Tough on Russia and EU, but is it enough?
Jim thinks the Prime Minister is showing European leadership on Ukraine but pettiness on Brexit. He also includes a comprehensive reflection on the local election results in the North West.
Queen’s speech breakout for Gov?
Can the government change the agenda from price rises and sleaze? Jim looks at what we can expect in next week’s Queen’s Speech.
Judgement on Labour
Jim presents his comprehensive preview of the local elections next week in the North West. The Tories should do very badly but Jim suggests the picture is complicated for Labour.
Risk of World War Three
This week, with great regret, but in all seriousness, Jim contemplates the real possibility of world war arising from the Ukraine crisis.
There’s nobody else to lead!
The lack of an obvious successor is a poor reason for the Prime Minister to hang on, argues Jim in his latest blog. He suggests it is all a part of a lowering of standards in public and private life.
If it ain’t broke
Jim thinks there is no need to privatise Channel Four which has become a force for good for the northern media industry. He also look back on this week thirty and forty years ago which brought turning points for the Conservative Party.
Burnham and Neville: The Dream team
Jim gives his views on the leadership of Keir Starmer after two visits to Greater Manchester in a week by the Labour leader. He also asks why so few Chancellors make it to being Prime Minister.
Remember levelling up Rishi?
Jim looks at the implications of the Chancellor’s statement on the Levelling Up agenda and the date of the next General Election.
Critical budget for Sunak’s prospects
Refill the Covid depleted coffers or protect families from a severe cut in their living standards? Jim looks forward to the Chancellor’s choices in next week’s spring statement
Sunak massive bailout part 2
The Chancellor is contemplating a second massive bail out just two years after the pandemic furlough scheme. Jim looks at the energy options facing the government on the world stage.
Does North want to be taken seriously?
One of the North’s leading politicians has been hounded out of office at the age of 48. Jim considers the fate of Newcastle leader Nick Forbes and its implications for our voice in the Levelling Up debate.
The testing time
As Russia attacks Ukraine, Jim assesses the appetite of people in the West for paying the cost of sanctions, leave alone fighting Putin’s forces. He also concludes that the Prime Minister is safe for now.