Far Horizon

This is a poem about the pandemic, but it also references "a cloud no bigger than a man's hand" in the Old Testament, looking at how something distant - and didn't it seem far away in January, in distant China - can be the first sign of a great deluge later. Of course, in the Book of Kings, Elijah is praying for rain after drought, whereas our cloud on the horizon would turn out to be much more unwelcome.

Far Horizon

On day, it is just a clear sky
A blue horizon, clear, fine
Even drought if staying dry
Blue skies all day, sunshine

One small cloud can be seen
Just a distant spec, far away
Over distant hills so green
Nothing to fear, not today

Cloudburst: a raging storm
Flooding, tidal waves, fear
Now is a future taking form
Drowned world this year

Time to reflect and see the cost
As we now face a wintry frost

The Victorian 4: Snippets of Times Past

From 1983, some more snippets from the Victorian.

Temp Passe

DURING the coming issues of ‘The Victorian’, I would like to take the opportunity to comb our archives and write about what the magazine was reporting in past years.

10 YEARS AGO (November 1973):

It was all change in November with the following infonnation in ‘College Notes’:

“The College building programme has progressed. The old general science laboratory is now a geography room; the old biology laboratory a languages room bearing the name Moliere; the old chemistry laboratory is the new Masters’ Common Room; and the old physics laboratory a mathematics room bearing the name Eden."

[I remember that change well. It was just after the opening of the new "Science Block" which everyone called a "Science Block" and no one called "The Princess Anne Science Wing" - how do you write that mouthful out on timetables! Brian Tricker, head of science, oversaw the project and the time and energy cause him to have a breakdown, a pity because he was such a talented and brilliant educator.]

On the subject of cricket ‘The Victorian’ writes:

“It would be somewhat of an overstatement to call this season successful, particularly in the way of results, and there is no doubt that compared with previous seasons. this is a very young and inexperienced team.

Most members had in fact been blooded in previous seasons, but they now found themselves vital members of the team, despite being only in their fourth year at College.

“The team's results were: 1 win, 7 draws and 8 losses. Tait topped the batting averages with 18.20 runs and Le Brun the bowling averages with a wicket every 12.24 runs. Colours were awarded to the latter - St. George, Keylock, Sutton and Richomme.”

25 YEARS AGO:

Under the title “Men at Work", ‘The Victorian’ reported:

“At the beginning of last term strangely garbed persons were to be seen wandering about with brushes, buckets and mops. It transpired that these were the Literary Lower Sixth, who had temporarily become interior decorators. The ‘objet d'art’ was Room B. This dank, dark dungeon (we quote) “has now been transformed into a blue sun lounge”.

On another ‘cultural’ note.-

“A widely varied programme of songs and instrumental music was arranged by Mr. Sackett for the Summer Concert in the hall on July 26th. The performers were Mrs. Grove, Advocate Crill, B. J. C. Aldridge, Mr. Rowley, Dr. Carré, Mr. Sacket, the school string orchestra and junior choir, and the Preparatory choir: P. J. Lobb, P. F. M. Hanning. R. A. Fry, A. G. de Ste. Croix, P. M. Lear, R. C. Godel. R. A. Challinor and from the Prep., J. Herivel and W. Langley."

The report continues:

“The audience, which nearly filled the hall, took full part in the community singing, which as usual. brought the concert to an end. Mr. Sackett was particularly congratulated for organising such a successful concert.”

Another item from the same issue:

“After a cancellation because of weather conditions. the annual athletics match against Elizabeth College was eventually held on May 5th in Guemsey,"

The match was lost and the Hutchence Cup stayed in Guernsey. However, there were several good performers.

“It is difficult to single anyone out for special mention. R. W. Averty ran a very fast half (mile) to return a time of 2 mins. 6.5 secs. He also won the quarter. D. G. Carpenter. the captain. won the 100 yards and 220 yards against strong opposition, and R. Blair Hickman won the mile. with B. G. Heard a very good second."

50 YEARS AGO (1933):

“The Headmaster-elect, who takes over in the September Term is Mr. John Halliday Grummitt, M .A.. at present Head of the Classical Department. and a House Master, at Epsom College.” The article continues: "He is thirty-two years of age and married. Though a layman. he preaches occasionally in the Epsom College Chapel."

[He published Everyday Prayers. Compiled by J. H. Grummitt, Hugh Martin and M. I. Rogers Hardcover – 1 Jan. 1926]

Mr. Grummitt stayed at the College until 1939 when he left in a somewhat controversial way.

[In September 1940, about 40 boys with Mr. Grummitt, Mr. Hopewell and Miss Aubrey were accommodated at Bedford School. Shortly afterwards Mr. Grummitt left on his appointment as Principal of Belfast Royal Academical Institution, and Mr. S. M. Toyne consented to act as Headmaster of 'Victoria College at Bedford '.]

Adverts

The world was awash with cheap mini-computers, and trading on "Orac" in the TV show Blake's Seven, came the "Oric". Wow! Massive 48K RAM! But later this decade, the first IBM with MS-DOS would be released, and by 1990, all those tiny PCs had gone.

I remember getting all my first blazers and caps from this shop. Long gone now. That was in the days of a plain black blazer with a College badge, none of the stripey braid stuff which came in during my time - updating the image. I just wore a plain dark grey suit (the alternative) after that, which made playing truant and catching the bus home on games afternoons easier - I just removed my tie!

This one has either gone, or moved. Back in those days, in the playground of Rouge Bouillon School, they used to have Cycling Proficiency on Saturday mornings so children could learn signalling, the Highway code, etc. Judging by the adults who now cycle dangerously, we could do with it back again.

 

 

Narrow Ranging Responsibilities

Looking at Kevin Pamplin's offer to be Assistant Health Minister- an offer which was swiftly pulled back by the Government, the Health Minister said:

“These requirements demonstrated that our approaches to the role would differ and I felt the Deputy was not taking into account the wide-ranging responsibilities that arise from working within government."

Doesn't this sound assured and statesmanlike? It is wonderful how, as George Orwell noted, political language can actually say the reverse of what is meant.

Bailiwick Express notes:

Among his requests, which were described as "unusual" by the Health Minister, was confirmation that the Government would publish up-to-date minutes from its scientific advisers meetings on covid in line with a proposition he successfully pushed through the States Assembly in summer, but was not fully enacted.

And Kevin's own email (now published) has this at the forefront:

"As I mentioned to you and the Chief Minister failure to fully respond to my proposition and fully produce the STAC minutes with the issues around communication, which I also spoke to in my VONC speech is unacceptable. This has to be the first issue I have to try rectify. If this is going to cause an issue I would understand but I have to follow this up."

"My final option which I have considered is bringing the proposition back the assembly. I feel so strongly about being transparent especially with communication and if I can bring that change ASAP then this is a move I can fully justify and agree to."

Translation of Health Minister: You must accept the fact that you would be effectively gagged from raising such issues. And we are not going to publish the minutes. And when we use the term "wide ranging" it actually means "narrow ranging".

Small wonder that while the Vote of No Confidence was won in the Chamber, outside confidence is still ebbing in the shambles that passes for decision making. An example is mask wearing.

The law on compulsory wearing of masks is in place... It’s just not active yet! Never put off to tomorrow what you can put off to next week seems o be how the Health Minister operates. And he was saying... If you refuse to wear a mask, you can be fined. If you say you are exempt on medical grounds – no proof needed at present – this will be sufficient as otherwise it would be a breach of privacy about your medical history.

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing! That’s like exemptions on seat belt legislation which means if you are stopped by the policy, you just say "I have a medical exemption.... but I don't need to show you! That law doesn't work like that and neither should mask wearing! Totally bonkers!

Your doctor may say you don’t have to wear a seat belt for a medical reason. They’ll give you a ‘Certificate of Exemption from Compulsory Seat Belt Wearing’. You must: (1) keep this in your vehicle (2) show it to the police if you’re stopped.

The Return of the King

The Return of the King

The trumpets sound, the choirs sing
Come, O come, the returning King
On horseback he came, from far away
From Northern lands, as prophets say
The Fellowship of Nine, rose with him
Though Moira mines, so dark and grim
Where banged the drums, dark unseen
And Gandalf fell, down dark ravine
The Fellowship split, asunder broken
And Boromir dying, last words spoken
To Helm’s Deep he came, to battle strong
And fierce and savage, lasted long
He fought onwards, with noble band
Then paths of the dead, an evil land
Finally to Minas Tirith, the King came
To guardians of Gondor’s sacred flame
Fought the last battle, the final defeat
Sauron vanquished, victory sweet
And aftermath: they crowned the King
The Lay of Elessar, the minstrels sing
And this was the telling, the story told
Of men and elves, of hobbits bold 

Of dwarves, and Ents, of Wizard's sage

This was the ending of the Third Age

The trumpets sound, the choirs sing 
Come, O come, the returning King 
An echo of returns, and all put right
When our King returns in light.

The Victorian 1983 - Part 4: Some Obituaries

Today's post comes from a 1983 edition of "The Victorian", a magazine published by Victoria College

The Victorian 1983

CONNOR, Francis Hebbelthwaite Powell (VCJ: 1929-1936) died on 1st May 1982, aged 64, after a long illness.

On leaving College he joined the R.A.F, being commissioned in 1937 and trained as a pilot. Was in 22 Squadron (Torpedo Bombers) and in action over the North Sea, Belgium and Norway in early 1940. That June he transferred to 234 Squadron, flying Spitfires, and was in action during the Battle of Britain. At the end of August 1940 he was shot down over the Channel.

After recovery from injuries, he re-trained as a flying instructor and continued in Training Command until 1946. Subsequently returning to Jersey, he served at Jersey Airport for 16 years in the capacity of Air Traffic Controller.

RICHARDSON, William (‘Bill’) (V.C.J. 1924-1930) died on 5th July 1983 at his home in Lymington, Hampshire. He was 70.

Joining Vickers in 1931. He became a Vickers aircraft man for almost 50 years. Being three times managing director of various Vickers companies. In 1940 he was appointed assistant area manager of the Salisbury Group of Dispersal Factories which took over the building of Spitfires. Bill took over production at South Marston where he remained until 1963. During this period he was appointed a Justice of the Peace. He went on as managing director of factories in Glasgow and Bury St. Edmunds. From 1971, until his retirement in 1978, he was managing director and then chairman of Mitchell Bearings in Newcastle, having been the ‘architect’ of the complete redevelopment of the works.

DUPAYS, Andre Louis (V.C.J. 1939-1947) died in June 1983 at Leatherhead, Surrey, from a heart attack, after suffering a heart condition for some 18 months. He was 55.

He gained a Channel Islands Scholarship to Pembroke College, Oxford (Modern Languages), where he obtained an M.A. and Dip.Ed. He taught at the County Grammar School. Dorking, and subsequently became Head of Modern Languages at St. John's, Leatherhead and Commanding Officer of the C .C.F . Andre was accorded the honour of being chosen to command the C .C .F. contingents for the Special Queen's Jubilee Parade in London.

EPHRAUMS, W. Frank, Commander R.N., M.l.E.E.
(The following appreciation was written by L. L. Seigne. Esq. ).

Frank Ephraurns was at College from 1933 to 1939, where I was his House and Class Master, but it was during the holidays that we became close friends, for we shared a deep love of the sea. His wide knowledge of the Jersey mail boats whose movements he followed closely, stems from his boyhood. We were so keen on fishing that we would meet at dawn to sail my boat which he handled with skill while I tended the lines. In 1939 we left College and he went to Faraday House to gain an Honours Diploma and gold medal in electrical engineering. He joined the R.N.V.R. as a Sub-Lieutenant and in 1943 was engaged in minesweeping. After the war he was transferred to the Royal Navy and served in various ships and shore establishments. He was promoted to Commander in 1959 and retired from the Ministry of Defence in 1972 when he joined the RN Engineering Service. After a long spell of ill health he finally retired and died at his home in Bath on 14th August 1982. A staunch and unassuming friend, a born seaman and a keen O.V.

RYAN, Dennis William, Jurat (V.C..J. 1929-1937) died in Jersey on 8th August 1983, aged 64, after a prolonged illness.

This former head prefect and prominent figure in many spheres at V.C.J. was destined to become a States Deputy, the Constable of St. Helier and a Jurat of the Royal Court. On leaving V.C.J. he studied at Gonville and Caius College, Cambridge, before entering the family business of Ryan Holdings Ltd., which encompassed hotel, garage and building companies both in this Island and Guernsey. He became chairman and managing director of the group, besides being elected president of the Jersey Hotel and Guest House Association and vice-president of the Jersey Chamber of Commerce. His numerous interests and work included the Battle of Flowers Association, the Rotary Club, the Institute of Directors, the St. John's Ambulance Service, the United Club, the Jersey Island Cricket Club, the Caesarean Lawn Tennis Club and St. Helier Yacht Club. He served as a States Deputy from 1948 to1951 and from 1954 to 1956, when he resigned from the States following an illness. He re-entered Island politics when he was elected Constable of St. Helier in December 1961. He also served on many States Committees and became a Jurat in 1969, which office he held until 1976 when he resigned on grounds of ill health.

FERGUSON, Michael Richard (V.C.J. 1958-1963) died in Jersey on 14th September 1983 at the tragically young age of 36 after contracting a rare illness.

Mike was a fine all-rounder at V.C.J. but excelled at gymnastics, where he gained top honours in both 1962 and 1963. On leaving. he joined the family business of clothing outfitters. He leaves a wife and two small children. To them and indeed to the bereaved families of all O.V.s, The Victorian extends its sincere sympathy.

An Assessment of John Henwood's Letter

John Henwood recently had a letter published in the JEP giving an "inside track" on some aspects of the events leading to Charlie Parker's resignation. Here are are extracts and some comments by me.

 "On 29 October, Mr Parker wrote to the Chief Minister setting out the position from his perspective. The letter was released to the media, but not widely disseminated in full. In it he pointed out that since 2016 he had been on the board of the entity responsible for the refurbishment of Buckingham Palace, a huge undertaking." (Henwood)

But as Gary Burgess points out, we are only hearing this now. He also mentions "politicians and civil servants who regularly tell me of their frustration at getting access to the man at the top", something which John Henwood is seemingly unaware of.

Under Article 10 of the Employment of States of Jersey Employees (Jersey) Law 2005 (“the Law”), provision is made for the States Employment Board (“SEB”) to delegate any of its powers or functions under the Law to any of its members or the Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”).

John Henwood states that: "In fact, the Chief Minister was entitled to give consent. While it is the case that the SEB is the employer, the Chief Minister is chairman of the SEB and has specifically delegated authority to act."

But this is clearly only under the terms of Article 10, and I would like to see the decision making the delegation which he says is the case in this circumstance. I can't see it anywhere!

"As often happens at such times, politicians’ instincts of self-preservation kick in and there was a brief period of who had said what to whom and who knew what, which the media duly reported." (Henwood)

There is no mention of the Communications Unit press release which was not authorised by any politician and yet somehow came out and completely muddied the waters for the media. That was nothing to do with politicians’ instincts of self-preservation. Why is that omitted from John Henwood's account?

 And finally, John Henwood says:

 "What has already occurred at a political level was not a debate, it was a farrago of misrule led by a few politicians who seized an opportunity to get rid of a chief executive who was making them uncomfortable by doing what he was employed to do – drive change in the public sector.”

 “There’s nothing new in that. Throughout history good people who have tried to transform things for the better have been brought down by those who oppose change, often for reasons of personal position.”

 Although he names no names, his descriptions make it clear where he think blame lies. For example, Kristina Moore is described as “a constant critic of Senator Le Fondré”

 "Mr Parker’s letter did nothing to lower the temperature and States Members were demanding action. On 1 November, Senator Kristina Moore, a constant critic of Senator Le Fondré, seized the moment to announce that she would be lodging a vote of no confidence against the Chief Minister the following day.”

 Deputy Morel is also clearly in the firing line:

 “Deputy Morel, impatient for action, demanded through social media: ‘There should be no “talks”. Any resolution that doesn’t involve CP leaving his NED role will have tremendous consequences.’” (Henwood)

 And yet ultimate responsibility must surely lie within SEB itself:

 “The most revealing part of the meeting was when the vice-chairman of the SEB, Constable Richard Buchanan, said that without a successful resolution he believed the vote of no confidence in the Chief Minister would succeed.” (Henwood)

 “Mr Buchanan later wrote to Mr Parker stating that the SEB was not minded to withdraw its permission for him to take on the NED role. However, it also instructed him to resign the NED position. In other words, you have permission to take on the New River post, but you must resign from it. How bizarre.” (Henwood)

 But that decision was from SEB – of which, let us not forget – as John Henwood omits to remind us here – where John Le Fondre is in the Chair, and not those outside the Government such as Kristina Moore or Kirsten Morel. In other words, if Charlie Parker was a sacrificial lamb, it was to prevent a vote of no confidence succeeding, and surely the Chief Minister must have been aware of that.

In conclusion, John Henwood gives us some extra background information, but that also raises other questions. I would like to be sure that some of the information he says was released to the media, such as Gary Burgess, actually was seen by them, and in what form.

Context is everything. In his version, the noble Charlie Parker, like the noble Julius Caesar, is brought down by the wicked Brutus and disaffected Roman Senators for their own political ends. That’s certainly playing to Shakespearean tragedy, but while the bare events described are not in dispute, the manner of their presentation, and the motivations assigned to others is certainly debatable.

Looking at it as if it was a narrative about historical events, and therefore embedded with a degree of interpretation, John Henwood’s remarks should not just be treated as an unvarnished “gospel truth”. All history, as historians know, except for bare chronology (and even there some selection is involved) is mediated through the lens of the writers.  

To say as the Jersey Evening Post does, “It has been said that falsehood will fly on the wings of the wind while truth lags behind” is to give his narrative a status which it may or may not deserve, and any investigation of what occurred must go further in speaking to other witnesses. 

For example, John Henwood presents the Buckingham Palace case as an argument, but we don't know exactly what form this takes unless we can see original source documents to the media (or at least a lengthy extract). It may have been omitted because it was not made strongly or not exactly the same situation of employment. Do we have the terms of engagement of that appointment?

And the New River blurb states that "In this role [CEO Jersey], he has led an ambitious programme to transform and modernise Jersey’s public services and developed a major infrastructure vehicle for funding the Island’s infrastructure and regeneration plans."

As Gary Burgess comments:

Interesting, in its own blurb, NewRiver REIT plc bigs up Charlie Parker for his “ambitious programme to transform and modernise Jersey’s public services”, but it also puts on a pedestal the “major infrastructure vehicle for funding” which, curiously, the island’s politicians haven’t even yet approved.

Also curious is the official statement from the government which not only says both the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister approved his second gig which it claims he’ll be doing in his own time, but also that it “will inform Jersey’s economic recovery from Covid-19.”

Surely it can’t be both.

Somehow this was not on John Henwood's radar in his presentation. I'm not saying Charlie Parker is as black as some of his critics may maintain, but it is surely unlikely he is quite as wonderful as John Henwood makes out.

Jersey's Coronavirus Plans: Could do Better

Draft Covid-19 (Workplace Restrictions) (Amendment) (Jersey) Regulations 202-

• Allow Orders that will require customers to wear masks in some workplaces
• Allow for Orders that will require businesses to take action to restrict the spread of Covid-19, such as collecting contact details from customers.
• Provide for an enhanced enforcement regime for businesses that do not follow the conditions of Orders under this Regulation

Draft Covid-19 (Gatherings) (Jersey) Regulations 202-

• Allow Orders that will limit the number of people who can gather

The Minister for Health and Social Services, Deputy Richard Renouf said: “Public health guidance, such as the strong recommendation to wear masks in enclosed public places and limiting the size of gatherings, has been in place since April.

“These Regulations form part of a toolkit we can use to make less restrictive measures required by law, which aim to limit the need for further Island wide restrictions like lockdown and limit the spread of COVID-19.

“Monitoring of support and up-take of mask use is underway and if further action is needed to protect the public, by ensuring the strict adherence of measures, these Regulations will enable the issuing of Orders to enforce the guidelines.

“If we all follow the current public health guidance, which at the moment allows for relative freedoms, we can potentially avoid more restrictive measures being implemented.”

Comments:

I have a good mind to stand outside a supermarket and monitor the number of mask wearers over an hour. While it has increased, as a quick anecdotal survey, I would suggest, shows that at least 25%-30% are simply not taking that advice seriously at all. At smaller shops, like Morrisons, where people just pop in and out, at least 50% are not following that advice. Today I went into Iceland, Pound Magic, M&S in Town, Tesco, Waitrose, and in each at least 25%-30% were not wearing masks.

And just look at the attitude of Gerald Voisin - it is not for my staff to police mask wearing when it is only "strongly recommended". That's what you get when you have a voluntary system.

"If further action is needed..." What planet is the Health Minister on? Clearly he moves in rarefied circles where everyone wears mask. As to following public health guidance, apart from the Chief Minister wearing a mask and then removing it to speak, and as one would expect Dr Muscat wearing a mask before and after speaking, one of the notable things about the press conference today was that when not speaking, the Chief Minister and other Ministers were not wearing masks, when they should have been, if only to set an example!

By the time "further action is needed", it will almost certainly be too late.

And again, with regard to "collecting contact details from customers", while some businesses are diligent, some rely on QR codes alone, with no alternative for people without smart phones, and the current guidance says they should still service customers who refuse to give contact details.

Again a lax state of play which sends out entirely the wrong message to the general public. We do not have a general public in which civic duty ranks high among nearly all of the population, as in Sweden. We have a general public like that of the UK, where a fair few - enough to spread the virus - won't take precautions unless they have to do so. 

There is no good having a toolkit hidden away somewhere when it is urgently needed to be used. It is like the plans from Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy at present!

“But the plans were on display…”

“On display? I eventually had to go down to the cellar to find them.”
“That’s the display department.”
“With a flashlight.”
“Ah, well, the lights had probably gone.”
“So had the stairs.”
“But look, you found the notice, didn’t you?”
“Yes,” said Arthur, “yes I did. It was on display in the bottom of a locked filing cabinet stuck in a disused lavatory with a sign on the door saying ‘Beware of the Leopard.”

Landscapes of the Night

One from the archive, from 24/11/2004.

Landscapes of the Night

Dreams swirl into consciousness, alight

Fleetingly, then vanish into the night.

Yet conjure up a lake, hillside and town

Cinderella glorious dancing in her gown

Dark woods, where cries the tawny owl

A strange figure, wearing cloak and cowl

A caravan, an old woman reading cards

Mist swirling around nearby graveyards

Horses galloping furiously in fast pursuit

Gorse flowering, and trees ripe with fruit

The sea cascading on the beach in waves

The cold dark figure beside the graves

These are the denizens of dreaming time

They wander so silently as if in mime

Visions of the landscapes of the night

Vanish like the dew in waking light.

The Victorian 1983 - Part 3

Today's post comes from a 1983 edition of "The Victorian", a magazine published by Victoria College

The Victorian 1983

Association of Old Victorians: O.V.S Here, There and Everywhere
Complied by “Dixie” Landick

The Reverend Stephen P. E. Mourant (1965-1973) Having obtained his Bachelor of "Theology Degree at the University of Nottingham. Stephen was ordained into the Church of England at Southwell Minster on 3rd July. He is now serving his first curacy in a group of six country parishes and is resident at the Vicarage. Granby, Nottingham. If any O.V.s are in the area and "wish to drop in for a cuppa and a chat, they would be most welcome".

The Gurdon Brothers (Charles, Hugo and Alexander) were at V.C.J. between 1967 and 1976. Charles has sent news in telegraphic terms' He himself gained a B A. (Hons.) in economics and geography at the School of African and Oriental Studies. London University. and subsequently an M Sc. Distinction) in geography of Africa and the Middle East. Now working as a consultant with Meapec Ltd., which provides political and economic consultancy for governments, multi-lateral organisations (U.N.. World Bank. F.A.O., etc.). Hugo gained a B.A. (Hons.) in English and history at Bristol University and has been working as a journalist with the Jersey Evening Post. Is now moving to Fleet Street. Alexander has a B.A. in film. photography and television. Central London Polytechnic, and is at present a cameraman with London Weekend Television.

Jolyon J. S. Baker (1971-1975). Having secured a place at Mount View Drama School, London, has now completed two years there and is about to commence his final year. Recently he took the leading role in "Marat-Sade" by Peter Weiss Jolvon ‘went professional' for the first time this summer, performing in Gilbert and Sullivan's "H.M.S. Pinafore" at the Queen Elizabeth Hall. Festiva! Theatre, gaining his Equity card at the same time.

Neil B. Wade (1970-1973) and Philip B. Wade ( 1971 -1979). Neil is now an assistant manager at the Bank of America, based in London. He is a keen rugby squash player. Philip, after working for two years and with Barclaytrust Bank, is now taking a management course with Marks & Spencers at Baker Street in London Philip's hobbies include tennis and chess.

Neil Dormand. I have been sent a highly technical BBC TV publication with an article entitled 'How current affairs come up tingling fresh'. I can only quote the briefest extracts here which are self explanatory: "What exactly is the Lime Grove Topical Production Centre, which recently came into operation at a cost of £3 million. The simple answer is that it is a specialist centre for the programmes and the home of the production offices and studios for the BBC's three daily television current affairs programmes. Nationwide. Newsnight and Breakfast Time Neil Dormand is the manager of Vision Facilities for the Topical Centre and his unit is some 60 strong. Neil is the first man in the BBC to have the use of portable single cameras (P.S.C.) for mainstream broadcasting under his control He has been lecturing on their potential and talking about electronic news gathering for the past couple of years at the BBC's engineering training school at Woodsnorton, but now all has been put into practice. Neil has eight P.S.C. crews to man the Centre's units on a 24-hour basis and a radio links van which sends the signal from location into the studios . ."

Anthony A. Pitcher ( 1972-1979). At present studying to he a chartered accountant, articled to John Warry at Price Waterhouse (Jersey) Anthony obtained an Honours degree at Warwick University in accountancy and financial analysis. Was married on 1 1th June this year to Miss Julie Elizabeth Manning. daughter of Mr. John Manning of Taunton. The honeymoon was spent in Norway.

Timothy J. C. Carter (1974-1951). Tim writes: "I'm currently in the third year of a four year B.A. (Hons.) course in modern languages (French and Spanish) at Bristol Polytechnic. This year is being spent abroad to gain practical experience of the languages involved. Here in France I'm spending five months doing translation work in a hospital/research centre in Nancy In February. I'm going down to Spain to spend five months at Madrid University ... I've still got no idea of what I'm going to do after I've finished my course. There's always teaching, I suppose!"

Congratulations to Wing Commander Vernon W. Cavey ( 1940-1946) who has returned to Jersey and been appointed as the States Industrial Relations Officer and to it. Col. `Mick' R. Lanyon (1951-1962) who is also returning to take up the important post of Commandant at Jersey Airport.

To conclude these notes which. I hope, have included some items of interest for everybody. I must mention a letter received from Alan Salsac. It does not contain news of this O.V. but rather a fervent heart-cry for more support for the O.V.A. Alan deplores "the apathy of O.V.'s' and is sad that appeals for news are necessary Above all. however. he deplores the lack of support for the O.V.A. clubroom in Broad Street. Alan points out that the clubroom is open front 9 p. m. to 1 a.m. daily and that the clubroom committee members are working hard to redecorate the premises and to improve its image and atmosphere. Alan continues: "Let us not fool ourselves - things will not correct themselves. We cannot expect to have a vastly improved clubroom and a highly active Association without the full support of the membership. I cannot help but feel that the Association is dying a slow death due to a totally unacceptable attitude of apathy and indifference . " Alan strongly urges all members to support all OVA. activities and concludes as forceful letter with the following .: ''My deepest apologies to those few active members whom we have to thank for having any Association left at all".

Well Alan, the appeal for news has had encouraging results. as you may see from the forgoing pages. pages. I hope your urgent appeal may draw an equally gratifying response and a queue at the clubroom bar!

The Killer Instinct and other comments on the States

Jeffrey mopped his shining forehead and blotted the top of his head. "You see, Jim, there is one other quality that Prime Ministers need. The killer instinct." He's right. The killer instinct. But do I have it?  (Yes Minister Diaries)

Well I got it spectacularly wrong although I did think John Le Fondre would defeat the Vote of No Confidence, but only by a small amount, not by 10 votes.

One of the major factors was surely the agreement whereby Charlie Parker "agreed to step down" - in which the word "resign" was absent from all statements from the Chief Minister and Charlie Parker, as was the word "sacked".

What precisely took place at those discussions before that decision was made, we may never know, but it gave a lie to the notion that "John Le Fondre is a nice person, but as Chief Minister, a bit soft". In this instance, there was clear and strong leadership. He may not act immediately (and sometimes that can be a good thing) but he has shown his mettle in acting decisively when he does act.

He demonstrated, as the extract from Jim Hacker's Diaries show, that he posses that quality which leaders do need - "the killer instinct", the ability to show strength - when needed. It was something which Frank Walker and Ian Gorst obviously had; it was equally obvious it was something Terry Le Sueur lacked, with his dithering approach to leadership (and the Bill Ogley fiasco and attempt to derail any Care Inquiry were prime examples of that). John Le Fondre is now firmly not a feeble Chief Minister.

The other factor in his favour was Kristina Moore's VONC preamble suggested moving the hospital site location back to Gloucester Street. Had she suggested Warwick Farm, that might have been in with a chance, but the potential for her standing as Chief Minister - and putting reset to a decision the States took against Gloucester Street - must surely have lost her votes.

Nevertheless, some of the aspects of leadership which Inna Gardner pointed out had validity, and to take them on board as constructive criticism would be a positive step.

Who will fill the missing Assistant Minister and Ministerial roles? That will be interested, although I'd like to see Kirsten Morel as Assistant Minister for Health with particular oversight on the new hospital project. He voted "contre" against the VONC, and would be a valuable asset to ensure the hospital project was properly structured financially. Given John Le Fondre's initial desire to make a broad base in the government - which I think is one of its strengths - that might be on the cards.

What of Reform? Having burnt their boats, it leaves John Le Fondre in a stronger position, no longer hampered by a coalition agreement, but it leaves them relatively weaker, consigned to asking lots of questions again, and bringing the odd proposition, which - if the Trenton Square renaming fiasco is anything to go by - may well be very odd. The person most damaged may be Sam Mezec but a lot depends on the next election, and if John Le Fondre's popularity within the States is reflected by the general public. If it is not, as a long term strategic move, it may be a good one. But a year and a half is a very long time in politics: it is like Deep Time in Geology.

On the pandemic, while not showing the initial command of the situation like a Gavin St Pier, the Government has improved considerably over the year. 

There is still more improvement however. The recent rumour of a lockdown 2 as cases actively seeking healthcare rises is an indication of community spread, needing some kind of remedial actions, and while this is being worked on, some indication of when it might be announced could be helpful. The statistics have also improved, with contacts of active cases shown, and pre-sympomatic cases classified as symptomatic when they occur. The move for Green zones to isolate until after the first test result came, according to the outgoing Medical Officer of Health, at least a week later than it should.  

And while we are getting helpful statistics on average time to get results, a missing figure is the rising gap between being told to get a test, and waiting for a slot to get tested, which seems to have increased in some cases I know of to around three to four days. During that time people have to self-isolate, but it means the total period of isolation is also increasing. That delay in getting test slots is not surprising given the rapid rise (probably because of school year groups) of contacts of active cases to be tested, now over 1,200, but we should have it presented in the statistics.

And finally, while Charlie Parker will not get housing qualifications under the terms of his contract, what is the value of the contractual pay-out? In the wake of departures like Bill Ogley, this is surely a question in the public interest.

Guesswork

It's always dangerous to speculate on the vote of no confidence in the Chief Minister, but it is worth considering Inna Gardiner's to reduce the new green rules from Monday 12th to Thursday 8th October which was a push back from her "immediate effect". 

This was clearly a case for the government line or against the government line, and I suspect those on this list will support the VONC, and most of those against it will vote against the VONC.

It failed by 26 to 21 but it's worth noting who voted for it.

Deputy Carina Alves For (Pour)
Deputy Louise Doublet For (Pour)
Deputy Inna Gardiner For (Pour)
Deputy Mike Higgins For (Pour)
Connétable Mike Jackson For (Pour)
Deputy Mary Le Hegarat For (Pour)
Connétable John Le Maistre For (Pour)
Connétable Philip Le Sueur For (Pour)
Connétable Sadie Le Sueur-Rennard For (Pour)
Deputy Stephen Luce For (Pour)
Deputy Jeremy Maçon For (Pour)
Senator Sam Mézec For (Pour)
Deputy Kirsten Morel For (Pour)
Deputy Kevin Pamplin For (Pour)
Deputy Jess Perchard For (Pour)
Deputy Trevor Pointon For (Pour)
Deputy Geoffrey Southern For (Pour)
Deputy Montfort Tadier For (Pour)
Senator Tracey Vallois For (Pour)
Deputy Robert Ward For (Pour)
Deputy John Young

Sarah Ferguson and Karen Shenton-Stone were excused / ill.

Compare with Kristina's signatories, and assume the same numbers as above plus the shifting ones below:

Kristina Moore (new)
1. Senator S.W. Pallett (new)
2. Connétable of St. Saviour (there)
3. Connétable of St. Brelade (there)
4. Connétable of St. Mary (new as absent)
5. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour (there)
6. Deputy S.M. Ahier of St. Helier (new)

That gives a potential shift of 4 votes, making it
26-4= 22
21+4=25

But John Young is voting for John Le Fondre

22+1=23

25-1=24

Update: 10/11/2020

It looks as if Jeremy Macon is voting for JLF

23+1=24

24-1=23

If all States members are present, the VONC will I think fail.

So it could be very close indeed.

Coronavirus News Update

Some news that one restaurant has closed because of a Covid-19 outbreak. Clearly the time has come to assess whether some kind of two week embargo on restaurants / pubs / cafes would help as a "firebreak" to the infection. 

Also perhaps keeping mixed households to a "rule of 6" would be helpful.

Also in the news, reported below:

Officers were called to several events last night where people were meeting in large groups, COVID regulations do not allow this. With over 100 cases we must all do our bit to keep infections down.

One group of concern was about 40 teenagers from across the Island who gathered in St Martin’s between 8 and 10pm at the cafe by the Public Hall. They caused some damage, but it this type of socialising that spreads COVID. Do you know were your teens were last night, they left St Martin on the 22.10 bus back into town.

Another group of adults, about 60, felt it was OK to have a bonfire for charity.

COVID does not have a reason or excused that is acceptable. It is tough but if people do not follow the advice then numbers will increase. Its not those who attend the events that are of concern, but those to whom they hand on this virus over the next few days.

Please, everyone, play your part and follow the rules.

Lazarus in Lockdown

This poem was prompted both by the lockdowns across the world, and in particular affecting people I know and care about in the UK, but also drawing on the story of Lazarus in the tomb, taking the psychological way in how a lockdown feels a little like being closed off from the world we know and love. We too in Jersey may soon be in a 2nd lockdown.

Lazarus in Lockdown

The darkness, the closed door
Lockdown: the sleep of time
Memories of the distant shore
Summer: rosemary and thyme

Now: the sickness unto death
One by one, lights going out
The last amen, the final breath
Faith now plagued with doubt

Time passes, the endless days
Enshrouded in a small space
The fading of the sun’s rays
Not to see again another face

Roll back the stone, all is bright
Called forth, blinking, into light

The Victorian 1983 - Part 2

Today's post comes from a 1983 edition of "The Victorian", a magazine published by Victoria College.

The Victorian 1983

Association of Old Victorians: O.V.S Here, There and Everywhere

Complied by “Dixie” Landick

Harry S. Robert ( 1937-1942). Writing from Swansea, Harry recalls that among the friends of his time at V.C.J. were the Lamerton brothers (John and 'Chard') and F. J. ('Louie) Floyd. On leaving V.C.J. he entered Barclays Bank, filling a vacancy created by O.V. John Blackburn's deportation to Germany In 1947. Banking was not proving very satisfying so he followed O.V Wyndham Dupre's suggestion that he should join British European Airways. After some years as an Assistant Operations Control Officer at Jersey Airport, he moved to Renfrew (Glasgow) in 1963, to Abbotsinch in 1967 and to Heathrow in 1970. He retired as Fleet Controller in 1982 and says he will he pleased to see any O.V.s holidaying in the Gower Peninsula.

W. H, ('Bill') Thorne (Prep. Staff 1937-1939: Master-in-charge 1946-1956). whose address is Tara. Bouldnor. Yarmouth. writes to say that he would love to see any O. V.s who come that way. 'Bill' is one of many who have written to express their sadness at the death of the Much loved 'Reg' Nicolle.

Leslie G. Rofe (1937-1940). After leaving V.C.J. studied at Magdalen College. Oxford. McGill University, Montreal and Columbia University, New York Cit.. gaining the degrees D.S. (cum lande) and M A. His wartime service (1941-1946) was in the Royal Armoured Corps, which he subsequently left with the rank of Captain He is resident at Secaux near Paris and is at present Lecturer, British Institute (University of London and University of Paris). He also holds many other high-powered teaching posts and is the author and co-author of various publications. mainly for the teaching of commercial English in France. Leslie's hobbies include photography. hi-fi. gardening. sailing and swimming. Surprising his hobbies do not include art. although many of his generation at V.C.J. will remember his splendid drawings and paintings of British huntsmen.

Mervyn G. de S. Taunton, F.S.V.A. ( 1 9411-1947) entered the Army (Middlesex Regiments in 1949. serving in Hong Kong and in the Korean War (1950-1951951 ). Gained the British Korean Medal and the United Nations Service Medal After further service in Austria. was demobilised in 1953. Subsequently he joined the staff of the Channel Islands branch of Rumsey and Rumsey,

estate agents He qualified in Bournemouth and in 1968 became a Fellow of the Incorporated Society of Valuers and Auctioneers. He formed the practice of Knatchbull and Taunton, estate ages, which continues to the present day. He is also a founder and vice-president of the Jersey Auctioneers and

Estate Agents Association.

David Romeril (1947-1950) joined the Royal Navy after a year’s training at Warwick where he gained various certificates including his Masters Certificate in 1963. After service on various cargo ships and tankers, joined Sealink (UK) Ltd as it now is  on their Harwich-Zeebrugger and Hook of-Holland runs Last year he was on the first Sealink ship to go south of the Equator. It was not trying out a new route but (as David writes) ". we were requisitioned by the Ministry of Defence and lived up to the advert that '.Sealink sets you free' by taking General Menendez and about 500 other Argentinians home, before becoming a floating home for the troops in Port Stanley ".

M. H. ('Mick') Burke .(1943-1951) was the Captain of the successful College soccer Xl in 1951 and a member of those fine teams produced by the late 'Paddy' Blomfield  between 1949 and 1951. Mick writes ". I have.amongst other things. served two years in the Bermuda Police, from which I retired in 1982 with the rank of Inspector. Some years ago in Bermuda. I met Robert Barron. who was at V.C.J. in my time. He had married an American girl and was a highly successful insurance man in Ohio. We paid him a visit there and O.V. tics and scarves were much to the fore"' Mick is now hack in Jersev and lives at St. Clement.

The Rev. J. D. Dodd, B.A., B.D., Dip. Ed.( Prep. Staff 1953-1961). A much loved teacher/chaplain/cubmaster seen both at College and Prep who. as he relates.  “I became completely and incurably deaf, literally overnight. I didn't become deaf until I was 54 so I had a good innings in the hearing world. Deafness has not made me bitter. resentful or depressed - I'm still my old cheerful self. But I did miss the teaching at the Colleges (also Head of Classics at J.C.G. from 1961 to 1969) -those were the happiest years of my life". John has since learnt to lip-read very effectively and still takes a very active part in Church services as well as being the Priest-in-Charge of Gourav Church. Characteristically. he concludes. "I am agreeably surprised at the number of my former pupils of both sexes who ask me to conduct their weddings and/or baptise their children. As most schoolboys and girls hate their teachers. I conceitedly flatter myself that perhaps I wasn't so bad after all - but the truth is. no doubt, that these former victims of mine have learned the Christian virtue of forgiveness".

Frank Le Quesne ( 1 951-1957) of Brookhill House. Princes Tower Road. St. Saviour. Jersey has been hack in the Island since 1973 working in the family business of plumbing and heating engineers. He writes to say that he maintains his interest in amateur radio, which was originally fostered under the late Headmaster. Ronnie Postill. and in the school's Signals Platoon. He continues: "I should he very happy to contact any other O.V.s on the air anywhere in the world. My call sign is GJ4 11SW and I should be happy to run a 'sked' or 'net' with any other interested O.V.s. Contact, of course, would initiallv have to be made by letter to the above address"

Stanley Stride (1950-1955). Joined Army in 1956 and served with the Queen's Royal Regiment in Germany until 1958 Has been working eyes since in the packaging industry, first with F. S & A. Robinson of Bristol and. from 1970. with his own company The company imports glass bottles from France and. after processing them in various ways. sells them to U.K perfumery. cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. More than 40 millioncontainers are sold in a year within the U.K. alone and Stanley's company also boasts a world-wide export market. The firm is based in Henley and he lives just two miles away.

Colonel J. N. Blashford-Snell, M.B.E. ( 1951-1955) So much can be seen or heard in the national and local media almost daily about the new plans of Britain's top  expedition leader that a mention here seems almost unnecessary. However, we have a special connection and Colonel John has written personally to ask whether there are any O.V. volunteers "who are fit and highly compatible and who would he prepared to act as instructors and staff in the field for periods of one to three months" Further details can he obtained by writing to him at Operation Raleigh. Planned on the lines of the highly successful 'Operation Drake', the new project will consist of over 40 expeditions, each involving up to 250 selected young people from many countries and is scheduled to last from 1984 to 1988. Much of the Jersey organisation will he, as before, in the capable hands of John's O.V contemporary. Adrian Troy

Louis L. ('Lizzie') Seigne, M.A., L. es L. Palmes Academiques (Dunlop Housemaster 1932-1939), has written from his home at 8 Creighton Close, Wells,Somerset. saying that he will he glad to welcome any of his former pupils there. "Beds are usually available". He hopes to be in Jersey again soon and sends regards to all old friends On a sad note. 'Lizzie' encloses an account of the life of the late W Franks Ephraums (V.C.J. 1933-1939). Please see obituary notices.

Francis E. Fischer ( 1919-1925). has just passed his 75th birthday and writes about his hobbies, started in Jersey. in which he still indulges The indoor hobby in chess which he plays regularly for the Market Drayton Chess Club. The outdoor hobby is cycling and he says: "I often cycle. weather permitting. I have pedalled a total of 472,000 miles. accurately recorded, I probably rode another 4,000 or so in Jersey. but not properly recorded". Francis sends his best wishes. which we heartily reciprocate.

Nicholas R. Bailhache ( 1957-1959). Alter obtaining an Honours degree in electrical engineering at Imperial College. London. worked in Norwich for 15 months prior to joining R.C.A. (Jersey) Ltd. in 1970. He joined Coopers S. Lybrand in September 197b and qualified as a chartered accountant in December 1981. Local resident at Fauvic.

Ronald Trotter 1957-1963, was a member of the renowned College team which won the Ashhurton Shield He is a director of Primrose Hill Hvdro (Jersey) and was instrumental in building and equipping it. Ron is now living in Canada. He is a member of the Variety Club of Ontario and is working for TV Ontario.

Richard de Ste. Croix (1958-1966) is a partner in a firm of solicitors in Lincoln Inn Fields, London. Richard writes: "Recently. Politics have interested me greatly and I fought the Chertsey and Walton (North West Surrey) constituency for the S.D P Alliance in the June '83 General Election. It was a particular pleasure to be telephoned after the election by Frank Willey. who taught me history at College ( 1961-1966). as he had been following the election closely and helping his local Alliance candidate in Avon At VC J Richard was a great cricketer and has noted with pleasure last seasons successful team record 

No Cause for Complacency

Monday's figures:

Since Friday 30 October, 21 individuals have recovered and 18 new cases have been identified (5 from inbound travel, 4 while individuals were seeking healthcare, 8 through contact tracing, and 1 considered an old case no longer active at time of detection). Number of direct contacts of cases: 491

The number of active cases in the Island is 71. 37 cases are symptomatic and 34 cases are asymptomatic. None are in hospital (-). Average turnaround time for test results received in the last 7 days: 14 hours

Six healthcare workers have tested positive for covid-19, while one case has been picked up at Granville School. The Government employees work in a single "care setting" supporting "independent living facilities" in the community. Number of direct contacts of cases: 631 Tuesday's figures

Since Monday 2 November, 4 individuals have recovered and 17 new cases have been identified (4 from inbound travel, 9 through contact tracing, 1 through planned workforce screening, and 3 while individuals were seeking healthcare). 

The number of active cases in the Island is 84.
39 cases are symptomatic and 45 cases are asymptomatic. None are in hospital. Average turnaround time for test results received in the last 7 days: 13 hours

Comments:

I'm never that worried about the travel stats, especially since they now require self-isolation until after the first test result. It's worth noting that Susan Turnbull in her recent interview in the JEP thought that that was brought in a week or so too late, and we may pay the price for that by more community cases seeded by travellers when allowed out before the first test result.

Recent heavy fines have I think sent an extremely strong message that breaking the rules is not tolerated, and also that people will be caught out and prosecuted.

What is alarming is the case of the six healthcare workers. This shows not only that it can rise with voracious rapidity, but also it can spread very easily in clusters. They all worked together. 

Tuesday shows a smaller rise, but still an rise from Monday, but what we don't know is whether there are any clusters. Obviously if it gets to one member of a family, or perhaps an office, it can infect almost everyone there very quickly. But that information is lacking.

The two classifications for Covid - "contact tracing" for new cases, and "in the community" for all cases other than hospital or care homes, are very blunt and not very useful in understanding the spread of the virus. If there is a jump in "contact tracing", is it related to a cluster like the six healthcare workers, and were the contacts already isolating before testing?  Understanding increases helps assess risks.

There are, for example, two cases which Dr Muscatt said no traced source of infection was detected. That needs to be shown separately, because as long as cases are tracked to links, the track and trace is working, but non-traceable cases show asymptomatic cases out there. If those rise significantly, then while we can track and trace their contacts, control on spread may become out of control. That's why we need those statistics. Placing those under "contact tracing" is misleading.

There are also ones "under review" which may turn out to be non-traceable. That's a statistic we also need to know, as we can see how many managed to be traced back to source, and how many didn't.

So far, we are still in a safe place, but that cluster of six shows how rapidly numbers can grow, and how quickly they could get out of control. The increased testing will help, but to gauge its effectiveness, we do need to have better statistics. 

This government has been singularly poor from the outset in supplying that information, and it is clear that in the early days, tests were marked asymptomatic whereas they were in fact  pre-symptomatic. I have had to elicit a lot of information via Freedom of Information requests, and that is a reflection of the inept handling of information about the pandemic. It is incredibly frustrating, especially when you see how Guernsey or the Isle of Man have from the start been far more transparent about the data. 

And at some level the obsession with confidentiality is breaking down - now at least, we are told which schools cases arise, but just a week or so, with St Michael's case, the government would not name the school, causing more uncertainty, more worry, and showed no understanding of what is in the public good. Within a small Island, the news gets out anyway, and so all this obsessive secrecy does is to make the government look ridiculous.

Insofar as Dr Muscatt is in charge of the medical aspects of the strategy, I have confidence, but he is not responsible for the reporting of the statistics, which falls upon the government. The Health Minister says that we should all assess our own levels of risk, but we can't do that if we don't have decent figures to base those risks on.  

I've often been asked if I could do better, and the answer, when it comes to knowing how to present the statistics - if I had all the figures I wanted - is yes!