Directly Elected Mayors; a justification

Key arguments in favour of direcly electing mayors:

1) It allows great political battles with clear platforms (like the buzz that surrounded Ken vs Boris)

2) Accountability; their is a clear leader that one can back or sack

3) Can allow cabinets of talented people whilst retaining accountability

4) Will become part of the political make-up of the country, and attract talented individuals to local government

University staff set for 5% rise

The BBC today highlights the fact that university staff are due for a 5% pay rise next month. Why is this news only now? This was part of a negotiation almost three years ago, and the RPI provision was agree upon (probably) to prevent the final award being higher and staff have (for once) won this gamble.

Vespas as art

I've just come back from Amalfi where, like most Italian cities, people buzz around on Vespas (if you pardon the pun). They really are very beautifull bikes - look at the battered old red one in this picture; Italians can design every day things exceptionally well!