Bank Holiday fun - Spot the difference

Labour Leader Ed Milliband

Barnet Councillor Danny "Imber" Seal

Ed Milliband, the best Labour Leader since Michael Foot

Bumped into an old friend last night for a pint. Dougless is a man of high principle and a lifelong trades unionist. We were discussing the riots, their causes and the fallout. Dougless was highly impressed by the thoughtful response of Ed Milliband. He is pleased that Labour have chosen a leader who is more concerned with providing an intelligent analysis than a sharp soundbite. He said that his response to Cameron in the commons reminded him of the statesman like performance of Michael Foot in the commons debate, when Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands. I asked "So you're saying he's the best Labour leader since Michael Foot". Dougless replied "I suppose he is, when you put it like that. He certainly is in terms of intelligence and integrity, although John Smith was also very good".

Sadly, I suspect that many Conservatives will also agree with his assessment. I suspect that 85% of Labour supporters would say Blair was the worst ever Labour leader. His record in elections - won 3, lost 0. Unsurpassed by any of them. I'm not a fan of Blairism and consider it a massive missed opportunity. The harsh truth is that you cannot do anything in opposition, other than  talk with intelligence and integrity and let the government nick your best ideas.

Ed Milliband

Just got back from Portcullis House & a meeting with Ed Milliband and Business minister Gordon Banks.
The meeting was organised by the Federation of Small Business (FSB). Ed Milliband was keen to hear the views of people running such businesses (which in itself is a welcome change). Gordon Banks is one of only seven MP's who responded to a survey in 2007 stating they had experience of running a small business. I must say Gordon impressed me.

The discussions were private, although Ed is happy for us to mention the fact the meeting took place. All I can say is that  it is encouraging to hear that he is keen to hear our views. He will be addressing the FSB conference. I passionately believe that Small business is an area of teh economy which has been neglected and should be encouraged. I have asked several times for the opportunity to arrange a meeting with senior Barnet Tories and been rebuffed, hoping to discuss various issues affecting local firms. Let's hope that the fact that the Leader of the Labour Party has bothered may inspire them to take a more sensible approach. For all his faults, at least Mike Freer engaged with local business when he was leader of the Council. This has completely stopped since the election last year. Lets hope Ed's good example will inspire Hillan to be a bit more business friendly.