Blog Review: 104

• Betsan Powys looks at yesterday’s historic meeting, also noted by Glyn Davies.
• David Cornock looks at the new leader of the Lib Dems as does Ordovicius.
• David Jones notes another piece of missing data.
• Nick Bourne notes the disaster of Peter Hain’s speech at the ITV awards. As does Betsan Powys.
• Interesting post from Peter Black live blogging the Lib Dem leadership results.
• Ordovicius notes the apparent Jekell and Hyde devolution David Cameron.

Lib Dem Leadership Contest

Nick Clegg is the new leader of the Liberal Democrats.

Congratulations/commiserations depending on how you look at the task ahead.

Blog Review: 103

• Bethan Jenkins notes the ease at which the budget passed.
• Paul Flynn notes the news of Mick Bates darker side (as previously reported by Glyn Davies) and asks what state the Lib Dems are in following the Burnham Leaflet.
• Peter Black looks at the ITV politics awards and highlight Peter Hain’s speech for not being a highlight.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare notes the lack of alternative proposals put forward by the opposition parties to the budget.
• Normal Mouth draws our attention to the changing views of David Cameron on the Barnett Formula.
• Ordovicius looks at the winners and losers of the Welsh Yearbook Awards.

Blog Review: 102

• Betsan Powys questions the Tory commitment to devolution in the wake of David Cameron’s visit. Nick Bourne also looks at his leaders visit.
• Paul Flynn looks at why anyone would want to bring Brynle back to the Assembly?
• Glyn Davies looks at the darker side of Mick Bates.
• Normal Mouth looks at the Western Mails piece on Labour’s apparent “No” campaign.
• Ordovicius looks at the Budget debate.

Blog Review: 101

• David Jones gives his views on Adam Price’s calls for Welsh to be given equal status as English in the military.
• Paul Flynn speaks out against the Governments position on Iran, extending terrorism measures and the alleged Peter Black leaflet attack on a fellow AM. No response as yet from Peter Black himself on the issue.
• Glyn Davies gives his views on David Cameron’s Dragon’s Eye performance.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare views the Tory leader’s views on devolution as discussed on Waterfront.
• Miss Wagstaff questions where are our Assembly Members of old?
• Ordovicius reviews both shows and also looks at the disappearance of Brynle Williams from the Assembly.
• Normal Mouth looks at the donor scandal dogging the Labour party and also questions if Labour are at tipping point.

The Big 100

I have reached the big 100 mark in Blog Reviews! Congratulations to me!

I was wondering how many reviews I might do by the time of the next General Election. My guess is that Gordon Brown will hold on (or possibly his successor!) until 2010. Factoring in the additional blogging during the election periods (local included) my guess is I will end up blogging another 300 reviews bringing me to a grand total of 400. Please feel free to leave your guesses. A prize will go to the winner, although you will have to wait until the election day for the result!

Final guesses by the end of January so best have a pop at when you think the election will be called. I will of course not include myself in the prize.

Blog Review: 100

• Betsan Powys notes the election returns of those spending over £250,000.
• David Jones notes some comedy at Westminster.
• Peter Black suggests that things will be a lot worse for Labour if they have exploited a loophole in the donations scandal.
• Glyn Davies notes his interview in the Western Mail calling for the Tory’s to change their opinion on the Assembly. Further comments on that interview come from Guerrilla Welsh Fare and Ordovicius.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare draws attention to the leaflet aimed at Eleanor Burnham that came from a computer registered to Peter Black. Glyn Davies provides the content.
• Miss Wagstaff looks at the translation issues at the Assembly.
• Ordovicius highlights the new must have book for any leader.

Blog Review: 99

• Matt Withers looks at another election attempt from Dai Llywellyn.
• Adam Price looks at the question of the Welsh language in military training.
• Ceredig suggest the constant stream of negative stories could soon be too much for Brown to survive.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare asks where those outraged Labour politicians have gone now the donations scandal has sprung up. He also notes the results of the AM.PM awards, as does Ordovicius.

AM PM Awards

The results are in for the AM.PM Awards and its a good showing from the Government at the Assembly.

• Politician of the Year: Ieuan Wyn Jones AM, Plaid Cymru leader and deputy first minister
• Newcomer of the Year: Alun Davies, Mid and West Wales AM (Labour)
• Communicator of the Year: Adam Price, Carmarthen East and Dinefwr MP (Plaid Cymru)
• Campaigner of the Year: Chris Bryant, Rhondda MP (Labour) and Leighton Andrews, Rhondda AM (Labour)
• Most Outspoken: Don Touhig, Islwyn MP (Labour

Blog Review: 98

The blogs do not make good reading for Peter Hain whose latest confession on donation scandal provides much of content for our bloggers. Those blogging on are:

• Betsan Powys who says there are a number of questions that need answering.
• Paul Flynn is not happy that peter Hain has even given consideration to the issue.
• Peter Black says Hain’s confession has been forced by Guido Fawkes investigations.
• Glyn Davies wonders where it will all end.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare suggests that someone will have to take the fall for the PM.
• Ordovicius notes Hain admits further wrongdoings.
• Valley’s Mam asks if Peter Hain is in bother?

Blog Review: 97

• Paul Flynn thinks the dodgy donations scandal is coming to an end, and isn’t amused by Glyn Davies outrage.
• Miserable Old Fart suggests that Brown’s premiership is in a much worse state that Major’s ever was.
• Ordovicius says Paul Flyn is in a flap.

Blog Review: 96

• Betsan Powys notes Peter Hain’s run in with the Electoral Commission, as does David Jones.
• Bethan Jenkins looks at further devolution.
• Nick Bourne examines the recent activity at the Senedd.
• Glyn Davies looks further into the donations scandal as does Ceredig.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare questions what impact the performance of Labour PM’s would have on their party’s outlook.
• Ordovicius reports on further Labour leader problems with donations.
• Southpaw Grammar examines the question of political funding.

Blog Review: 95

• Betsan Powys looks at Peter Hain’s trip to Cardiff Bay as does her colleague Vaughan Roderick and Peter Black.
• David Cornock notes Harriett Harmon’s performance on Question Time.
• Adam Price looks at Britain’s nuclear position.
• David Jones notes the hammering Gordon Brown has been taking at PMQ’s.
• Paul Flynn hits back in the donations scandal by listing other parties financial issues.
• Glyn Davies looks at Dafydd Ellis Thomas’ appearance on CF99 as does Ordovicius.

Blog Review: 94

• Betsan Powys reports on what’s NOT going on.
• Tom Bodden looks at Plaid’s candidates for the House of Commons.
• Tomos Livingstone notes Labour’s impending doom of.
• Bethan Jenkins continues the guest blogger section on her blog with Graham Smith of the ‘Republic.’
• David Jones looks at the continued problems facing Gordon Brown in relation to the donations scandal.
• Paul Flynn defends the Labour party stating the donations scandal is stupid and not wicked.
• Dylan Jones Evans looks how the impact of the donations scandal will have on Welsh seats.
• Glyn Davies notes the strength of the Tory’s position and suggests that Gordon Brown may have to look for a way out to salvage a fourth term for Labour.
• Ceredig examines if Wigley will go to the Lords.
• Miserable Old Fart looks at the All Wales Convention and Don Touhig’s attacks.
• Ordovicius notes Gordon Brown’s admittance that Labour has acted unlawfully.
• Southpaw Grammer looks at the ID card issue.

Blog Review: 93

• Betsan Powys gives her view on the likely final line up of the All Wales convention.
• David Cornock examines Alistair Darlings tough grilling at Westminster. More here from David Jones.
• Vaughan Roderick looks at one Plaid peer already nominated.
• Paul Flynn notes his experience of the NHS. (This blog wishes him a speedy recovery.)
• Peter Black notes his unhappiness with the discussion of blogging at the Assembly.

Blog Review: 92

• Adam Price gives his view of Plaid’s record so far in Government.
• Leighton Andrews looks at the BBC review.
• Paul Flynn looks at Plaid’s decision to join the House of Lords.
• Normal Mouth answers his own questions on blogging.
• Ordovicius comments on Albert Owen’s attack on Richard Brunstrom.
• Valley’s Mam notes Gordon Brown’s offer to Ffiona Phillips.

Blog Review: 91

• Betsan Powys looks at Grav’s funeral and questions if such an event would have occurred as little as 10 years ago. A question Guerilla Welsh Fare also looks at.
• Huw Lewis seems to have forgotten who’s in Government and who’s in opposition.
• Normal Mouth disagrees with the notion of a socialist Government in Wales.

Yma O Hyd

No blogging today in respect of Ray Gravell.

Blog Review: 90

• Betsan Powys notes Plaid’s representatives on the All Wales Convention.
• David Cornock looks at the question of too many Welsh MP’s and also gives a Tory caption competition.
• Adam Price examines the stranglehold London enjoys on wealth.
• Bethan Jenkins interesting guest blogger section continues with Kelvin Mason of Aberystwyth Peace and Justice Network.
• Huw Lewis gives his view on John Griffiths interview on the politics show.
• Ordovicius looks at the Tories decision to charge for child care services.

Blog Review: 89

• David Cornock notes a spat between Peter Hain and Cheryl Gillan over who cancelled the Welsh Grand Committee Meeting. More on it by David Jones.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare notes attacks on Nick Bourns position as leader.
• Miss Wagstaff looks at the AM/MP awards

Blog Review:88

• Tomos Livingstone picks up on Chris Huhne’s apology to the speaker.
• Bethan Jenkins continues her guest blogger section with Carl Harris of NUS Wales.
• Peter Black notes that members of the Conservatives in Wales do not see Nick Bourne as their leader. Glyn Davies attempts to address the issue.
• Ordovicius looks at Kirsty Williams’ speech to the IWA.

Welsh Duo Win at BCS Awards

Congratulations are in order to two of Wales’ best political bloggers. Adam Price and Paul Flynn both picked up awards at the British Computer Society Awards. Paul Flynn picked up the award for best design, whilst Plaid’s Adam Price won the award for best overall MP’s website.

Blog Review: 87

• Betsan Powys reports on the extra money going to the Wales Office.
• Daniel Davies notes Darren Millar’s confusion on Tory priorities.
• David Cornock highlights the fact that despite an increasing budget the Welsh office will be accountable for a shorter period of time in the new Parliament.
• Adam Price looks at the West Lothian Question.
• Peter Black gives his views on the Lib Dem leadership hustings.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare says the Black/German debate is heating up.
• Ordovicius calls for Normal Mouth to have a greater understanding of the issues before writing his Golwg column.

Blog Review: 86

• Betsan Powys looks at the membership of the All Wales Convention. She also gives us a running commentary of what she learnt yesterday.
• Bethan Jenkins issues her support for the renaming of the Prince William Cup.
• Peter Black hits back at Mike German for misleading the media.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare takes on Vaughan Roderick’s sports and leaders comparison.
• Normal Mouth calls for Labour to declare Wales could be a successful Independent nation.

Blog Review: 85

• Vaughan Roderick compares Joe Calzaghe and Mike German.
• Adam Price gives his views on the Budget in Wales and the success of Plaid in implementing its policy’s, he also notes Peter Hain’s statement that the Wales Office would not use its veto further devolution.
• Peter Black notes the internal problems of the Lib Dem leadership. Comments on that from Glyn Davies, Ordovicius and Guerrilla Welsh Fare.
• Ceredig looks at how the Tories position has changed in the last few months.

Blog Review: 84

• Adam Price gives his memories of Ray Gravell. As does Glyn Davies, Valley’s Mam, Independent Wales and Brit Nat Watch who also calls for the Prince William Cup to be renamed in Grav’s honour.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare gives his views on Nick Bourne’s blog on the referendum.
• Ordovicius notes Dai Davies calls for fewer MP’s.

Blog Review: 83

• David Cornock notes news of Lembit’s resignation has finally made it to London.
• Vaughan Roderick looks at Alison Halford’s attraction to the Tory men at the Assembly. More on that from Tom Bodden.
• Adam Price gives his view on Peter Hain’s comments.
• Nick Bourne gives some personal views on a referendum for further powers.
• Paul Flynn suggests Don Touhig should stop rowing against the tide of devolution.
• Ordovicius notes the excitement of the Lib Dem leadership contest.

Blog Review: 82

• David Cornock notes Nick Cleggs threat to break the law over ID Cards.
• Bethan Jenkins opens up her blog for the first in her “Guest Bloggers” section. This week it is SNP MSP Jaime Hepburn.
• Rebellion Sucks notes Labour’s assault on national self-determination.
• Independence Cymru looks at Peter Hain’s referendum comments.
• Normal Mouth defends the Secretary of State for Wales.
• Ordovicius looks at Chris Bryant’s views on public broadcasting and the finance for airing those views. He also notes Plaid’s alternative Queens Speech.

Blog Review: 81

• Betsan Powys notes the conflicting views of Peter Hain and Rhodri Morgan on the referendum.
• David Cornock notes responsibility for S4C could be devolved to the Assembly.
• Adam Price looks at Peter Hain’s comments and its implications for the One Wales Government. More on it here from Bethan Jenkins.
• Leanne Wood gives her view on the Welsh Republic.
• Glyn Davies looks at the trouble ahead after Jonathan Morgan’s LCO on mental health.
• Ceredig notes the Cairn’s – Wood republican battle and gives views on the recent comments by Peter Hain on the referendum.
• Brit Nat Watch notes the appointment of Sir Emyr Parry Jones and the reaction of Welsh Labour MP’s.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare examines the splits on devolution within the Tories and Labour.
• Independence Cymru looks at how the devolutionist element of the Conservative and Labour party down play the comments of the Unionists.
• Normal Mouth gives his views on Peter Hain’s referendum comments.
• Welsh Ramblings suggests the Labour party in Wales is involved in a civil war.

Blog Review: 80

• Betsan Powys notes Gwenda Thomas’ intention to go against the UK Government’s position on smacking.
• Adam Price blogs about the unveiling of a statue in memory of David Lloyd George. More on the issue with Paul Flynn.
• Alun Cairns notes Leanne Woods’ views on the monarchy.
• Bethan Jenkins notes Don Touhig’s objection to Sir Emyr Parry Jones’ appointment as chair of the All Wales Convention. More here from Ordovicius.
• Glyn Davies says Stephen Crabbs article has been misread. The comments section would suggest otherwise.
• Ceredig gives an analysis on the All Wales Convention and how he sees the political support for a yes vote panning out.
• Normal Mouth looks at the One Wales first 100 days and suggests the alliance has been ongoing for much longer.

Blog Review: 79

• Betsan Powys looks at the issue of the running costs of the Assembly.
• David Cornock notes Adam Price’s suggestion that the Welsh Office should be abolished. He also notes Stephen Crabb’s attack on the devolution.
• Glyn Davies takes the opposite view to the Tory party on the issue of devolution.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks at how the Davies and Crabb comments undermine Nick Borune.
• Normal Mouth looks at the role of the All Wales Convention.
• Ordovicius says that Stephen Crabb’s comments show them to be the same old Tory’s.

Blog Review: 78

• David Cornock notes the appointment of Sir Emyr Parry Jones.
• Vaughan Roderick looks at the future of Nick Bourne’s leadership. Ordovicius has a translation here.
• Peter Black looks at Adam Price’s calls to scrap the Welsh Office.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare notes Mike German’s absence from the debate on the One Wales Governments priorities.
• Welsh Ramblings looks at 100 days of the Plaid – Labour coalition.

Blog Review: 77

• Betsan Powys notes the appointment of Sir Emyr Jones Parry as chair of the All-Wales convention.
• Bethan Jenkins notes the petitions committee’s work in Scotland.
• Normal Mouth gives his view on Alex Salmond’s nuclear weapons stance.

Blog Review: 76

• Betsan Powys looks at the NHS Redress measure.
• David Cornock looks at the Lib Dems interest rates.
• Tomos Livingstone notes the similarity between Nick Clegg and David Cameron.
• Ordovicius counts the cost of Labour’s non-election.

Blog Review 75

• David Cornock looks at a select few odds for the Lib Dem leadership.
• Adam Price gives his insight into the CSR.
• Alun Cairns looks at the Lib Dem blues.
• Paul Flynn berates the Western Mail over the issue of legalising drugs.
• Ceredig gives a humorous analysis of the Lib Dems.
• Normal Mouth notes where the Lib Dems can still remain useful.

Blog Review 74

The departure of Lib Dem leader Sir Menzies Campbell is the talk of today's blogs.

• Betsan Powys notes the Lib Dems are in real trouble.


• David Cornock suggests the annual Lib Dem leadership crisis should become a reality TV show.


• Bethan Jenkins gives her musings about Ming’s departure.


• Paul Flynn suggests the leadership was too much for Ming.


• Peter Black gives the Liberals view on the resignation.


• Glyn Davies says Ming was pushed.


• Damon lord says Ming was tackling a problem no one could solve.


• Guerrilla Welsh Fare highlights the third resignation for the Lib Dems this week and warns against accepting Lembit’s support.


• Ordovicius notes further tensions in the Welsh Lib Dems camp with more calls for Mike German to step down.

Blog Review 73

• Bethan Jenkins looks at the state of the Lib Dems in Wales and the UK.
• David Jones looks at the problems facing Mike German as a Leader with a best before date.
• Leanne Wood gives her views on Richard Brunstrom’s calls to legalise drugs.
• Paul Flynn describes the Lib Dems as the half and half party.
• Peter Black notes the decision to allow Mike German to carry on for another year as leader.
• Glyn Davies doesn’t expect Ming to last through Christmas.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare examines Peter Blacks comments that he was stopped from making a leadership challenge.
• Ordovicius looks at the demise of the Lib Dems at Westminster.
• Welsh Ramblings looks at the reasoning behind Mike German remaining the Lib Dem leader.

Blog Review 72

• David Cornock looks at the Lib Dem leadership contest.
• Tomos Livingstone looks at the budget squeeze.
• Ordovicius notes Adam Price’s bill to prosecute those who deliberately lie in Parliament.

Blog Review 71

• Tom Bodden looks at Gordon Brown’s decision not to call an election and the decision facing Mike German.
• Bethan Jenkins gives her views on the Comprehensive Spending Review and its impact on child poverty.
• David Jones gives a brutal assessment of Gordon Brown’s performance in the Commons.
• Leanne Wood notes the effect of the troops out protest in London.
• Dylan Jones-Evans gives his view on Wales and the CSR.
• Andrew Nutt notes that Welsh Labour MP’s have voted against bringing more funding to Wales.

Blog Review 70

Unsurprisingly the decision not to call a snap election dominates much of the blogs.

• Comments here from Betsan Powys, David Cornock, Tomos Livingstone, Alun Cairns, Bethan Jenkins, Glyn Davies, Andrew Nutt, Damon Lord, Guerrilla Welsh Fair, Welsh Independence, Luke Young, Ordovicius and Welsh Ramblings.
  
  In other news:
  
• David Cornock looks at the reluctance of Welsh Labour MP’s to be interviewed.
• Bethan Jenkins notes the sacking of Marcus Warner as does Ceredig, Ordovicius and Miserable Old Fart. Marcus’ response to Irene James termination of his employment is here.
• Valley’s Mam looks at the cost of the Olympics for Wales.

Blog Review 69

• Betsan Powys notes the lack of appetite for a snap election.
• Bethan Jenkins looks at what has become of Cameron’s A-Listers.
• David Jones says he wants an election and hopes the polls don’t put Gordon off.
• Peter Black looks at complaints against English only telephone canvassing by Labour.
• Glyn Davies claims Brown has blown it.
• Andrew Nutt looks at Wayne David’s voting record.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare says Brown has a real dilemma.
• Independence Cymru looks at the possibility of Alex Salmond challenging Brown for his parliamentary seat.
• Ordovicius says Brown has no way out of calling an election.

Blog Review 68

• David Jones says he is convinced there will now be an election.
• Leanne Wood notes a protest she will be attending on troop withdrawal.
• Peter Black looks in more detail at Gordon brown’s announcement on troop withdrawal.
• Glyn Davies praises Cameron’s speech and criticises Lembit Opik and other MP’s for the use of their allowances.
• Martin Eaglestone suggests David Cameron himself doesn’t expect to win.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare sees David Davies comments in the Western Mail as another blow to Nick Bourne’s Assembly strategy.
• Morgan Hen notes the Lib Dems sponsorship of poll dancing.
• Normal Mouth says the Tories are betting each way on Welshness.

Blog Review 67

• Betsan Powys highlights Helen Mary’s appraisal of Nick Bourne’s recent comments.
• David Cornock notes the Tory split on devolution at the conference.
• Bethan Jenkins gives her views on Nick Bourne’s strategy. Bethan also gives her views on Gordon Bown’s troop withdrawal announcement. More on that here from Nick Bourne and here from Glyn Davies who also attacks the BBC for giving the announcement coverage.
• Ceredig says Bourne has been left out to hang.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare notes the lack of support for devolution within the Tories.
• Ordovicius notes the lack of preparation for a snap election.

Blog Review 66

• Betsan Powys doesn’t expect a lot of movement on devolution in the next Welsh Conservative manifesto.
• Paul Flynn doesn’t believe David Cameron’s calls for an early election.
• Glyn Davies looks at Nick Bourne’s plea for Plaid members to join the Tories.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare notes that Nick Bourne is suddenly disagreeing with his own blogs.

Blog Review 65

• Betsan Powys blogs that Labour are not expecting to win back Blaenau Gwent in the near future.
• Tom Bodden notes that recent opinion polls have done nothing to raise the hopes of the Tories.
• Bethan Jenkins calls on Gordon brown to make a decision one way or another about a snap election as does David Jones.
• Leanne Wood speaks on the Lib Dems privatisation policy for Cardiff buses.
• Leighton Andrews gives his views on the future of Welsh Labour.
• Martin Eaglestone claims the Tories have gone to conference with the wrong tactical approach.
• Brit Nat Watch examines Dr Richard Wyn Jones’ view on Labour’s nationalism.
• Damon Lord calls for an election for the sake of democracy.
• Gwe looks at when, and why, Gordon Brown will call a snap election.
• Luke Young professes his love for Lembit.
• Ordovicius notes Nick Bourns comments that Alun Cairns will leave the Assembly if elected to Westminster.

Blog Review 64

• David Cornock addresses Gordon Brown’s Britishness.
• Vaughan Roderick looks at the report on Labour’s failure at the Assembly election.
• David Jones appraises Jack Straws Today show performance.
• Paul Flynn says it is nail biting times for the PM as he decides on a snap election.
• Peter Black says the Tories have retreated to their core values.
• Gwe looks at Labour’s aims to widen its appeal.
• Independence Cymru asks what is a British nationalist?
• Miserable Old Fart looks at identity politics.
• Ordovicius doesn’t seem to have much time for Labour’s election dossier.
• Welsh Ramblings says an election is inevitable.

Blog Review 63

• Leanne Wood welcomes Labours U-turn on Remploy.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks at the advantages of calling a snap election.
• Independence Cymru says a snap election is a certainty.
• Ordovicius sarcastically notes the pressure put on Brown by the Tories at the Assembly.
• Valleys Mam notes trouble for Kinnock at the conference.
• Greg Lewis gives an update on Lib Dem bus privatisation plans.

Blog Review 62

• David Cornock notes more trouble on the beach for Neil Kinnock.
• Glyn Davies vents his anger at Gordon Brown over the recent Foot and Mouth outbreak.
• Martin Eaglestone notes Eluned Morgan’s views on the Clear Red Water strategy.
• Ceredig gives a very interesting appraisal of Gordon Brown’s conference speech.

Blog Review 61

• Daniel Davies gives an overview of the Morgan vs Morgan battle. More on the clear red water statement from David Cornock, Vaughan Roderick, Peter Black and Guerrilla Welsh Fare.
• Bethan Jenkins is sceptical of Gordon Brown’s “new” style of Government.
• Andrew Nutt sees the Labour Conference as a repeat of previous years.
• Gwe gives his views on Brown’s speech. More here from Normal Mouth.

Blog Review 60

• Betsan Powys notes Labour’s plan to become more centralist and scrap the clear red water approach and examines the implications for Rhodri Morgan.
• David Cornock notes further Labour dissecting of the Assembly election.
• Glyn Davies gives his critique or Gordon Brown’s speech. More here from Guerrilla Welsh Fare and Ordovicius.

Blog Review 59

• David Cornock notes Peter Hain’s backtracking.
• Peter Black looks at the input of Westminster in Assembly decisions.
• Glyn Davies looks at the possibility of a Plaid addition to the House of Lords. More here from Ordovicius.
• Ceredig examines the inconsistency in the Tory approach to devolution following David Davies comments last week as does Normal Mouth and Valleys Mam.
• Independence Cymru revisits the issue of a bank holiday for St Davids Day.
• Welsh Ramblings gives its views on Peter Hain’s recent pamphlet.

Blog Review 58

• David Cornock notes results of his poll of Lib Dem support for Lembit.
• Paul Flynn is critical of Ming Campbell’s performance at the Lib Dems conference.
• Peter Black notes David Davies attack on Nick Bourne. More here from Guerrilla Welsh Fare.
• Ceredig looks at Plaid’s policy on the House of Lords.
• Gwe looks at the first Member Proposed Measure at the Assembly.

Blog Review 57

• David Cornock notes how the Lib Dems tune has changed.
• Peter Black defends the Liberals from internal accusations by Eleanor Burnham that it has become a party of monglot English speakers.
• Gwe gives us a very personal view of the referendum night.
• Ordovicius gives praised to Plaid Ministers as they faced their first Assembly grilling.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks at Matt Withers description of Plaid.
• Welsh Ramblings looks at the shift to the right coming from the Tories and Lib Dems.

Blog Review 56

• David Cornock notes Lembit's latest showbiz splash.
• Tomos Livingstone looks at the failure of the British public to identify who leads the Liberal Democrats.
• Bethan Jenkins blogs about the ten years of devolution.
• Paul Flynn looks at Gordon Brown’s election chances, and his handling of the dangerous case of foot and moth!?
• Ceredig looks at Lib Dem green tax plans.
• Damon Lord ponders if Mike German and Ming Campbell have had their day.
• Gwe returns to blogging with a post about the support for further devolution.
• Independence Cymru looks at the benefits of devolution.
• Ordovicius, on behalf of Iain Dale, provides a top 20 list of Welsh blogs.

Blog Review 55

• Betsan Powys looks at the odds for the Lib Dem leadership.
• David Cornock examines Eleanor Burnham chances at the Lib Dem top job.
• Tom Bodden notes Dafydd Ellis Thomas calls to clarify the name of the Assembly’s ruling power.
• Bethan Jenkins blogs about the Assembly starting back and the resignation of Ann Jones’ researcher David Collins, an issue that Valley’s Mam also picks up on.
• David Jones criticises the Government for their handling of the Northern Rock affair.
• Paul Flynn looks at the chances of a single Lib Dem getting nominated.
• Homage to Catatonia gives his views about Mike’s conference no show.
• Normal Mouth gives some insight of the Assembly past.
• Welsh Ramblings gives a different insight to the David Collins situation.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare gives his assessment on Mike German’s non attendance of the Lib Dem conference.

Blog Review 54

• Tomos Livingstone notes criticism of the Lib Dem leader at their conference in Brighton.
• Vaughan Roderick notes David Collins resignation after his attack on the Welsh language.
• Bethan Jenkins gives her run down of the conference highlights from Plaid.
• Nick Bourne looks at the case for Eleanor Burnham’s leadership of the Lib Dems.
• Glyn Davies looks at the Lib Dems Assembly Leadership options.
• Cleckanndra examines the decision by Gordon Brown to invite Thatcher to 10 Downing Street. Something also noted by Welsh Ramblings.
• Welsh Independence looks at support for further devolution.

Blog Review 53

• Vaughan Roderick notes the appointment of Plaid’s new Chief Executive. As does Ordovicius.
• Normal Mouth asks does Labour have a plan B?
• Welsh Ramblings notes Helen Mary’s blogging from the conference and advises Peter Black to calm down.

Blog of the Week: 7

This week’s blog of the week will look at Helen Mary Jones who will be blogging during Plaid’s Conference in Llandudno this weekend. It will certainly be an interesting event given it will be the first conference in Plaid’s history where they will be in Government and have key note speeches from Cabinet Ministers. As one of Plaid’s best communicators it will be interesting to see Helen Mary’s slant on the proceedings. The blog will be accessible from Plaid’s home page.

Blog Review 52

I have been away for a short while. A long overdue holiday!

I am back and round ups will continue. Although they will be cut short this week.

• Betsan Powys looks at coalition troubles outside Wales and notes the impending announcement on Plaid’s new Chief Executive an issue also looked at by Vaughan Roderick.
• David Cornock notes the Lib Dem leader’s annoyance at being referred to as Sir.
• Leanne Wood looks at the Remploy modernisation plan.
• Independence Cymru looks at the Jones-Scully report of how the parties performed at the election as does Ordovicius.
• Normal Mouth looks at the crisis in the Lib Dem camp.
• Welsh Ramblings notes the start of the Welsh Lib Dem Leadership Contest.

Blog Review 51

• Paul Flynn says Huw Lewis is talking cobblers.
• Huw Lewis’ comments on the pamphlet launch can be seen here.
• Peter Black gives his views on Huw Lewis’ document and also notes Don Touhig’s comments.
• Martin Eaglestone disagrees with Huw Lewis’ evaluation of the party.
• Cleckanndra says it’s too late to save Welsh Labour.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare says Don Touhig has failed to understand the political climate in Wales and looks at the political career of Huw Lewis.
• Independence Cymru gives his review of Huw Lewis’ publication.
• Welsh Ramblings looks at the question of Welsh Independence and Don Touhig’s response.

Welsh Blog Awards

Thanks to everyone that voted. I am happy to congratulate the winners below. It was close in some of the categories. Hopefully next years awards will have many more blogs to consider.

Best Politicians Blog

Adam Price

Best Media Blog

Vaughan Roderick

Best Other Political Blog

Normal Mouth

Best Welsh Language Political Blog

Annibyniaeth I Gymru

Blog Awards

Tomorrow the Welsh Blog Index Blog Award Winners will be announced. You have until 8pm today to get you votes in before they are counted up.

Many thanks

Blog Review 50

• Cleckanndra looks at separate parliaments for Wales and England.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks to Scotland for the future of Wales.
• Independence Cymru looks at Scotland’s Independence and tackles some myths around Welsh Independence.
• Ordovicius looks at the White paper announcement by the SNP.

Blog of the Week 6

This weeks blog of the week, and in fact blog of the next two weeks as I will be away on holiday and unable to change it, is Vaughan Roderick. The BBC’s welsh language political blogger has given some interesting insights over the last few months. He is regularly breaking stories and many blogs, most notably Ordovicius, make regular reference to Roderick’s online collumn.

Blog Review 49

• Matt Withers helps Labour realise a fault in their plan to connect with Welsh Language voters.
• Adam Price gives a follow up to his proposal to a coalition with the Greens and People’s Voice.
• Glyn Davies says its crunch time for the Tories.
• Independence Cymru looks at Wales and Westminster’s relationship.

Blog Reviw 48

• Matt Withers looks at the Plaid reshuffle.
• Cascittuni looks at the debate around the conservative’s logo and says the party don’t have a hunger to win an election. More on the logo with Damon Lord.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare examines the possibility of an early election.
• Miserable Old Fart looks at Jan Morris and Huw Lewis’ dispute.
• View From the Glen returns with a post about Tory defector David Anstee.

Blog Review 47

• Ceredig analysis Wigley’s speech.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks at Labour’s attempts to win back Welsh speaking voters.
• Normal Mouth reviews the political influence of Dafydd Wigley.
• Ordovicius questions why restrictions are placed on Wales because of foot and mouth in Surrey.

Blog Roll Update

I will be going away on holidays at the end of next week so I’m trying to get the house ship shape! During the clean out I have binned the following blogs as inactive or retired.

• Assembly Notes
• David Cornock (original BBC)
• Peter Hain
• Emma Greenow
• Glamorganshire
• Pontygwindy
• Sion Owain
• Taffia Don
• View From The Glen
• Labour Mark

Ladies and Gentlemen behind these blogs please let me know if you ever return and I shall once again add you to the blogroll.

As a result of the clear out it is even more important that you all help keep me aware of any new blogs or current blogs not on the radar. Keir Hardly will be going up shortly.

Blog Review 46

• David Cornock looks at the Conservatives apology over the David Anstee defection. A copy of the apology is published on Leighton Andrews blog.
• Huw Lewis sees Dafydd Wigley’s Eisteddfod speech driving a wedge between Welsh AM’s and MP’s.
• Paul Flynn reminisces about a clash he had with Tony Blair over education policy.
• Glyn Davies is still angry that the Rainbow failed to materialise.
• Normal Mouth discusses Elin Jones’ decision to cut short her holiday.

Blog Review 45

The defection of Rhondda Tory David Anstee has been covered heavily in the blogs today.

• David Cornock examines the claims and counter claims of the Tories and Labour.


• Leighton Andrews welcomes his new Rhondda member.


• David Jones MP claims never to have heard of him.


• Peter Black brings the Ian Dale blog about the issue to our attention.


• Former Labour candidate in Arfon Martin Eaglestone welcomes the news of the defection.


• Cascittuni notes that he has never heard of David Anstee despite being Secretary of the South Wales West Conservative Council.


• Guerrilla Welsh Fare says the defection will create more pressure for David Cameron.


• Ordovicius looks at the hype around the defection.


• Welsh Women’s Voice asks if there is actually a difference between the Tories and Labour anyway.

In other blog news.

• Welsh independence looks at if Wales would be too small and too poor.


• Miserable Old Fart examines Dai Havard MP’s claims that taxation money belongs to Labour.


• Ordovicius notes Elin Jones aim try and keep Wales free from Foot and Mouth.


• Welsh Ramblings notes that the One Wales Government has handled their first major challenge well to date.

Blog of the Week 5

This week’s blog of the week (although a day late I’m sorry!) is Normal Mouth. Although a Labour supporting blog it is always very insightful and as neutral as a partisan blog can be. The topics explored are very often issues that have seemingly passed others by and are always excellent start points for debates.

There is also an excellent section “Questions to a Welsh Political Blogger” which helps gives insight into our fellow bloggers ideas and motives.

Blog Review 44

• Vaughan Roderick looks at the demands on Plaid Ministers.
• Dylan Jones-Evans looks at Wales Crachach.
• Glyn Davies gives his views on the Foot and Mouth crisis.
• Ceredig attempts to uncover whose problem is the Barnett Formula.
• Labour blogger Homage to Catatonia gives reasons for keeping the number of Welsh MP’s as they are.
• Independence Cymru calls on an allegiance to Wales.
• Welsh Women’s Voice comments on speculation of Rhodri Morgan’s departure.

Blog Review 43

• Bethan Jenkins congratulates Plaid on two by-election wins.
• Nick Bourne gives his comments on the coalition discussions sighting the Lib Dems failure to ratify the All Wales Accord as the defining moment. More here from Dylan Jones-Evans.
• Peter Black looks at suggestions that Plaid could form an election pact with People’s Voice and the Greens.
• Glyn Davies outlines his strategy to win a Parliamentary seat.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare attempts to update Peter Blacks history.
• Homage to Catatonia gives some ideas to the Lib Dems to pass the time.
• Normal Mouth Questions if Wales is underrated at a UK level.
• Valley’s Mam notes the Conservatives have lost faith in their leader.
• What is Wales looks at the childishness of Chris Bryant.

Eyes and Ears

The somewhat thankless task of running the blog review has become ever more increasingly frustrating as blogs disappear or remain static. I am counting on those active bloggers among us to be my eyes and ears. So if there are any new, or as yet unnoticed welsh political blogs not covered please let me know in the comments section or by email at welshblogindex@hotmail.co.uk

Also please use the same form of contact for the Welsh Blog Index Awards. A number of bloggers have already given their nominations and time is fast running out with only around a week to go.

Many thanks

Blog Review 43

A lot of focus on Lembit Opik in today's blogs.

• Matt Withers looks at the implications of Lembit Opiks possible London Mayor challenge.


• David Cornock says Lembit has ruled out standing. Much to the dissatisfaction of Eleanor Burnham. More here from Tom Bodden and here from Ordovicius.


• Glyn Davies suggests that the Lembit for London story was a political strategy created by the Opik camp.


• Cascittuni gives his update on a few issues in the press recently.


• Guerrilla Welsh Fare notes yet another attack on David Cameron.

Blog Review 42

• Ceredig looks at the Barnett formula review.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks at the transparent approach Rhodri Glyn Thomas aims to bring to the Culture portfolio.
• Independence Cymru gives his views on a future for Wales.
• Normal Mouth gives his list of top twenty political blogs in Wales. He must have forgotten this one!
• Ordovicius looks at the introduction of Home Information Packs.
• Valleys Mam looks at the DWP’s strategy for tackling child poverty.
  
  
• In what is becoming an ever decreasing welsh political blogsphere Glamorganshire seemingly has retired his post.

Blog Review 41

• Bethan Jenkins notes Peter Hain’s lack of influence on the Assembly and his changing views on the One Wales Government.
• Glyn Davies notes conservative’s criticism of their leader. More here from Guerrilla Welsh Fare.
• Normal Mouth examines the Brown leadership and doubts that Welsh Labour’s new Leader could have the same effect.

Blog of the Week 4

This week’s blog of the week is Ordovicus. A very active blogger whose political commentary contains views on domestic and European politics.

Blog Review 40

• Alun Cairns notes that Rhuanedd Richards has joined Simon Thomas as the second Plaid SPAD at the Assembly. More here from Ordovicuis.
• Glyn Davies notes he is blog of the week on the last day of the week.
• Martin Eaglestone notes Lembit Opiks competition for the most “liberal” Liberal.
• Independent Wales says that Wales is not part of the Union.
• Valleys Mam looks ate Gordon Brown’s Angels.

Blog Review 39

• David Cornock says Elinor Burnham will have to hold out longer for the leadership of the Welsh Lib Dems.
• Tom Bodden notes the appointment of former Ceredigion MP Simon Thomas to a special advisor role in the new One Wales Government.
• Alun Cairns declares his nomination to run for a Westminster seat.
• Bethan Jenkins comments on the ability to perform effectively as both an AM and MP.
• Peter Black comments on news Sian Lloyd is to dish the dirt on former partner Lembit Opik.
• Valleys Mam looks at Brown’s chances in the General Election.

Blog Roll and Awards

As stated in the blog of the week section we have lost fellow bloggers Amanwy and Seneddwr. The blog roll is getting smaller so please let me know of any political blogs in the Welsh blogsphere not currently being covered. Either email me at Welshblogindex@hotmail.co.uk or leave a note in the comments section.

Also don’t forget to get your nominations for the WelshBlogIndex blog awards.

Many thanks

Blog of the Week 3

With a number of blogs shutting up shop (amanwy and Seneddwr to name but two) and a number of blogs remaining inactive the “blog a week” section is already quickly running out of average Joes! There are still some to be looked at but this week's will be a familiar face to bloggers.

Glyn Davies was one of the pioneers of blogging amongst elected members and has been consistent since loosing his Assembly seat. Having recently won the nomination for the Tory candidate in Montgomeryshire (congrats) I am sure that the blog will provide the usual interesting insights. Noted for its honesty (it is as equally frank about Tory defeats as Tory victories) it is one of the Welsh blogsphere’s prize assets.

Blog Review 38

Seems only the Tories are blogging on a Monday morning!

• Alun Cairn’s speaks of the difficulty in being friends with the Government.
• Glyn Davies examines views of a Tory meltdown.
• Cascittuni threatens to resign over a vote of no confidence for Cameron.

Blog Review 37

• Peter Black looks at the Observers comparison of David Cameron and Neil Kinnock. More here from Guerrilla Welsh Fare.
• Cascittuni sees the by-election loss as a heavy blow for the Tories.
• Ordovicius gives his views on Peter Hain’s comments in the Western Mail.

Blog Review 36

• Peter Black looks at the idea of increasing the number of AM’s.
• Ceredig gives his on the cabinet announcement.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare looks at Peter Hain’s comments in the Western Mail.

Blog Review 35

• Tom Bodden looks at the new Cabinet line up.
• Bethan Jenkins congratulates the new Plaid Ministers.
• Paul Flynn berates Tories, Lords and his fellow labour MP’s on their views on the Welsh Language.
• Peter Black looks at David Cameron’s ideas on the West Lothian question.
• Martin Eaglestone notes the challenges for Plaid Ministers.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare describes the by-election as disastrous for the Tories. More here from Ordovicius.
• Gwe gives views on the Cabinet shake up.
• Welsh Ramblings gives views on the Cabinet Reshuffle and Labour’s widening splits.

New WAG Cabinet

The Cabinet Announcement

First Minister
Rhodri Morgan
Deputy First Minister and Minister for Economy and Transport
Ieuan Wyn Jones
Minister for Finance and Public Service Delivery
Andrew Davies
Minister for Social Justice and Local Government
Brian Gibbons
Minister for Education, Children and Young People
Jane Hutt
Minister for Rural Affairs
Elin Jones
Minister for Health and Social Services
Edwina Hart
Minister for Sustainability and Housing
Jane Davidson
Minister for Heritage
Rhodri Glyn Thomas
Counsel General and Leader of the House, also Minister for Assembly Business and Communications
Carwyn Jones

Deputy Ministers

Social Services
Gwenda Thomas
Housing
Jocelyn Davies
Skills
John Griffiths
Regeneration
Leighton Andrews

Reaction so far from Bethan Jenkins, Guerrilla Welsh Fare, Glamorganshire,

Blog Review 34

The blogs are mainly dominated by news of Huw Lewis’ departure from the Government.

• Tom Bodden notes Huw’s unhappiness at being ousted.
• Vaughan Roderick notes Huw Lewis claim that he will be the only Government casualty. He also notes a few rumours about who will get what portfolio.
• Bethan Jenkins says she was shocked at the announcement.
• Guerrilla Welsh Fare says the sacking will be a blow to Huw’s leadership ambitions.
• Normal Mouth argues that Rhodri Morgan has based the sacking on the wrong reasons.
• Ordovicius also notes the sacking.
  
• In other news. Glyn Davies announces his candidacy for Lembit’s seat. Much to the delight of Alun Cairns.