The murder of Hadi Saleh

I've signed an open letter to the Stop the War Coalition about the murder of Hadi Saleh, an officer of the Iraqi Federation of Trade Unions. As I've said before in the FAQs on this site, I support neither George Bush nor the so-called "resistance", but the Iraqi workers' movement in building a secular, democratic Iraq.

Can they be serious?

Unbelievably, the Lib Dems last night confirmed that, if elected, they would lower the age at which teenagers can get served in pubs and off-licences to 16. Of course, that would really help the police cut down disorderly behaviour on George Street and Park End Street every weekend…

Hustings at St Margaret's Institute, 4th February

The first hustings of the season has been announced - so general election fever must be hotting up! They are at St Margaret's Institute on Polstead Road at 8pm on 4th February. There's a charge of £5 on the door (though this includes a glass of wine) which goes to the upkeep of the building. The event will be chaired by Frances Lannon, the principal of Lady Margaret Hall, and I understand that the Green, Liberal Democrat and Tory PPCs will also be there, as well as me. It would be great to see as many people as possible there.

Tsunami Appeal

I just wanted to express my condolences to everyone affected by the tragedy in South Asia and to urge people to donate to the relief effort.

Go to www.dec.org.uk