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Rhondda Records is with you every day bringing the news ------- that gives a view of world events different to the mainstream media or social media!
Except Sundays - our day of rest.
Journalist:To end war ------
prosecute UK, US officials
who wage(d) it illegally
October 22nd, 10:12pm (PressTV)
The world must finally put an end to the impunity of war
criminals, by holding US and UK officials responsible
for launching the illegal war on Iraq, done without
the approval of the UN Security Council, and
prosecuting them --- under the Nuremberg
principles, US journalist Don DeBar said.
DeBar made the remarks in an interview with Press TV while
commenting on a report which has revealed that the British
military inquiries into abuse against Iraqi nationals... have
been closed without a single prosecution being brought,
even though the credibility of many "shocking and
shameful incidents" during the war in the Middle
Eastern country, have been confirmed.
British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said in a statement
this week that the Service Police Legacy Investigations,
which was looking at claims of abuse in Iraq, had now
"officially closed its doors."
In March 2003, the US and Britain invaded Iraq in blatant
violation of international law and under the pretext of
finding WMDs; but no such weapons were ever
discovered in Iraq.
More than one million Iraqis were killed - as the result of
the US-led invasion and subsequent occupation of Iraq
--- according to the California-based investigative
organization, Project Censored.
The US war in Iraq cost US taxpayers $1.7 trillion with
an additional $490 billion in benefits owed to war veterans, expenses that could grow to more than $6 trillion over the next four decades counting interest, according to a study called Costs of War Project --- by the Watson Institute for
International Studies at Brown University.
DeBar told Press TV that the Iraq war
was illegal from the very beginning.
"It is illegal for a nation to make war on another nation if it
does not have the approval of the UN Security Council, if
any of those nations are signatories to the original UN
Charter. And it’s been adopted - that happened with
the US, as a charter member of the UN -- and it was
approved by the US Senate in the 1940s.
Consequently, the US involvement in Iraq from the beginning, and the UK involvement in Iraq from the beginning, was illegal,” he said.
“And under the Nuremberg standards, which would then
apply, each and every death consequent – intentional
or not - to either US or UK military action there, or
condoning of the US action there, by the media
or public officials, or any act facilitating that,
is an individual war crime. And, by the way,
there’s a death penalty for that,” the
journalist noted.
“No one will prosecute these people. That’s why I started
with the word impunity. And we might bookend with that
because that’s the problem. And until the world puts an
end to that impunity, until the world sees the major
contradiction in all international relations, is US,
UK, and EU imperialism, then it’s going to
continue until this eats our species,”
he stated.
A damning White House memo had revealed details of the
so-called “deal in blood” forged by former British Prime
Minister Tony Blair and US President George W. Bush
over the Iraq war.
The document, titled “Secret... Memorandum for the
President”, was sent by then-US Secretary of State
Colin Powell to President Bush on March 28th, 2002, a week before Bush’s summit with Blair at his Crawford ranch in Texas.
The sensational memo, revealed that Blair had agreed to
support the war a year before the invasion even started
while publicly, the British prime minister was working to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
The document also disclosed that Blair agreed to act as a
spin doctor for Bush and convince a skeptical public that
Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein had Weapons of Mass
Destruction, which actually did not exist.
In response, Bush would flatter Blair and give the
impression that London was not Washington’s
poodle but an equal partner in the
“special relationship.”
Powell told Bush that Blair “will be with us” on the
Iraq war, and assured the president that “"the UK
will follow our lead in the Middle East."
Blair has always denied the claim that he and Bush
signed a deal “in blood”, at Crawford, to launch a
war against Iraq that began on March 20th, 2003,
that has killed hundreds of thousands of people.
The Powell memo, however, showed how Blair and
Bush secretly prepared the Iraq war plot behind
closed doors at Crawford.
Powell told Bush: “He will present to you the strategic,
tactical and public affairs lines, that he believes will
strengthen global support for our common cause.”
US cannot turn Venezuela into a colony
and steal its natural resources,
Maduro warns
December 27th, 7:55am
(PressTV)
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has warned
that the US cannot turn the sovereign Latin
American country into a colony and
steal its natural resources.
Speaking on the television channel Venezolana de Television
on Friday, Maduro called on the US politicians gathered in
Washington, DC, to abandon the failed projects that
the White House has been trying to implement
in his country ------- for the past 25 years.
Maduro said if US politicians are ready to engage in dialogue
on a respectful basis, “we will always find here a president
who represents his people, to reach out, to seek paths
to peace, cooperation and prosperity.”
In the meantime, he said, the nation ---- will
never believe the lies the US is fabricating.
“It is impossible --- for the US government to fabricate such a
virtual reality,” Maduro repeated in English, emphasizing
that the Venezuelan people have demonstrated their
ability --- “to lead the country on the right path.”
The US military has deployed a large number of warships
and soldiers in the Caribbean Sea, unprecedented
in decades.
Also, it has destroyed at least 28 “drug boats” in
international waters since September, killing
more than 100 people.
Earlier this month, US President Donald Trump
announced the seizure of a sanctioned oil
tanker carrying Venezuelan oil.
Also, the Panamanian-flagged tanker Centuries and
the supertanker Bella 1, which was traveling to
Venezuela under the Panamanian flag,
have been seized.
Venezuela has categorically denounced
the US’ “theft and hijacking” of its oil.
Caracas vows to pursue legal avenues,
including with the United Nations.
People hold up a banner as they protest
against Israel at the entrance of the
International Criminal Court
000000000000000000000000000000000000000000
PM al-Sudani on elections, foreign
policy, and the region:Exclusive
December 27th, 7:26pm
(Al Mayadeen English)
In an exclusive for Al Mayadeen, Iraqi PM Mohammad Shia
The success of Iraq’s most recent elections was primarily
driven by strong public participation, Iraqi Prime Minister
Mohammad Shia al-Sudani said, citing a turnout that
exceeded expectations for the first time in three
electoral cycles, despite a boycott by some
political forces.
In an exclusive interview for Al Mayadeen, al-Sudani said
the high voter turnout ..reflected public satisfaction and
confidence in the government’s executive performance
and the prevailing state of security and stability.
He noted that -- "when citizens take part in such a process, they
aim for real change in public services as well as improvements
in living standards and economic conditions," alongside a
sense of security and a desire to see their country
recover and strengthen its regional role.
Addressing the boycott by the Sadrist Movement, al-Sudani denied
the existence of any personal dispute, stressing to Al Mayadeen
that the government views the movement as a broad political
and popular force with symbolism, leadership, and a long-
standing role in the political process. He said the
decision not to participate was respected,
asserting that the government had
hoped for its involvement --- and
made efforts toward that end.
Iraq's interests drive Baghdad's foreign policy
On foreign policy, al-Sudani emphasized to Al Mayadeen that Iraq’s
external relations are governed by a single, consistent principle:
"the interests of Iraq and its people remain our top priority." He
said this approach applies equally to relations with Arab
countries, neighbouring states, and Islamic countries,
including Iran and Türkiye, without discrimination.
Regarding political positions, al-Sudani reaffirmed Iraq’s adherence to
its core principles, foremost among them -- the Palestinian cause. He
said Iraq’s stance has been clear at both official and popular levels,
with the backing of religious authorities, while underscoring that
Iraq’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the security of its
people --- are non-negotiable constants.
He added that - despite major regional developments in recent years,
the government has succeeded in building balanced relations that
uphold these principles. Al-Sudani said Iraq has maintained a
political, media, humanitarian, and diplomatic presence with
regard to the wars on Gaza and Lebanon, developments in
Syria, and the aggression against Iran.
Al-Sudani also told Al Mayadeen that economic partnerships are a
central pillar of Iraq’s foreign policy, pointing to the country’s
geopolitical position and its natural and human resources,
which he said have been leveraged to build economic
relations that support domestic economic
improvement and stability.
Being Iraqi means not accepting threats
Responding to questions about external pressures, the prime minister
said that being Iraqi means not accepting threats or coercion, noting
that Baghdad has maintained relations with all parties, including the
United States.
In his interview for Al Mayadeen, al-Sudani revealed that Iraq was
repeatedly threatened by the Israeli occupation entity, through
third parties at times and publicly and officially at others.
Al-Sudani said the state addresses these threats based
on its exclusive authority over decisions of war and
peace, as well as its efforts to prevent the
conflict from expanding.
On Arab relations, he said Saudi Arabia holds significant weight
at both the Arab and regional levels, while stressing that Iraq
manages its relations with all Arab states according to the
same principle, without favouritism.
Iraqi assistance to Lebanon fraternal duty
Regarding reconstruction efforts in Lebanon, al-Sudani reaffirmed
Iraq’s steadfast support, saying Baghdad’s assistance is a
"fraternal duty rather than a favour or grace."
He confirmed that Iraq has already begun practical steps to
contribute to Lebanon’s reconstruction, noting that any
perceived delays are due to administrative and
organizational procedures, rather than a
change in position.
He recalled that Iraq announced, during the Arab Summit in Baghdad,
"an initial contribution of $20 million to the Lebanon Reconstruction
Fund and $20 million for reconstruction in Gaza." Al-Sudani said the
decision reflects the will of the Iraqi people across all segments of
society, not a unilateral government move.
The prime minister also disclosed to Al Mayadeen that Iraq has opened
an office to oversee its contribution to Lebanon’s reconstruction, with contacts established with Lebanon’s president and the speaker of parliament. In this context, he revealed that a delegation was sent to Beirut to complete official procedures, and formally announce the office.
Syria's security is Iraq's security
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani said that his meeting with
Syrian interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa was held at Qatar’s request,
noting that coordination between Baghdad and Damascus had begun
well before the meeting through direct security contacts. These
included..... dispatching a delegation headed by the Iraqi
intelligence chief to Damascus, and the formation of
a joint bilateral security coordination committee.
Through Al Mayadeen, al-Sudani described Iraq–Syria relations as rooted
in deep historical and social ties spanning thousands of years, stressing
that Syria’s security and stability are a prerequisite for Iraq’s own
security and for broader regional stability. He said Baghdad
respected the will of the Syrian people following political
change and opened channels of communication with
the new administration, on that basis.
Al-Sudani said Iraq conveyed clear messages to the Syrian leadership on
the need to launch an inclusive political process that accommodates all
components of Syrian society, rejects extremism and terrorism, adopts
a firm stance against the Islamic State group, takes a clear position
on foreign military presence and Israeli incursions, and preserves
Syria’s unity.
On security cooperation, he told Al Mayadeen that Iraq sees preventing
a resurgence of Islamic State activity as a top priority. Baghdad, he
added, is working within the framework of the international
coalition and in coordination with the Syrian authorities,
alongside advanced cooperation on counter-narcotics.
This has included joint operations inside Syrian
territory based on intelligence sharing.
Politically, al-Sudani said communication with Damascus has been
continuous and public, involving reciprocal visits by ministers and
official delegations, while Iraq closely monitors security
developments in Syria.
Asked to assess Ahmad al-Sharaa’s transition from Idlib to Damascus,
al-Sudani described it as a “transitional phase", noting that al-Sharaa
spoke candidly about its challenges and expressed a desire to
address the consequences of the previous period and the
suffering endured by Syrians. He said Iraq supports any
approach that helps stabilize Syria and moves beyond
the years of turmoil.
On the possibility of Iraqi mediation between Iran and Syria’s new
administration, al-Sudani said Iraq’s strong relations with all
parties qualify it to help bridge differences if requested,
yet no such request has been made so far.
Iraq actively working to bring US, Iran closer
On the issue of Iraqi-Iranian ties, al-Sudani denied any Iranian
interference or tutelage over Iraq’s internal affairs, saying
that during his three and a half years as prime minister,
he "did not sense any form of custodianship,
interference, or undue influence."
He pointed to the special nature of relations with Iran as a
neighbouring country with religious, cultural, and social
ties to Iraq, as well as Tehran’s support for Baghdad
in confronting the Islamic State and backing the
political process in the country, stressing that
this cannot be interpreted as interference
or the imposition of agendas.
At the same time, he emphasized the unique nature of relations
with the US, describing them as a strategic partnership that is
highly valued by Iraqis. He cited Washington’s role in toppling
the former regime and leading the international coalition
against the Islamic State in 2014, while emphasizing
that the Iraqi people and security forces made the
main sacrifices.
Al-Sudani revealed to Al Mayadeen... that Iraq is actively seeking to
bring the US and Iran closer, saying, "We have an ongoing attempt
at communication at the highest levels," while noting that "the
matter requires some assurances because dialogues have
occurred in other countries, yet commitments were
accompanied by threats and intimidation."
He said the initiative was raised during his recent meeting with US
special envoy Tom Barrack, adding that Iraq proposed the role
itself, stressing respect, confidence-building, avoiding the
linkage between negotiations and military operations,
and offering goodwill gestures, particularly
regarding economic sanctions and
their impact on populations.
He said positive signals have emerged from more than one US and
Iranian official regarding openness to resuming dialogue, although
disagreements persist over guarantees, the seriousness of the
process, and ending policies of pressure and threats.
No veto will target any figures in constitutional processes
Al-Sudani said regional and international positions toward Iraq are not
based on personal assessments of the prime minister, but rather on
the state’s overall approach and government policies in managing
foreign relations, stressing that stability is the decisive factor
shaping external perceptions. He added that while internal
disputes may be person-based, they do not affect Iraq’s
external stance, arguing that the core issue lies in
political forces respecting the voters’ will - and
the election results.
The Iraqi PM reiterated to Al Mayadeen that Iraq is a
parliamentary system in which real authority rests
with the Council of Representatives and that
selecting a nominee --- to form the next
government, is a collective decision
of the Coordination Framework ----
with no veto - on any figure from
any component in the coming
constitutional processes.
Asked about objections to nominating Mohammad al-Halbousi,
al-Sudani said discussions concluded that there is no veto on
anyone and that choosing the speaker of parliament --- is the
right of the relevant piece, based on electoral entitlement.
On his political future, al-Sudani said seeking a second term is not
a personal ambition but a readiness to shoulder responsibility
and complete a project already underway. He said the
reconstruction and development program won the
confidence of more than 1.4 million voters,
adding that his chances of forming a
new government remain intact
and that he trusts political
forces to respect the
voters’ will.
International Coalition withdrawal underway
The Iraqi prime minister stressed that limiting weapons to the state
is a constitutional principle included in the government program
approved by parliament on Oct. 27, 2022, denying that it was
a response to US or external demands and emphasizing
that the issue will be addressed through dialogue.
He also said the administration of US President Donald Trump
is committed to implementing the international coalition’s
withdrawal agreement according to the announced
timetable. Al-Sudani said Iraq is set to take full
control of Ain al-Assad Air Base and joint
operations within days, before moving
to a second phase involving the
handover of the Harir Air
Base in Erbil.
He noted that any side carrying arms has national pathways
to pursue, including integration into security institutions or
engagement in political life, adding that these options are
acceptable to all Western parties.
Commenting on the appointment of a US special envoy, al-Sudani
said the move reflects interest in bilateral relations and opening
additional channels of communication, while firmly rejecting
any attempts to impose specific diktats, particularly on the
issue of limiting weapons -------- which he described as an
internal matter that does not accept external tutelage.
On the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) --- al-Sudani highlighted their
significant role, alongside the armed forces, in defeating the Islamic
State, noting the sacrifices they made. "Certainly, no one can deny
the significant role of the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) -- in
combating terrorism and standing alongside their brethren in
the security services, the Ministry of Defense, the Interior
Ministry, and other security agencies, in eliminating
ISIS," he stated.
He further affirmed that the PMF is a legally established security
institution under the command of the commander-in-chief and
integrated into the joint security system, adding that the
government has begun an institutional reform process
across security agencies, including the PMF.
Soleimani, al-Muhandis 'commanders of victory'
Marking the anniversary of the martyrdom of the deputy chairman of
the Popular Mobilization Forces, Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis, and the
IRGC's Quds Force commander, Major General Qassem
Soleimani, al-Sudani said there is no more powerful
description than that of the religious authority,
which referred to them as “Commanders
of Victory.”
He stressed their role in defeating the Islamic State alongside
various components of the Iraqi people, adding that their
assassination was a violation of Iraq’s sovereignty,
particularly as Soleimani was a guest in Iraq
and a senior official of neighbouring Iran.
"The Commanders of Victory were present alongside the security
forces as they fought in Sinjar, in Nineveh, in Salah al-Din, in
Anbar; together with various components: Arabs, Kurds,
Turkmen, Shabaks, Muslims, Christians ------ with
everyone," he highlighted
Al-Sudani added that "this painful occasion - reminds Iraqis of an
incident that violated their sovereignty, especially since martyr
Soleimani, was a guest in Iraq -- and a high-ranking official of
neighbouring Iran."
Source: Al Mayadeen
__________________________________________
Saudi-backed coalition vows to counter
UAE allies' military actions in Yemen
December 27th, 7:07pm
(PressTV)
The Saudi-led military coalition says it would respond directly
to any military activities by the UAE-allied Southern
Transitional Council (STC) that disrupt ongoing
de-escalation efforts in southern Yemen.
Colonel Turki al-Maliki, the spokesman for the alliance, said that
the warning was issued following a request from Rashad
al-Alimi, the Chairman of the Saudi-backed fugitive
government, to urgently implement measures
allegedly aimed at safeguarding civilians
in Hadramout.
Maliki said the request followed “serious and shocking
humanitarian violations against civilians by armed
elements affiliated with the Southern
Transitional Council.”
The Saudi-led coalition's military spokesman noted that any
military movements by STC that contravene de-escalation
efforts will be dealt with directly and immediately.
He asserted that the objective is to safeguard civilian lives
and support the success of initiatives to reduce tensions.
The coalition reaffirmed --- its “firm and continued” support for
Yemen’s fugitive government, calling on all parties, to uphold
their national responsibilities, practice restraint, and engage
with peaceful initiatives ----- aimed at maintaining security
and stability.
Saudi Defense Minister Khalid bin Salman Al Saud on Saturday
warned the STC to withdraw from military camps in 2 Yemeni
governorates and hand them over to local authorities.
At this critical juncture, the STC needed to prioritize rationality,
wisdom, the greater public good, and unity by cooperating
with Saudi-Emirati mediation efforts. This involved de-
escalating tensions, vacating military camps in the
governorates of Hadramout and al-Mahrah, and
peacefully transferring control to the National
Shield Forces and local authorities, the
Saudi minister wrote on the social
media platform X.
Tensions in Yemen intensified on December 3 as STC forces
seized control of Hadramout after clashes with Saudi-
backed militants. The STC subsequently extended
its reach into the eastern governorate of
al-Mahrah ...without encountering any
reported resistance and has been
recruiting local forces in
both regions.
After the recent military expansion of the STC, Saudi Arabia
carried out airstrikes on Friday, targeting STC positions.
These included several sites used by the Hadrami
Elite Forces in the Ghayl bin Yamin area.... near
key oil fields. Reports indicate no casualties
or damage to military equipment as a
result of the strikes.
The STC announced on Friday that it is open to collaboration or
agreements aimed at protecting what it referred to as mutual
interests with Saudi Arabia, while addressing the
aspirations of the southern Yemeni population.
The UAE has been a pivotal partner in the US-supported, Saudi-led
war against Yemen and the Ansarallah-led government in Sana’a,
which began in 2015. At the same time, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi
have been engaged in a rivalry ---- for control over Yemen’s
resources and critical ports.
Critics argue that both countries are collaborating to divide Yemen
in ways that align with their own agendas. They suggest that the
push for local autonomy is merely a façade, concealing a
deeper quest for influence, with Hadramout becoming
a focal point of this competitive power struggle.
Yemen has experienced external interference for decades.
Ansarullah ------ wields significant authority in the north-
western territory, including the capital city, Sana’a.
The resistance movement has garnered global attention due to
its actions aimed at Israel and its maritime operations in the
Red Sea, especially in light of Israel's genocidal campaign
in Gaza.
The US & Israel have conducted deadly attacks
in Sana’a, resulting in civilian casualties.
___________________________________
Lebanese Army Inspections Debunk
Israeli Claims in Southern Villages
December 27th, 6pm
(al Manar)
The Lebanese Army has inspected several homes in the
southern towns of Beit Yahoun and Beit Lif and found
no weapons, directly refuting claims made by the
so-called “mechanism committee” and echoed
by the Israeli occupation, a correspondent
reported from the south.
According to the report, the inspections were carried out following
allegations that the targeted homes contained weapons caches.
Field checks by the Lebanese Army confirmed that the houses
were entirely free of arms or military equipment.
Beit Lif Mayor: Allegations Exposed as Fabrications
Beit Lif Mayor Ezzat Hammoud said the municipality was formally
notified, via the “mechanism committee,” of a request to inspect
four homes based on Israeli allegations of hidden weapons.
“The committee and the Lebanese Army came to the town and
carried out the inspections,” Hammoud said. “It was clearly
established that the homes were empty of any weapons
or military materiel. What the Israeli enemy claims
is nothing but fabrication and lies.”
Speaking to the Al-Ahed news website, Hammoud stressed that
such Israeli allegations are not new ...and have repeatedly
collapsed under on-the-ground verification. He recalled
previous visits by Lebanese Army units, UN peace-
keepers, and delegations of journalists --- local
and international --- who inspected sites
alleged to be military locations, only
to find them completely civilian.
Hammoud said the latest inspections followed the same pattern.
Homeowners were informed in advance and fully cooperated,
confident that their properties contained nothing of a
military nature. The searches were conducted
calmly, without tension or material damage,
and in the presence of the residents
themselves, who, he noted,
showed quiet assurance
that the accusations
would be disproven.
Psychological Pressure, Unbroken Resolve
The mayor suggested that the repeated allegations may be part of
psychological pressure tactics aimed at intimidating residents or
pushing them to leave their town. “The result has been the
opposite. These provocations have only strengthened
people’s attachment to their land and reinforced
their determination to resume normal life.....
after a period of anxiety and instability.”
Hammoud also underscored the sanctity of homes.... as protected by
the Lebanese constitution while reaffirming the town’s unwavering
support for the Lebanese Army as a unifying national institution.
He stated that the army always responds to requests with
cooperation, driven by trust in its role. Addressing the
political and psychological dimensions of such
pressure, he added, remains a responsibility
of the political authorities.
He noted the visible surprise of visiting media delegations —
especially foreign journalists — who observed ordinary
family life inside the inspected homes, with no sign
of military activity. This, Hammoud said, further
exposes the allegations as an attempt to
“throw dust in people’s eyes.”
He concluded that while the inspections caused temporary
inconvenience, they ultimately served Beit Lif’s interests
by exposing the falsity of Israeli claims before
Lebanese and international public opinion,
reaffirming that the town is purely
civilian and that its residents
remain steadfast, on their
land -------- despite all the
repeated provocations.
Source: Al-Manar Website
_______________________________________
Israel accelerating settlements legalization
to block Palestinian state: Rights group
December 27th, 4:27pm
(PressTV)
A Palestinian anti-settlement group has warned that Israel is
intensifying its efforts to legitimize settlement outposts and
so-called pastoral farms, transforming them into recognized
settlements in clear defiance of international law and UN
resolutions, with open political support from the US.
The National Office --- for the Defense of Land and Resistance
to Settlements stated in its latest report that the so-called
Israeli security cabinet has given the green light for the
creation of 19 new settlements in the occupied West
Bank - a decision widely regarded as a significant
breach of international law.
The office noted that far-right Israeli Finance Minister, Bezalel
Smotrich labeled the move as historic, stating its purpose is:
to block any chance for the formation of a Palestinian state.
The report indicated that the recent approvals have raised the
total number of authorized settlements over the past three
years to 69, highlighting an unprecedented surge in
settlement expansion, as outlined in Smotrich's
own remarks.
It noted that the newly approved settlements, distributed
throughout the West Bank --- largely include areas that
were evacuated in 2005, illegal outposts, extremist
pastoral farms... or parts of existing settlements
-- that have been reclassified as independent.
This reclassification grants them access to official budgets,
infrastructure, and other benefits, the rights group said.
The report said the measures are part of a larger strategy
.....implemented by the administration of Israeli Prime
Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, aimed at legalizing
unauthorized outposts and further solidifying
Israeli authority within the West Bank.
A group of 14 countries has issued a joint statement,
strongly condemning Israel’s decision to establish
new settlements in the occupied West Bank.
Certain settlements undergoing regularization - like Ganim
and Kadim, originated in the 1980s and eventually turned
into isolated ''communes'' within areas designated as
A and B under the Oslo Accords.
The report highlighted that these settlements fragment
Palestinian territory, especially in the northern West
Bank ----- in areas that were previously off-limits to
Israeli presence under the 2005 disengagement
law, which had led to the dismantling of four
settlements in that region.
The report stated that outposts and pastoral farms are
being transformed into formal settlements, alongside
plans ....to extend current settlements by building
hundreds of new housing units.
The initiative is part of a broader settlement project
designed to claim additional Palestinian land, the
office said.
After the launch of Israel's genocidal war in Gaza on October
7, 2023, Israeli authorities examined about 355 master plans
for the development of 37,415 settlement units --- across
38,551 dunams (39 sq kilometres) of Palestinian land.
Among these, approval has been granted for 18,801
units, while the remaining 18,614 ......are still
undergoing ''review.''
Over 700,000 Israeli settlers currently live in more than 230
settlements established following the 1967 occupation of
the West Bank and East al-Quds.
The international community views these settlements, as a
violation of international law and the Geneva Conventions
as they are built on occupied Palestinian territories.
The UN General Assembly and the UN Security Council
- have consistently denounced Israel's settlement
activities - through various resolutions.
__________________________________________
Israel seeks Zionist colonial gainsthrough
its ''recognition'' of Somaliland: Hamas
December 27th, 4:05pm
(PressTV)
The Palestinian resistance movement Hamas, has strongly
condemned Israel’s recognition of the breakaway region
of Somaliland as a sovereign state, describing the move
as serving Tel Aviv’s “colonial Zionist project.”
On Friday, Israel announced it had signed an agreement with
Somaliland to establish full diplomatic relations, including
the opening of embassies and the exchange
of ambassadors.
Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991
following a brutal civil war, but it had not previously
been recognized by any member of the UN.
In a statement on Saturday, Hamas said the Israeli recognition
violates international law and undermines Somalia’s unity
and sovereignty.
The group said Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu,
is seeking a broader strategy --- to fragment Arab nations,
destabilize the region, & reinforce his colonial ambitions.
Hamas further criticized Somaliland for attempting to gain
legitimacy... from a “fascist entity occupying Palestine,”
and said the recognition --- reflects Israel’s “depth
of international isolation.”
Somalia also condemned the move, calling Israel’s actions
an interference in its internal affairs --- and demanding that the recognition be reversed.
Somalia’s Foreign Minister Ali Omar told Al-Jazeera that
Israel’s push for Somaliland’s recognition is linked to
plans ----- to displace Palestinians from Gaza.
Palestine’s foreign ministry echoed this warning, describing
Israel’s plan to relocate Palestinians to Somaliland as a
“red line.” Hamas also rejected any use of Somaliland
as a destination for displaced Palestinians.
In early August, US President Donald Trump - indicated he
would support recognition of Somaliland if the territory
agreed to accept forcibly displaced Palestinians.
Following his comments, media outlets reported - that
Washington and Tel Aviv, had approached Somaliland
regarding a resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza.
Somaliland, however, denied the reports, saying that it had not received any such proposal.
________________________________________
Israeli forces kill a Palestinian man in Gaza;
as settler violence, and abductions intensify in the West Bank
December 27th, 7:42am
(PressTV)
Israeli forces have fatally shot a Palestinian man in Gaza
amid ongoing ceasefire violations ------- as violence and
abductions escalate across the occupied West Bank.
According to WAFA, the official Palestinian news agency,
Israeli forces fired on Uday al-Maqadma while the man
was sitting near the entrance of Hafsa School,
east of Gaza.
He sustained a gunshot wound to the head and was
reported to be in critical condition. He was taken
to the hospital, where doctors later confirmed
his death.
Since the Gaza ceasefire agreement went into effect on
October 10, Israel has carried out lethal attacks and
imposed tight restrictions on aid in Gaza, resulting
in at least 411 Palestinian deaths and
1,112 injuries.
Earlier this week, two Palestinians were also shot dead
by Israeli soldiers in the Shujayea neighbourhood,
east of Gaza City.
Violence by Israeli settlers and military raids has
also increased across the occupied West Bank.
According to reports, a Palestinian municipal employee
was injured on Friday --- after being assaulted by a
group of settlers near Nablus.
The Israeli forces also abducted Palestinian
farmers working their land ...east of Tubas.
The head of the Yarza village council said that Israeli
troops have been holding the farmers for hours
after they attempted to cultivate their land
in the village.
He added that settlers assaulted the farmers and
prevented them from accessing their farmlands.
Additional abductions were reported during Israeli
raids in the Yatta area and in Beit Ummar
near al-Khalil.
Those abducted included a woman, four children,
and an elderly man, whom Palestinian activists
say was abducted ...after settlers damaged
the fence surrounding his home.
The Israeli authorities are rarely reported
to hold settlers responsible for violence
against Palestinian communities.
Footage circulated by Palestinian media outlets
on Thursday showed an Israeli settler ramming
an all-terrain vehicle -- into a Palestinian man,
while he was kneeling in prayer........ on the
side of a road in the occupied West Bank.
The settler, carrying a rifle - drove directly into
the praying man near the village of Deir Jarir,
north of the city of Ramallah.
The Palestinian man was knocked to the ground
and left lying injured as the settler dismounted,
shouted at him, and ordered him to leave the
area ..before driving away.
In the last two years, since the start of the Israeli
genocide in Gaza in October 2023, nearly 1,102
Palestinians have been killed in the occupied
West Bank, and some 11,000 others have
been injured in attacks by the Israeli
military and settlers.
Around 21,000 people ---------- have also been
abducted by the occupying regime’s forces.
Despite the ceasefire, Israeli forces have continued
to carry out deadly attacks across Gaza ---- killing
hundreds of Palestinians in the past few weeks.
Since October 2023, Israeli forces have killed about
71,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children,
in the blockaded Palestinian territory.
_____________________________________________
Pakistan won't join Gaza peace force
if Hamas disarmament is involved
December 27th, 12:29am
(Al Mayadeen English)
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan
Ishaq Dar has stated ----- that Pakistan is prepared
to participate in the international peacekeeping
force in Gaza on the condition that its mandate
does not include the disarmament of Hamas
which, he stressed, is a responsibility for
the Palestinian Authority or any future
Palestinian government.
“Pakistan will gladly be part of such a mission if it is strictly
for peacekeeping—not peace enforcement—and does not
involve disarming Hamas,” Dar said during a year-end
briefing on Pakistan’s foreign policy achievements.
Dar emphasized Pakistan’s consistent diplomatic language at
international forums, stating, “We have always used the term
peacekeeping, not peace enforcement, whether in New York,
Istanbul, or Islamabad.”
Dar also highlighted Pakistan’s focus on becoming an economic
power, noting large-scale investments --- in mining and defense
industries, including recent deals with the UAE and financial
assistance from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and China.
Dar reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering stance on Palestinian
sovereignty, calling for justice, regional stability, and
adherence to international law.
Fidan meets Hamas leaders in Ankara
---------- to push Gaza ceasefire forward
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with a delegation from
Hamas's Political Bureau in Ankara on Wednesday to discuss
the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement and
ways to advance it to its second phase, amid ongoing
Israeli violations and worsening humanitarian
conditions in the besieged Strip.
According to a source at the Turkish Foreign Ministry cited by
Reuters, the Hamas delegation was led by senior official
Khalil al-Hayya. During the meeting, Hamas officials
told Fidan that the movement has fully met its
obligations under the ceasefire agreement,
while accusing "Israel" --- of continuing
military attacks on Gaza, in an effort
to obstruct the transition to the
next stage of the deal.
The delegation also briefed the Turkish foreign minister on the
deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, stressing that
current aid flows remain far below what is required to
meet basic civilian needs. The Hamas officials
highlighted acute shortages in medicines,
shelter materials, fuel, and equipment
necessary for debris removal and
emergency housing, the
source said.
They warned that continued restrictions on aid, and essential
supplies are exacerbating civilian suffering and undermining
the viability of the ceasefire agreement ----- particularly as
Gaza faces widespread destruction and displacement.
The Ankara meeting comes days after Turkish intelligence chief
Ibrahim Kalin held talks in Istanbul with Hamas leadership, also
led by al-Hayya, as part of Ankara's broader diplomatic efforts
to sustain the ceasefire and prepare for the next phase of the
agreement. Those discussions focused on preventing further
violations, resolving outstanding technical issues, and
maintaining momentum toward phase two...
amid mounting tensions on the ground.
Source: Agencies
Today, December the 27th, in 1930,
Wilfrid Sheed,
novelist and essayist,
is born.
Wilfrid John Joseph Sheed was an English-born American,
born in London, to Frank Sheed and Maisie Ward, the
prominent Roman Catholic publishers (Sheed
and Ward) in the UK and the US during the mid-20th century.
Wilfrid Sheed spent his childhood in both England and the US
before attending Downside School, and Lincoln College,
Oxford, where he earned his BA and MA degrees.
Sheed's first novel, A Middle Class Education (1961), was based
on his experiences at Oxford. His biography Frank and Maisie
was about his parents' literary establishment and
intellectual world.
He wrote satirical novels about journalism and memoirs... in his
later years. His book on US popular music, entitled 'The House
that George Built with a little help from Irving, Cole and a
Crew of about Fifty' --- was published in 2008.
He died on January the 19th, in 2011, aged 80.
Published works:
A Middle Class Education, 1961.
The Hack, 1963.
Square's Progress, 1965.
Office Politics, 1966;
The Blacking Factory, 1968.
Max Jamison, 1970.
The Morning After: Selected essays & reviews, 1971.
People Will Always Be Kind, 1973.
Three Mobs: Labour, church, and Mafia, 1974.
Muhammad Ali: A Portrait in Words & Photographs, 1975.
The Good Word & Other Words, 1978.
Transatlantic Blues, 1978.
Clare Boothe Luce, 1982.
Frank and Maisie: A memoir with parents, 1985.
The Boys of Winter: A novel, 1987.
Essays in Disguise, 1990.
Baseball and Lesser Sports, 1991.
My Life as a Fan, 1993.
In Love with Daylight: A memoir of recovery, 1995.
The House that George Built with a little help from
Irving, Cole and a Crew of about Fifty, 2007.
''It had always been a notion of mine that sanity is like
a clearing in the jungle where the humans agree to
meet from time to time .....and behave in certain
fixed ways that even a baboon could master,
like Englishmen dressing for dinner
in the tropics.''
''The desire not to destroy the palace but to move into it
oneself --- has always been the occupational curse
of revolutionaries.''
''Chicago 1968 taught one how close any civilized country is
to berserkness at all times; also how terrorism, even silly
terrorism, strengthens the cops more than anyone. Yet
already this European-style history lesson.. has been
watered down by consensus, into something crazy
we did in the 60s, just as we "did" McCarthyism
in the fifties. As if a nation changes its nature
completely every ten years; as if social
forces.. were as evanescent as hula
hoops or skateboards, instead of
as remorseless as glaciers.''
''Whether or not Big Brother is
watching us, we certainly
have to watch him,
which may be...
even worse.''
''The worse we treat people in this country,
the more delicately we talk about them.''
Israeli universities -------- face
growing academic isolation
despite Gaza ceasefire,
report says
November 25th, 8:39am (PressTV)
The academic boycott of Israeli universities in Europe has
doubled, even after the Gaza ceasefire aimed at ending
the occupying regime’s genocidal war against the
besieged Gaza Strip.... a move that further
isolates Tel Aviv --- in global higher
education, a new report says.
The Academic Boycott of Israel Monitoring Team, created by
the Committee of University Presidents in Tel Aviv, said in a
report on Monday that academic boycotts targeting the
regime have surged, with around 1,000 cases
reported in Europe by November.
It stressed that Israel’s negative image, which has persisted even
after the ceasefire over the genocidal war against Gaza -- is “so
deeply entrenched that political moves alone are not enough
to shift public perception.”
Contrary to expectations that the boycott would ease following the
ceasefire, the report notes that “the opposite occurred,” with
institutions and individual academics more frequently
filing boycott cases.
The monitoring team, whose report was published by The Marker,
the economic version of the Hebrew newspaper Haaretz ---- also
warned that this expanding boycott could isolate Israeli higher
education significantly and pose a long-term strategic threat
to its international standing.
The report further identified concrete consequences for the move,
including a drop in EU Horizon Europe research grants for Israeli
scholars, exclusion from international cooperation projects,
and a breakdown in collaborative programs.
The Association of University Heads in Israel has reportedly
recorded over 1,000 incidents of academic boycotts over
the last two years, three times the total as of a year ago.
According to the report, 57 percent of cases involve individual
researchers (mainly being excluded from research groups),
22 percent are institutional severances, seven percent
are from professional associations, and 14 percent
relate to halted student exchanges or
postdoctoral partnerships.
It also said that this crippling boycott trend --- is unlikely to reverse
soon without “major regional and geopolitical changes,” warning
that sustained isolation of Israeli academia may continue.
The boycott movement “will accompany Israeli academia for
a long time and will not ease without major regional and
geopolitical changes,” the report noted.
Israel has killed nearly 70,000 Palestinians, most of them women
and children, and injured over 170,900 others in Gaza since
October 7, 2023, according to Gaza's Health Ministry,
when it launched a brutal war against the
Palestinian territory.
Despite a ceasefire announced in October,
Israel continues to target Gaza -------
in violation of the agreement.
Hamas has urged the guarantors of the ceasefire, namely Qatar,
Turkey, Egypt, and the United States, to press Israel to abide
by the deal ---- and stop its attacks on Gaza.
The world and her daughter are calling for a boycott of the genocidal colonial apartheid state of Israel.
Place yourself on the right side of joy and sorrow by joining the world's boycott - say ''no'' to evil!
Keir Hardie - Britain's first Labour MP - opposedWorld War One.
His namesake is stammering his way in the opposite direction.
VVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV
ROGER WATERS TO MUSICIANS:- "BOYCOTT ISRAEL"
Roger Waters formerly of Pink Floyd, in an open letter, calls on his fellow musicians --- to boycott the Zionist Israeli regime and follow the example of the cultural boycott against the ex S. African Apartheid regime.
“Given the inability or unwillingness of our governments [to act] …. I write to you now, my brothers and sisters … to ask you to join with me, & thousands of other artists around the world, to declare a cultural boycott on Israel,” Roger Waters says in his letter.
Waters says the Zionist regime has been found guilty of major breaches of human rights and international law by international organizations, UN officials and the International Court of Justice.
He touches on two such cases, saying the regime has been identified as perpetrating the “crime of Apartheid”, including in a statement on March 9th, 2012 by the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, and the “crime of ethnic cleansing” including in East Jerusalem (al-Quds).
Waters adds that he has been a member of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) campaign against the Israeli regime’s occupation of the Palestinian lands and Tel Aviv’s violations of Palestinian human rights for 7 years, and now wants other musicians to also join the anti-Israeli front.
“Please join me and all our brothers and sisters in global civil society in proclaiming our rejection of Apartheid in Israel & occupied Palestine, by pledging not to perform or exhibit in Israel or accept any award or funding from any institution linked to the government of Israel, until such time as Israel complies with international law and universal principles of human rights.”
The former Pink Floyd Musician also says he has recently faced a boycott by the US media after his November 29th, 2012 address at the UN on behalf of the Russell Tribunal.
In the address, he sought accountability for the Zionist regime’s violations of the international law and the lack of United Nations resolve that prevents the Palestinian people from achieving their inalienable rights, especially the right of self-determination.
____________________
AT THE FACTORY
Tickets from
www.wegottickets.com/thefactory
www.ticketweb.co.uk
browse venues in Wales
www.ticketlineuk.com
02920 230130
Cash tickets from:
The Factory, Porth Instrumental Music, Penygraig Spillers Records, Cardiff
Indulge in a delicious cake and a cup of tea while enjoying music and sing-along songs from fantastic Welsh musicians.
Ticket information:
The Cultural Services Booking & Information Line:
08000 147 111 or book online at
www.rct-arts.co.ukÂÂ
*************************************************
Mid Rhondda Modelling Club...
7pm - 9pm
Tonyrefail Comprehensive School Mid Rhondda Modelling Club
has been running for over 30 years.
We meet on a regular basis
& enjoy making models for display.
We encourage both Gentlemen
and Ladies to attend, and also young people aged 12+.
However, Young people under 16, must be accompanied by an adult.
Ticket information
£1 contribution every week. Under 16's free
Telephone Mr. Davies on 01443 686658
************************************************
Comedy In The Laughter Lounge
The Park & Dare Theatre, Treorchy.
COMEDY IN THE LAUGHTER LOUNGE
Join us once a month in the intimate setting of the Laughter Lounge for some top notch comedy with some of the biggest and brightest rising comedians on the circuit.
Laugh? You'll snort like a pig!
Hilarious - TimeOut.
www.rct-arts.co.uk
Rhondda Records exists to express the Rhondda's vision --- when it was confident, powerful, caring, and socialist.
A Rhondda very aware of the media's poisonous tricks -- how they con working class people into attacking each other, or racial groups, or, often, even their best allies and friends... instead of seeing their real enemies:--- an elite who hate the very idea that working people can think, create, or achieve a fairer society.
Thatcher said her proudest achievement was Blair and New Labour - who parachuted in careerists and expenses fiddlers - to stop local Labour members having a say, and who made genuine socialist MPs leave the Labour party in disgust and many members and voters to despair... and the young to stop voting.
Jeremy Corbyn was always attacked because he was trying to reverse all that New Labour corruption --- that's why membership was flooding in all over the UK.
______________________________________
Get Involved!
– If you feel you’ve been ‘purged’, take this online survey:
– Request all your own data that the Labour Party holds on you:
http://www.labour.org.uk/pages/privacy
_______________________________________
IF - YOU THINK you HAVE BEEN UNFAIRLY BARRED:
“Any member who is suspended & intends to appeal the decision should throw in a ‘Subject Access Request in accordance with the Data Protection Act’ --- for ALL data that the Labour Party hold on them.
The Labour Party are Data Controllers and therefore have to, by law, provide you with all material/information they hold on you.”
If anyone is in contact with anyone who was barred from voting --- please can you pass this info on:
The Labour leadership election was under the jurisdiction of the electoral reform services.
If you were unfairly deprived of your vote you can call them on 0208 365 8909 and lodge your complaint, and inform them of your Data Protection request.
https://www.electoralreform.co.uk
The notification letters barring new members did not give a clear reason, or information on how to appeal, so Vox Political suggests that anyone in this situation, could also contact Liz Davies here: http://www.whycantivote.com
She is a barrister --- who can advise members on what to do.
**************************************
PONCY LABOUR MPS PROBLEM?
A huge drop in working-class Labour MPs, caused a massive drop in support among voters with similar backgrounds, reveals research seeking to explain why support has dwindled in the party’s heartlands.
The study says past leaders like Kinnock and Blair made a concerted effort to pick “more and more middle-class candidates to run for office, during the 80s and 90s, as part of an effort to rebrand” -- which had initial successes at the ballot box.
But this “conscious electoral strategy” stored up problems, as working-class voters who initially, just didn’t vote in response, now seek an alternative.
The solution?Trust each constituency to put forward its own candidates, and don't impose ‘party-approved’ choices who can't do the job.
Now, unfortunately, there are "entryist" MPs who, for decades, have been groomed by CIA cold war relic organisations -- like the Atlantic Council -- and are now trying to misdirect the Labour Party towards cuts, a militarised police, and a US war agenda... - and their anti-Corbyn slant is hobbling Labour.
‘How Can I Deselect My Labour MP?’ A Short Guide to Reselection and Democratic Accountability by Eric Sim, excellent free advice here:
http://novaramedia.com/2016/07/13/how-can-i- deselect-my-labour-mp-a-short-guide-to- reselection-and-democratic-accountability/ CHRIS BRYANT - SUPPORT THE MEMBERS' LEADERSHIP CHOICE & POLICIES - OR GO!
Chris Bryant, the Rhondda's dodgy MP, was on TV -- as soon as the PLP coup started -- telling us that Jeremy MUST go, because it was the ONLY way to act in the Labour Party's interest...
Chris Bryant's voting record: from TheyWorkForYou.com
On Tuition Fees:
On 27 Jan 2004: Chris Bryant voted in favour of university tuition fees increasing from £1,125 per year, to up to £3,000 per year.
On 31 Mar 2004: Chris Bryant voted to allow university tuition fees to increase from £1,125 per year, to up to £3,000 per year.
On 31 Mar 2004: Chris Bryant voted for the introduction of variable university tuition fees (top-up fees) of up to £3,000 per year in place of the previous fixed fee of £1,250 per year.
On 31 Mar 2004: Chris Bryant voted to allow university tuition fees to increase from £1,125 per year to up to £3,000 per year, and to make other changes to higher education funding and regulation arrangements.
On 14 Sep 2004: Chris Bryant voted against: the immediate abolition of all tuition fees, the re-introduction of maintenance grants of up to £2,000 for students from low-income homes, and changes to the country's higher education system.
On 14 Sep 2004: Chris Bryant voted to reject the Liberal Democrat policy of abolition of tuition fees.
On 25 May 2016: Chris Bryant was absent for a vote on Queen's Speech - Forcing Schools to Become Academies - Further Rises in University Tuition Fees
On Human Rights:
Consistently voted for introducing ID cards
Almost always voted for requiring the mass retention of information about communications
Generally voted for mass surveillance of people’s communications and activities
On the Environment:
Generally voted against greater regulation of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) to extract shale gas
On Special Interests:
Almost always voted against limits on success fees paid to lawyers in no-win no fee cases
Generally voted against a statutory register of lobbyists
On War or Peace:
Generally voted for use of UK military forces in combat operations overseas
Consistently voted for the Iraq war
Consistently voted against an investigation into the Iraq war
Generally voted for replacing Trident with a new nuclear weapons system
On 2 Dec 2015: Voted to support UK airstrikes in Syria [without UN authorisation]
On 2 Dec 2015: Voted to support UK airstrikes in Syria [without UN authorisation]
On Independence:
Generally voted for more EU integration
____________________________
Chris Bryant Labour MP From Wikipedia
(aka 1962-1986: Mr Christopher John Bryant 1986-1991: The Reverend Christopher John Bryant, 1991-2001: Mr Christopher John Bryant, 2001-: Mr Christopher John Bryant MP.)
Born in Cardiff, to a Scottish mother & a Welsh father, Bryant grew up in Cardiff, Wales (where his father worked for 5 years), and Cheltenham.
He was educated at Cheltenham College, an independent school for boys in the spa town of Cheltenham in Gloucestershire, where he was captain of the school swimming team, and Mansfield College at the University of Oxford, where he graduated in 1983, with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in English. This was later promoted to a Master of Arts degree (MA (Oxon)), as per tradition.
After completing his first degree, Bryant began training to be a priest in the Church of England at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, in Oxfordshire. There, he obtained a degree in theology.
Although a member of the Conservative Party, and an elected office-holder in the Oxford University Conservative Association, he joined the Labour Party in 1986, after leaving Oxford.
He was ordained deacon in 1986 and priest in 1987. He served as a Curate at the Church of All Saints, High Wycombe, from 1986 to 1989; then as a Youth Chaplain in Peterborough, as well as travelling in Latin America.
In 1991 Bryant left the ordained ministry, after deciding that being gay and being a priest, were incompatible. Statements made by Richard Harries, then Bishop of Oxford, also influenced his decision.
After leaving the priesthood in 1991, Bryant worked as the election agent to the Holborn and St Pancras Constituency Labour Party, where he helped Frank Dobson hold his seat in the 1992 general election.
From 1993, he was Local Government officer for the Labour Party; he lived in Hackney and was elected to Hackney Borough Council in 1993, serving until 1998. He became Chair of the Christian Socialist Movement.
He is both a member of the Labour Friends of Israel and Labour Friends of Palestine & the Middle East. From 1994 to 1996 he was London manager of the leader-grooming "charity", Common Purpose.
He was Labour candidate for Wycombe, in the 1997 general election (he lost by 2,370 votes), and Head of European Affairs for the BBC, from 1998.
His selection for the very safe Labour seat of Rhondda, South Wales in 2000, shocked many people given Bryant's background – gay, an ex- Anglican vicar, and someone who was a Tory, while studying at Oxford, and a member now, of the Henry Jackson Society 'think tank' --- described by The Guardian newspaper as 'neoconservative'. It is pro-US, pro-NATO and pro-military intervention, as well as being fundamentally anti-socialist.
Fifty-two people applied for the candidature and a local councillor was hot favourite to win, before Bryant was parachuted in.
In 2004, a photograph of Mr Bryant in his underpants, which he had posted to a gay dating website, was published in 'papers.
When an interviewer suggested he was a 'disgrace to the Rhondda', he replied: "They can't get rid of me."
His pay, allowances and some expenses:
The basic annual salary for an MP, from April 1st, 2016 is £74,962. MPs also get expenses: to cover the costs of running an office, employing staff, having some- where to live in London, plus, in their constituency and travelling between Parliament and their constituency.
His MP's expenses story:
Chris Bryant changed second home twice to claim £20,000: the deputy leader of the House of Commons, "flipped" his second home twice, in 2 years, allowing him to claim almost £20,000 for renovations and fees.
Chris Bryant, MP for the Rhondda, split over £92,000 of expenses between 3 properties in Wales and London --- within five years.
In 2004, he attempted to claim £58,000 to overhaul his second home in Wales, after allegedly complaining that properties in his constituency were "terrace or mine owners' houses".
Mr Bryant, a former Church of England clergyman, wanted the money for a new bathroom & kitchen, and to demolish his conservatory. He'd bought the detached house for £97,500, under a year earlier.
He submitted a claim to the Commons fees office for £58,493.26 --- almost 3 times the annual maximum. He noted that the claim exceeded his allowance.
His alleged justification was disclosed... in correspondence between Commons officials. By email, an official wrote: "He had problems finding a suitable property because in the Rhondda there is a choice mainly of terraced property or mine owners' houses." When approached by the Daily Telegraph, Mr Bryant said: "I have never said or thought anything of the sort".
In all, he successfully claimed over £13,000 for renovations, repairs & appliances, in 2004. Along with other bills, his annual claim was £20,902.
In April 2005, he flipped his expenses to his flat in west London, which he bought for £400,000 in April 2002. He also claimed £630 a month for mortgage interest, along with other bills. After claiming over £3,600 over 3 months, he sold the flat in July 2005 for £477,000.
Mr Bryant used his profits to buy a more expensive flat in west London, which was valued at £670,000. He immediately flipped his second home expenses there, claiming almost £6,400 in stamp duty, legal fees and mortgage fees, incurred in the purchase.
He then began claiming interest of £1,000 a month on the mortgage. He also claimed a further £6,000 a year for the flat's service charge and ground rent.
In all, he claimed £92, 415 in second home expenses, from 2004 to 2009.
Mr Bryant said at the time: "I moved flat in London, so as to be closer to Parliament."
Research by Channel 4 News in 2015 found that at least 46 MPs had this kind of system in place – a move one Labour backbencher described as “a new fiddle”. Channel 4 reported then:
“Our investigation found that many of the MPs bought their London properties with the help of the taxpayer, when a previous expenses system allowed them to claim back mortgage payments. But when those claims were banned, following the expenses scandal, they switched to letting out their properties, in some cases for up to £3,000 a month. They then started claiming expenses for rent and hotels in the capital.”
Among those identified was Chris Bryant, shadow leader of the House of Commons. He had already bought a penthouse in London back in 2005 and claimed around £1,000 a month in mortgage claims under the old system.
But after the expenses scandal, he started renting the property out. It’s since been advertised by estate agents as having a private lift and a porter, with rent at about £3,000 a month. Meanwhile, Bryant moved into a new flat;- claiming his own rent on expenses.
Russian/Scottish scientists hail long-range secure quantum communication system.
A group of scientists from ITMO University in Saint Petersburg, Russia, has developed a new approach to constructing quantum communication systems for secure data exchange.
The experimental device based on the results of the research is capable of transmitting single-photon quantum signals across distances of 250 klmtrs or more, which is on par with its cutting edge analogues, the ITMO press-service says.
"Now researchers are on a mission -- to create a fully-fledged quantum cryptographic system, that will generate & distribute quantum keys and transmit useful data simultaneously", ITMO says.
Information security is becoming more and more of a critical issue not only for large companies, banks and defense enterprises but even for small businesses and individual users.
But the data encryption algorithms we currently use for protecting our data are imperfect - in the long-term, their logic can be cracked. Regardless of how complex and intricate the algorithm is, getting around it, is just a matter of time.
Unlike algorithm-based encryption, systems that protect information, by making use of fundamental laws of quantum physics, can make data transmission totally immune to hacker attacks, in the future.
Information in a quantum channel is carried by single photons that change irreversibly if an eavesdropper tries to intercept them. The legitimate users will instantly know about any kind of intervention.
Researchers at the Quantum Information Centre of the International Institute of Photonics and Optical Information Technology at ITMO Uni., Russia, along with their colleagues from the Heriot-Watt University, in Edinburgh, have devised a new way to generate and distribute, quantum bits.
This makes it possible to share quantum signals --- via optical fibres --- 250 kilometres in distance.
"To transmit quantum signals, we use the so- called side frequencies," says Artur Gleim, head of the Quantum Information Centre, at ITMO University,
"This unique approach gives us a number of advantages -- such as a considerable simplification of the device architecture and the large pass-through capacity of the quantum channel. In terms of bit rate and operating distances, our system is comparable to absolute champions in the field of quantum communications."
According to Robert Collins, research associate at the Institute of Photonics & Quantum Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, and one of the authors of the study, this may become a pivotal point for the whole field of quantum communication and cryptography:
"Down the track, this new approach can enable smooth coexistence of numerous data streams with different wavelengths in one single optical cable. On top of it, these quantum streams can be fed into the already existing fibre optic lines --- along with conventional communications."
The research paper is published in the Optics Express journal.
Scottish universities are to be congratulated for their strong & growing links with Chinese and Russian universities....
What a shame, that Wales is lying low --- with academics too scared to break from US military research.
KILLING THE ELDERLY BY CLOSING CARE HOMES
Did you know that each time a local authority
closes a care home for the elderly, within 8
months, around half the residents are dead?
Campaigners liken the cuts and their effect to euthanasia of the UK's elderly. What to do?
We can start by urging our MPs to sign EDM 2251:
EDM 2251: The contents
This House notes with deep concern the worsening crisis for elderly care as growing numbers of local authority and private care homes face closure
Acknowledges concerns that the loss of elderly people's care homes causes fear, anxiety and, in many cases, a higher mortality rate, when vulnerable, elderly people are forced to leave their homes
Further notes that the Southern Cross crisis will increase needs for local authority care
And therefore calls on the government to hold a public inquiry into the deaths after closures, of local authority care homes, and impose a moratorium on the closure of local authority care homes, until that inquiry publishes its results, to ensure that vulnerable, elderly people's lives are not put at further risk.
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MAKING THE CONNECTION IN WALES
Households across three more English areas will be able to access superfast broadband in the latest phase of a Government scheme to connect rural homes and businesses.
The £50 million funding package for Devon and Somerset (£30 million), Norfolk (£15 million) and Wiltshire (£4 million) will aid the roll- out of superfast broadband services unable to be reached by the market alone.
Areas will also receive financial support from their local authorities and private investors, the Department for Culture, Media and Sport says.
So it's Broadband Heaven for England...
and crapola for Wales' broadband - the
slowest, worst Broadband in the UK !!!
Lib Dems in Scotland might have received a pummeling for Clegg and his betrayals, yet, in Scotland, their campaign centred on it becoming the "most connected country in Europe," to massively boost their economy.
In Wales, which political party is now willing to put into practice scientists' recommendations: that Wales' hilly topography requires establishing
free 'wireless' broadband?
It could connect the people of Rhondda and the world, boosting Wales' economic regeneration, like no other move.Wireless technology is now supplying free broadband to an entire island off New Zealand's coast.
Come on; if New Zealand can do it - so can we !!!
Western China has embraced "green-mode development" - with painful changes from which, Wales could well learn.
Eastern China has seen fast growth and urban mess. The West, a mining and agricultural area, has not.
Xi'an Chan-ba Ecological District, is a model for reclaiming old mining areas.
It took six hard years, but now Xi'an is showing the world how best to change, by turning a badly polluted rubbish landfill site, into an all new environment-friendly development.
As China's economic focus moves from east to west, it's using the lessons learned during 30 or more years of rapid industrial development.
The green way for China's west, is to combine green industrialization & green urbanization.
The western region's strategy is to adopt effective energy-saving and environmental protection technologies... AND to extend its industry through science and products unique to China's West, together with strong vertical growth in agriculture and all its ancilliary economic & professional spin-offs.
In undertaking this industrial revolution, the western region will keep a sharp eye out - to avoid all polluting non-sustainable industries.
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A BIG DROP OF HONEY !!!
Spring is beekeeping and honey-processing season in Yunnan province, in China.
Waves of bees flit across vast fields of flowers.
Local beekeepers and many from other places, such as Sichuan and Fujian provinces - set up their base in tents among the rapeseed farms.
The 430,000 hectares of rapeseed blooms in Luoping attract myriads of bees, which produce 15 - 20 million tons of honey a year.
Local people now look to brand their county as a honey production base & increase sales to outside markets.
Luoping Tianyuanmiyu Bee Industry Co Chair, Zhu Hongkun, founded his enterprise in 2009.
It mainly produces honey, propolis and propolis powder.
His company works with 270 plus beekeepers, who each earn 80,000 yuan a year on average.
Some earn 200,000 yuan annually, Zhu says.
Who says beauty endowed by nature isn't worth a fortune?
The whole of the uplands of south Wales could be as beautiful & productive, if used wisely!
CHINA's PREMIER POINTS WAY FORWARD
As the Tories threaten a "bonfire of the Quangos", perhaps Wales should take note. Now extracting all our mineral wealth has been stopped (apart from sand and rock) we find ourselves "in" the 1st World of the UK, but with a 3rd World economy, only just kept going by quangos which promise much... but deliver little... and rely on weak public support.
We could WAKE UP & understand that we either do something, or stay as begging bowl cases.
China's premier points the way forward for Wales:
"Industrial restructuring is the key... only by developing energy-efficient, indigenous innovative and high value added products can our companies and economy, achieve sustainable development."
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WHILE FRANCE, GREECE, IRELAND, ETC, STRUGGLE TO STOP THE PENSION AGE RISING HIGHER AND HIGHER...
An online survey on qq.com, a popular Chinese news portal, finds that 91% of its over 800,000 respondents, are against raising the current official Chinese retirement age.
745,123 of those surveyed say they oppose raising retirement ages -- 72,456 support it.
China's scholars & the public have been debating whether to raise the retirement age, for the past few years, but the issue rose to prominence after remarks by an official.
Wang Xiaochu, the official vice minister of the Ministry of Human Resources & Social Security, said at a press conference that the government was "studying the matter"...
The retirement age in China is generally set at 60 for men and 50-55 for women.
Wow! Bet you didn't know that !!!
FARMING AND SCIENCE COULD REGENERATE WALES
A new UN General Assembly report warns "vast areas" of cultivated land are lost each year, and that this could lead to unrest.
The report says up to 30 million hectares, an area the size of Italy, is lost each year to environmental degradation, industry & urbanization - the growth of cities - and all because of speculative building and greed.
The UN special rapporteur Olivier De Schutter, gives the example of eastern Africa, where the amount of cultivated land has declined by half --- in just one generation! "
As rural populations grow and competition with large industrial units increases, plots cultivated by smallholders are shrinking year after year," says De Schutter.
"Farmers are often relegated to soils that are arid, hilly or without irrigation."
The UN officer also mentions India as another example, where the average landholding fell from 2.6 hectares in 1960 to 1.4 hectares in 2000. A cut of nearly half in 40 years!
He says 500 million small farmers suffer from hunger, partly because their right to land is being violated. The expert warns of the devastating consequences, as foreign investors compete for larger and larger areas of the world's land for "their" agriculture.
Rhondda Records says Wales could rebuild its new economy by basing it on a fresh approach to high-value added products, using science and agriculture... such as the Altzeim project in Gwent.
