After the G20 - and emails

As I mentioned below, I had planned to say something about the significance of the G20 meeting (and I think it was very significant). I will still do that, but I don't think it's possible to do that without first mentioning the event that has overshadowed the G20 in London, the death of Ian Tomlinson, the passer-by who was shown on a video which has gone round the world being struck by a policeman. He later died. I've backed the calls for an independent inquiry - more details on my website.

I've had a lot of emails about this, and one of those which made the most impact was from someone who themselves had 3 close relatives who are police officers. She felt that it was in the interests of the police service themselves that this incident is properly investigated - I agree - I know how much our local police officers do for our community. I also realise that policing large demonstrations isn't easy, but there can be no excuse for unprovoked violence, which the video strongly suggests was the case. And that's why we need a proper investigation, and appropriate action to follow - for the good name of the police, the public, and of course, and not least, for the family of Mr Tomlinson.

The other news over the last few days, of course, has been the emails from the sacked No 10 adviser. Like everyone else I know in the Labour Party, I am utterly shocked by what has emerged - these actions are totally reprehensible, and there's nothing that can be said to defend those responsible. The Labour Party should keep well away from those who have done this.