News

Badger, Arwyn Williams, and the art of the possible

Published

10 years ago

March 5, 2015

badger knows best POLITICS, in a quote often attributed to R.A. Butler but originating with Otto von Bismarck, is said to be the art of possible. Not the desirable; not the moral; not the good; but the possible. Von Bismarck did not mean that politicians should operate in a principle-free zone. He meant that a politician’s freedom for manoeuver is necessarily constrained by events over which they have no control. Upon events over which control can be exercised, politicians should – it follows — seek to prosecute the opportunities open to them to influence events and practice their art in the space given to them by opportunity. in such a way, politics is a matter of choice not one of compulsion. Badger has listened carefully to the achievements of the IPPG as recounted by members of the IPPG’s own Cabinet. The core message they send out is — where it is capable of interpretation into an intelligible form —”You can trust us to correct the errors of the past because we’re pretty sure we now know where we went wrong”.

Huw George, the IPPG’s very own Vicar of Bray, tells us that people want decent roads, the rubbish collected and good schools for their children. The IPPG has slashed the highways budget for anything that did not appear in one of their own cabinet members’ campaign literature or election videos: halved bin collections, so that families are compelled to store rotting garbage that attracts vermin on their own property for up to a fortnight; and closed good schools based on sham consultations and a bogus prospectus of improvement that has mortgaged all of our futures. Anyone with a half a brain —overqualified for the IPPG, then —knows the Cabinet’s collective tears of sorrow are those of a crocodile, readers. All the while, Jamie has done the sad yet patronising voice in Council meetings, mixed with shrewish recrimination when caught out by inconvenient truths.

He and all the IPPG, they are all very sad that these cuts are necessary. These are austere times and we must all tighten our belts. Or, as unsubstantiated rumour has it, tighten the seatbelts in Bryn’s Council-funded taxi – a Porsche Panamera SE Hybrid: yours, readers, for just f90K. Yes: readers, see the sad long face that Jamie pulls when he is communicating unwelcome news. Jamie does not like making cuts, he simply cannot see the possibility of an alternative to cuts. He cannot make — or refuses to see – the connection between deep and deeper service cutbacks and continued clinging to the tattered banner of the lowest Council Tax in Wales. Now: there are those who believe that their money is better in their own pocket than in the pocket of a central treasury providing public services Those people, who travel powered only by fairy dust and their imaginations, do not use the commonplace roads and transport infrastructure like ordinary mortals.

Possessed of superhuman resistance to sickness and the thousand shocks the mortal flesh is heir to, they don’t need doctors, nurses, hospitals or medicines. Indeed, they do not require bin men to collect their rubbish; they shall transport it to the local tip themselves, hanging their reeking black bin bags from the handles of their sedan chairs, as their servants propel them to the municipal amenity of their choice. When it comes to public spending, others believe that their champagne tastes should be indulged on a beer income. Public services cost money. if you want better ones, you have to pay more them in tax. This is the dreadful truth that governments have tried to hide for the last 35 years or so.

Trying to impose market discipline on the public sector is code for bouncing up the salaries of those at the top who have never exposed themselves to the risks of working in the private sector, while slashing the wages of those at the bottom of the pile. Similarly, the idea that increasing the private wealth of the few at the top leads to benefits trickling down to poorer members of society, was rightly described as “voodoo economics”. Reality shows that the gap between rich and poor has grown while services to act as a safety net for the less well-off have been pared not to the bone but to the marrow.

Between these two polar opposite views, our politicians — local and national — dangle on the hooks of their own ambition. Some politicians become seized by the fear of failure — whether real or perceived — and so sit on the fence doing nothing. To paraphrase Lloyd George’s lethal observation, they sit on the fence so long that the iron enters their soul. Too frightened by the spectre of making the wrong choice and becoming unpopular, they do the worst of all things and make no choices. Some confuse carping and picking holes in others’ efforts from the side lines with doing active good. Possessed of a firm belief in their own supreme and sole wisdom to pronounce upon matters of public discourse, they have the luxury of being a prophet, crying in the wilderness without actually having to come up with a solution to the faults they uncover in others. Yet others look for guidance from those who are more permanent than here today gone tomorrow elected representatives. These are politicians who become prisoners of bureaucracy. They are not so much house-trained as broken to the wheel by officers and civil servants who never have to worry about the shabby business of being elected. Politicians seldom break promises.

They surround pledges with the type of words that make any commitment conditional. They say one thing, the electorate hears another. Tony Blair was the master of the vapid and aspirational turn of phrase. Realising that promises were hostages to a fortune that he could not predict, Tony Blair used words with about as much sincerity as those in a greetings card sent to a much loathed wealthy relative. There was the sound of meaning but no substance. Politicians carefully avoid using verbs. Verbs, as Badger learned in school, “verbs are doing words”. We will have none of this doing things thing! We will plough the sands with rhetoric and slogans. Badger invites his readers to look at poor Clegg. He and his party were able to make all sorts of promises because they thought they would never, ever actually have to deliver their particular brand of pie in the sky. In power, the best they can say about their “achievements” is that without them the Conservatives would have been even worse. if being a member of a government that has systematically victimised, harassed and impoverished the poorest and most vulnerable is something that Nick Clegg is proud of, Badger despairs. To their eternal credit the one thing the IPPG can never be collectively accused of is breaking promises to their voters. IPPO councillors do not believe in promises. In fact, IPPO councillors say they do not believe in politics. IPPG councillors are so able to believe in three impossible things before breakfast that they do not believe the !PPG even exists. On 8 May, there will be a meeting of the Full Council. That meeting will be invited to consider a motion of no confidence in Rob Lewis, currently the Council’s Deputy Leader. Unfortunately for his !PPG comrades, ClIr Lewis is not only proof that the IPPG exists, but that it is a political

party in all but name. ClIr Lewis is living evidence of a cynical, careerist deception practised by cynical, careerist politicians. But, Badger can tell his readers, the motion of no confidence might not be heard. It could be booted back to the Council’s Cabinet for consideration by the Chairman of the Council (and !PPG member in good standing) Arwynailliams. Yes readers, would not believe it possible. An !PPG appointee can decline to hear a no confidence vote in the !PPG’s own Deputy Leader, Rob Lewis, a man who broke the code of conduct for members and was handed a suspension as a result, and remit the motion of no confidence in the IPPG’s “Election Co-ordinator” for consideration by the PPG Cabinet. Conflict of interest detector at the ready and pinging wildly, Badger cannot believe that such a step could be considered either practical or plausible. Badger noticed in the Herald a couple of weeks ago that a question could validly be posed as to whether those for whom Rob Lewis prepared literature have an interest in avoiding too deep an examination of their Deputy Leader’s scandalous conduct. Badger notes that Arwyn does not have to boot the motion on Rob Lewis to the long grass on the IPPG lawn for three months. The motion of no confidence in the representative from Martletwy could be heard by the meeting on May 8.1f Arwyn lets it be debated. Yes readers, Arwyn could seize the opportunity offered to him and demonstrate that the art of possible is not necessarily art for art’s sake. He has the opportunity to show, for a change for a member of the IPPG, just because something can be done does not mean it should be done. Think of Dr Pepper, Arwyn, what’s the worst that could happen?

Community

Puffin found 110 miles inland released back into the wild in Pembrokeshire

Published

5 hours ago

July 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Rare rescue sees seabird named Oona nursed back to health after landing in Herefordshire garden

A PUFFIN that somehow found its way more than 100 miles inland has been returned to the sea in Pembrokeshire after being rescued in a Herefordshire garden.

The bird, affectionately named Oona after a children’s book character, was discovered in June in the landlocked county — some 110 miles from the coast — and taken to Vets for Pets in Hereford. At just 218g, around half the normal weight for an adult puffin, she was underweight but otherwise alert.

Wildlife vet David Couper from the RSPCA provided guidance on her initial care, and once stabilised, Oona was transferred to the charity’s specialist West Hatch Wildlife Centre in Somerset. Staff there say puffin patients are extremely rare — only six have been treated at the centre in the past ten years.

Ryan Walker, Wildlife Supervisor at West Hatch, said: “Finding a puffin that far inland is extraordinary. She quickly became a bit of a star here. Our team gave her a good clean-up, helped her regain strength, and she did really well during her stay with us.”

Following her rehabilitation, which included nutritious fish meals and time in a recovery pool, Oona was returned to the sea off the coast of Pembrokeshire — home to Wales’ best-known puffin colonies, particularly on Skomer Island.

Puffins typically breed in coastal colonies, raising their chicks in burrows during spring and summer before spending the rest of the year out at sea. It’s rare for them to be found inland unless blown off course or affected by illness or exhaustion.

Oona’s story is just one of thousands seen by the RSPCA each year. In 2024, the charity took in over 10,000 wild animals across its four dedicated wildlife centres, with many found injured, orphaned or sick in people’s gardens.

The RSPCA is urging the public to act quickly if they find an animal in distress. Where safe, they should take the animal directly to a vet or consult advice on the charity’s website: www.rspca.org.uk/reportcruelty

Crime

Youth, 19, appears in court over Tenby stabbing incident

Published

5 hours ago

July 18, 2025

Tom Sinclair

A YOUNG man accused of stabbing a teenager in a Tenby housing estate on Monday (July 14) has been remanded in custody after appearing before magistrates.

OLIVER DOWLING, aged 19, of Newell Hill, Tenby, appeared at Haverfordwest Magistrates’ Court on Thursday (July 17) charged with three offences — including wounding with intent, possessing a knife in a public place, and possession of cannabis.

The charges relate to a serious incident on Hafalnod estate, where Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed a man was taken to hospital after being stabbed with a knife. The victim, named in court as JOSH ALLEN, is recovering from his injuries, which are not believed to be life-threatening.

Dowling faces the following charges:

Wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (contrary to section 18 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861),

Possession of a bladed article in a public place, namely a kitchen knife, on Hafalnod estate,

Possession of a quantity of cannabis, a Class B drug.

No pleas were entered, and magistrates declined bail on the grounds that Dowling was likely to reoffend and could interfere with witnesses. He was remanded in custody ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing at Swansea Crown Court on August 18 at 9:00am.

Dyfed-Powys Police confirmed a 20-year-old man had been arrested shortly after the incident and that no other individuals are being sought in connection with the matter.

A police spokesperson said: “There continues to be an increased police presence within the area, and if anyone has any concerns please speak to those officers.”

Farming

Farming future at a crossroads as final Welsh support scheme unveiled

Published

1 day ago

July 17, 2025

Tom Sinclair

Unions, politicians and sector leaders respond to ‘once-in-a-generation’ changes in land policy

THE FINAL version of the Welsh Government’s Sustainable Farming Scheme (SFS) has been published—sparking a fierce national debate over the future of food production, land management and the economic survival of rural communities across Wales.

Due to come into force on 1 January 2026, the scheme will replace the European Union’s Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), marking the end of a decade-long post-Brexit transition. It introduces a new three-tier model of support—Universal, Optional and Collaborative—with all participating farmers required to undertake twelve baseline actions such as maintaining hedgerows, improving soil health, and managing wildlife habitats.

The Welsh Government has framed the move as a bold shift towards sustainable land stewardship. But farming unions, opposition parties and rural campaigners have expressed serious concerns about the timing, funding, and long-term consequences of the proposals.

***There had been protests over the proposals (Image: Sam Kurtz)***

FUW: ‘A generational milestone—but not perfect’

The Farmers’ Union of Wales (FUW) described the publication of the final scheme as a “generational milestone,” representing the culmination of years of intense discussions between the sector and Welsh Government.

FUW President IAN RICKMAN said: “We have left no stone unturned in our ambition to secure a viable post-Brexit farm support framework. This is a watershed moment for Welsh agriculture.”

The FUW welcomed several major concessions, including:

A combined £238 million budget for Universal payments and BPS tapering;
A reduction in Universal Actions from 17 to 12;
Exemptions for tenant farmers;
Removal of the controversial 10% tree cover requirement.

However, the union remains deeply concerned about the scheme’s remaining obligations, particularly the 10% habitat requirement, which many believe will reduce the amount of productive farmland available. Mr Rickman also criticised the “disappointing” tapering schedule for existing BPS payments—set to fall to 60% in 2026 and drop by 20% each subsequent year.

“We urged a gentler five-step reduction starting at 80%. Despite this milestone, we will continue to push for practical improvements as implementation begins.”

NSA: ‘Stark choice for farmers’

The National Sheep Association (NSA) acknowledged progress but warned that many producers now face a stark decision.

NSA Chief Executive PHIL STOCKER said: “Farmers must now ask themselves—do they work with government and adopt environmental delivery, or do they walk away and farm independently without public support?”

NSA Cymru’s HELEN ROBERTS noted the omission of sheep from the Welsh Government’s press release as troubling: “There will be winners and losers. Some of the actions reflect existing good practice, but we’re worried about increased red tape and a lack of clarity on long-term outcomes. The steep cut to 60% BPS is harsher than expected and creates uncertainty.”

Paul Davies MS: ‘Another blow to farmers’

Preseli Pembrokeshire MS PAUL DAVIES described the final SFS as yet another blow to farmers already struggling under government pressure.

“This is dressed up as a new approach, but it’s another blow to Welsh farmers already reeling from devastating government policies. The cut to 60% is cruel and unjustified.”

Mr Davies criticised the absence of a published economic impact assessment, accusing both the Welsh and UK governments of abandoning the rural economy.

“From inheritance tax changes to bovine TB inaction and new hoops for farmers to jump through, it’s clear that governments on both ends of the M4 have failed to support our producers.”

Samuel Kurtz MS: ‘Still no answers on funding or impact’

***On his feet: Sam Kurtz MS in the Senedd (Image: Senedd TV)***

Welsh Conservative Shadow Rural Affairs Secretary SAMUEL KURTZ accused the Welsh Government of publishing the final SFS without full transparency or accountability.

“After seven long years, farmers still don’t know what this scheme will really cost their businesses. Labour’s relationship with rural Wales is broken,” he said.

Mr Kurtz also criticised the Cabinet Secretary for failing to release the impact assessment, which, he claims, ministers have already seen.

“I stood shoulder to shoulder with farmers on the Senedd steps last year—and I continue to stand with them against any policy that threatens food security and rural livelihoods.”

Plaid Cymru: ‘A step forward—but not far enough’

Plaid Cymru’s Agriculture and Rural Affairs spokesperson, LLYR GRUFFYDD MS, acknowledged that the final scheme had improved following sector engagement—but said serious funding questions remained unanswered.

“It’s clear that this scheme has evolved from its initial form. As the farming unions and others have rightly pointed out, the scheme is an improvement on the one originally proposed,” he said.

“While we welcome the £238 million funding for the year ahead, a one-year pledge is simply not enough. A Plaid Cymru government would guarantee that level of support in real terms as a minimum and introduce a multi-year funding cycle.”

Mr Gruffydd also raised concerns about balance across the scheme’s tiers, the structure of the transition period, and the still-undefined “social value” payment.

“We trust these issues will be addressed swiftly, because, as ever, the devil will be in the detail.”

Labour blocks call for Senedd vote

Amid mounting pressure, Welsh Labour MSs voted down a motion in the Senedd this week which would have required a binding vote on the scheme’s implementation before it came into effect.

“By voting against this, Labour has dismissed farmers’ concerns once again,” said Mr Kurtz. “Trust is at an all-time low.”

Looking ahead

The Welsh Government has pledged to publish a “ready reckoner” tool in the coming weeks to help farmers estimate the financial value of their participation in the new scheme.

The BPS tapering will begin in 2026, with recipients receiving 60% of their previous payments, and reductions of 20% annually thereafter.

An economic impact assessment—originally expected to be published alongside the final scheme—is now due in September 2025, just months before the scheme is set to begin.

Farming unions have said they will continue to work constructively with ministers, but warned that ongoing engagement will be crucial as technical guidance and implementation plans are finalised.