Here is a parliamentary answer which almost left the questioner (Baroness Trumpington) speechless – with pleasure!
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/ld200910/ldhansrd/text/100322-0001.htm#1003222000328
A new horse race announced for the Queens jubilee in 2012 with the Minister, Peter Mandelson, offering to march arm in arm with Baroness Trumpington campaigning for a trophy for the new race!
Lord Mandelson putting his money where his mouth is; very fitting considering the link between the saying and the racing industry.
Interesting how New Labour has really put its full weight behind this celebration. Considering its history, you might have expected them to want something more low key.
http://www.governing-principles.com
“this offers Parliament the chance to unite in wishing Her Majesty good health, long life and the happiness that she deserves for a lifetime of service? Has any thought been given to a trophy for this race, to which I am sure we would all, including the rich Minister, be delighted to contribute and to it continuing in perpetuity?”
Clive, I did not know you cared. Whilst like you, being something of a socialist in legislative matters, I certainly had audience at the “Court of St James” in the 80s and 90s, and a great fan of the Royal couple, I shall not be supporting the campaign for Horse race trophies on this occasion, nor backing the one horse race of Lord Mandelson
and his cheque book, for the occasion.
I may say that agreeable memories of the late Queen Mother at St James’, but her enthusiasm for and success at the Horses, prohibit me from saying any more!
That is very nice indeed. Credit where it’s due, the government has been most enthusiastic about the Diamond Jubilee. I was impressed with the response to Andrew Rosindell’s PMB a few months ago, and am delighted that they are still taking it seriously.
Grades permitting(!), I will be in London during the Jubilee celebrations in 2012. So much more exciting than the Olympics.
Lord Mandelson is hugely under-estimated in the country, if not in the Lords.
The General Election is not a done deal yet, by any manner of means – not while his Lordship has his finger on the pulse.
“Lord Mandelson is hugely under-estimated in the country”
No ! Just disliked and distrusted.
“Lord Mandelson is hugely under-estimated in the country”
No ! Just disliked and distrusted.”
Why people dislike cocktail party socialists, I really don’t know. The soul of charm!
He’s actually been employed, in the last three or four years! Possibly not for much longer.
I think Baroness Trumpington is wonderful and I do want to see her on Lords of the Blog. (I would happily vote her one of my top three favourite peers)!! Her humour and quick wit add enormously to the chamber. Lord Mandleson for once shows he has a scrap of decency by showing some respect to the institutions of this county, by allowing for a trophy and hoarse races to celebrate HM the Queen’s diamond jubilee. May I ask, that perhaps Baroness Trumpington is interviewed by camera and that the response be put on Lord of the Blog, the Questions can come from fellow bloggers.
Classic
No Hansard entry with “Noble Lords OH!” Were their Lordships not tickled by the image.