Labour's Remain Sunrise or Brexit Betrayal?

Sunset or New Dawn?

Well, knock me down with a feather! Labour has announced that they would stay within the Customs union and abide by the EU rules during a transitional period of two to four years. There was also the possibility of staying within the EU could be persuaded to move on immigration and changing freedom of movement rules. Reaction at this time of the night suggests mixed but not unexpected headlines, with the right wing press already baying "Betrayal".

What this does do is create a clear choice between Labour and Conservatives, should it come to a vote. Chief Brexit negotiator David Davis will be starting his negotiations next week with a rather amused EU and reduced credibility. There could also be what the Guardian calls "incendiary" arguments when the Commons debates the European Union (withdrawal) bill at its second reading on the 7th September.

President Donald Trump issued a major disaster declaration as Hurricane Harvey hits Texas. Despite wind speeds decreasing and downgrading the hurricane to Storm force, the stationary storm is due to drown parts of the state. Trumps declaration makes it possible that "Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster."

The Hurricane dominated the news and provided the opportunity for a news dump for less salubrious items. This included POTUS pardoning Arizona ex-sheriff Arpaio, who had been found guilty of criminal contempt in July for disregarding a court order in a racial-profiling case. Arpaio is a controversial figure, accused of police misconduct according to Wikipedia, "including abuse of power; misuse of funds; failure to investigate sex crimes; improper clearance of cases; unlawful enforcement of immigration laws; and election law violations" - and racial-profiling. 

We had a warm humid day, with a bit of tidying up and a visit by Louise. I tried my  hand at making puff pastry and then using it to bake cheese bread sticks.

A bit chewy in places. Next time, I might be tempted to leave out the bread and simply bake some crunchy cheese bits.