Comments by "robs2020" (@sbor2020) on "David Starkey Talks" channel.

  1. A capitalist parties for the capitalist class in the interests of a capitalist state. If you support such an exploitative system that puts the pursuit of profit before the needs of people and the environment, why do you expect it to work in your benefit?
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  2. How would ending "socialism" impact income inequality in Britain without tax reforms to redistribute wealth? If state-funded healthcare and education were reduced or eliminated, what mechanisms would ensure that all citizens have access to these essential services? Without regulations protecting workers’ rights, how would a free-market approach prevent exploitation and ensure fair wages? If funding for public services was reduced, how would this impact policing, emergency services, and overall public safety?
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  3. Right-wing haters.
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  4. There is no keyhole to the front door of No. 10.
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  5. ​@ Rentier capitalism in which a significant portion of wealth and income is derived from ownership of assets and the extraction of rents – such as interest, dividends, and intellectual property rights – rather than from productive or entrepreneurial activities. It is often seen as parasitic because it enables asset owners to accumulate wealth passively through rents and interest extracted from workers' labour and consumption without contributing to productive economic activities. I’d say that Reform UK represents the interests of the rentier class by advocating for policies that favour deregulation, low taxes on wealth and assets, and the protection of property rights, which disproportionately benefit those who derive income from rents and investments rather than from labour. Marx argued that this form of capitalism enables a parasitic class of asset owners to extract unearned income from the labour of workers, exacerbating inequality and hindering productive economic development.
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  6. Like the next "Boris" distraction!
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  7. So don't think he should not be held to account for undermining democracy, is that right? And the right-wing media has more influence and in the media ecosphere: The Times, The Telegraph, The Sun, The Express, the Daily Mail
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  8. As Walter Benjamin said of history, that when the working class or other oppressed groups fail to achieve their goals, the resulting disillusionment and social instability can be exploited by fascist movements.
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  9. Please compare this behavious to "Boris" kerfuffle. Could he have understood Covid-19 better, his holiday in the Caribbean at Christmas 2019, how does £19,000 from a donor for a holiday compare to a suit and a dress for the missus? Should we compare, and keep things in perspective?
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  10. Clueless! Not seen one positive comment from you all about your vision of a good society, of a future co-operative and free society. So what is democracy?
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  11. Are you a psychiatrist? Can you diagnose personality disorders? How does his compare to say "Boris" or Trump's? I am sure we will not accept this as we are not sheep, so dig deep and substantiate your claim.
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  12.  @ChimpRiot  Agreed on the point of elections. However, "Boris" can act with impunity due to the corporate control of the media, which is being which is being cowed by government appointments and threats of privatisation. Interestingly, in 2019 when Corbyn wanted to promote independent media and regulate this corporate control, those on the Right characterised it as "Stanlinist", but is now complaining!
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  13. A written constitution, as advocated by Charter 88 , would have helped England and the UK by providing a clear, codified framework for governance, protecting individual rights, ensuring a separation of powers, and making the political system more transparent, accountable, and democratic. It would also have provided a stable foundation for ongoing democratic reforms and adaptation to the changing needs of society. But the right would not have allowed it. Sovereignty of parliament, innit?
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  14.  @markwalters2927  Capital does need a return to incentivise investment, but the idea that this always benefits everyone is debatable. Markets can be skewed by inequality, leading to wealth concentration rather than shared prosperity. Markets should serve society – not the other way around. As for your other comment, it's not about blindly following Marx, but rather examining his critiques of capitalism that are still relevant today. The focus is on questioning how systems can be improved for greater fairness and sustainability, not just repeating outdated ideas. Discussing alternatives isn't trolling – it's about finding solutions that address the issues we face now.
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  15. Is Reform UK really the future? According to their "Contract with the People," there are concerns about the impact of their policies on certain groups. For example, their approach to welfare reform could lead to stricter conditions for benefit claimants, which some fear might disadvantage vulnerable individuals. Their pledge to cut taxes for the middle class could be seen as beneficial for economic growth, but there are worries that it might reduce funding for essential public services. While the party aims to cut NHS waiting lists, some are concerned this could open the door to more private sector involvement in healthcare, potentially affecting the public NHS system. In addition, Reform UK's stance on labour rights and their commitment to leave the ECHR has raised questions about the future of worker protections and human rights in the UK. Finally, the party's funding, including from individuals like Jeremy Hosking, who has connections to the fossil fuel industry, raises concerns for some about potential conflicts of interest. Hosking, who has donated £2.2 million to the party. It's worth considering how this financial backing might influence their stance on climate issues.
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  16.  @KernowFay  The only thing you are liberal about is throwing around the that word. Absolute nonsense.
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  17.  @golfbulldog  The idea of a two-tier system in the UK is a misconception. While some may argue that white rioters are treated more harshly than Muslim individuals, the reality is that systemic biases exist that disproportionately affect ethnic minorities, like Black and South Asian communities, in policing and judicial outcomes. Stop-and-search statistics show that these groups face greater scrutiny. It's important to recognize that disparities in treatment often stem from broader societal issues rather than a deliberate two-tier system. Instead of framing it as a racial divide, we should focus on addressing the underlying inequalities in law enforcement and justice.
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  18.  @golfbulldog  It's important to consider the bigger picture. While differences in crime rates are complex, factors such as socio-economic inequality, educational disparities, and a lack of opportunities play a major role in shaping crime, including both victims and perpetrators. Policing practices and systemic biases contribute to higher imprisonment rates for some groups, but that’s only part of the issue. When it comes to serious crimes like stabbings, we need to examine how poverty, social exclusion, and community breakdown drive people towards crime, regardless of ethnicity. Claims of a two-tier justice system are unfounded and misleading. The courts assess the specific actions, intent, and legal context for each case, whether it's manslaughter or inciting riots. Spreading misinformation like this only serves to divide us further. Rather than blaming entire groups, we should focus on addressing the root causes - such as inequality and underfunded communities - that fuel these issues. It’s not just about race; it’s about the environment people are growing up in.
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  19.  @bonsaisonixnet  ​You are showing your historical ignorance if you believe this nonsense. The ECHR was drafted in 1951 by mainly the US and UK with Churchill having a hand in it, and was ratified in 1953, the same year Blair was born. It was not however incorporated into the law of the UK until the Human Rights Act 1998. Labour had had this incorporated into its 1997 election manifesto. Was it for his wife's mates? If you believe this lie, then you really are a fool.Misinformation only serves to divide us.
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  20.  @mirandarota4032  Behind every fascism, there is a failed revolution - Walter Benjamin
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  21.  @germainefisher1632  The difference in sentencing between far-right rioters and immigrants carrying knives is likely due to the nature of the offences. Rioting involves public violence and endangerment, often resulting in harsher penalties, while knife possession, though serious, might be treated differently depending on circumstances. The justice system considers the specifics of each case, and independent oversight bodies help ensure fairness. It's important to look at the broader context and consider whether perceived disparities reflect actual bias or are based on the distinct legal handling of different crimes.
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  22.  @germainefisher1632  If different crimes, like rioting and carrying a knife, have different punishments because they are not the same kind of crime, does that really prove that the police are treating people unfairly?
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  23.  @vaniberi8189  Conspiribingo: “delusional”; “brainwashed” ! HOUSE! Since you go for the low-hanging fruit, have a crack at my more serious questions: if rioting and carrying a knife have different punishments because they are different crimes, does that show unfair treatment? Does this mean the police are treating people unfairly ?
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  24.  @Law24809905  Did he? How long before the HRA in 1998 was the last execution?
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  25. There is always someone who thinks people should not have legal protection from slavery and torture. It's great you say it out loud as we can all give you a wide berth.
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  26.  @josephclift3662  Ah someone else that thinks human rights has no place in your idea of society. You are one of those false patriots - one who claims to love the country but harm it by pushing narrow, parochial views that divide and weaken us. Real patriotism means wanting what's best for everyone, not just clinging to outdated ideas that close us off from the world and compromise our progress as a nation.
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  27. 🤮
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  28. In the words of John Cleese, When Boris Johnson says that he did not realise that the Covid rules applied to him, he is telling the truth You see, he sincerely believes that no rule has ever applied to him. This is the definition of an Asshole given by philosopher Aaron James in his book 'Assholes' .
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  29. Right-wing click "like" machine.
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  30. @raymondwoods2304 William Roper: So, now you give the Devil the benefit of law ! Sir Thomas More: Yes! What would you do? Cut a great road through the law to get after the Devil ? William Roper: Yes, I'd cut down every law in England to do that ! Sir Thomas More: Oh? And when the last law was down, and the Devil turned 'round on you, where would you hide, Roper, the laws all being flat? This country is planted thick with laws, from coast to coast, Man's laws, not God's! And if you cut them down, and you're just the man to do it, do you really think you could stand upright in the winds that would blow then? Yes, I'd give the Devil benefit of law, for my own safety's sake ! Robert Bolt - A Man for All Seasons For someone who believes leaving the ECHR is a step forward, the quote from Sir Thomas More serves as a warning about the risks of dismantling legal protections to achieve a short-term goal. More argues that laws are there to protect everyone, and if we start removing them to deal with specific challenges, like deporting asylum seekers, we could weaken the legal framework that keeps society safe and orderly. Even though leaving the ECHR might seem like a solution for managing immigration, it sets a precedent for eroding legal protections that could affect everyone in the future, not just asylum seekers. More’s message is that upholding legal principles is essential, even when it's difficult, because abandoning them could lead to chaos and a loss of rights for all.
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  31.  @gkewley42  So you think think "Homes for Heroes" is a bad idea, do you? Starmer introduced a plan to provide housing for veterans, stating that no veteran who served the country should be left homeless​. So apart from wanting homeless veterans on the street, what else was a "nightmare" in his speech?
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  32.  @poppyland74  A real right-wing partisan, aren’t you? Tax cuts? “No Liz Truss, no cigar!” A right-wing clown and a false patriot who would claim to love the country but harm it by pushing narrow, parochial views that divide and weaken us.
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  33. That you repost a fake quote says a lot about you: you don't check sources; a conspiracist!
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  34. Can you write in better English please?
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  35. Before "whitewashing" the Tories reputation, just a reminder of the Top 10 scandals from the last 2019-2024 Tory government. Proroguing Parliament (2019): Boris Johnson unlawfully suspended Parliament for five weeks during the Brexit crisis, an act deemed illegal by the UK Supreme Court. Partygate (2020-2022): Boris Johnson and senior officials were found to have attended multiple parties at 10 Downing Street during COVID-19 lockdowns, violating the government's own pandemic restrictions. This led to fines and Johnson's eventual resignation. PPE Contracts Scandal (2020): During the COVID-19 pandemic, the government was criticized for awarding billions of pounds in contracts for personal protective equipment (PPE) without proper oversight, often to companies with little relevant experience but with political connections. Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick and Richard Desmond (2020): Jenrick was accused of intervening in a property development project to benefit billionaire Richard Desmond after receiving donations. This raised concerns over potential corruption. Greensill Scandal (2021): Former Prime Minister David Cameron lobbied on behalf of Greensill Capital, a financial services firm, using private access to senior ministers. The collapse of Greensill left questions about the blurring of lines between public service and private gain. Owen Paterson Lobbying Scandal (2021): Conservative MP Owen Paterson was found guilty of lobbying on behalf of companies that paid him, leading to his suspension from Parliament. The government's attempt to protect him caused public outrage. VIP Lane for COVID Contracts (2021): The National Audit Office revealed a "VIP lane" for COVID-related contracts, where companies with government connections were fast-tracked, raising concerns over cronyism and transparency. Northern Ireland Protocol Issues (2021): The implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol caused significant political tension and economic disruption, with accusations that the government misled the public about the impacts of Brexit. Liz Truss Economic Crisis (2022): Liz Truss's short tenure as Prime Minister ended in disaster after her economic policies, including large tax cuts without funding, caused financial turmoil, crashing the pound and increasing mortgage rates. Rishi Sunak's Tax and Residency Issues (2022): Sunak's wife was found to have non-domiciled tax status, allowing her to avoid paying UK taxes on overseas income. Sunak himself faced scrutiny over his US green card while serving as Chancellor.
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  36. What benefits are enjoyed by second class citizens?
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  37.  @dovetonsturdee7033  You will be calling me a snowflake next. You people should reflect on you own psychologies.
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  38.  @evaflowervines9520  It is very simple. Give me one example of anything that Starmer has done or said that supports the idea that he has a disturbing psychology.
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  39.  @dovetonsturdee7033  t is very simple. Give me one example of anything that Starmer has done or said that supports the idea that he has a disturbing psychology.
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  40.  @Happyheretic2308  It is very simple. Give me one example of anything that Starmer has done or said that supports the idea that he has a disturbing psychology, or even sociopathic.
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  41. Ricky J You can't even spell properly! Not very patriotic now, is it? Maybe you should try another tact, as I am not a Labour supporter, and I didn’t vote for them in the election. What I despise more is the whitewashing of the Tories, and you people spreading misinformation and unsubstantiated nonsense. I asked for ONE example of ‘Starmer's disturbing psychology’. No one can, and you take it upon yourself to attack me personally. Who is the saddo?
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  42.  @dovetonsturdee7033  It doesn't work like that sunshire. You won't because you can't! Divert, distract, divide.
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  43.  @MegMerrilees  Autism is not disturbing psychology. We are talking Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD); Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD); Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD). So has the PM shown any evidence of such personality disorders?
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  44.  @MegMerrilees  Thank you. Yes, indeed that could be due to a lack of self-awareness or even cognitive dissonance. Maybe they don’t want to admit to themselves that their behaviour is inconsistent. The thing is, it is easier to see flaws in others but harder to reflect on our own actions. After all, some of the comments on this forum are from people with “disturbing psychology”
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  45.  @dovetonsturdee7033  It seems you have a "disturbing psychology", something you share with Sir Keir, such as passive aggressiveness: when hurt or offended, you may resort to subtle forms of retaliation rather than addressing issues openly .
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  46.  @dovetonsturdee7033  far-right = "disturbing psychology".
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  47.  @dovetonsturdee7033  If you vote populist authoritarian right-wing parties, then the chances are you have a "disturbing psychology".
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  48. What is you evidence for this? Because your fash coterie despises him?
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  49. You have probably never realised that capitalism is a system, and not a group of treasonous people pulling the strings. That is because you are part of a cult!
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  50. @MrsMojo What is "Boris'" idea of running the country? Have a massive ego trip, pull the country of the EU, replace the structural funds with Share Prosperity Funds (the irony) and see over 40 percent shortfall in funding. It is simply imposing economic sanctions on your own country. This is what really matters! Is that running the country?
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