With another year drawing to a close, the folk at Whirled Interactive have used Google Wave to showcase the best and worst of 2009.

Gordon Brown is clearly out to save is own skin according to today's evening standard. Wonder what the victims in the corresponding headline think of his pledge to ensure budgets for police are clearly identified (fourth bullet point)? Perhaps less policies excusing MPs behaviour and more policies focusing on protecting the interests of the people? Perhaps the proposed policy of 'cleaning up politics by giving voters the power to sack MPs found guilty of gross financial misconduct', needs to extend to dismissal for not ensuring adequate investment in core infrastructure such as public safety? A throwaway line bout investing in 'the lawful majority' will not solve crime problems that have engulfed the nation under three terms of Labour rule.  How would a fourth be that much different? Politicians need to be accountable for the fact that they are in Parliament to protect the best interests of the people, not themselves.

I see the ole trusty London lite has ceased referring to the pandemic as swine flu, and has now opted for the more elaborate  'pig flu'. Crisis averted.  As you were people.

So, the people found guilty in the Baby P case are to receive protection while serving their sentences, at a mere bargain of £1M per year. Why? OK so karma may step in and they get the snot thumped out of them, perhaps even their last breath, but surely that's more just than the taxpayer having to farm out to keep these two safe in prison? Those funds could be better spent on preventative programs aimed at breaking the cycle of violence. In certain situations you have to wonder if it's time to re-think, a 'life for a life'?