Like much of government policy these days, most of the budget was leaked out to the press well before the Chancellor stood up in the House of Commons to deliver his hour long speech setting out his tax and spending plans for the next few years. Sunak has a slick operation, ably assisted by a … Continue reading Rishi dishes out cold cuts in budget
*** Update 5th March 2021 *** Following the publication of this blog Northern have been in touch and have now amended the descriptions of the stations mentioned below. However, a brief look at other stations across the Northern franchise reveals numerous examples of inaccurate information and there remains much to be done across this and … Continue reading How the rail industry’s access map lost its way – and how to get it back on track
The current pandemic has presented numerous challenges at a local, national and global level. Whatever you think about the government's actions in relation to the virus, it has been heartening to see how communities have pulled together and looked out for one another. However, with climate change an even larger crisis looms, and as well … Continue reading Central Beds Council – on the right track to net zero carbon?
It may appear a little dramatic to say that our democracy is under threat. However, if we look at how the UK is run, who holds the power and how that power is checked, I believe there are reasonable grounds on which to be very concerned indeed. Like many others I am guilty of exceptionalism … Continue reading Is our democracy under threat?
It's amazing how cheap stuff is when you can afford to pay for it. I'm not just talking about the freebies doled out to celebrities. Nor the lavish junkets laid on for corporate fat cats. Not even the discounted food and drink available at the Houses of Parliament for those who have enjoyed a lengthy … Continue reading End the Pre Pay energy rip-off
"I am deeply saddened at the events following the publication of the report by the Equality and Human Rights Commission. I voted for Corbyn in both leadership elections and was inspired by his vision for radical change and a truly fairer society. Corbyn has campaigned against inequality and racism throughout his political career. I do … Continue reading Julian Vaughan – Statement
It is said that most political careers inevitably end in failure. I seem to have turned this statement on its head and started my journey with a series of defeats! I've been reminded that it is a year since the local government elections. This made me reflect what a year it had been and how … Continue reading A turbulent year
Laurence Fox's appearance on BBC Question Time certainly set off a social media debate on 'white privilege' and what it does or doesn't mean. As users of social media will be aware this rarely ends up with measured argument, where opinions are respectfully countered and true to form it didn't let us down in this … Continue reading White Privilege
There is quite rightly, a great deal of anger about the failure of the rail industry to meet the 1st January 2020 deadline for all UK passenger trains to be fully accessible. Some of the extensions have been granted years into the future, despite more than a decade to either refurbish or replace non-compliant rolling … Continue reading Equal Access on the railways – how much longer?
I believe we should judge our society by how we treat the most vulnerable within it. I am founder of the Bedfordshire Rail Access Network which campaigns for step-free access for train stations across Bedfordshire. We were successful in campaign for funding for Biggleswade train station and we will push for this work to be … Continue reading Julian Vaughan – a strong voice for rail users
