Tim SmalleyFeb 13, 2023

There is big conservation news coming out of Scotland today.

The government has adopted new planning rules, known as National Planning Framework 4, which will ensure that *NO* development will be supported if it impacts ancient woodland & ancient & veteran trees across the country.

The new rules have come into force with immediate effect.

These habitats are irreplaceable, so it's a landmark step in the fight against climate & nature emergencies.

#woodland #trees #photomonday #forest #art

Show threadMarkusFeb 13, 2023
@timsmalley I want that for Germany!
Show threadTim SmalleyFeb 13, 2023

@markus_quandt I hope the Scottish government gives hope in Germany. It can be done. ❤️

I fundamentally disagree with ScotGov's main policy of independence (I'm part English, Welsh and Scottish... so have always seen myself as British), but they are so right on this. Credit where credit is due.

Show threadAndrew ThompsonFeb 13, 2023
@markus_quandt @timsmalley sadly, without independence Westminster government can undo all good things achieved by devolution. Just look at the mischief they have wrought by overturning the gender recognition reform legislation. Also, the post-Brexit UK single market bill will prevent 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 from holding to many other policy positions borne of devolution. For example our long-standing ban on cultivation of #GMO crops & gene edited animals
#Indy #YouYesYet ?
Show threadTim SmalleyFeb 13, 2023

@greenaspen I don't really want to get into a debate on independence. My view is borne out of the fact that I have English, Scottish and Welsh blood in me as a result of my family roots. I'm British.

Britain without Scotland would be like having an arm torn off. That's not to say I don't understand the reasons for independence (many valid), but my views are entirely based on family history.

That said, I want a politics that is more inclusive, through some form of PR. I want my vote to count.

Show threadMrs CloudyFeb 13, 2023
@timsmalley @greenaspen by what mechanism do you imagine the UK system could ever be changed to PR?
Show threadTim Smalley

@CloudyMrs I'd suggest asking a constitutional expert.

I am not one of them but, as a voter, I would like to vote *for* a candidate/party, rather than against the candidate/party I want least.

Feb 13, 2023 at 9:44pmWeb
Show threadMrs CloudyFeb 14, 2023
@timsmalley that's the point though. You may want a change of system. Lots of people in the UK may share your wish, but there is absolutely no mechanism that would bring about that change. To stay in the UK is to be resigned to living within the current FPTP UK system, with all its clear failings, for the rest of your life. Things can be better for the constituent nations of the UK, but not within the union.