Category Archives: Random stuff

On re-reading “1984” – the Brexit connection

Posted on May 24, 2019 by John S

Over the last few days I’ve done a fair bit of travelling. Memphis to Chattanooga by bus, then back to Nashville, and the flight home via Detroit. Amongst other things I took the opportunity to re-read George Orwell’s dystopian classic … Continue reading →

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The “Put it to the People” march, central London, 23 March 2019

Posted on March 23, 2019 by John S

Like a million or so other people, I went to the Put it to the People march in central London today. Ostensibly a march for another referendum, the mood was much more about cancelling the whole Brexit thing right now. … Continue reading →

Posted in London, Random stuff | Tagged , , , | 11 Comments

Beauty in small things

Posted on January 4, 2019 by John S

Back in the early 2000s, when I’d recently become a senior civil servant, I went on a two week leadership course. It was brilliant, and one of the highlights was a day on creativity (yes, in the civil service!) where … Continue reading →

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Reflections on retirement

Posted on September 15, 2018 by John S

Yesterday was my last day at IPSA – the Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority, which regulates MPs’ expenses and decides their pay and pensions. I was the Director of Policy and Communications there. I’d been there since its creation in early … Continue reading →

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My novel: “The Decision”

Posted on April 28, 2018 by John S

I’ve written a novel. It’s called “The Decision”. It’s now available for sale – direct from me at the moment. Like to know what it’s about? Here’s a summary; “The Decision” is a novel about politics, the environment, relationships and … Continue reading →

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Belfast Part Two: The City in Pictures

Posted on April 16, 2018 by John S

Part two of my Belfast trilogy. Mainly photos, but putting them together reminded me how much I loved this city. Even though I’d never looked properly around it before, I felt it was part of me. My second city – … Continue reading →

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Belfast Part One: A Driver’s Story

Posted on April 10, 2018 by John S

My wife, Kath, and I have just been to Belfast and environs for a few days. It was a brilliant trip. For me, the first proper visit to the the place that my mother is from – I’ve had a … Continue reading →

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Love and Hope (for Manchester)

Posted on May 23, 2017 by John S

Last night’s atrocity at the Manchester Arena is beyond words, as many, including the singer Ariana Grande in the aftermath, have said. Beyond senseless. Pure evil. I have nothing I can add to that – just my heartfelt best wishes … Continue reading →

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In Manchester

Posted on April 2, 2017 by John S

On 24 and 25 March I spent some time in Manchester, one of England’s great cities, but one I don’t know terribly well, other than for its football and music. I’ve been there quite a few times in the past, … Continue reading →

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Leaving London – just for one day

Posted on March 24, 2017 by John S

London, Euston Station, Friday morning 24 March. Waiting for my train to Manchester. From one great city to another. Going to see Car Seat Headrest tonight. I’ve been to Manchester quite often, but only on work trips or stag-dos. I’ve … Continue reading →

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