I do not think I am anti-semitic!

BUT I do criticise Israel and especially its policies towards Palestine. And I note that any criticism of Ukraine and its right wing policies and the Azov regiment is also seen to be anti-Semitic due to President Zelenski being Jewish. As far as I see it, religion has nothing to do with it – it is the policies and decisions. Democratic free speech based on facts not dogma or hyperbole or political bias.

DEMONSTRATIONS

Oil terminals blocked together with 2 London Bridges. It is sad that democracy in this country has collapsed to the extent that extreme action is needed. The longer the government ignores the responsibility it has for the environment and climate change – the more people will take action.

The arrogance they have due to their Parliamentary majority will possibly lead to more demonstrations and escalation. Well done Just Stop Oil!

FRANCE

Projected results show Macron and le Penn in a runoff for president. Macron 28.5%, LePen 23.6%, Melenchon 20.3% and Zemmour 7%. Almost certainly the right wing voters for Zemmour will vote LePen, will the left wing voters of Melenchon vote for Macron? It could be close.

PAPAYA CHUTNEY and BLUEBERRY JAM

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large sweet onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup cider vinegar
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 5 cups papaya, peeled, seeded, and finely chopped
  • 2/3 cups golden raisins

Steps to Make It

  1. Heat oil in a large heavy saucepan over medium to medium-low heat. Add onion and sauté for 2 minutes. Add garlic and sauté 1 additional minute, stirring often.
  2. Add cider vinegar, brown sugar, lime juice, gingercinnamonnutmegallspice, salt, and dry mustard. Stir until well combined.
  3. Add papaya and raisins. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. After 5 minutes, remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  5. Chill for 2 hours in the refrigerator before serving. Refrigerate any leftovers in a covered glass container.
  6. Delicious!!!

BLUEBERRY JAM

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/blueberry-jam

POPULISM

This government cannot even get this concept right! Voters are in favour of wind farms inland (79% of Tories, 83% Lab, 88% Lib Dems). In favour of new nuclear power stations 46% (in principal but NIMBY) and 32% new gas power stations.

LEAST BAD

How sad that the neighbours in Downing Street are having a completion to see who islets bad? One was born in the USA and the other is a USA citizen of sorts. And Brexit was taking back control??? Have I missed something?

UKRAINE

A need for honesty. War is horrible. Russian shelling of civilians is horrific, but so is the evidence of Ukrainian troops executing Russian prisoners. Can all press outlets be honest – murder is murder.

BOOKS

Books I recommend. The Anarchy – William Dalrymple; The Book of Trespass – Nick Hayes; Our Climate Our Future – Jonny Friend; and for light entertainment Debbie Johnson -Cold Comfort Cafe. I make no apologies for wanting a gentle read with a bit of humour and a happy ending.

Local elections

It seems Labour has not done very well. How is this possible with such a corrupt useless government? I know there are local issues and amazing candidates who will sway results. But Labour should be very worried. I thought Starmer would be ok – I was wrong. Angela Rayner should take over immediately.