discontent with their lot. I suspect one aspect is the village has changed beyond all recognition in the 13 or so years I have been visiting. I think the population has close to quadrupled, new houses everywhere but still a shabby bus service, one doctor, one dentist and a high school 2 towns away. It always seems to be middle class white people buying the new homes rather than pesky immigrants in my experience though.

I've not frequented Boston often but Lincoln itself is a weird city. The old town bit up by the cathedral and castle si almost picture postcard perfect. Literally cross the tracks at the level crossing and it's a total ****hole. So run down and the general air of poverty is everywhere. I can almost get why those people are seduced by Reform and their scapegoats, less so the more affluent types mentioned above.

When I was in the pub last year a guy who had been one of the biggest Brexit cheerleaders (he had an unhealthy distaste for the Portuguese for some reason) was bemoaning the fact he had no workers to harvest on his farm. He genuinely seemed unable to join the dots and was still blaming immigrants for 'driving the English workers away'. My FIL has worked in agriculture all his days and knows it's hard work, pretty crap hours and low paid but he seems able to avoid a weird inherent bitterness towards people actually willing to do the work for the crap wage Mr Brexit offers.

At it's root I wonder if the whole 'Bomber County' thing is partly to blame. There was an annual 40s weekend in the village until recently, I attended once and it can only be described as ****ing bizarre, total League of Gentlemen stuff. I always recall seeing signs for loads more elsewhere in the area as well. The local hotel was the home of the 617 Squadron during the war and plaster is everywhere, the other hotel is called the Lancaster etc etc. It's like these guys have been spoonfed on stories of the County being at the heart of fighting the Nazis (and laudable their efforts were too). They yearn for a perfect golden age that never existed there or anywhere. The irony is they have managed to sleepwalk into spouting the same rhetoric the Dambusters and millions more fought to defeat.Can't blame them for voting Reform. Decades of WWII triumphalism, decades of racist newspapers dripfeeding division, the BBC's pet project (Nigel Farage) bullfrogging simple, strongman solutions, a decade and a half of pure xenophobia and carefully curated misinformation re-our closest neighbours.

They want to go back to the 1950s but it's not their fault no-one ever explains left-wing economics to them, they are only ever presented with left-wing social policies.

They know they are not as well off as they once were and can see the legacy Thatcherite parties are to blame (even though the woman herself is lionised) but the only alternative given is hour after hour of publicity for the Greens, ooops no not them, Reform- the party which will drive Thatcherism (ie neoliberalism) towards its final, facsistic goal.

You can blame their lack of curiosity but they aren't to blame for being narrow-minded and culturally stunted. That is where the billionaire press and tv station owners and their multi-millionaire journalists guide them, naively thinking they are on the same side.

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[Andy Bee]

My father in law lives in Woodhall Spa and for a pretty affluent place, one of the main watering holes being the Conservative Club says it all, there always seems a lot of bitterness and discontent with their lot. I suspect one aspect is the village has changed beyond all recognition in the 13 or so years I have been visiting. I think the population has close to quadrupled, new houses everywhere but still a shabby bus service, one doctor, one dentist and a high school 2 towns away. It always seems to be middle class white people buying the new homes rather than pesky immigrants in my experience though.

I've not frequented Boston often but Lincoln itself is a weird city. The old town bit up by the cathedral and castle si almost picture postcard perfect. Literally cross the tracks at the level crossing and it's a total ****hole. So run down and the general air of poverty is everywhere. I can almost get why those people are seduced by Reform and their scapegoats, less so the more affluent types mentioned above.

When I was in the pub last year a guy who had been one of the biggest Brexit cheerleaders (he had an unhealthy distaste for the Portuguese for some reason) was bemoaning the fact he had no workers to harvest on his farm. He genuinely seemed unable to join the dots and was still blaming immigrants for 'driving the English workers away'. My FIL has worked in agriculture all his days and knows it's hard work, pretty crap hours and low paid but he seems able to avoid a weird inherent bitterness towards people actually willing to do the work for the crap wage Mr Brexit offers.

At it's root I wonder if the whole 'Bomber County' thing is partly to blame. There was an annual 40s weekend in the village until recently, I attended once and it can only be described as ****ing bizarre, total League of Gentlemen stuff. I always recall seeing signs for loads more elsewhere in the area as well. The local hotel was the home of the 617 Squadron during the war and plaster is everywhere, the other hotel is called the Lancaster etc etc. It's like these guys have been spoonfed on stories of the County being at the heart of fighting the Nazis (and laudable their efforts were too). They yearn for a perfect golden age that never existed there or anywhere. The irony is they have managed to sleepwalk into spouting the same rhetoric the Dambusters and millions more fought to defeat.


Can't blame them for voting Reform. Decades of WWII triumphalism, decades of racist newspapers dripfeeding division, the BBC's pet project (Nigel Farage) bullfrogging simple, strongman solutions, a decade and a half of pure xenophobia and carefully curated misinformation re-our closest neighbours.

They want to go back to the 1950s but it's not their fault no-one ever explains left-wing economics to them, they are only ever presented with left-wing social policies.

They know they are not as well off as they once were and can see the legacy Thatcherite parties are to blame (even though the woman herself is lionised) but the only alternative given is hour after hour of publicity for the Greens, ooops no not them, Reform- the party which will drive Thatcherism (ie neoliberalism) towards its final, facsistic goal.

You can blame their lack of curiosity but they aren't to blame for being narrow-minded and culturally stunted. That is where the billionaire press and tv station owners and their multi-millionaire journalists guide them, naively thinking they are on the same side.

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**** Me, I just woke up after a cheeky afternoon snooze, refreshed and energised, ready to tackle the final little chores I had left for the day with vigour and enthusiasm. Now? I think I'm gonna kill massell. :greengrin

[Ozyhibby]

There’s a bit of me thinks we need to get our dose of F.A.F.O, let the mentalists get their way for a while, get the damage from it over and done with and then rebuild afterwards.

America seems to be going through this right now - let’s see what riches the tariffs, bringing back the manufacturing jobs etc bring to your American man in the street, the average MAGA voter, the American working class. My guess is it will get worse for a while, then it will continue to get worse. It will then get worse, then it will get worse still.

We need to go through similar, I feel. We need a dose of the nasty, unproductive, crap politics for a while and have to bear the consequences. The light at the end of the tunnel for these dicks simply doesn’t exist. I can’t help but think a trip down that rabbit hole has to be endured before it can be put to bed for a while. Even then, it’s only ever “for a while”.


Personally I think there’s a problem with “the cursed incumbent” right now. It’s hard for anyone in power to make meaningful change, the downward spiral and doom and gloom narrative continues and there’s always somebody seductive and better waiting in the wings. The problem that everyone from the Tories to Labour, the Dems to Trump, from the SNP to reform have is that they have to make the lives of people better once voted in - and not just do that but make it feel like that and control the narrative that that is exactly what has happened. Trump is finding out right now just how tough that is - and it’s only going to get tougher for him.

Wasn’t Brexit F.A.F.O enough for them? Obviously not.[emoji849][emoji2369]


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[Ozyhibby]

I remember when first past the post was sold as a way to keep the extremists out? Now that we have so many parties it’s actually giving them a shot at Downing Street. 34% was enough for Starmer to get a stonking majority. Would you bet against Reform getting that?


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[Scorrie]

I remember when first past the post was sold as a way to keep the extremists out? Now that we have so many parties it’s actually giving them a shot at Downing Street. 34% was enough for Starmer to get a stonking majority. Would you bet against Reform getting that?


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I suspect Reform will be happy to keep FPTP now. But The electorate are getting more savvy about tactical voting which could be trouble for Conservatives and Labour

[Smartie]

I remember when first past the post was sold as a way to keep the extremists out? Now that we have so many parties it’s actually giving them a shot at Downing Street. 34% was enough for Starmer to get a stonking majority. Would you bet against Reform getting that?


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I guess it depends largely on what the Conservative Party do between now and any vote.

I still believe that the UK has a fairly vast small c conservative majority - where do they take their vote? Realistically, right now they’re probably most aligned with Labour but if Labour don’t make them richer over the next few years (and they won’t) then who knows where they might turn?

Reform getting at least 34% of the vote is far from unrealistic. Horrific yes, unrealistic no.

[Kato]

I guess it depends largely on what the Conservative Party do between now and any vote.

I still believe that the UK has a fairly vast small c conservative majority - where do they take their vote? Realistically, right now they’re probably most aligned with Labour but if Labour don’t make them richer over the next few years (and they won’t) then who knows where they might turn?

Reform getting at least 34% of the vote is far from unrealistic. Horrific yes, unrealistic no.The right wing are patient. Over time a Tory Party overhaul will see them align more with their natural pals. The Labour Party really need to show some smarts and cahonies, although there is little sign at the moment.

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[Paul1642]

The really simple way to persuade the masses not to vote for extreme parties of both the left and right is for the centre parties to be competent, or at least appear to be competent. The tories managed 14 years in power by maintaining that illusion.

The Tory bubble burst big time and they made themselves unelectable, and are since doubling down on being unelectable under Badenoch. Labour are also not coming across well so far in government and risk the same fate. Both parties being unelectable at the same time is the route for another party to be the largest at the next election for the first time in forever.

Labour need to look at why people are voting Reform and acknowledge these concerns, maybe even do something about them. The knee jerk reaction will be to call 30% of the electorate who voted reform racist or fascists. The lessons that should have been learnt from Brexit tell me that’ll have the opposite to the desired effect.

They are a one or two tick pony. If Labour can get a grip on the small boats crisis (in a humane and legal way), and raise the income tax threshold in line with inflation, reform will drop down to meaningless numbers.

[Colr]

Labour still have 6,170 councillors to Reform’s 676 so lets not wet the bed just yet.

Bizarre to hear the Corbynistas claim that the result proves they were tight all along!!!

[Andy Bee]

Labour still have 6,170 councillors to Reform’s 676 so lets not wet the bed just yet.

Bizarre to hear the Corbynistas claim that the result proves they were tight all along!!!

They only had 285 councillors up for election and they lost 186 of them along with the only Labour council, there's definitely a wee bit piddle in that there bed.

[Paul1642]

They only had 285 councillors up for election and they lost 186 of them along with the only Labour council, there's definitely a wee bit piddle in that there bed.

Yep. Ultimately the most recent election results are the ones that indicate the future. Most of those 6170 councillors (maybe even all) were elected pre General election and if yesterdays results are anything to go by, that number is going to plummet unless Labour can get a grip of public opinion.

[Bostonhibby]

Anecdotal and not wanting to denigrate their victory but not long left a bizarre discussion with a reform activist giving it large about how "we" have won the mayoral vote in a canter.

Where we live is the lincs/Cambridgeshire border, separated by 4 metres of river. Pub on Lincolnshire side, he lives on Cambridgeshire side. Cambridgeshire woke up yesterday to a Tory Mayor.

They live amongst us, made my day.

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[cabbageandribs1875]

https://scontent.fman1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/492504355_9839765142746895_403958764841045486_n.jp g?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=I5G5WAHeHTMQ7kNvwE15q2p&_nc_oc=AdkNRmzuBlH6CcNQnjcv2IC7PIFpB2sKjgOkGmfg50r SEACOs3iHwSQzNA_kxb2KgJU&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-2.fna&_nc_gid=IxRYJrYoQRYJtV9NUS44HQ&oh=00_AfI-g2xVsTIiWX3Wb-AcjDGL6MYQ7EK4HSvbpwpVb9bWDQ&oe=68245722

[Ozyhibby]

https://scontent.fman1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/492504355_9839765142746895_403958764841045486_n.jp g?_nc_cat=105&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=I5G5WAHeHTMQ7kNvwE15q2p&_nc_oc=AdkNRmzuBlH6CcNQnjcv2IC7PIFpB2sKjgOkGmfg50r SEACOs3iHwSQzNA_kxb2KgJU&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-2.fna&_nc_gid=IxRYJrYoQRYJtV9NUS44HQ&oh=00_AfI-g2xVsTIiWX3Wb-AcjDGL6MYQ7EK4HSvbpwpVb9bWDQ&oe=68245722

PM Farage. [emoji2961]


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[Scorrie]

PM Farage. [emoji2961]


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With no seats in Scotland from that projection ?

[cabbageandribs1875]

where on earth has he got this idea from

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/495565897_10238009780446066_5843257337735946511_n. jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=Ua7yyb0RLJ8Q7kNvwGWtp6v&_nc_oc=AdlCgFdRbb8MIs03TiP6_6Drr8lTEG9Z-vCjR6ddVLIH3G0W4tezJ1f61rr_ixqohx4&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=uDHAwOu5rzfxP5EFbJXJug&oh=00_AfI_Y4KbaVAY-0umzmdW5PVh7QdZ4g8hbm1S7_iHv8MdYA&oe=68282053

[greenlex]

With no seats in Scotland from that projection ?
Right wing racist Tories. Same old same old just a different name. We’ve been here before.

[Bostonhibby]

where on earth has he got this idea from

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/495565897_10238009780446066_5843257337735946511_n. jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=Ua7yyb0RLJ8Q7kNvwGWtp6v&_nc_oc=AdlCgFdRbb8MIs03TiP6_6Drr8lTEG9Z-vCjR6ddVLIH3G0W4tezJ1f61rr_ixqohx4&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=uDHAwOu5rzfxP5EFbJXJug&oh=00_AfI_Y4KbaVAY-0umzmdW5PVh7QdZ4g8hbm1S7_iHv8MdYA&oe=68282053Anywhere but Clacton......

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[Ozyhibby]

where on earth has he got this idea from

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/495565897_10238009780446066_5843257337735946511_n. jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=Ua7yyb0RLJ8Q7kNvwGWtp6v&_nc_oc=AdlCgFdRbb8MIs03TiP6_6Drr8lTEG9Z-vCjR6ddVLIH3G0W4tezJ1f61rr_ixqohx4&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=uDHAwOu5rzfxP5EFbJXJug&oh=00_AfI_Y4KbaVAY-0umzmdW5PVh7QdZ4g8hbm1S7_iHv8MdYA&oe=68282053

Working from home has been a godsend for working mums. There are plenty of employers who will gladly pick up those workers.


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[Kato]

where on earth has he got this idea from

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/495565897_10238009780446066_5843257337735946511_n. jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=Ua7yyb0RLJ8Q7kNvwGWtp6v&_nc_oc=AdlCgFdRbb8MIs03TiP6_6Drr8lTEG9Z-vCjR6ddVLIH3G0W4tezJ1f61rr_ixqohx4&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=uDHAwOu5rzfxP5EFbJXJug&oh=00_AfI_Y4KbaVAY-0umzmdW5PVh7QdZ4g8hbm1S7_iHv8MdYA&oe=68282053They don't govern, they wreck. Hecklers tend not to make great performers.

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[grunt]

where on earth has he got this idea from

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/495565897_10238009780446066_5843257337735946511_n. jpg?_nc_cat=104&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=Ua7yyb0RLJ8Q7kNvwGWtp6v&_nc_oc=AdlCgFdRbb8MIs03TiP6_6Drr8lTEG9Z-vCjR6ddVLIH3G0W4tezJ1f61rr_ixqohx4&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=uDHAwOu5rzfxP5EFbJXJug&oh=00_AfI_Y4KbaVAY-0umzmdW5PVh7QdZ4g8hbm1S7_iHv8MdYA&oe=68282053
Aye, working from home shouldn't be allowed, eh Reform UK?

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rzuchljjnwxgsd47leso7mdi/bafkreih3ku6zsh6xzv2pcar5ny47nfz3tlhjmdg7n43jndo2a 4u2uirami@jpeg

[Ozyhibby]

Aye, working from home shouldn't be allowed, eh Reform UK?

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rzuchljjnwxgsd47leso7mdi/bafkreih3ku6zsh6xzv2pcar5ny47nfz3tlhjmdg7n43jndo2a 4u2uirami@jpeg

Home working saves the company about £30k per desk in property costs. It’s a no brainer for some roles.


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[grunt]

Home working saves the company about £30k per desk in property costs. It’s a no brainer for some roles.


Think you may have missed the point of my post.

[Jones28]

Aye, working from home shouldn't be allowed, eh Reform UK?

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:rzuchljjnwxgsd47leso7mdi/bafkreih3ku6zsh6xzv2pcar5ny47nfz3tlhjmdg7n43jndo2a 4u2uirami@jpeg

This was covered on James O’Brien’s show the other day, the party that want to abolish home working are currently advertising for 9 WFH roles.


And the new mayor of Lincolnshire said she was going to fire all their diversity and equality officers.

They don’t have any employed in Lincolnshire. Andrea Jenkins wanted to fire non existent employees.

Reform in a nutshell.

These ***** are going to win the next election.

[Stairway 2 7]

Something is working for the bams. It's second most important issue when only Scots asked on 43%. If we had English levels of immigration I'm sure the numbers would be close. We're not immune to the far right up here


https://x.com/YouGov/status/1922244828017922152
50% of Britons say that immigration is one of the top issues facing the country, the highest level since June 2016

Immigration: 50% (+2 from 3-5 May)
Economy: 49% (-3)
Health: 36% (=)
Crime: 22% (=)
Defence: 21% (+1)

[Kato]

Something is working for the bams. It's second most important issue when only Scots asked on 43%. If we had English levels of immigration I'm sure the numbers would be close. We're not immune to the far right up here


https://x.com/YouGov/status/1922244828017922152
50% of Britons say that immigration is one of the top issues facing the country, the highest level since June 2016

Immigration: 50% (+2 from 3-5 May)
Economy: 49% (-3)
Health: 36% (=)
Crime: 22% (=)
Defence: 21% (+1)If the flavour of toothpastes was constantly on the news and constantly on the front pages for years and years and years, 50% people would say that is the most pressing issue.

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[Ozyhibby]

Something is working for the bams. It's second most important issue when only Scots asked on 43%. If we had English levels of immigration I'm sure the numbers would be close. We're not immune to the far right up here


https://x.com/YouGov/status/1922244828017922152
50% of Britons say that immigration is one of the top issues facing the country, the highest level since June 2016

Immigration: 50% (+2 from 3-5 May)
Economy: 49% (-3)
Health: 36% (=)
Crime: 22% (=)
Defence: 21% (+1)

We consume the same media unfortunately.


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[Smartie]

Something is working for the bams. It's second most important issue when only Scots asked on 43%. If we had English levels of immigration I'm sure the numbers would be close. We're not immune to the far right up here


https://x.com/YouGov/status/1922244828017922152
50% of Britons say that immigration is one of the top issues facing the country, the highest level since June 2016

Immigration: 50% (+2 from 3-5 May)
Economy: 49% (-3)
Health: 36% (=)
Crime: 22% (=)
Defence: 21% (+1)

I just find that list of priorities baffling.

Why would you ever be more bothered by immigration than by the economy, health services, crime or defence?

I can understand being bothered by these other things then as a secondary concern having concerns that immigration may be adversely affecting the others. I'd disagree with the outlook but I'd understand and accept it.

Sadly, I think that the reason the country is going to **** is because the starting point is that immigration is too high, rather than asking how much we need, what we need and then figuring out whether or not it's too high from there.

Our primary problem is our ageing population but that isn't as much fun for the media to bang on about or for people consuming the media to get angry about. Until we own our problems and come up with suitable solutions, the slide will continue.

[Kato]

I just find that list of priorities baffling.

Why would you ever be more bothered by immigration than by the economy, health services, crime or defence?




Propaganda.

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[Moulin Yarns]

Propaganda.

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https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c989e24r051o


Aye.

[Kato]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c989e24r051o


Aye.That article mentions the manner in which Blair approached freedom of movement. What was in his power, and that twat Cameron's, was to apply conditions for entry. Germany required things like; must have accommodation, must have contracted employment guaranteed for a certain amount of time, among a few others. We could have stayed in the EU and have a restrained version of freedom of movement. Very rarely if ever mentioned in the run up to the Brexit vote. I certainly don't remember it ever being mentioned until after the vote.

Propaganda by omission.

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[JimBHibees]

That article mentions the manner in which Blair approached freedom of movement. What was in his power, and that twat Cameron's, was to apply conditions for entry. Germany required things like; must have accommodation, must have contracted employment guaranteed for a certain amount of time, among a few others. We could have stayed in the EU and have a restrained version of freedom of movement. Very rarely if ever mentioned in the run up to the Brexit vote. I certainly don't remember it ever being mentioned until after the vote.

Propaganda by omission.

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Agree this line is appalling from Starmer in the bbc article

we risk becoming an island of strangers.

Maybe he has been reading Enoch Powell speeches

[Bostonhibby]

If the flavour of toothpastes was constantly on the news and constantly on the front pages for years and years and years, 50% people would say that is the most pressing issue.

Sent from my SM-A528B using TapatalkIs taking back control of the flavour of our toothpaste a brexit benefit we can finally say we have got, or is it another one of those far away might never happen promises?

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[Kato]

Is taking back control of the flavour of our toothpaste a brexit benefit we can finally say we have got, or is it another one of those far away might never happen promises?

Sent from my SM-A750FN using TapatalkPeople have asked but it was brushed away.

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[Ozyhibby]

Agree this line is appalling from Starmer in the bbc article

we risk becoming an island of strangers.

Maybe he has been reading Enoch Powell speeches

It will forever be known as his ‘Island of Strangers’ speech and will be referenced long after he has been turfed from office.
Although the fact there is no dissent in Labour Party so far shows how far to the right their members have gone now.


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[Bostonhibby]

People have asked but it was brushed away.

Sent from my SM-A528B using TapatalkSo no "Teeth in our time" proclamation then.

Like when Bozo triumphantly waved a fish around.

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[Keith_M]

Agree this line is appalling from Starmer in the bbc article

we risk becoming an island of strangers.

Maybe he has been reading Enoch Powell speeches


Has he mentioned 'Rivers of Blood' yet?

Only a matter of time.

[Andy Bee]

It will forever be known as his ‘Island of Strangers’ speech and will be referenced long after he has been turfed from office.
Although the fact there is no dissent in Labour Party so far shows how far to the right their members have gone now.


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It's got Morgan McSweeney written all over it, there's no way a SPAD has written that plagiarising Enoch Powell without prior consent or instructions to do so and there's no way Powells country of strangers and Starmers island of strangers is a coincidence. They've waited for the backlash, denied it and then chuckled away to themselves in private to a sea of high fives. They've achieved exactly what they set out to do.

[Paul1642]

Something is working for the bams. It's second most important issue when only Scots asked on 43%. If we had English levels of immigration I'm sure the numbers would be close. We're not immune to the far right up here


https://x.com/YouGov/status/1922244828017922152
50% of Britons say that immigration is one of the top issues facing the country, the highest level since June 2016

Immigration: 50% (+2 from 3-5 May)
Economy: 49% (-3)
Health: 36% (=)
Crime: 22% (=)
Defence: 21% (+1)

If 50% (or 43% for Scotland) of a fairly liberal population have an opinion, is it possible that opinion is not exclusive to the far right but rather that of many “average”, moderate persons?

[Stairway 2 7]

If 50% (or 43% for Scotland) of a fairly liberal population have an opinion, is it possible that opinion is not exclusive to the far right but rather that of many “average”, moderate persons?

It's clearly one of the most important issues for Brits/Scots unfortunately. In the 65 plus age range it's the most important issue for 70% of people, far outstripping the economy on 40%. Seeing as older people vote, this would be the issue a general election would be won if today. 5 years to stop this nonsense

[Moulin Yarns]

It's clearly one of the most important issues for Brits/Scots unfortunately. In the 65 plus age range it's the most important issue for 70% of people, far outstripping the economy on 40%. Seeing as older people vote, this would be the issue a general election would be won if today. 5 years to stop this nonsense

Totally agree. This 68 year old thinks immigration is important, to employ care workers,doctors, nurses, university lecturers, retail workers, hospitality etc.

Immigration is something that we desperately need.

Who's going to pick the fruit and veg, etc.

[cabbageandribs1875]

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/492462098_1000610378913513_3541267723643184486_n.j pg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=osTYZFFAVuYQ7kNvwGu4H89&_nc_oc=AdkcC2ZZ1ppBfRESnvya9lE7KUsh827JbAJahsoPFXB YU3_yoIsuPL08dk2JQqzU9eE&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=yy8iq2UgbdAu8gaf3G-Iiw&oh=00_AfImSGVpSPtqhGv8_YmDXql0vcFJiIu9ccaX_0JqDF87 QA&oe=682A38D3

[Bostonhibby]

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/492462098_1000610378913513_3541267723643184486_n.j pg?_nc_cat=110&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=833d8c&_nc_ohc=osTYZFFAVuYQ7kNvwGu4H89&_nc_oc=AdkcC2ZZ1ppBfRESnvya9lE7KUsh827JbAJahsoPFXB YU3_yoIsuPL08dk2JQqzU9eE&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=yy8iq2UgbdAu8gaf3G-Iiw&oh=00_AfImSGVpSPtqhGv8_YmDXql0vcFJiIu9ccaX_0JqDF87 QA&oe=682A38D3You're really lower than a snakes belly if Rupert Lowe is passing judgement on you.

Some creature he is.

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[silverhibee]

You're really lower than a snakes belly if Rupert Lowe is passing judgement on you.

Some creature he is.

Sent from my SM-A750FN using Tapatalk

I’m amazed Rupert hasn’t been detained for some of his posts on X, nasty old man so he is.

[grunt]

23 Reform UK councillors have resigned already since 2025 local elections two weeks ago.

[Mon Dieu4]

23 Reform UK councillors have resigned already since 2025 local elections two weeks ago.

That's why I'm not particularly bothered about them just now, no doubt they are doing well but I don't believe they won't self implode or do something mental in the next 4 years before the next election

[Hiber-nation]

A lot of older folk I know or know of (70+ I mean) turning to Reform.

This wifie I know gave me the old broken Britain Nigel will fix it nonsense. I told her that things seem crap for us oldies because we're not young anymore, nowt to do with immigrants. She wasn't having it, nor would she listen when I told her helpfully that Reform was a bunch of racist millionaires who support Putin and want to privatise the NHS. "Where did you hear that?" she said. It's no good.

[jamie_1875]

Clydebank By Election

SNP: 36% (-16)
REF: 26% (NEW)
LAB: 25% (-12)
LDM: 5% (NEW)
CON: 3% (-5)
GRN: 3% (NEW)
ALBA: 2% (NEW)
FAM: 1% (-2)

[MKHIBEE]

I’m amazed Rupert hasn’t been detained for some of his posts on X, nasty old man so he is.
He is indeed, nothing to like about him. A single issue politician who obviously hates immigrants.

[easty]

I’m amazed Rupert hasn’t been detained for some of his posts on X, nasty old man so he is.

I’ve often wondered if that’s half the point of his posts on X.

In some ways he’d love to be arrested for them, so that he has his wee grifting hangers on (Grimes, Hopkins, etc.) stirring up free-speech issues. Reform HQ prob has the template X posts written out already…”Keir Stalin…”

Tice is odious.

[cabbageandribs1875]

and another one bites the Dust

Reform UK councillor Wayne Titley quits after less than two weeks following social media post | ITV News Central (https://www.itv.com/news/central/2025-05-15/reform-uk-councillor-quits-after-social-media-post)

[cabbageandribs1875]

You're really lower than a snakes belly if Rupert Lowe is passing judgement on you.

Some creature he is.

Sent from my SM-A750FN using Tapatalk


i feel sad for the voters that actually agree with Reform UK

[Stairway 2 7]

In the south of Spain watching Villa game. 3 boys here the accent, one celtic, one hibs, one hearts, from Edinburgh and Cowdenbeath. Pretty plain conversation, Scott Brown used to be a Rangers fan and other boring pish. Until the Celtic fan starts saying the UK is finished and only Reform will sort it. Two ex Labour supporters one SNP. All fannies and none listening to sence before I told them they were clueless

[blackpoolhibs]

Reform have just opened up their first social club in Blackpool this last week.

[Stairway 2 7]

Reform have just opened up their first social club in Blackpool this last week.

No blacks, no dogs, no Irish?

[DaveF]

Reform have just opened up their first social club in Blackpool this last week.

The sevco club won't be pleased now that is has competition for it's brain dead customer base.

[overdrive]

In the south of Spain watching Villa game. 3 boys here the accent, one celtic, one hibs, one hearts, from Edinburgh and Cowdenbeath. Pretty plain conversation, Scott Brown used to be a Rangers fan and other boring pish. Until the Celtic fan starts saying the UK is finished and only Reform will sort it. Two ex Labour supporters one SNP. All fannies and none listening to sence before I told them they were clueless

When I was leafleting for Republic on Easter Rd before the Dundee Utd game we were surprised at the number of Hibs fans who told us to eff off because Reform UK would save the country. Mostly young folk.

[RIP]

Let's be honest, the whole so called 'immigration' issue is actually a euphemism for a more fundamental discomfort, a deeper division.

The majority of Scots welcome diversity, have friends of different ethnicities and believe that a multicultural and diverse society is one they are happy to bring up their family in.

But there is a minority who have always been there, who are only comfortable in white company and feel that society is forcing them to change their ostensibly tribal family values.

To berate this behaviour as racism is one thing. To change the underlying fear of 'strangers' will require a government-sponsored education programme of kids from early school onwards.

There's also reports of a sudden spike in young people picking up religious beliefs as a reaction against the rise of intolerance in society. These 'love not hate' attitudes resonate with the peace movement of kids who are sick of the divisive rhetoric of the politicians and the media.

Unless we strive to really understand human behaviour we will fail to address the rise of groups like Reform who represent a previously unrecognised proportion of voters.

[GlesgaeHibby]

Let's be honest, the whole so called 'immigration' issue is actually a euphemism for a more fundamental discomfort, a deeper division.

The majority of Scots welcome diversity, have friends of different ethnicities and believe that a multicultural and diverse society is one they are happy to bring up their family in.

But there is a minority who have always been there, who are only comfortable in white company and feel that society is forcing them to change their ostensibly tribal family values.

To berate this behaviour as racism is one thing. To change the underlying fear of 'strangers' will require a government-sponsored education programme of kids from early school onwards.

There's also reports of a sudden spike in young people picking up religious beliefs as a reaction against the rise of intolerance in society. These 'love not hate' attitudes resonate with the peace movement of kids who are sick of the divisive rhetoric of the politicians and the media.

Unless we strive to really understand human behaviour we will fail to address the rise of groups like Reform who represent a previously unrecognised proportion of voters.

I think the explanation for the rise of Reform is relatively simple. The tories took office in 2010 and imposed an austerity agenda. Since then we've seen public services decimated, poverty levels up, incomes flatlining or falling in real terms, all the while we pay more each year in tax due to fiscal drag. Throughout this period, the rich have been lining their pockets. The media, owned by the rich elites, are busy telling everybody that immigrants are the issue to avoid folk looking at them whilst they rob us blind. When living standards drastically fall, folk look to find an enemy to blame....history shows us this not so long ago.

The way to combat the rise of Reform is to improve living standards for the population at large through serious investment in housing, infrastructure, public services etc. That will require bold action on taxation to redistribute wealth, and won't happen any time soon as the Labour party thinks it can counter this threat by drifting to the right.

In Scotland we could have a life raft to escape this madness if the SNP had a bit of courage.

[Ozyhibby]

I think the explanation for the rise of Reform is relatively simple. The tories took office in 2010 and imposed an austerity agenda. Since then we've seen public services decimated, poverty levels up, incomes flatlining or falling in real terms, all the while we pay more each year in tax due to fiscal drag. Throughout this period, the rich have been lining their pockets. The media, owned by the rich elites, are busy telling everybody that immigrants are the issue to avoid folk looking at them whilst they rob us blind. When living standards drastically fall, folk look to find an enemy to blame....history shows us this not so long ago.

The way to combat the rise of Reform is to improve living standards for the population at large through serious investment in housing, infrastructure, public services etc. That will require bold action on taxation to redistribute wealth, and won't happen any time soon as the Labour party thinks it can counter this threat by drifting to the right.

In Scotland we could have a life raft to escape this madness if the SNP had a bit of courage.

Courage?


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[GlesgaeHibby]

Courage?


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Yes, courage. Have you seen anything from Swinney that gives you any sense that the SNP has any strategy or urgency on delivering independence? Unlike last time we're starting from 50:50, and the message is clear - Independence to avoid PM Farage. The SNP at Holyrood are far too comfy. They like being in power, but being able to blame Westminster for their failings, so they aren't in any rush on independence.

[Ozyhibby]

Yes, courage. Have you seen anything from Swinney that gives you any sense that the SNP has any strategy or urgency on delivering independence? Unlike last time we're starting from 50:50, and the message is clear - Independence to avoid PM Farage. The SNP at Holyrood are far too comfy. They like being in power, but being able to blame Westminster for their failings, so they aren't in any rush on independence.

Which specific course of action would you have them take?


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[Bristolhibby]

When I was leafleting for Republic on Easter Rd before the Dundee Utd game we were surprised at the number of Hibs fans who told us to eff off because Reform UK would save the country. Mostly young folk.

Social media is a massive influence. I see it in my teenage boys. Reform and their supporters are all over their feeds. Luckily they are smart boys and can think critically. Have to remind them when they say something rubbish is “woke” about the origin of the word and it’s not an insult. Should be proud to be woke.

Why do Labour find this so hard? Suppose it’s easy to be a protest party.

J

[The_Exile]

Two issues: A) Tax the super rich to rebuild the social fabric of the country or B) It's the immigrants fault, too many foreigners, they've broken the social fabric of the country.

Who owns all media? Billionaires. What they going to push on to the simple minded to protect themselves? Answer B. And here we are.

[Andy Bee]

Which specific course of action would you have them take?


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Couple of suggestions, have the Constitutional Convention the members voted for and the party promised in 2020, work more with the grassroots movement instead of locking themselves away in a vacuum, it's arrogant and gives the impression they're comfortable with devolution, stop promoting SNP 1 and 2 in the election it's a waste of 1m votes, try various policies put forward by the likes of Commonweal or the SCG etc, they may be shot down by the UKG but that will only help bolster the Independence numbers, participate in more online discussions promoting Independence, they may be smaller numbers but they're not as hostile as the MSM and finally put John Swinney in charge of a medium sized Asda as that's what he's born to do, oh and stop selling Scotland to the Canadian public workers pension fund, it should be Scottish people benefitting from Scotlands resources not the binmen in Ontario.

[Bishop Hibee]

https://www.theguardian.com/news/2025/may/19/uk-50-richest-families-hold-more-wealth-than-50-of-population-analysis-finds

Here’s the real problem with society. I made sure my 3 boys all in their 20’s are clued up and can argue against any Reform racism and the rest of their extreme right wing crap. I urge my family, mates etc to do the same and speak up against extremism in their workplaces too.

My grandad fought fascists in WW2 and he’d be turning in his grave at the views of **** like Farage and Yaxley-Lennon.

[MKHIBEE]

The sevco club won't be pleased now that is has competition for it's brain dead customer base.

Im sure the 2 clubs aren’t mutually exclusive

[Bishop Hibee]

@ElectionMapsUK on X posted the following projection of seats following this morning’s YouGov poll:

Seat Projection based on this morning's YouGov Poll:

RFM: 309 (+304)
LAB: 138 (-273)
LDM: 95 (+23)
SNP: 43 (+34)
CON: 21 (-100)
GRN: 7 (+3)
PLC: 7 (+3)
Oth: 11 (+6)

Reform short of a Commons majority by 17 seats. Reform projected to win for the first time THREE Scottish Westminster seats: Dumfries & Galloway; Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale; Aberdeenshire North and Moray East.

[Hibs4185]

@ElectionMapsUK on X posted the following projection of seats following this morning’s YouGov poll:

Seat Projection based on this morning's YouGov Poll:

RFM: 309 (+304)
LAB: 138 (-273)
LDM: 95 (+23)
SNP: 43 (+34)
CON: 21 (-100)
GRN: 7 (+3)
PLC: 7 (+3)
Oth: 11 (+6)

Reform short of a Commons majority by 17 seats. Reform projected to win for the first time THREE Scottish Westminster seats: Dumfries & Galloway; Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale; Aberdeenshire North and Moray East.

Tories 21, yikes! Badenoch must be close to being emptied, unless some of their MP’s have eyes on becoming reform candidates.

[Bristolhibby]

@ElectionMapsUK on X posted the following projection of seats following this morning’s YouGov poll:

Seat Projection based on this morning's YouGov Poll:

RFM: 309 (+304)
LAB: 138 (-273)
LDM: 95 (+23)
SNP: 43 (+34)
CON: 21 (-100)
GRN: 7 (+3)
PLC: 7 (+3)
Oth: 11 (+6)

Reform short of a Commons majority by 17 seats. Reform projected to win for the first time THREE Scottish Westminster seats: Dumfries & Galloway; Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale & Tweeddale; Aberdeenshire North and Moray East.

Based on a 20% turnout in local elections 10 months after a Landslide General election.

I smell *****.

J

[MKHIBEE]

Based on a 20% turnout in local elections 10 months after a Landslide General election.

I smell *****.

J
I agree, I doubt the accuracy of that very much. Although seeing the Tories with that low a number is very satisfying

[Bostonhibby]

Tories 21, yikes! Badenoch must be close to being emptied, unless some of their MP’s have eyes on becoming reform candidates.They will have, and also won't hesitate to form a coalition of hate with the Nigel party if it gets them a sniff of power.

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[Hibrandenburg]

You have to pay homage to Reform: It is a real feat to bring so many weird creatures under one roof - from conspiracy believers, anti-vaccination activists and Ultra Unionists to Putin supporters, useful idiots, fascists and Holocaust deniers. A colourful bunch of absurdities - political diversity has rarely been so dangerous.

[The_Exile]

Based on a 20% turnout in local elections 10 months after a Landslide General election.

I smell *****.

J

This is where I'm at with it too, the almost, fetishisation when it comes to polls is absurd. We're not even a year in to a 5 year stewardship under Labour and you see polls all over the shop saying x, y and z. The media obviously has a short-term thinking type of deal going on, but I get so disappointed seeing normal people not able to think long-term and just let things play out over more than a few weeks/months.

[Jones28]

Based on a 20% turnout in local elections 10 months after a Landslide General election.

I smell *****.

J

It's still a bit sickening and I really hope you're right.

[Smartie]

It's still a bit sickening and I really hope you're right.

It is a bit sickening but it could be turned into a positive by savvy opponents imo.

I'd say that the biggest danger from someone like Reform would be for them to make a late surge that can't be countered (maybe not unlike the late surge in favour of "yes" in the independence referendum). It makes it hard to make a rational, late counter-argument to them - any late, new argument may come across as panicking.

By peaking (!?!?!) now, there's plenty of time for the other parties to counter Reform. I think they'd prefer that to finding themselves up against it too late. The Tories have time to blame and get rid of at least a couple of leaders between now and when crunch time comes around and Labour seem to have managed to win a landslide the last time without having any sort of positive plan other than to not be the Tories (in itself, not providing much to be shot down on is not actually the worst plan).

I'm sure that with plenty of time to contemplate the idea of Farage as PM, the sensible majority will choose to turn to alternatives. Whilst "the right" have a track record of holding their noses and doing what needs done to get their person into position, I'm pretty sure that doesn't extend as far as electing Farage to be PM. There are many issues at home and abroad that need to play out one way or another that may influence things before we really need to start to get worried imo.

Trump making a horse's hindquarters of things in America will provide the others over here with the appropriate "is that REALLY what you want?" ammo imo.

[Kato]

https://youtu.be/nDxaDd5M0Sg?si=gnLqKftVMxuqD775

Here's a breakdown of where Labour voters are after the GE.

Only 6% going to Reform, mostly gone to Lib Dems/Green.

22% not saying who they'll vote for.

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[Andy Bee]

It is a bit sickening but it could be turned into a positive by savvy opponents imo.

I'd say that the biggest danger from someone like Reform would be for them to make a late surge that can't be countered (maybe not unlike the late surge in favour of "yes" in the independence referendum). It makes it hard to make a rational, late counter-argument to them - any late, new argument may come across as panicking.

By peaking (!?!?!) now, there's plenty of time for the other parties to counter Reform. I think they'd prefer that to finding themselves up against it too late. The Tories have time to blame and get rid of at least a couple of leaders between now and when crunch time comes around and Labour seem to have managed to win a landslide the last time without having any sort of positive plan other than to not be the Tories (in itself, not providing much to be shot down on is not actually the worst plan).

I'm sure that with plenty of time to contemplate the idea of Farage as PM, the sensible majority will choose to turn to alternatives. Whilst "the right" have a track record of holding their noses and doing what needs done to get their person into position, I'm pretty sure that doesn't extend as far as electing Farage to be PM. There are many issues at home and abroad that need to play out one way or another that may influence things before we really need to start to get worried imo.

Trump making a horse's hindquarters of things in America will provide the others over here with the appropriate "is that REALLY what you want?" ammo imo.

I'd be more worried about Reform gaining 20 or 30 seats in the Scottish Parliament which isn't out of the realms of possibilities. We'd effectively have a Parliament of 100 seats instead of 129 with depleted Labour and Torie numbers and nobody would work with Reform. You'd have to wonder how long a Parliament like that would keep working before another election would have to be called.

[Hibs4185]

I'd be more worried about Reform gaining 20 or 30 seats in the Scottish Parliament which isn't out of the realms of possibilities. We'd effectively have a Parliament of 100 seats instead of 129 with depleted Labour and Torie numbers and nobody would work with Reform. You'd have to wonder how long a Parliament like that would keep working before another election would have to be called.

I’m going to say something controversial but reform could possibly be good in scotland!!!

Any floating voter who sees what they stand for and their policies will hopefully be pushed towards the more centrist SNP.

If reform did get 20 seats, it would also make more of a case for
Independence and the SNP would surely then get their finger out.

I’d only be worried about reform in Scotland, if it put independence in danger and as I’ve said before, I think they actually make the case for independence easier.

[SHODAN]

If Reform win a majority they will absolutely make some massive changes to the voting system ala Hungary and Turkey to make it much more difficult to vote them out.

They'll also more than likely abolish or significantly reduce the power of the devolved parliaments.

I don't think people realise just how bad this is going to be.

[Bostonhibby]

If Reform win a majority they will absolutely make some massive changes to the voting system ala Hungary and Turkey to make it much more difficult to vote them out.

They'll also more than likely abolish or significantly reduce the power of the devolved parliaments.

I don't think people realise just how bad this is going to be.Indeed, but remember being a minority in a democratically elected chamber never stopped Hitler's gang once they were in. When he seized power after whipping up a fervour of nationalism and hatred of minorities he only had around a third or the Reichstag if I remember correctly.

Not too big a leap to see the Nigel party behaving as you suggest.

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[Hibs4185]

Would the kind not have to agree to changing the voting system? Or House of Lords?

I’d imagine they’d be stopped

[grunt]

A UKIP / Reform classic from days gone by

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:5mqpgxjffcckasqv7h6g7itu/bafkreiba4sfcrxpog7drwst7su4ib7xyhruoqete5t36ierya yy6xunmjq@jpeg

[Keith_M]

It's going to be interesting to see how the by-election in Hamilton* pans out.

By-elections usually have a notoriously small turnout, so the result won't necessarily be indicative of how future elections will go, but I'd absolutely hate it if Reform get an MSP in through lack of interest.



* It's actually 'Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse', so you just never know.

[jamie_1875]

It's going to be interesting to see how the by-election in Hamilton* pans out.

By-elections usually have a notoriously small turnout, so the result won't necessarily be indicative of how future elections will go, but I'd absolutely hate it if Reform get an MSP in through lack of interest.



* It's actuall 'Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse', so you just never know.

It's been an interesting watch, the Labour campaign has been a bit of a shambles and I don't know what has gone so wrong. The SNP are chucking everything at it and seem to have a slick social media campaign and I would be very surprised if the SNP don't win. I think before the campaigns started it was probably 50/50 between SNP and Labour but after the poor Labour campaign I can't see anything other than the SNP retaining the seat. Reform will be third and probably take some votes away from all parties but mainly the Tories.

[Ozyhibby]

It's been an interesting watch, the Labour campaign has been a bit of a shambles and I don't know what has gone so wrong. The SNP are chucking everything at it and seem to have a slick social media campaign and I would be very surprised if the SNP don't win. I think before the campaigns started it was probably 50/50 between SNP and Labour but after the poor Labour campaign I can't see anything other than the SNP retaining the seat. Reform will be third and probably take some votes away from all parties but mainly the Tories.

Not following it that closely but it sounds like Labour have put forward a candidate who can’t string a sentence together and they are refusing to put him in front of the media? Sarwar is having to do all his campaigning which will make him look very bad if they lose.


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[jamie_1875]

Not following it that closely but it sounds like Labour have put forward a candidate who can’t string a sentence together and they are refusing to put him in front of the media? Sarwar is having to do all his campaigning which will make him look very bad if they lose.


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I don't think I have seen him do a single interview which I find very odd, why was he selected? He is the only candidate that lives in the actual constituency I believe but he should be out there and making an appearance.

[Ozyhibby]

I don't think I have seen him do a single interview which I find very odd, why was he selected? He is the only candidate that lives in the actual constituency I believe but he should be out there and making an appearance.

I can only guess it was his ‘turn’ in the local party and Sarwar’s part time approach to the job and lack of attention let him through.


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[Andy Bee]

I can only guess it was his ‘turn’ in the local party and Sarwar’s part time approach to the job and lack of attention let him through.


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Russell was a share holder in Clyde Valley Developments Ltd along with Sarwars brother and non other than Barry Ferguson according to Companies House, Sarwar knows exactly who he's getting. He's also mates with Frank McAveety the Labour MP charged with electoral fraud. The Deputy Lieutenant of Lanarkshire seems to be very well kent, regularly sitting in the directors box at Ibrox. Are Labour simply trying to out Unionist the die hard Unionists namely Reform? He'll certainly walk it in Larkhall but Hamilton I'm not so sure.

[Hibspur]

It's been an interesting watch, the Labour campaign has been a bit of a shambles and I don't know what has gone so wrong. The SNP are chucking everything at it and seem to have a slick social media campaign and I would be very surprised if the SNP don't win. I think before the campaigns started it was probably 50/50 between SNP and Labour but after the poor Labour campaign I can't see anything other than the SNP retaining the seat. Reform will be third and probably take some votes away from all parties but mainly the Tories.

They'll feel they have an outside chance of taking second place, but they'll privately be content with third considering they got just 58 votes (a 0.2% share) last time the seat was contested in 2021.

Despite the frenzied headlines, it's no real surprise they're making inroads in Scotland as the political scene is utterly moribund. It would be hard to come with two more charisma-free dullards than Swinney and Sarwar. The SNP's manifesto appears to be 'vote for us because we're not Reform' while Labour seem to be doing their best to keep their candidate hidden from public view.

[cabbageandribs1875]

Zia Yusuf



https://scontent.fman1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/504141806_1128479422660022_7620354260555108107_n.j pg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=lVHl8wB2ABQQ7kNvwEx5jSG&_nc_oc=AdkyQ_Tn6B2bZ7Yafr9pMhWlUqhv0G7ckRkGAhm82Xp T_7f4g5IpxP7naIuXvQ4AJ4g&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-2.fna&_nc_gid=s6Gb4aBOX_4a5djKLj-8Yw&oh=00_AfPlqn627YfyFN7yo4pvOa8hhSA4C5O3P4Bd_rUPQbBd tA&oe=68479008

[cabbageandribs1875]

Reform going down the Doge route Firefighters threaten strikes in 10 Reform council areas in pensions row (https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/firefighters-threaten-strikes-in-10-reform-council-areas-in-pensions-row/ar-AA1G9FiL?ocid=msedgntp&pc=WSEDSE&cvid=0553406a514047ca8387dfb41928213b&ei=68)

[Kato]

Reform going down the Doge route Firefighters threaten strikes in 10 Reform council areas in pensions row (https://www.msn.com/en-gb/money/other/firefighters-threaten-strikes-in-10-reform-council-areas-in-pensions-row/ar-AA1G9FiL?ocid=msedgntp&pc=WSEDSE&cvid=0553406a514047ca8387dfb41928213b&ei=68)So they intend making things better for the "British people" by f***ing them over.

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[J-C]

So they intend making things better for the "British people" by f***ing them over.

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You're not surprised are you?

[Kato]

You're not surprised are you?No. Nothing is surprising in politics just now. Nothing is shocking. Its all normal and has been heading towards this since Thatcher and especially since 2008.

Anyone "shocked" isn't paying attention.

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[Hibspur]

Zia Yusuf



https://scontent.fman1-2.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/504141806_1128479422660022_7620354260555108107_n.j pg?_nc_cat=100&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=127cfc&_nc_ohc=lVHl8wB2ABQQ7kNvwEx5jSG&_nc_oc=AdkyQ_Tn6B2bZ7Yafr9pMhWlUqhv0G7ckRkGAhm82Xp T_7f4g5IpxP7naIuXvQ4AJ4g&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-2.fna&_nc_gid=s6Gb4aBOX_4a5djKLj-8Yw&oh=00_AfPlqn627YfyFN7yo4pvOa8hhSA4C5O3P4Bd_rUPQbBd tA&oe=68479008

Axe to grind presumably or he wouldn't have done so on the day of a Holyrood by-election. Seemed like a savvy operator, but I read he was put out at his role being diluted.

I think the biggest challenge Reform face is that, like the SNP under Sturgeon, they have an ego-driven figurehead who overshadows the rest of the party. In Sturgeon's case she turned out to be all front and no substance, but such was the cult-like persona she created she left behind an empty husk of a party. These days the voters who stick with the SNP do so out of habit/apathy. Farage is probably the most influential figure in UK politics over the last decade or more, but seems to struggle to maintain unity.

[grunt]

I think the biggest challenge Reform face is that, like the SNP under Sturgeon, they have an ego-driven figurehead who overshadows the rest of the party. In Sturgeon's case she turned out to be all front and no substance, but such was the cult-like persona she created she left behind an empty husk of a party. These days the voters who stick with the SNP do so out of habit/apathy. Farage is probably the most influential figure in UK politics over the last decade or more, but seems to struggle to maintain unity.
Today has been a day for crazy posts.

[Hiber-nation]

Today has been a day for crazy posts.

Aye that’s an absolute corker 😂

[ErinGoBraghHFC]

Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse is my constituency. The local Facebook groups have been rammed with people saying they’ll be voting Reform, but I can’t help feeling they’re the vocal minority - even in Larkhall. There’s been a lot of backlash to these commenters, and a lot of suspiciously new profiles are the same ones saying they’ll vote Reform and parroting far-right talking points.


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[Mon Dieu4]

Today has been a day for crazy posts.

I hate the guy with a vengeance but a case certainly can be made for Farage being one of if not the most influential person in British politics in the last 10 years, the threat of UKIP taking votes from the Tories helped make Cameron have the EU Referendum

Starts a new party that helps decimate the Tory vote in a landslide Election, then goes on to pick up a crazy amount of votes in the local elections and still continue to poll high in subsequent polling data

[Ozyhibby]

I hate the guy with a vengeance but a case certainly can be made for Farage being one of if not the most influential person in British politics in the last 10 years, the threat of UKIP taking votes from the Tories helped make Cameron have the EU Referendum

Starts a new party that helps decimate the Tory vote in a landslide Election, then goes on to pick up a crazy amount of votes in the local elections and still continue to poll high in subsequent polling data

I think he’ll go on to be PM soon. So long as he never has to deliver anything then he’ll continue to grow.


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[jamie_1875]

Wow Labour win the seat, SNP lose it! Great news after such a shambles of a campaign. Reform close to the SNP in third. I can't quite believe that result, but great news.

SNP vote down nearly 17%.

LAB: 31.5% (-2.0)
SNP: 29.4% (-16.8)
REF: 26.2% (+26.2)
CON: 6.0% (-11.5)
GRN: 2.6% (NEW)
LDM: 2.0% (-0.8)
SSP: 1.0% (NEW)
SFP: 0.8% (NEW)
IND: 0.4% (NEW)
UKIP: 0.2% (NEW)

[jamie_1875]

I can only guess it was his ‘turn’ in the local party and Sarwar’s part time approach to the job and lack of attention let him through.


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Well part time Sarwar ran a blinding campaign 😂

[ErinGoBraghHFC]

Wow Labour win the seat, SNP lose it! Great news after such a shambles of a campaign. Reform close to the SNP in third. I can't quite believe that result, but great news.

SNP vote down nearly 17%.

LAB: 31.5% (-2.0)
SNP: 29.4% (-16.8)
REF: 26.2% (+26.2)
CON: 6.0% (-11.5)
GRN: 2.6% (NEW)
LDM: 2.0% (-0.8)
SSP: 1.0% (NEW)
SFP: 0.8% (NEW)
IND: 0.4% (NEW)
UKIP: 0.2% (NEW)

I’m pleased that Reform didn’t win the seat, but I’m surprised that Labour did. Thought the labour candidate was a bit unconvincing every time I heard him, didn’t seem to answer any questions and seemed easily flustered.


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[Hibspur]

Today has been a day for crazy posts.

What's crazy about it?

I can't think of anyone who's had a bigger impact on the UK political scene than Farage over the last decade. I'm not saying he's a force for good. He's a model populist, but to put it simply no Farage, no Brexit. And barring an in-house implosion (always a possibility) he's transformed Reform into a party which is on course to finally crack the Tory/Labour duopoly.

As for Sturgeon, I can't think of a single flagship policy or pledge of hers which could be deemed to have come to fruition. Baby boxes maybe? She was swept in on Salmond's coat-tails and brought nothing to the table but years of empty promises. Finally made to look plain daft by her absurd obsession with gender ideology, while the murky goings on around Salmond's trial and the SNP finances didn't help.

[Pretty Boy]

What's crazy about it?

I can't think of anyone who's had a bigger impact on the UK political scene than Farage over the last decade. I'm not saying he's a force for good. He's a model populist, but to put it simply no Farage, no Brexit. And barring an in-house implosion (always a possibility) he's transformed Reform into a party which is on course to finally crack the Tory/Labour duopoly.

As for Sturgeon, I can't think of a single flagship policy or pledge of hers which could be deemed to have come to fruition. Baby boxes maybe? She was swept in on Salmond's coat-tails and brought nothing to the table but years of empty promises. Finally made to look plain daft by her absurd obsession with gender ideology, while the murky goings on around Salmond's trial and the SNP finances didn't help.

The thing with Farage is that he was given a huge push by the media that made him a fixture and gave him exposure no other fringe (at the time) politician got. People always point the finger at the BBC but other were in on it as well. Channel 4 had a whole show with him, an 'At Home with Nigel' type thing. Sky News regularly platformed him too. I'd argue if anyone else got the airtime he got they would have seen a comparable rose in profile and popularity. I think he was seen as a bit of a joke figure, good value for a quote and a statement that provokes a reaction but not much more. A costly miscalculation.

Fwiw I agree he's up there as one of the most influential politicians of recent times. That doesn't mean he is in any way admirable. Hitler being named Time Man of the Year wasn't an endorsement, it was acknowledgement of his prominence and influence. Acknowledgement of Farage's influence is similarly not an endorsement. I'd include David Cameron on the list as well for all but destroying the Tories and the long standing duopoly and Alex Salmond for smashing the Labour stranglehold on Scottish politics.

[Ozyhibby]

The thing with Farage is that he was given a huge push by the media that made him a fixture and gave him exposure no other fringe (at the time) politician got. People always point the finger at the BBC but other were in on it as well. Channel 4 had a whole show with him, an 'At Home with Nigel' type thing. Sky News regularly platformed him too. I'd argue if anyone else got the airtime he got they would have seen a comparable rose in profile and popularity. I think he was seen as a bit of a joke figure, good value for a quote and a statement that provokes a reaction but not much more. A costly miscalculation.

Fwiw I agree he's up there as one of the most influential politicians of recent times. That doesn't mean he is in any way admirable. Hitler being named Time Man of the Year wasn't an endorsement, it was acknowledgement of his prominence and influence. Acknowledgement of Farage's influence is similarly not an endorsement. I'd include David Cameron on the list as well for all but destroying the Tories and the long standing duopoly and Alex Salmond for smashing the Labour stranglehold on Scottish politics.

If he can get 26% of the vote in Scotland then there is a serious chance he could win a GE.


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[Hibspur]

The thing with Farage is that he was given a huge push by the media that made him a fixture and gave him exposure no other fringe (at the time) politician got. People always point the finger at the BBC but other were in on it as well. Channel 4 had a whole show with him, an 'At Home with Nigel' type thing. Sky News regularly platformed him too. I'd argue if anyone else got the airtime he got they would have seen a comparable rose in profile and popularity. I think he was seen as a bit of a joke figure, good value for a quote and a statement that provokes a reaction but not much more. A costly miscalculation.

Fwiw I agree he's up there as one of the most influential politicians of recent times. That doesn't mean he is in any way admirable. Hitler being named Time Man of the Year wasn't an endorsement, it was acknowledgement of his prominence and influence. Acknowledgement of Farage's influence is similarly not an endorsement. I'd include David Cameron on the list as well for all but destroying the Tories and the long standing duopoly and Alex Salmond for smashing the Labour stranglehold on Scottish politics.

If we're going beyond the last decade then yes, he's the other significant figure. A colossal politician who made the pipe dream of Scottish independence a genuine possibility, but whose efforts were largely undone by Sturgeon. Like Farage, probably not the loveliest of people, but his impact was undeniable.

[Keith_M]

Even though it's just a single by-election, I think the voting proves that Farage and Reform clearly can't be written off just because we're in Scotland.

TBH, I think a lot of people are just p1ssed off so look for any alternative, but that's often a very dangerous root to go down (just look at the US)

[Jones28]

Even though it's just a single by-election, I think the voting proves that Farage and Reform clearly can't be written off just because we're in Scotland.

TBH, I think a lot of people are just p1ssed off so look for any alternative, but that's often a very dangerous root to go down (just look at the US)

Absolutely, they are a threat.

The Tories are done and as the SNP and Labour scrap for similar types of votes its not inconceivable for Reform to scoop up a massive number of traditional Conservative voters as well as taking some from the other big two, combined with their hardcore nutters who have always voted for these parties.

We will not be able to avoid having Reform MSP's.

[Hibspur]

I think he’ll go on to be PM soon. So long as he never has to deliver anything then he’ll continue to grow.


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The SNP post-Salmond have managed to perfect the art of remaining in power while never delivering anything :wink:

[tamig]

Axe to grind presumably or he wouldn't have done so on the day of a Holyrood by-election. Seemed like a savvy operator, but I read he was put out at his role being diluted.

I think the biggest challenge Reform face is that, like the SNP under Sturgeon, they have an ego-driven figurehead who overshadows the rest of the party. In Sturgeon's case she turned out to be all front and no substance, but such was the cult-like persona she created she left behind an empty husk of a party. These days the voters who stick with the SNP do so out of habit/apathy. Farage is probably the most influential figure in UK politics over the last decade or more, but seems to struggle to maintain unity.

What a grotesque mish mash of a post. Re the bit in bold, how on earth would you KNOW the reason why anybody votes SNP? What a load of obnoxious pish.

[Hibspur]

What a grotesque mish mash of a post. Re the bit in bold, how on earth would you KNOW the reason why anybody votes SNP? What a load of obnoxious pish.

Hard to imagine many of those who still vote SNP are doing so because they think they're doing a great job - or that they believe independence is happening time soon. Seems reasonable to suggest that ingrained apathy is the prevalent mindset.

[J-C]

Hard to imagine many of those who still vote SNP are doing so because they think they're doing a great job - or that they believe independence is happening time soon. Seems reasonable to suggest that ingrained apathy is the prevalent mindset.

I vote SNP because I want independence, I have zero affinity to Labour, Tory or Liberal.

[Hiber-nation]

Hard to imagine many of those who still vote SNP are doing so because they think they're doing a great job - or that they believe independence is happening time soon. Seems reasonable to suggest that ingrained apathy is the prevalent mindset.

You're totally wrong. Like many others I switched to Labour for the last election but I realise now it was a mistake. Don't dismiss SNP voters put of hand.

Anyway this thread is about how we avoid this mainstream media backed racist party posing a significant threat in Scotland so hopefully it can get back on track.

[Hibspur]

You're totally wrong. Like many others I switched to Labour for the last election but I realise now it was a mistake. Don't dismiss SNP voters put of hand.

Anyway this thread is about how we avoid this mainstream media backed racist party posing a significant threat in Scotland so hopefully it can get back on track.

Back on track to what? Independence is now further away than it was pre-Alex Salmond.

I'm not dismissing SNP supporters out of hand incidentally. I was very much a fan of Salmond as a politician and were he to have remained in charge I wouldn't be surprised if Scotland had become independent. He'd certainly have exploited the haplessness of successive PMs more successfully than Nicola Sturgeon. I simply could not see what Sturgeon brought to the table (next to nothing as it transpired) and her successors have been left to try and tidy up the shambles she left behind. Swinney inspires nobody and I'm just questioning what those who still vote SNP see in the party that gives them any sort of optimism.

How 'racist' are Reform incidentally? They have a significant number of activists and office bearers from ethnic minority backgrounds, and fielded 17 such candidates in the general election last year. Their reasons for standing, as told to the Guardian here, are interesting and illustrate why it's hard to make judgement calls from Scotland, where the ethnic minority population is so tiny:

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/apr/20/ive-been-assaulted-reform-uk-bame-candidates-seeking-local-election-wins

[Stairway 2 7]

Most of Reform votes seemed to come from SNP voters, not sure what that means for next year

[JimBHibees]

Most of Reform votes seemed to come from SNP voters, not sure what that means for next year

Or previous snp voters didn’t vote and reform touched a nerve with other section of voters. Genuinely think people in general should be mandated to vote. 40% in what was generally a high profile election is incredibly telling.

[JimBHibees]

Back on track to what? Independence is now further away than it was pre-Alex Salmond.

I'm not dismissing SNP supporters out of hand incidentally. I was very much a fan of Salmond as a politician and were he to have remained in charge I wouldn't be surprised if Scotland had become independent. He'd certainly have exploited the haplessness of successive PMs more successfully than Nicola Sturgeon. I simply could not see what Sturgeon brought to the table (next to nothing as it transpired) and her successors have been left to try and tidy up the shambles she left behind. Swinney inspires nobody and I'm just questioning what those who still vote SNP see in the party that gives them any sort of optimism.

How 'racist' are Reform incidentally? They have a significant number of activists and office bearers from ethnic minority backgrounds, and fielded 17 such candidates in the general election last year. Their reasons for standing, as told to the Guardian here, are interesting and illustrate why it's hard to make judgement calls from Scotland, where the ethnic minority population is so tiny:

https://www.theguardian.com/politics/2025/apr/20/ive-been-assaulted-reform-uk-bame-candidates-seeking-local-election-wins

Listen to the Farage and Tice rhetoric to see how racist they are

[grunt]

Reform DOGE guy discovers something amazing about local government ...

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:tvc7g7sdrdq4g4nbgbeeglmp/bafkreidu7ek5hltkpfpi664eohrxrwyov6y5pls2rhunp3utd obiy6pedi@jpeg

... and then decides that the best thing he can do is ...

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:c4xtyto7nrklhfkroyrsce2w/bafkreiedaybbn7f5kfabqjnqcdjqchjmuxh4oesiky7bb4p6s kry6zqrd4@jpeg

[grunt]

How 'racist' are Reform incidentally?
Very racist. But the problem with Reform is not just their racism, it's their enormous ignorance, their twisted views and their complete lack of suitability for any role within Government. But you're right, they are very racist too.

https://centralbylines.co.uk/politics/reform-uk-in-local-government-be-careful-who-you-vote-for/


Bert Bingham, Nottinghamshire County Council’s new cabinet member for the environment, made several posts before the election that man-made climate change “is a hoax“. The Council’s Reform Leader Mick Barton disagreed saying his view is “just one man’s opinion”.

Another is Wayne Titley, a former councillor for Staffordshire County Council, who has resigned his seat for “personal reasons” after receiving criticism for posts on social media, including one posted in March 2025, suggesting that the Navy should fire at immigrants in small boats.

Ron Firman, a Reform UK councillor for West Northamptonshire, posting on social media in October 2017, made an apparent joke about the Ku Klux Klan and was warned about his online conduct.

Joseph Boam, 22, has been selected as Deputy Leader at Leicestershire County Council. He has been the subject of controversy over social media posts from 2022 where he is said to have posted that “depression isn’t real”. Boam claims that the post is “fake news”. Another recent report suggests he has made more outbursts. He has been appointed as leader member for adult social care.

[grunt]

Idiot Reform Chairman realises he made a mistake to leave, decides to rejoin two days later. Shame the rest of the country didn't have that option, eh?

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:tvc7g7sdrdq4g4nbgbeeglmp/bafkreigq7w6ncjfllt66emzpjujit2qh45ard5nqichcd63cu 3c5wpfs5q@jpeg

[Kato]

Idiot Reform Chairman realises he made a mistake to leave, decides to rejoin two days later. Shame the rest of the country didn't have that option, eh?

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:tvc7g7sdrdq4g4nbgbeeglmp/bafkreigq7w6ncjfllt66emzpjujit2qh45ard5nqichcd63cu 3c5wpfs5q@jpegGood indication to what they'll be like as a govt - fights, spats, blame everyone else except themselves, misdirect and just generally be everything other than a functioning govt. Which is the point.

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[Andy Bee]

Most of Reform votes seemed to come from SNP voters, not sure what that means for next year

They didn't - https://ballotbox.scot/result-hls/

[Hiber-nation]

Back on track to what? Independence is now further away than it was pre-Alex Salmond.



Back on track to discussing Reform obviously.

[Hibspur]

Or previous snp voters didn’t vote and reform touched a nerve with other section of voters. Genuinely think people in general should be mandated to vote. 40% in what was generally a high profile election is incredibly telling.

It was 44% which is actually respectable for a by-election. The Rutherglen and Hamilton West Westminster by-election to replace disgraced MP Margaret Ferrier in 2023 saw only a 37% turnout. The most recent London mayoral election saw only 40% bother voting. Numbers increase at general elections and Holyrood elections, but even then the highest ever Holyrood election turnout was only 62%.

It can surprise people who vote regularly, but there are hefty swathes of the population who don't care a jot for politics.

[cabbageandribs1875]

jesus wept

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/505946119_10084880794901994_6888664275136609584_n. jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=oVwDoFVByUYQ7kNvwEaF7zO&_nc_oc=AdnCADOXwIgkgm4HEgYAWZwbvHIIq58ABHLweLHxA-01suTXDBqlK2TibTxcsvP3lwc&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=meG8JSODdS12GS17OHwHuQ&oh=00_AfOCalTEfAntVf9zqY5j1YGKqCmWaWEGC_I7sQnuSgU_ Gg&oe=684E31C0

[Stairway 2 7]

They didn't - https://ballotbox.scot/result-hls/

So he says he presumes most come from Conservative voters. I would say yeah probably 100% of tories jumped over but that doesn't cover it.

[Stairway 2 7]

There was a large poll that said 36% of SNP voters voted leave in the EU referendum so there is an audience for pish

[overdrive]

jesus wept

https://scontent.fman1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t39.30808-6/505946119_10084880794901994_6888664275136609584_n. jpg?_nc_cat=109&ccb=1-7&_nc_sid=aa7b47&_nc_ohc=oVwDoFVByUYQ7kNvwEaF7zO&_nc_oc=AdnCADOXwIgkgm4HEgYAWZwbvHIIq58ABHLweLHxA-01suTXDBqlK2TibTxcsvP3lwc&_nc_zt=23&_nc_ht=scontent.fman1-1.fna&_nc_gid=meG8JSODdS12GS17OHwHuQ&oh=00_AfOCalTEfAntVf9zqY5j1YGKqCmWaWEGC_I7sQnuSgU_ Gg&oe=684E31C0

Was he not a TV doctor at one point?

[Kato]

Was he not a TV doctor at one point?I don't believe he can repair tellys.

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[Bostonhibby]

I don't believe he can repair tellys.

Sent from my SM-A528B using TapatalkThey do seem to like a grifter so maybe he is prepared to have a go if there's a buck to be made?

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[Kato]

They do seem to like a grifter so maybe he is prepared to have a go if there's a buck to be made?

Sent from my SM-A750FN using TapatalkBANG!

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[Bostonhibby]

BANG!

Sent from my SM-A528B using TapatalkVote Reform, the only party promising to fix your knackered telly.

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[grunt]

Was he not a TV doctor at one point?

2021: TV doctor and Brexiteer Dr David Bull has been shamed for using National HIV Testing Week to flog discounted HIV self-test kits, when similar tests are available for free on the NHS.

[grunt]

And today:

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:5mqpgxjffcckasqv7h6g7itu/bafkreiehi2uw3hlfhov3h6ny4qop22r75wb3rdgrhunkg7ka3 th73l5kqa@jpeg

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:5mqpgxjffcckasqv7h6g7itu/bafkreiarny5or77r4mhhrbylyyxxojpote63islqi76wf2qch vwmyqumcm@jpeg

[Hibrandenburg]

And today:

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:5mqpgxjffcckasqv7h6g7itu/bafkreiehi2uw3hlfhov3h6ny4qop22r75wb3rdgrhunkg7ka3 th73l5kqa@jpeg

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:5mqpgxjffcckasqv7h6g7itu/bafkreiarny5or77r4mhhrbylyyxxojpote63islqi76wf2qch vwmyqumcm@jpeg

What did his grandmother know that we don't?

[grunt]

What did his grandmother know that we don't?Frankly I think his grandmother and me are pretty much on the same page.

[Kato]

Frankly I think his grandmother and me are pretty much on the same page.Do you hide in his car?

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[cabbageandribs1875]

Was he not a TV doctor at one point?

nae ides sorry :greengrin


I don't believe he can repair tellys.

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:hilarious

[cabbageandribs1875]

BREAKING: A Tory councillor has become the 15th in Scotland to defect to Reform UK

[grunt]

Racist MP who is too racist even for Reform. (Just how racist are Reform anyway?)

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:refbwihhzcqqfulwhcou44sr/bafkreiawryzevlr3noekwbnvi4vortmu6bdmvql2jbhoosrei emggvghly@jpeg

[Jones28]

Racist MP who is too racist even for Reform. (Just how racist are Reform anyway?)

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:refbwihhzcqqfulwhcou44sr/bafkreiawryzevlr3noekwbnvi4vortmu6bdmvql2jbhoosrei emggvghly@jpeg

Ah yes, man of the people Rupert Lowe who was, amongst other things, Chairman of Southampton FC and owns a farm in Gloucestershire which a race horse trainer is based at.

Too nasty even for Nigels mob, which really takes some doing.

[Paulie Walnuts]

Walk down any high street in England and they’ve been invaded by ‘these people’.

Then goes on to tell us of areas that haven’t been invaded by ‘these people’.

It’s almost as if online shopping doesn’t exist when he’s considering why the high streets are crap now.. I wonder why he’s left that bit out.

[CropleyWasGod]

"the towns that our ancestors built".

Those ancestors being Vikings, Saxons, Romans, Normans? And the building done on the back of slavery and colonialism?

Those towns?

[Bostonhibby]

Ah yes, man of the people Rupert Lowe who was, amongst other things, Chairman of Southampton FC and owns a farm in Gloucestershire which a race horse trainer is based at.

Too nasty even for Nigels mob, which really takes some doing.Makes you wonder what he was doing about all of his concerns prior to being involved with Reform?

Apart from trousering money that could have been better spent helping the communities hes just noticed don't look like his corner of leafy Hampshire.

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[Smartie]

I like the “gangs of foreign men” paragraph the best.

The majority of people probably tolerate imperfect High streets for the sake of being able to buy cheap stuff online and the opportunity once in a while to be the quintessential Englishman abroad in spots like Magaluf or Benidorm, or maybe following their plucky national team at a major finals.

[Jones28]

I like the “gangs of foreign men” paragraph the best.

The majority of people probably tolerate imperfect High streets for the sake of being able to buy cheap stuff online and the opportunity once in a while to be the quintessential Englishman abroad in spots like Magaluf of Benidorm, or maybe following their plucky national team at a major finals.

UK = "****ing foreigners".



Brits Abroad = "Oh its got a smashing X-pat community".

[Bishop Hibee]

Rupert Lowe was hated by Southampton fans. They sang ‘Swing Lowe, swing Rupert Lowe. Hanging from the Itchen Bridge.’

[silverhibee]

Racist MP who is too racist even for Reform. (Just how racist are Reform anyway?)

https://cdn.bsky.app/img/feed_thumbnail/plain/did:plc:refbwihhzcqqfulwhcou44sr/bafkreiawryzevlr3noekwbnvi4vortmu6bdmvql2jbhoosrei emggvghly@jpeg

And yet if you watch YouTubers who are out and about in England they prove racist Rupert is just telling porkies, DJ audits proves that immigrants are not stealing our jobs as he travels around englands industrial sites as most of the workers you see are white English, Auditing Britain walks the streets of England and most city centres are dominated by white people, he never mentions the bookies on every street corner getting folk addicted to gambling.

What amazes me is he hasn’t been jailed like Lucy Connolly was for some of his comments.

[Bostonhibby]

I like the “gangs of foreign men” paragraph the best.

The majority of people probably tolerate imperfect High streets for the sake of being able to buy cheap stuff online and the opportunity once in a while to be the quintessential Englishman abroad in spots like Magaluf of Benidorm, or maybe following their plucky national team at a major finals.Yep, he probably expects to get his cheese from Mr Wensleydale's cheese shop and his sausages from Mr Oldspot the traditional English butcher then pop in for a haircut from Mr Todd before a swift pie from Mrs Miggins old English pie shop.

Can't go for a pint at the Lamb & Flag anymore sadly as he doesn't fancy fighting Farage in the car park if he's there on one of his "bloke" days.

And then moan about the price of tradition.

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[Bostonhibby]

Rupert Lowe was hated by Southampton fans. They sang ‘Swing Lowe, swing Rupert Lowe. Hanging from the Itchen Bridge.’Definitely an unpopular little oik down there, have actually been at St Mary's and heard it first hand.

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