The Press has reported that a log book, used by Special Branch[1] police officers during the counter-terrorist operation in which the Brazilian Jean Charles de Menezes was shot dead, had been tampered with, the effect of which , we are told, could have passed blame for the mistake from those officers immediately involved in the incident, to those in command.  We learn also that though it was known that a mistake had been made, the Commissioner Sir Ian Blair was not told until the following morning. There is gleeful excitement that the Commissioner will be under “fresh pressure” by reason of these latest disclosures.  I do not see why.

These latest revelations show that the Commissioner had not been told the true facts when he faced the media, following the shooting.  As it was not he who did anything wrong, he is off the hook. We live in the Age of New Labour, where the political buck does not stop with the man (or men) at the top.  It trickles down the food chain until it reaches the first individual who looks as if he might have been the one who actually messed up and who does not have the political wherewithal to defend himself. It is that unfortunate fall guy, who takes the whole wrap.

Now we know that somebody fiddled an entry in a logbook.  The guys on the ground deny it of course, but then they would, wouldn’t they?[2] One thing is for sure. No one of any importance is going to have to resign or suffer even the slightest discomfiture over this matter.

I need someone to tell me that this report today in the The Times, is not true.   Has not the Government more pressing matters about which to concern itself?

That slick, smoothy New Labour minister Ben Bradshaw says that pet owners have little to fear from this new charter of pets rights.  Forgive me if I remain unconvinced.