I recently discovered, entirely by accident, that the latest Microsoft Office update has added an ‘inclusivity’ check to its editor. The result is a new host of words receiving the dreaded underline, with alternatives suggested once you hover over them. This includes words like ‘mankind’, ‘manpower’, ‘postman’, or ‘blackmail’. Apparently. Only the latter was actually... Continue Reading →
A voyage to Australia
The eagle-eyed of you might have spotted an extended and (slightly) uncharacteristic absence on this site. Well, exciting news for anyone interested: I’ve relocated to Australia. From the UK, that is. It’s probably important you knew where I started. After partially re-opening their borders, Australia is beginning to welcome tourists back into the country, witnessing... Continue Reading →
This might be a good time to define “Western values”.
Tensions have existed between Russia and the Western world for over seventy years. It’s hardly surprising, given that Cold War thinking defined multiple generations of foreign policy, that attitudes of suspicion linger. The latest episode in the ongoing saga are disputes over Ukraine, with Russia insisting the region is vital for security reasons, the West... Continue Reading →
Abolishing the BBC’s licence fee fits a worryingly authoritarian narrative
It won’t be immediate, but it certainly appears definite at this stage. The BBC’s licence fee will be abolished in 2027, protected by Royal Charter until then, and funding will be frozen for the next two years. In her announcement, Nadine Dorries boldly declared: “This licence fee announcement will be the last. The days of... Continue Reading →
Statues continue to upset Conservative MPs
Several prominent Conservative MPs voiced their disapproval of the ‘Colton Four’ acquittal by jury verdict, some even claiming this outcome undermined the rule of law. Needless to say, the ongoing debates swirling around statues continue to upset Conservative MPs. I think it’s important to note multiple lawyers, which is to say professionals actually versed in... Continue Reading →
Boycotting the Winter Olympics
Imagine you’re invited to a dinner party. You might not be especially close to the hosts, but a mutual friend, also invited, informs you that a fabulous banquet is in store. In fact, this glorious meal occurs but once every four years. As such, it’s a true spectacle. Guests congregate on the expansive front lawn,... Continue Reading →
Matt Hancock did more than ‘breach Covid guidelines’
Matt Hancock has been gracious enough to apologise once again for ‘breaching Covid guidelines’. That’s his euphemism for having an affair. But whilst it’s in the news again, however irrelevantly at this stage, let’s remember his actions consisted of more than simply flouting social distancing guidelines. It was embarrassing, of course, and his position did... Continue Reading →
Thanks for coming, everyone.
If anyone missed it, the diplomatic pantomime of Cop26 has unfolded over this past fortnight. Well, I’ve been somewhat distracted, so a few weeks ago now. Proceedings were ushered in under the shadow of the UN’s latest IPCC report declaring a “code red for humanity. And, well, “We showed up” said Joe Biden, criticising China... Continue Reading →
Are there any climate optimists?
This is not a climate change blog. It’s a website dedicated to discussing any issue that catches my attention, whilst also providing an outlet to share travel and short stories. For all my complaining, it’s fun. But I have noticed these past few updates rather obsessing over the climate change topic. Part of that has... Continue Reading →
The esteemed charlatan.
Tension lashed across the courtyard, whipping and cracking against the walls. Nervous onlookers peered through the trembling glass at the mass of protestors below. In turn, the jostling crowd spat frenzied ire at the building, slurring vague demands into their disgusted tirade. Gazing at the assembly from afar, one man beamed outwardly. Alfie Darkson. He... Continue Reading →