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Zeller+Gmelin
Intervention in the heart of a printing plant
Inks are an indispensable necessity for every printing process. Moreover, for customers of label printing plants the exact reproduction of corporate colours and images is counted among the most widely discussed quality criteria. In particular, manufacturers of branded goods are extremely sensitive in this regard. Its no wonder then that Frank Neumann, managing director of Logo Etiketten GmbH in Mahlberg in the Southern Baden region of Germany, describes printing inks and the corresponding operational environment as the heart of a label printing plant which should not be substantially modified without good reasoning.
The implementation of low-migration label production for the food market segment was just such a reason for Logo Etiketten. This article reports on the background and the practical experience with the production-wide introduction of low-migration inks and varnishes and the concurrent conversion to the mono-pigmented ink system of printing ink manufacturer Zeller+Gmelin.
The printing plant Logo Etiketten, specialised in adhesive labels and packaging, is part of the Gundlach-group, an association of specialised companies in the printing and publishing industry with more than 850 employees. At the two locations Mahlberg/Baden and Weinstadt/Stuttgart, Germany, Logo Etiketten generates an average annual turnover of EUR 13 million with around 85 employees.
The scope of supply ranges from digital prepress via flexographic and screen printing on presses with a maximum of ten inking units and includes finishing options such as hot and cold stamping, varnishing, coating and lamination through to further processing, such as cutting and finishing.
A relatively high proportion of the clientele comes from the food and beverage sector. Thus, the company regularly has to deal with declarations of conformity customary within this industry. They continuously receive demands from customers to sign generalised guarantees for the supplied labels. Even though Logo Etiketten rejected each of these requests, the company felt already years ago obliged to investigate this topic more intensely. Since European legislation is increasingly focused on the role of packaging with regard to the question of food safety, Frank Neumann is convinced that this will sooner or later lead to a binding rule to prescribe the use of low-migration ink systems. To guarantee acceptable product safety with conventional inks, material and processes will by far exceed the technical capabilities regarding measurement procedures and control methods, as well as the chemical know-how of most label and packaging printing plants.
Future-proof solution wanted
Against this background, in 2008, Logo Etiketten began to search in the market for a solution for UV-flexo printing outside of traditional ink systems. A suitable partner was found with the printing ink manufacturer Zeller+Gmelin from Eislingen, Germany, from which the company already purchased water-based printing inks for special applications. In January 2010, the decision was made for an ambitious project with an investment in the high six-digit Euro range. "The amount covers a very extensive complete package", explains Frank Neumann.
"In the end, with this project we pursued several objectives at the same time. We wanted to convert the entire production to a low-migration operation and simultaneously implement the most resource-saving use of the printing inks and at the same time increase automation and standardisation of the ink mixing process." Finally, this implied the construction of suitable premises, the fitting of a new ink kitchen, including the installation of an ink mixing unit with 14 stations from Fluid Solutions, the implementation of the ink management solution Ink Formulation from X-Rite, a print-proofing system with UV-dryer and more.
Frank Neumann can put forward good reasons for the radical step to change over the entire production at the same time. Mixing production on one press, that means changing between standard printing inks and low-migration inks, is not a realistic solution from his point of view. As numerous field tests have proven, even with extremely thorough and very time-consuming cleaning, contamination of the low-migration production is difficult to avoid. Moreover, in the end it does not pay off due to the extensive cleaning effort required.
The use of a single printing press as an exclusive production line for low-migration orders was out of the question for Logo Etiketten, due to the technical set-up of the presses. The web widths and configurations of the individual press lines are coordinated with the order structure in such a way that a concentration of the jobs with low-migration inks on one or two presses was not realistic. The logical consequence was the decision in favour of a complete conversion.
Two objectives achieved with one conversion
One project which had already been considered at Logo Etiketten was the changeover from PMS (Pantone Matching System) to a future-oriented concept like the mono-pigmented ink system of Zeller+Gmelin. Since a complete reformulation of all colour shades by means of a spectrophotometer and PC was required due to the conversion to low-migration inks anyway, at least this part of the system change could be completed in one go.
"Nevertheless, we had a healthy respect for this decision. After all, we wanted to turn inside-out the heart of our printing plant at two positions at the same time", admits Frank Neumann. "We were well aware that with such a complex project it is not possible to remove all obstacles beforehand. But we were reluctant to shoulder the effort for the adaption of the approximately 4,000 to 5,000 formulations twice."
In retrospect, the transition period of about six months which started in May 2010 with the start-up of the new ink mixing unit went virtually according to plan even though from time to time unforeseeable obstacles had to be overcome, remembers the Production Manager, Michael Jagiella. "Here, the close collaboration with Zeller+Gmelin played a decisive role. The support in terms of employee training and preparation of formulations was very effective and competent."
However, for the printing ink manufacturer this project also proved to be a challenging job. While in the beginning the development of the low-migration inks concentrated on their application in the food sector, the low-migration ink system now had to be made ready in a short period of time to meet the requirements of all areas of application in order to enable Logo Etiketten to realise the complete conversion.
Only with specialities, for example special effect inks, special varnishes, laminating adhesives etc. was there a need for further development. In the opinion of Ulrich Höfler, who as Area Sales Manager for Southern Germany was in charge of the introduction of the new ink system at Logo Etiketten, the work was worth the effort: "As a result, the low-migration ink system is highly developed with regard to properties like reactivity and ink adhesion so that now label printing plants can use it for their entire production."
Minimisation of mixing errors and ink residues
With the selection and introduction of the automatic ink mixing facility the label specialist from Mahlberg proceeded as with the entire subject matter of printing ink. An objective here was to increase productivity by further automation and standardisation of the ink mixing process.
The supply of printing inks with the respectively correct colour shade and in the required quantity is of vital importance for smooth production. If mistakes are made at this stage, this can result in expensive machine stoppages. For this reason, Logo Etiketten has put the responsibility for this work area on two experienced printers, with very reliable colour evaluation experience, who work in a two-shift operation.
To ensure problem-free processing of the low-migration and mono-pigmented inks in the plant, the technical equipment was coordinated with the ink supplier. Marcus Ruckstädter, sales manager at Zeller+Gmelin, points out that an important feature for instance was the compatibility with SQL-based databases, so that the dosing system could for example be directly controlled via the Ink-Formulation software from X-Rite. Furthermore, the system is integrated into the production data acquisition and area coverage management. In this way, the required quantity of individual colour shades can be calculated by the system in case of follow-up orders.
In addition, the ink manufacturer suggested equipping the plant with an agitator in each container or – like with the mixing system of Fluid Solutions – with a recirculation system. This was to ensure that even when mixing inks with a somewhat more viscous consistency, one could reliably produce consistent mixing results.
With their target for the most resource-efficient production, Logo Etiketten is also able to tackle a reduction in the volume of ink residues with the use of the ink mixing facility. In the first year, the printing plant already succeeded in considerably reducing the production of ink residues. This means that a significant share in the reduction of waste costs of about 25% is attributable to the ink mixing facility.
Improved sustainability
From what he knows today, Frank Neumann would again make the strategic decision to carry out a simultaneous double conversion with such far-reaching consequences in the area of printing ink and ink supply which is such an essential one for printing plants. Experience to date shows that having taken these steps a strengthening of the company's sustainability could be accomplished as planned. In the future, label printing plants will hardly be able to avoid the changeover to low-migration ink systems. Current developments obviously indicate that EU-legislation will demand this to happen sooner or later.
Migration – a multifaceted subject matter
In the label and packaging industry the keyword "migration" is a subject matter that repeatedly comes up at trade fairs and congresses as well as in the media. But as prevalent as the discussion on low-migration label production may be, as great is also the uncertainty of many printing plants. Many a company management is not aware of the risks and expense that can result from a careless signature on a guarantee declaration, if the label production does not comply with the complex food law requirements in practice.
In contrast, the printing plants which have already adapted themselves in an exemplary manner to the situation, for instance by converting to low-migration ink systems, are facing other economic challenges. A look beyond the borders, says Marcus Ruckstädter, sales manager at Zeller+Gmelin, reveals a very different handling of relevant regulations. Companies like Logo Etiketten are confronted with that fact every time label printing plants from other countries with a more lax attitude regarding legal requirements are involved in offer comparison.
In all probability, these suppliers have more leeway in their pricing because the effort which would be inevitable for meeting the regulations are not being considered in their calculations. Especially with transnational transactions, this means an obvious distortion of the competition. Tolerably fair conditions can only be expected when end customers or authorities demand to see evidence that a signed declaration is in fact concretely covered, ensuring the compliance with regulations. The use of a low-migration ink system would among other things be part of such a package of measures.
A major obstacle to the widespread introduction of low-migration inks is to be seen in the considerably higher costs compared with standard UV-inks. Label printing plants and ink manufacturers are not able to pass on the total extra costs in the supply chain due to the fact that while end customers are certainly interested in having their labels printed with low-migration inks they do not accept higher prices.
There are several reasons for the higher expense of low migration ink production. For instance, the selection of raw materials is limited. In addition, the raw materials suitable for low-migration inks are generally considerably more expensive. At the same time, the effort for research and development is higher than average. For instance, Zeller+Gmelin recently used about a third of their r+d-capacity for the development and optimisation of low-migration ink systems.
Also in the production of these printing inks, considerable extra expenses arise due to the necessary provision of additional production capacities and increased set-up costs. This is why Zeller+Gmelin is currently investing in the expansion of production facilities which are specifically designated for the manufacture of low-migration printing inks and varnishes.
Many investments pay off in the long term through economic benefits. In the current situation, both the manufacture of low-migration ink systems and their use in label production equally do not hold water as a common argument.
Printing ink manufacturers and printing plants, therefore, are facing the same strategic decision: Conversion to low-migration systems – yes or no? Since according to the opinion of Logo Etiketten and Zeller+Gmelin there will be no alternative to low-migration inks in the future, both companies have set the course for a low-migration future.


BANGI, 24 September 2014 – The National University of Malaysia's Reserves Officers Training Unit (ROTU) was judged the best march formation team at the Commissioning Ceremony for reserve officers from public universities (IPTA) held at The Sultan Idris Education University in Tanjung Malim.
The UKM team beat teams from 12 other universities which took part in the ceremony held late last month.
The champion trophy was later handed over to Vice Chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Noor Azlan Ghazali by UKM ROTU training coach, Lieutenant Kolonel Mohd Safar Said in an official ceremony here recently.
Prof Noor Azlan congratulated the team for its achievement that has brought glory to the UKM name.
Success by the team showed UKM's ROTU cadets' willingness to carry out their training well and able to work together as a team thereby achieving the success, Prof Noor Azlan said.


When you think about a 5-week old kitten, you imagine a tiny and helpless baby that makes you want to cuddle and love it and protect the baby from harm. In a shocking story, we recently learned that someone had taken a tiny tabby and placed it in the path of certain doom, then left it to die in a cruel manner. The plan was thwarted by a good Samaritan who came along just in the nick of time.
A crazy and unusual scene unfolded on a busy traffic populated road near the Pacific Northwest town of Salem, Oregon. Chuck Hawley noticed that the cars in front of him were trying to avoid hitting something on the road by swerving. As he neared the area that caused the chaotic scene, he wondered what could make these drivers react so quickly and so strongly. To his amazement, when he neared the scene, he saw a tiny tabby kitten on the road. He quickly pulled his vehicle to a stop and got out to investigate further. As he inspected the scene it became apparent that somebody had glued the kitten to the road. He attempted to pick her up, but her feet would not come off the road. He described the substance as something of the consistency of rubber cement. Whoever had committed this disgusting act had also put the glue on her tail and neck. It became obvious that this was no accident and that a person had glued the kitten to the road on purpose.
The humane driver kept working with the kitten until he was able to free her feet and pull her from the road. He promptly took her away from the danger and took her to a nearby animal clinic for a medical examination. Had he not came along when he did, the kitten would have certainly not survived the ordeal. The veterinarian was required to remove the glue from the kitten with mineral oil. Afterward, she was given a complete check-up. The vet found several punctures on the kitten's neck, but she could not determine what may have caused the injuries. The abandoned kitten was found to be in good health with the exception of the punctures.
Hawley was already the owner of an 8-pound chihuahua and a Great Pyrenees who weighs 115 pounds. The addition of the new family member made the former duo a trio of pets. Hawley and his family welcomed Sticky with open arms and she's become somewhat a celebrity since that time. Her unusual story was just too good not to share with the world. She's gained weight that is appropriate for her age and she's thriving in her new home. She's made the world news and it's always nice to hear about a happy ending, especially with so much negativity in the world today.
It's rare that we hear about such despicable acts of animal cruelty. When this type of news is shared it creates feelings of anger and sadness. At this point in time, it is unknown who the perpetrator of the crime is. Although this particular case has a sweet and happy ending, there are others that do not. This is a tragic story that just happens to have a heartwarming ending that we can all feel good about. Now that the kitten is safe and sound in her new home, Hawley isn't going to drop the case. He shared that he plans to visit the Marion County Sheriff's Office where he will file a report and do what he can to try to discover who committed this heinous act. It's a punishable offense and the person who did it should be held accountable. For those of you who want to follow Sticky's continuing story, her adopted pet mom has set up a Facebook page to keep everyone updated on the miracle kitten.


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Washminster will be taking a few days break....
Alan K Simpson
My current research is into Whips in the US Congress and the UK Parliament. Part of the study involves looking at the individuals who have filled the position of Chief Whip (UK) and Majority Whip (USA). Last week a book was published about the life of Alan Simpson, who was the Majority Whip in the 99th Congress.
He appeared on C-SPAN last week - mainly to comment on the Budget (as a Co-Chair of President Obama's National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform - he can speak with some authority). He began by discussing his life.
Labels: Alan Simpson, C-SPAN, Majority Whip, Whips
Location: Milton Keynes, UK
Monday was President's Day - so this week will see the Chambers in the US Capitol Building silent. Actually that's not true, there will be regular tours (I've assisted with one tour - though my regular experience is with tours of the Palace of Westminster) going through the chambers - and as a former parliamentary staffer, I know that a "recess" doesn't mean that work halts (I remember the occasion when one MP walked into his office just as the House had risen for the summer recess and declared - "now that's that's over, we can get down to some work"!).
One of the values gained from reading the US Constitution is that a clearer picture can be gained of the 'architecture' of the institutions. The Constitution sets out the roles of each institution (Art 1 Section 1 - "All legislative powers shall be vested in..."); its powers - see Art 1 Sect 8; it's makeup (the bodies within the institution - Congress = House of Representatives + Senate) - and who is eligible to be a Member (both in terms of qualifications and election)...
Have a read of Article One
Labels: Constitutional Law, House of Representatives, Presidents' Day, Senate, US Constitution, W201
Location: Furzton, Milton Keynes, UK
Writing and Understanding Legislation
One of the key skills of an English lawyer is interpreting statutes. The more a prospective lawyer reflects upon the problems of drafting legislation; and learns from those who are regularly involved in interpretation - the better a lawyer they will become.
There are a number of books available, I have three to recommend. They are
This book is written by a former Parliamentary Counsel - one of the few individuals in Britain who write Government Bills. His experience and the examples he uses are an excellent aid to understanding how legislation is written.
Written by an academic - a very useful introduction to drafting
Well written book which takes examples from across the British Commonwealth, and helps the reader understand the problems and solutions in drafting.
Labels: Drafting, Statutory Interpretation
Ministerial Responsibility
UK Constitutional textbooks often refer to a doctrine known as "Ministerial Responsibility". In fact there are two closely related, but different doctrines. One is the doctrine of "Individual Ministerial Responsibility", the other is "Collective Ministerial Responsibility"
Some interesting illustrations of the two different doctrines of Ministerial Responsibility were seen in the House of Commons on Monday 20th Feb.
After a Statement on the Border Agency, the Opposition Spokesperson - the "Shadow Home Secretary" made the following comments -
"The implications of that for our border are very serious, yet the Home Secretary continues to hide. She has hidden behind a report and not set out its full consequences, just as she has blamed officials, hidden from the media and hidden behind spurious statistics. In opposition, she said of a former Immigration Minister:
"I'm sick and tired of…government ministers…who simply blame other people when things go wrong."
That is what she is doing now. It is time for her to stop hiding and to take responsibility for things that have happened on her watch: the unclear instructions from her office, the policy decisions to downgrade our border controls, the failure to monitor and check what was going on, and her failure to take responsibility. This mess escalated on her watch with every month that went by. Unless she accepts responsibility for this fiasco, she will fail to sort it out and she will fail to reassure the House that she can cope with future fiascos and that she is the Home Secretary to keep our borders secure."
Here Yvette Cooper was articulating the traditional view of 'Individual Ministerial Responsibility' - the Minister was responsible to Parliament for the actions of her Department.
Earlier the BIS Secretary (Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills)was being challenged on a decision to appoint Professor Les Ebdon as the 'Director of Fair Access'
The Opposition Spokesperson had said "the distinct impression has been given that this appointment has been secured as part of some trade-off in the ongoing turf war in Government over higher education policy. Is that the case? It has been well briefed that the Education Secretary is thoroughly opposed to this appointment and, indeed, to the Business Secretary's continued responsibility for our universities. The sector needs certainty in order to plan, and this turf war is deeply unhelpful. We are firmly of the view that higher education policy should remain the responsibility of the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. What assurances can he give us that that will remain the case?"
The BIS Secretary reasserts the Doctrine of Collective Responsibility - "On the hon. Gentleman's first, rather desperate, point about turf wars, let me make it absolutely clear that this is a Government appointment that is supported by all my colleagues, and that responsibilities for higher education will remain exactly as they are."
Labels: Collective Ministerial Responsibility, Doctrine of Ministerial Responsibility, Individual Ministerial Responsibility, Ministerial Responsibility, Professor Les Ebdon, Theresa May, Vince Cable
The US Civil War
Some songs about the US Civil War (1861-5), these were (at the time) favourites of mine, long before I became interested in the history of the Civil War.
Paper Lace - from 1974. I always associate with a holiday we had that Easter in Pontins Holiday Camp, Brean Sands (near Weston super Mare).
Rolf Harris - from 1969. The record was a Christmas present - along with an antique telescope. I always believed it was about the American Civil War, though some say that the song, written in 1902 may have its roots a century before that.
As a youngster, I also found this a rousing hymn.
Labels: American Civil War, Battle Hymn of the Republic, Billy Don't Be a Hero, Paper Lace, Pontins, Rolf Harris, Two Little Boys
This word is often used - for many law and politics students in the context of "Parliamentary Sovereignty".
One of the first writers to discuss the concept was Jean Bodin (1529/30 - 1596), who published in 1576 "Les Six Livres de la Republique". Cambridge University Press have taken some of the chapters and published them as "On Sovereignty" which was edited by Julian Franklin
The context was that the idea of being "English" or "French" was changing from the feudal idea of being the subject of a particular king (as in "I am English because I owe my allegiance to the King of England") to being from a particular geographic area (the modern idea of "I am English because I was born/live permanently in England). Ideas of states based on geography, and have a single source of constitutional power began to develop.
Parliamentary Sovereignty is a concept based on that idea of there being a single source of power. Once the King was sovereign (this is not a pun!) - but after the English Civil War, and certainly after the "Glorious Revolution" in which Parliament 'chased James II out of town' and chose William and Mary to be the new Monarchs - it was recognised that power derives from Parliament. It can make or dissolve any institution (it can create, and subsequently abolish a Scottish Parliament; institutions of local government; Courts...); and define who can become King (Act of Settlement 1701).
Dicey is the most well known academic who sought to describe and define the principle. To slightly paraphrase him - it means
1 Parliament can pass any law it wants (unlike the US Congress which can have its laws struck down by the Supreme Court if in conflict with the Constitution)
2 A Parliament is not bound by its predecessors (so there can be no entrenched legislation which forces a later Parliament to use special procedures to change specific laws - like a 2/3 majority, or a referendum)
3 What Parliament has done cannot be questioned in the Courts (another aspect of the first meaning)
But Parliamentary Sovereignty has been challenged. It sits uneasily with British membership of the European Union. By passing the European Communities Act 1972. Our membership involves agreeing to limit our legislative freedom - and to be subject to decisions of the Court of Justice of the European Union.In the Thoburn case it was recognised that the usual principle of "implied repeal" didn't apply to the European Communities Act. Of course the answer to a claim that Parliamentary Sovereignty is dead - is that Parliament retains the sovereign right to repeal the European Communities Act.
Dicey is not the only view of the doctrine. There is an excellent, thought provoking book by Jeffrey Goldsworthy
Most Constitutional Textbooks rehearse the various arguments. If you are a law student - be sure that you are able to define the doctrine and discuss the various arguments about its strength today. Don't forget the importance of critically evaluating the arguments put forward by the various commentators.
Labels: A V Dicey, European Communities Act 1972, European Union, Jean Bodin, Jeffrey Goldsworthy, Parliamentary Sovereignty, Sovereignty
Tours of the Palace
One of the things I enjoy about working at Westminster is that I can look around an incredibly important and interesting historical building - and occasionally take small tours. There is so much to see.
I often start my tours by putting the site in context. Unlike the US Congress it was not planned as a national legislature. It doesn't consequently stand on a hill dominating the capital city. Like so much at Westminster, it's position is due to accidents of geography and history.
Watling Street ran from Richborough and Dover (Kent) to Wroxeter (Shropshire), but makes some odd turns in the London area. The line from Kent turns sharply north across the original London Bridge into the Roman town of Londinium (excellent iPad app from the Museum of London) entering from the south but exiting to the West. It continues along Colchester Road and Oxford Street (see map above) then turns sharply northward.
London was in effect a "New City" - the original route, without diversions - went straight to the lowest ford on the River Thames - at Westminster. That ford ran through what is now the Terrace of the Houses of Parliament.
Most of the streams that flow into the Thames run straight down from the hills to the north and south of the River.
The River Tyburn is different. It's source is at Shepherds Well, south of Hampstead. It flowed normally through the sites of Swiss Cottage to Regent Park to near Marble Arch - but roughly on the site of Buckingham Palace it begins to split. One branch flows south to the site of Vauxhall Bridge. The other further splits to form "Thorney Island"
which mean "the place of blackberries" (sorry for the awful pun). This low lying, marshy - and often misty place is where Westminster now is. The streams are now underground. But it was from early times regarded as a place of religious significance. There are stories that the Druids had a "college" there [the name "Toot Hill" is claimed to be a pagan religious site]. Tothill Street runs close to Parliament Square.
There is also a local story which has a temple of Apollo on the site of Westminster Abbey. In the Second Century one of the first British Christians, Lucius, was converted when an earthquake destroyed that temple. He built a church there. In 785 the Benedictines, under St Dunstan built a monastry there.
Lucius was said to be a "British King", but the first royal in residence that we have evidence for was King Canute. He built a palace on Thorney Island in 1016. It was Edward the Confessor who was to play a critical role in Westminster's development. He was a deeply religious man - and sought to (and succeeded) in building a mighty Abbey. Sensibly he decided that the best way to ensure that work proceeded satisfactorily was to move close to the building site. He made the "Palace of Westminster" his home.
It remained as a principle royal residence for centuries. Where the tidy building is now, buildings were thrown up without any kind of planning. Westminster Hall is the oldest part remaining - but by 1834 there were a hotch potch of buildings of different sizes, ages and purposes. The Palace remained a royal residence until 1512 when a fire caused Henry VIII to move out. As the institution of Parliament developed the "Houses" gained permanent buildings. However it wasn't until 1547 that the House of Commons gained St Stephen's Hall as their permanent place of meeting.
Most of the Palace areas was destroyed by fire on the night of October 16th 1834. (the painting by Turner is reproduced in my post of last Wednesday)
Labels: Blackberry, Edward the Confessor, King Canute, King Lucius, Palace of Westminster, Toot Hills, Tothill Street, Turner, Westminster Abbey, Westminster Hall
Where are you reading this?
Earlier this week I was able to do an analysis of visits to the Washminster Blog (since the blog began in March 2007) - by country. The results were
Germany 5.25%
Russia 2.72%
South Korea 1.07%
Australia 0.80%
Do drop me a line - jdavidmorgan@washminster.com - and let me know where YOU are.
Labels: Washminster
What kind of Law?
I once worked in a bank. In one branch, in an area where you might expect a high level of unauthorised overdrafts, our Manager achieved a very low level. I found out why - he told errant customers that it was "illegal" to write cheques that were postdated. He conveyed to his customers the impression that it was criminal - which it isn't. He justified his use of the term "illegal" by saying that s73 of the Bills of Exchange Act 1882 defined cheques as an instrument which was payable on demand. As a postdated cheque is not an order to pay on demand, but on a set date, it falls outside the legal definition of a cheque. Therefore it was NOT legal. VERY dubious reasoning.
A "law" is any rule which the Courts will enforce. In both the UK and US the two major forms are legislation and case law. Legislation is made by the legislative branch (Parliament or Congress). In Britain we use the terms "Act of Parliament" and "Statute" interchangeably. Case law arises from decisions of the courts. Both the US and UK have (not exclusively - Scotland and Louisiana have civil law roots) common Law systems - where the doctrine of precedent is both central and a key aspect of legal argument.
Law can itself be classified in a number of ways - but beware of the same words meaning very different things in different contexts. For example the term "Common Law" can mean
(1) the law of the entire land, as opposed to local law
(2) court made law, contrasted with statute law
(3) the system which puts precedent at the heart, in contrast with the civil law systems of continental Europe - where cases, though an aid to understanding what the law is, is not crucial to legal argument as it is in Common Law systems.
Civil Law too has meanings which change with context
(1) contrasted with Common Law - as a legal system
(2) contrasted with criminal law (being about relationships between individuals, and the provision of remedies rather than sanctions)
Labels: banks, Cheques, civil law, criminal law, Legislation, Postdated cheques, Precedent
Recent Developments in the European Union
One of this afternoon's debates on the House of Lords is on a motion to take "note of recent developments in the European Union." EU matters are frequently discussed in the main chamber and there is an extensive and active subcommittee structure of the EU Select Committee. Further details here.
Sadly I won't be around to watch the debate. Instead I'm heading for Rugby - where I'll be discussing the question "US election 2012: Can Obama do it again?" with the Warwickshire Fabian Society. The meeting is at the Friends Meeting House, 28 Regent Place, Rugby, CV21 2PN. It begins at 7-30pm. You'd be welcome to join us.
Labels: 2012 US Elections, Barack Obama, European Union.
Citizenship Education
Further to my earlier post, the question was raised in the House of Lords yesterday
asked By Lord Harries of Pentregarth
To ask Her Majesty's Government what is their evaluation of current policies on citizenship education.
The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Schools (Lord Hill of Oareford): My Lords, Ofsted reported in 2010 that citizenship education is improving. Our reforms are designed to build on this by giving greater autonomy to schools. The national curriculum review is aiming to prescribe a core of essential knowledge, enabling schools to teach a wider curriculum that meets their pupils' needs. Our recent publication Positive for Youthwill help to ensure that young people have opportunities to realise their potential, including through becoming active and responsible citizens, as will the development of the national citizen service.
Lord Harries of Pentregarth: I thank the Minister for his reply and particularly for reporting that citizenship education in schools is apparently improving. Does he not agree, that at a time when the world is so turbulent and our own societies are under such strain, it is more important than ever that our young people should have a solid grounding in the responsibilities and rights of citizenship within a democratic framework? Further to the Prime Minister's Answer to a Question in the other place on 11 December, what assurance can the Minister give that this can actually be achieved when there is such widespread suspicion that, as a result of changes to the curriculum, citizenship is going to be marginalised and downgraded?
Lord Hill of Oareford: I agree with the noble and right reverend Lord about the importance of citizenship. Although the expert panel that reported to us in December suggests that citizenship should form part of the basic curriculum rather than the national curriculum, the first sentence in its report emphasises the importance of citizenship and I very much share that view. The issue-and this is true of a number of subjects that are subject to the national curriculum review-is the extent to which we need to be prescriptive around programmes of study. We will reflect upon what the expert panel has said and take other representations into account, and then bring forward our proposals in due course in the light of that.
Baroness Walmsley: My Lords, given that the Secretary of State for Education has said that citizenship courses are pregnant with powerful knowledge, is there any possible excuse for not insisting that every child has the right to study this subject, especially since we are trying to get more of them to use their vote?
Lord Hill of Oareford: I agree with my noble friend that we should want every child to be able to study citizenship. One aspect is the importance of knowing about voting, as my noble friend says, but there are many other benefits of learning about citizenship as well. The issue is not its importance as a subject but how it is best delivered in the curriculum.
Baroness Massey of Darwen: My Lords, does the Minister agree that there is a severe overlap between personal, social and health education, and citizenship? Where exactly do we stand in relation to the delivery of PSHE and citizenship? How will they both be inspected so that evaluations can be made?
Lord Hill of Oareford: I agree with the noble Baroness, Lady Massey, that there is an overlap between the two, particularly at primary level. On where we have got to with our review, I know that she is keen for us to get to the sticking point. However, because of our need to take into account the report from the expert panel, the timescale for responding has moved back a little and we need to dovetail the PSHE review with the overall national curriculum review. We will bring that forward in due course.
Lord Ramsbotham: My Lords, what steps are being taken to increase citizenship education in young offender institutions and other places where children are held in custody?
Lord Hill of Oareford: On the specific details of what is happening in institutions-I recognise the noble Lord's concern about that, and I agree with him on the importance of this in prisons and young offenders institutions-if I may, I will follow this up with my colleagues to see if I can help him with some more specific information about those programmes.
Lord Morgan: My Lords, is the underlying problem here not the general lack of discussion of citizenship as an idea in this country? Citizenship as a concept is absent from our standard textbooks on the constitution. This is very different from the republics of the United States and France. Is this not a serious matter?
Lord Hill of Oareford: My Lords, your Lordships' House is a good example of an institution where we frequently discuss questions such as the meaning of citizenship and its importance. I know that many Members of this House take part in the Lords outreach programme and explore exactly these issues with children; so far about 30,000 pupils have been seen by Members of your Lordships' House as part of that programme. We need to explore these issues. The thought at the back of the noble Lord's mind is probably the distinction between us being subjects and citizens, and I would be happy to explore that with him on another occasion.
Lord Laming: My Lords, does the Minister agree that there is a connection between the first two Questions that have come before the House today? Some of the issues that were addressed by the first Question relate to second and third-generation children. Would it be possible to include in citizenship education the rights of children in this country and, more particularly, the ways in which they can get help if they are subject to exploitation or abuse?
Lord Hill of Oareford: I agree with the noble Lord that there is a link between the two Questions: they are linked fundamentally by our values as a society and the values that we want our children to have. Part of that can be explored through the teaching of citizenship, part of it is done through civil society generally and part of it through families. Part of the answer to the question-and to the last part of the question about inspection asked by the noble Baroness, Lady Massey, which I failed to answer-is that the requirement to look into the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of a child through the Ofsted framework provides an opportunity to explore these issues.
Lord Dholakia: My Lords, has the Minister undertaken any evaluation of the citizenship ceremonies that take place when people qualify for UK citizenship, which were quite rightly introduced by the previous Administration, and what has been the outcome of that evaluation?
Lord Hill of Oareford: I will need to follow up on evaluation with my noble friend. I agree with him that those ceremonies should be able to play an important part in addressing some of these questions. I am not sure what the precise evaluation is but I will ask and write to him.
Labels: Citizens, Citizenship Education, Subjects
That Commons Financial Privilege Debate
The Lords Hansard is now available here. Lord Strathclyde began
"My Lords, I beg to move the Motion on behalf of my noble friend Lord Freud. I also felt that it might be a useful opportunity for me as Leader of the House to say a few words about the relationship between the two Houses and, in particular, the financial privilege of the House of Commons. After all, this being Valentine's Day, it is not a bad time to talk about relationships.
Perhaps I may begin by commending to the House the statement made by the noble Baroness, Lady Royall of Blaisdon, on 10 February 2009. Everything I say today is based on that material and I am grateful that there is not an inch between us. I also commend the paper on the subject by the Clerk of the Parliaments of 10 February 2009 (see appendix 2 of this document), yesterday's update by the current Clerk of the Parliaments, and the note published by the Clerk of the House of Commons last Thursday. All three documents are available in the Library and online. They all accord with each other and clearly set out the position, which I shall now try to do with something approaching the same clarity and accuracy...."
As you will see it was a likely discussion with some serious concerns raised. Baroness Royall said:
"The Government's majority in the Commons means that politically in practice the Government have a huge influence on whether the Commons waives its financial privilege. It is therefore appropriate for this House to consider these issues and the issues arising in relation to the role of this House in the legislative process. However, I suggest that today is not the time to have such a discussion. I know that many Members from all sides of your Lordships' House-very much including those on the government Benches-are concerned about these wider matters and want to debate and discuss them. I know this because many noble Lords have come to see me about this issue."
Baroness Boothroyd, the former Speaker of the House of Commons, said:
"I certainly do not challenge the primacy of the elected Chamber and its control over financial policy. Neither do I intend the role of this House to be neglected as the revising Chamber with special responsibilities for the scrutiny of the legislation that comes to us.
The constitution of our country operates by convention. The Leader of the House talked about relationships on this special day, but I remind him that this is a bicameral Parliament; it operates by negotiation, by the ways and means of getting things done. Where were the usual channels during all this? The usual channels assist good relations not only between political parties but between the two Houses. By good will and by negotiation, they might have arrived at some compromise on the amendments to this Bill rather than have the Government behave in what I regard as the very heavy-handed manner that we witnessed the other week."
It may have been a skirmish - but there is a real war going on over the British Constitution. Legislation was rushed through extending the length of Parliaments (from a MAXIMUM of 5 years - not often reached to a fixed term of 5 years); this Session - which would normally only last 12 months - but has often been extended by a few months in the first session previously - will now last an incredible TWO YEARS. A massive programme of radical change has been pushed through the Commons with debate curtailed by "Programme Motions" - and the House of Lords threatened when it has sought to exercise the scrutiny that the Commons has been barred from giving. There are interesting times ahead...
Labels: abuse of power, Financial Privilege, House of Commons, House of Lords, Lord Strathclyde, Programme Motions, Scrutiny
Ike wants your vote
Sixty years ago - this was a cutting edge political ad - but the message has a certain 2012 feeling!
Labels: Eisenhower, Political Advertising
Popular with Students
There's an excellent article on the "Online Colleges" blog about "10 Presidential Candidates who were popular with College Students" - it brought back happy memories of following earlier campaigns - and is also informative.
Thanks to Dr Jill Rooney.
The post can be read at http://www.onlinecolleges.net/2012/02/13/10-presidential-candidates-who-were-popular-with-college-students/
Labels: 1968 US Presidential Campaign, 1972 US Presidential Campaign, 2004 US Presidential Election, 2012 US Elections, Online Colleges Blog, US Elections 2008
Location: House of Lords
Commons Financial Privilege
I've just come down from the gallery in the House of Lords after watching a fascinating (OK, I can be a bit nerdish on procedural issues - but this IS an important issue!) statement by the Leader of the House of Lords and subsequent debate on Commons privilege. Tweets as it happened were posted on WM_Alert.
Relevant background documents include
Money Bills and Commons Financial Privilege - Lord's Constitution Ctte Report
Clerk of Commons guidance - Waiving of Financial Privilege
I will post the Hansard report on the debate tomorrow
Labels: Conventions, Financial Privilege, House of Commons, House of Lords
Lord Harries of Pentregarth is due to ask a question in the Lords today - "what is (Her Majesty's Government's) evaluation of current policies on citizenship education"
I will report back
Labels: Citizenship Education
Location: House of Lords, London
What's the point of law?
A big question indeed - and there are many who argue that Congress and Parliament should actually do LESS legislating. I don't agree with the premise which lies behind some expressions of that view. There is a belief that the less government the better. My take on history is that when government has been inactive, the economy has gone bad (1930s & recent years); lack of regulation has led to disastrous scandals (see the Banking Crisis) and the powerful and unscrupulous have been free to exploit everyone else. But I'm entitled to my opinion - as you are to yours.
However it is a legitimate concern that "poor legislation" has been produced - or that the Courts (who also make Law) produce decisions which can have a serious detrimental impact on society and democracy.
But why do we use law? It is a tool to regulate, even change behaviour. Actions which society wishes to discourage can be prohibited (or failure to do positive actions discouraged) by providing for criminal sanctions. It can provide a framework for relationships - such as the law of contract. It can be a useful exercise to analyse legislation.
What is the provision doing? - does it grant a power; or impose a duty. Does it prohibit certain actions?
Why is the provision there? - what was Parliament/Congress seeking to achieve?
How else could this objective be met? - is a law the only answer? could economic incentives lead to similar results?
Labels: Law, Legislation, Parliament, US Congress, W200
The President's Budget
The documentation relating to the Budget will be published at 11-15 EDT (4-15pm GMT) at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/budget
Unlike the UK Budget - when the Chancellor's announcements are certain of being enacted by Parliament (If they weren't, the Government could fall!) - the Executive's Budget in the US is a request which Congress can decline to give effect to.
Labels: Budget
Location: House of Lords, London SW1A 0PW, UK
Health and Social Care Bill
This afternoon - from about 3-05 GMT, the House of Lords will be debating - and taking votes on amendments - to this controversial bill. The PDF of the bill can be found at http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/lbill/2010-2012/0119/2012119.pdf and amendments that will be discussed are at http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/lbill/2010-2012/0119/amend/ml119-ii.htm and http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/bills/lbill/2010-2012/0119/amend/su119-iia.htm I will be in the gallery watching the debate. You can "join" me by watching http://news.bbc.co.uk/democracylive/hi/house_of_lords/default.stm
Labels: Health And Social Care Bill, House of Lords
Location: City of Westminster, London SW1A 0RS, UK
The Great Charter was the subject of a lively, informative and sometimes amusing exchange in the House of Lords last week. Here is the transcript from Hansard.
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta in June 2015.
The Minister of State, Ministry of Justice (Lord McNally): My Lords, plans to celebrate the 800th anniversary of the signing of the Magna Carta in June 2015 are being co-ordinated by the Magna Carta Trust, an independent organisation chaired by Sir Robert Worcester. I am keeping in close contact with the trust and I hope that as many people as possible will join in the commemorative activities and events that are being planned for the run-up to 2015 and on the anniversary itself.
Lord Lea of Crondall: I thank the Minister for that reply. There are of course very special reasons to commemorate in this House what happened at Runnymede in June 1215 and, indeed, the evolution of our constitutional arrangements between the Lords and the Commons over many centuries since. Does the noble Lord agree that in addition to weighty documents being published and speeches being made, there could be something of a more popular nature? For example, the pageant that preceded the tournament in 1215 was itself preceded by a ceremonial exchange of hostages between England and Scotland. What does the noble Lord think about a replay of that? Other events might also intrude, such as an inconclusive outcome of the general election. In those circumstances, would one way forward be a series of ceremonial jousts between the parties in which the noble Lord himself might be called upon to participate?
Lord McNally: What excellent ideas. It is strange how the same thoughts go through our minds. Just as the noble Lord was speaking, I was looking at the noble Lord, Lord Foulkes, and thinking what a perfect hostage he would make in the circumstances. Not long ago, I went to a ceremony at Runnymede and pointed out something that may surprise some Members of this House in view of my views about reform-that at Runnymede, the Barons did very well.
Lord Cormack: My Lords, does my noble friend think that the Barons who look down upon us daily from their plinths above this Chamber would be best pleased if, a month after the next general election, they looked down upon a hybrid Assembly with a group of senators in it?
Lord Strathclyde: Progress.
Lord McNally: Indeed. I am sure that the Barons would be as revolutionary in 2015 as they were in 1215, but I defer to my noble friend because, sometimes when listening to him, I think he must have been at Runnymede for the signing.
The Lord Bishop of Chichester: My Lords, the then Archbishop of Canterbury, Stephen Langton, played a decisive and formative role in the formulation of Magna Carta, and that was not the first or the last occasion in our history when the Church has, so to speak, helped to keep the feet of the powers-that-be to the fire in matters of constitutional freedoms. Will the Minister take the opportunity to acknowledge the continuing contribution that people of faith are still making today in defending human dignity that transcends temporary political arrangements, and will he further let us know whether he is prepared to advise the independent commission to which he referred to invite the Church of England to play a particular role in the 2015 celebrations?
Lord McNally: I would certainly hope so. As the right reverend Prelate pointed out, Archbishop Langton played an important part at that time. I shall draw the idea to Sir Bob Worcester's attention. I believe that this is an opportunity for us to celebrate a significant part of our history. I know that historical purists will cavil at the importance of the Magna Carta, but I always remember Eleanor Roosevelt, when she published the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, saying that it was a Magna Carta for all mankind. Nobody needed to translate what she meant by that. Magna Carta carries a resonance that has come down to us through the ages.
Lord Elystan-Morgan: My Lords, may I invite the Minister graciously to disabuse himself and all others who fall prey to the misconception that Magna Carta was ever signed? It never was. As a charter, and as the name implies, it was sealed by the royal seal of King John, as the facsimile mounted in the Contents Lobby makes very clear. May I apologise for making such a pettifogging legal point?
Lord McNally: Not at all. I have long considered the noble Lord a master of the pettifogging legal point, but his question gives me the opportunity to put on the record, for noble Lords who want to get involved in the build-up to the Magna Carta celebrations, that my honourable friend Eleanor Laing in the other place is chairing an All-Party Magna Carta Group. I am sure that it would benefit from membership from this House.
Baroness Benjamin: My Lords-
Lord Howarth of Newport: My Lords-
Noble Lords: Order!
Lord Strathclyde: My Lords, there has not been a question from the Liberal Democrat Benches.
Baroness Benjamin: Thank you, my Lords. A favourite expression often used by British citizens is, "It's a free country". Thankfully, so it is, but many are not aware that our freedoms are the greatest legacy of the Magna Carta. What are the Government doing to ensure that children and young people use and appreciate this precious gift of freedom with respect and responsibility? Perhaps they could do so by establishing an annual Magna Carta day to raise awareness and celebrating on the underused Parliament Square, as suggested by the Hansard Society.
Lord McNally: Again, I am delighted by the enthusiasm with which the House is approaching this and I shall feed that idea back to Sir Robert.
Lord Howarth of Newport: Will the Minister confirm that Clause 29 of Magna Carta, which enshrines the right to due process, remains part of the law of England and Wales, but that it is under attack by the Government? Would it not be seemly if the Government were to celebrate the 800th anniversary of Magna Carta by withdrawing Part 1 of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Bill, which removes legal aid from people on low incomes who are in dispute about their benefits entitlement or with their employer or with their landlord? If the Government should be less than gracious about this, will it not still be for the Barons to insist on the ancient constitutional principle that:
"To no man will we sell, or deny, or delay right or justice"?
Lord McNally: The noble Lord once again confirms that one should never take that final question.
* I would also note that Sir Robert Worcester is a native of Kansas. While I'm thrilled that Americans honour this important development in British History - I wish that the English would do more themselves to celebrate Magna Carta. The monument at Runnymede was of course paid and built by the AMERICAN Bar Association *
Labels: American Bar Association, House of Lords, LASPO Bill, Magna Carta, Runnymede, Sir Bob Worcester
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


The timeline in the video is a 'little' misleading.
"The fire occurred at 10pm, the NEXT day: Day 1, after overnight explosion: April 21: Deputy Secretary of Interior, Coast Guard dispatched to region… following a briefing with President Obama, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano, Coast Guard Commandant Adm. Thad Allen*, Department of Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, EPA Deputy Administrator Bob Perciasepe, and FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate, "Deputy Secretary of the Interior David Hayes was dispatched to the region yesterday to assist with coordination and response."
Adm. Thad Allen is the man it took Bush 8 days to put in place because of the appointment of "Brownie", the horse judge. Brownie's appointment was probably the single most contributing factor in Katrina becoming Bush's Katrina.
The references to the offer of the Dutch ship on day 3 was refused supposedly because of the Jones Act?
At that time the Jones Act waiver was not as crucial as it became later because on day 3 it was still believed that the well was not leaking. The only oil in the water was believed to be that directly related to the fire and the sinking of the rig. The Dutch ship and others probably would not have arrived in time for what was erroneously believed or being portrayed by BP as manageable spill.
"The Department of the Interior, MMS [the U.S. Minerals Management Service], and the Coast Guard continue to support the efforts of the responsible parties to secure all potential sources of pollution. Both federal agencies have technical teams in place overseeing the proposals by BP and Transocean to completely secure the well. Until that has occurred and all parties are confident the risk of additional spill is removed, a high readiness posture to respond will remain in place.
Day 5:April 25: Response team implements plan to contain oil spilling from source, weather delays cleanup.
"The unified command is implementing intervention efforts in an attempt to contain the source of oil emanating from the wellhead at the Deepwater Horizon incident site Sunday.
Day 6: April 26: Response crews "to resume skimming operations." On April 26, the response team stated, "…Following adverse weather that went through the area, response crews are anticipated to resume skimming operations today," including 1,000 personnel, 10 offshore vessels, 7 skimming boats and more than 14,000 gallons of dispersant. At that point 48,384 gallons of oily water had been collected.
Day 8 April 28: Federal officials realize spill was far more severe than BP led them to believe. An April 28 New York Times article reported, "Government officials said late Wednesday night that oil might be leaking from a well in the Gulf of Mexico at a rate five times that suggested by initial estimates."
The video cites Obama being on vacation, and of course golf, but lets remember Bush's flyover was on his way back from vacation. So is that a wash? I hope so because The whole whose on vacation, who golfed the most is getting tiresome. We're even attacking the family for going on vacation? Same situation has occurred before, so lets all get over it.
As far as statements on the campaign trail let's remember that his opponent, and all the nominees from that party proclaimed the safety of off shore drilling, including deep water drilling. Remember "Drill, Baby, Drill". Unfortunately Obama decided to drink some of that cool-aid shortly before the explosion. So if we're going to dump everybody on the campaign trail for those promises I'll go along with that.
No one saw this coming, not even the 'Drill, baby, drill" proponents. It was an isolated incident that barely made the news at first. We were all banking on the so called 'safe' and secure industry to handle it. Personally I was a little surprised it made the briefing list the next day. It happened without warning, the deaths occurred immediately, the damage was impending but unlike Katrina people were not in immediate and ongoing danger of more deaths and injuries. This is why the young lady in the video was careful not to compare this to Katrina. The makers of the video seem to miss that point, but it is a political video, and apparently an implication of accuracy is not required in politics In the long run though, absent of any other information, the waiver of the Jones Act should have come sooner.
The Obama bashing is just so perfuse, so saturating and in many cases so trivial that it is becoming so irrelevant. Can anybody in this country debate an issue anymore without it degrading to a shouting match of talking points without substantial arguments, or heaven forbid someone should have to defend against a counter argument, because they aren't allowed. With Clinton we spent 4 years and $40 million dollars to prove a man would lie about having an affair. And to what end? Now for political points we deny employment benefits during the worse [and yes inherited] recession ever. We create fear with cries of imaginary 'death panels' and socialism! In a country where we claim to be a Christian nation we criminalize hard working people, blame the poor for being poor, condemn an acquisition of racism while ignoring acts of racism, and deny benefits to 9/11 first responders to protect off shore investors. All to score political points. I'm tiring of the whole thing, I should of shutdown and become a hermit when the guy I backed turned out to be a total sleazebag. It scares me that we are becoming a nation where only one side can be right, that disagreeing and dissent are no longer considered part of a republic.
Is $150,000 per pirated song a fair punishment?


text:
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Seven highest scoring teenagers in Premier League history
The Premier League era has seen its fair share of 'boy wonders' and precociously talented teenagers, with Manchester United's Mason Greenwood continuing his exciting emergence with three goals in the first three games of the season.
Greenwood has enjoyed a rapid rise since coming through the Red Devils' academy ranks, equalling the record for most goals scored by a Manchester United teenager during his breakthrough 2019/20 season.
Following the 19-year-old's latest league goal, we've decided to look at the most prolific teenage talents the Premier League has seen.
Here are the seven highest scoring teenagers in Premier League history:
Francis Jeffers – 17 goals
Jeffers career promised so much in its infancy but ultimately delivered little, after making his debut as a 16-year-old for Everton and producing a series of promising performances for the Merseyside club.
The forward scored six league goals during a breakthrough season in 1998/1999, before adding a further 11 Premier League goals before his 20th birthday despite suffering a frustrating period with ankle and shoulder injuries.
Having rejected a new contract at Goodison Park, the 'fox in the box' later headed to Arsenal in an £8m deal but struggled for both form and fitness, scoring just four league goals and failing to reignite his career amid several loan spells.
Jeffers later enjoyed a nomadic career of unfulfilled potential, though he did manage to score on his sole appearance for England – netting in a defeat to Australia at Upton Park that was most notable for the international debut of Wayne Rooney.
Jeffers also jointly-held the record with Alan Shearer for most goals scored for the England u21 team (13), though was eclipsed by Arsenal's Eddie Nketiah in October 2020.
Alan Smith – 17 goals
The tenacious forward needed just three minutes to mark his Leeds debut with a goal at Anfield in 1998, the fresh-faced academy graduate entering the field in an oversized white jersey before firing home an equaliser to spark a comeback win at Liverpool.
Smith instantly became a hometown hero with his aggressive style and work-rate winning admirers, quickly establishing himself in David O'Leary's exciting young side and proving a regular source of goals.
The Rothwell-born star scored 17 Premier League goals whilst still a teenager, later playing a key role in the club's run to the Champions League semi-finals in 2001.
Smith's love affair with his boyhood side ended in defection after 228 appearances and 56 goals however, the club's relegation from the top flight and financial meltdown leading the forward to join bitter rivals Manchester United in a controversial £6m deal.
Smith won the Premier League title during a three season spell at Old Trafford, later representing Newcastle, MK Dons and Notts County before his retirement in 2018.
Nicolas Anelka – 19 goals
One of Arsene Wenger's greatest Arsenal bargains, Anelka arriving in north London for a fee of just £500,000 from Paris Saint-Germain and became one of the division's great finds.
Wenger's search for a long term heir to the ageing Ian Wright saw a 17-year-old Anelka move to Highbury, but the notion that the teenage forward was one for the future was swiftly removed after a brief bedding in period.
Anelka scored nine goals in all competitions during his first full season at the club as Arsenal claimed a domestic double, including a vital goal in a win over title rivals Manchester United and the second in the club's FA Cup final victory over Newcastle at Wembley.
It was, however, the following season where the French forward truly burst into life, being named as the PFA Young Player of the Year following a series of seemingly unstoppable performances that delivered 17 Premier League goals.
Anelka's displays led to a £22.3m move to Real Madrid at the end of the season, the forward later returning to the Premier League with spells at Liverpool, Manchester City, Bolton, Chelsea and West Brom, finishing his career in English football with two league titles, three FA Cups and 125 top flight goals.
Mason Greenwood – 20 goals*
Greenwood's superb start to the 2021/22 season has moved him into the top four amongst the highest scoring teenagers in the division's history.
The forward is arguably the brightest prospect to have come through the Manchester United academy in recent seasons and starred during a debut 2019/20 season, scoring 17 goals in all competitions to equal George Best, Brian Kidd and Wayne Rooney for the most goals in a single campaign by a Red Devils teenager.
Greenwood endured a more difficult season but has started brightly in 2020/21, with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hailing his physical development following a mature showing in the emphatic win over Leeds.
The forward followed that up with an equaliser in the 1-1 draw against Southampton before netting a late winner against Wolves.
Not 20 until October 1, Greenwood is a natural finisher and still has time to add to his tally, though it's going to take a goal glut to climb the rankings further.
Wayne Rooney – 30 goals
Few players have burst onto the scene quite like a teenage Wayne Rooney, the powerfully built man-child adorned in Everton blue delivering one of the most iconic Premier League goals of all-time against Arsenal to open his account in England's top tier.
From the moment the 16-year-old Rooney delivered that inch-perfect winning goal at Goodison Park, the footballing media whipped up a frenzy surrounding English football's latest 'boy wonder'.
Rooney scored 15 Premier League goals for his boyhood side before becoming the most expensive teenager in history, joining Manchester United in a record-breaking move and making an instant impact at Old Trafford.
The forward scored 30 league goals before his 20th birthday and is one of just two players – alongside Alan Shearer – to score over 200 Premier League goals, finishing his career with five league titles and as the greatest goalscorer in the history of both Manchester United and England.
Robbie Fowler – 35 goals
Fowler's goalscoring credentials were widely recognised amid the academy ranks at Liverpool, but few could have anticipated the impact the forward would have when handed a first-team opportunity.
The Toxteth-teenager scored on his senior debut in a League Cup tie against Fulham before coming to prominence with a five-goal haul in the return leg, seizing his opportunity by scoring 12 times in his first 13 appearances for the club.
Fowler's famed finishing ability made him a hugely popular figure amongst Kopites, the local hero who ruthlessly needed just half a chance to find the net. Fowler scored 30+ goals in all competitions in each of his first three full seasons as a Liverpool player, including 35 league goals before his 20th birthday.
Named as the PFA Young Player of the Year in back-to-back seasons in 1995 and 1996, Fowler is the eighth-highest goalscorer in Premier League history with 163 goals.
Michael Owen – 46 goals
Owen showed a glimpse of his vast potential by scoring on his Liverpool debut as a 17-year-old in 1997, before flourishing amid exposure to the first-team with a stunning first full season in the Premier League.
The teenage Owen had the world at his feet with his blistering pace and ice-cold temperament in front of goal, winning the division's Golden Boot award as an 18-year-old before being named as the PFA Young Player of the Year and Premier League Player of the Season.
After starring at that summer's World Cup, Owen returned with another prolific campaign to retain the Golden Boot, becoming just the second player to achieve the feat and winning the award twice before his 20th birthday.
Owen later inspired Liverpool to a treble of cup successes in 2001 and became the second-youngest ever winner of the Ballon d'Or, though his latter career was decimated by injuries with his teenage years the peak of his powers.
He left Liverpool for Real Madrid in 2004, later representing Newcastle, Manchester United and Stoke before retiring from the game in 2013.
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text:
Tunisia's Kais Saied moves revolution anniversary
Tunisia's President Kais Saied moves anniversary marking the country's revolution
Tunisia's President Kais Saied told his cabinet Thursday that he would move the holiday marking the country's revolution to December 17, the day 'the revolutionary explosion burst out of Sidi Bouzid'.
Saied, who sacked the government and seized wide-ranging powers on July 25, wants to radically change the form of Tunisian governance [source: Getty]
Tunisia's President Kais Saied said Thursday he would move the official anniversary of the country's revolution, a symbolic shift indicating that the revolt is unfinished.
Tunisia's uprising broke out on December 17 2010, when Mohamed Bouazizi, a vegetable salesman angered by police harassment, set himself ablaze in the marginalised rural town of Sidi Bouzid.
Four weeks later, after vast nationwide protests, veteran dictator Zine El Abidine Ben Ali fled into exile on January 14, which later became an official day of remembrance and a public holiday.
But Saied told his cabinet on Thursday that he would order the holiday moved to December 17, the day "the revolutionary explosion burst out of Sidi Bouzid".
Tunisia's Saied appoints new govt 11 weeks after power grab
"Unfortunately the revolution was usurped," he added. "The people were even prevented from expressing their desires and slogans."
Saied, who sacked the government and seized wide-ranging powers on July 25, wants to radically change the form of Tunisian governance and sees the revolution as a process that is still underway.
Since 2011, January 14 has been a public holiday across Tunisia - except in Sidi Bouzid, which marks the revolution every year on December 17 in homage to Mohamed Bouazizi.
Kais Saied


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Home » DVD Reviews » CrazySexyCool: The TLC story is relived on a made for TV movie
CrazySexyCool: The TLC story is relived on a made for TV movie
Posted by Samantha Pounds on Oct 28, 2013 in DVD Reviews | 0 comments
We all remember the three ladies of TLC- even if you weren't a fan, born in the era or caught wind of the jaw dropping lyrics these ladies garnered during the 90's and early 2000's. The highly anticipated made for TV movie on the VH1 network was finally released Oct. 21. The film drew the highest cable ratings the network has ever seen. 4.5 million viewers to be exact caught the rise and fame of the ladies as they witnessed the struggle, heartache and pain of the group.
TLC is personally one of my favorite girl groups of all time. Their girl power anthems have always stuck with me throughout the years and even today I find myself playing some of their first hits such as "What About Your Friends?" and "Ain't 2 Proud 2 Beg." These songs gave TLC their rough around the edge reputation that included baggy clothing, oversized glasses and condoms that were placed throughout their wardrobe.
Before the release of this film, I wondered how exactly the cast members would resemble the original group members. Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes was played by rapper Lil Mama, Tionne "T Boz" Watkins was portrayed by actress and model Drew Sidora while Rozanda "Chilli" Thomas was portrayed by actress KeKe Palmer.
Lil Mama had the most resemblance to Left Eye as her natural rough around the edges demeanor did justice in portraying the late rapper. Actresses' Drew Sidora and KeKe Palmer somewhat resembled T Boz and Chilli. In my personal opinion, actress Tika Sumpter would've portrayed Chilli more realistically. The resemblance between actress Drew Sidora and T Boz is a mutual one. The two share the same skin complexion and the wig of choice that was used for Sidora was quite striking in her portrayal of T Boz.
Watching biopic films of music stars always puts me at the edge of my seat because I wonder if their singing voices will actually match the character that is being portrayed. This film garnered mixed emotions for me in regards to the singing voices of the ladies. While T Boz was known for her low key raspy sound, Sidora wasn't really seen singing, but more lip syncing instead. Palmer did however sing a few lyrics from one of the group's first singles, "What About Your Friends?" Although she doesn't have the greatest singing voice, it was worth it to hear her try to master the voice of Chilli.
Rapper Lil Mama did however rap a few verses from "Waterfalls" and there were also some lip syncing involved. Lil Mama is not a top rated rapper, but her rhymes definitely put her at the top list to portray Left Eye. Not surprisingly her voice was very comparable to Left Eye, who was known for having a high pitch rapping style.
Although the music story is what really drew many people to watch "CrazySexyCool," the acting also was part of it as well. There were a few scenes were the acting wasn't too shabby. However, in some scenes, the acting felt more forced than naturally portrayed by the cast.
The film however did capture the group's rise to fame after signing with their former record label, LaFace Records. We have all heard the story about the group going bankrupt but never fully understood the just of it. "CrazySexyCool" certainly fills any blank spots you may've had in regards to the group and those who were part of their careers from the beginning.
What makes the film even more interesting is the recapture of some of TLC's classic songs. As a fan, it was a great thing to see the cast portray the group in some of their former music videos, concerts and interviews.
"CrazySexyCool" is worth a watch for many reasons, but more so because fans will get to understand the struggles the late Left Eye faced before her sudden and tragic death in 2002 in Honduras. The film may or may not be the greatest for some, but it certainly gives you an inside look and will change your perspective on the ladies of TLC in many ways.
Film rating: 8/10
-Samantha Pounds


April weather can be touch and go here in New England, sometimes kicking off with a snowstorm and winding down with spring buds. As our favorite bars start to throw open their windows and patio furniture creeps onto sidewalks, it seems these days like every watering hole from the corner pub to the high end cocktail bar is keen to show off their take on Sangria. But where did this all begin?
Sangria, as it happens, is as old as wine. Throughout history civilizations have managed the problem of potable water by mixing a little alcohol in with whatever bubbles forth from the nearest brook, and managed the problem of inferior wine by mixing in herbs, honey, spices, and fruit. They were mixing something similar up in Spain as early as 11OO B.C. with wine from vines planted by Phoenicians, and later with grapes cultivated by the Romans. Red wine was commonly used, and the beverage took its name from "sangre", the Spanish word for blood.
In colonial America, our forebroads drank Sangaree, which was usually made of Madeira and popularly mentioned in travelers' accounts of the Caribbean, where, as David Wondrich writes in Imbibe!, "Spaniard and Englishmen mixed with great frequency." But, "by the Civil War, Sangaree was getting a little long in the tooth." Sangria, on the other hand, made a huge splash stateside at the 1964 World's Fair, where it was served at the Spanish pavilion. 55 years later and the U.S. has yet to slake its thirst.
This traditional recipe comes from national bartending treasure, Portland, Oregon-based bartender and writer Jeffrey Morgenthaler. His blog and his books share so much wisdom, take a gander at the recipe below and make a toast to spring!
MIX ingredients together in a large pitcher.
SERVE in goblets over ice.


For home improvements on a tight budget, take a look at our range of good quality cheap carpets that don't break the bank. Low cost doesn't mean low quality when it comes to carpets, so whether it's a bedroom carpet, stain resistant living room carpets or hard wearing hallway flooring, we've got a carpet to suit your needs.
With free samples available, free delivery when you spend over £95 and carpet prices from as little as £3.75 per square metre, you can give your home a new look for less.


Originally from Orange County, California, Melissa has grown to love the climate and lifestyle of the Pacific Northwest. She moved to Seattle seven years ago to continue her career in hairstyling when she discovered she had a greater passion for the built environment. This inspired her to go back to school to pursue an education in Urban Planning. Melissa is now a senior at the University of Washington in the CEP program.. Within the program, she has a more personalized focus on Urban Design, Landscape Architecture, and Community Outreach. She is currently working with nonprofit organizations Capitol Hill Ecodistrict and International Future Living Institute for her senior project. The goal of the project it to develop a sidewalk redesign concept for a block in the Capitol Hill neighborhood to add more green space to a very dense urban area.


A pergola provides the ultimate outdoor living space, where you can comfortably enjoy the warmth of the sun and a gentle breeze. And if a summer rain shower suddenly appears, you can simply continue chatting in your pergola with friends and family while enjoying a cup of coffee or glass of wine.
Special built-in 'sunscreens' offer extra protection from the sun. Convert your terrace roof into an inviting shaded outdoor space in no time. During the in-between seasons - and even in the winter - you can continue to enjoy outdoor living thanks to an electric heating element. The heater is aesthetically incorporated into the ceiling or against the wall and barely visible. Your terrace instantly becomes the perfect spot to relax and enjoy your garden.
At Gesbo we realise that every pergola is unique. That is why we always tailor the design to your desires and needs. We offer a choice between aluminium and wood and a long list of finish options to ensure that your pergola also is the perfect match for your exterior carpentry. Our skilled staff would be happy to advise and assist you in creating the perfect design.
Is a pergola exactly what you're looking for?
Contact us for a no-obligation quote, stop by our showroom to discuss all the possibilities or have a look at our completed projects.


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The art in public places program enriches New Mexico's public spaces through an innovative and diverse public art collection.
The Arts and Cultural Districts approved by the Legislature have the potential of spurring new development crucial to smaller New Mexico communities. The New Mexico Arts Commission serves as the authorizing authority for the Arts and Cultural Districts.
The Arts Trails are designed to put New Mexico artists on the map and bring the market to them. The trails are a key component of New Mexico Arts' arts-based economic development and cultural tourism efforts and are paid for through state funds approved b
The Folk Arts Program preserves and perpetuates performing and visual art forms of the traditional arts practiced by various cultures within the state of New Mexico.
Governor's Awards for Excellence in the Arts
The Governor's Arts Awards were established in 1974 by Governor Bruce King and First Lady Alice King to celebrate the enormous roles - both economic and cultural - that artists, craftspeople and arts supporters play in the life of New Mexico. During its 4
New Mexico Arts contracts arts services on behalf of the state for the people of New Mexico.
The National Endowment for the Arts and The Poetry Foundation have partnered with state arts agencies to support the expansion of Poetry Out Loud, which encourages the nation's youth to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation.
2023 New Mexico Arts Artist Residency - Bosque Redondo Memorial Historic Site


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4359 Berlage eller 1935 TG är en asteroid i huvudbältet som upptäcktes den 28 september 1935 av den holländske astronomen Hendrik van Gent i Johannesburg. Den har fått sitt namn efter den nederländske metrologen Hendrik Petrus Berlage, son till Hendrik Petrus Berlage.

Asteroiden har en diameter på ungefär 5 kilometer.

Referenser

Huvudbältesasteroider
Småplaneter namngivna efter personer
Astronomiska upptäckter av H van Gent
Astronomiska upptäckter 1935

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


The beginning of danger! – Loving Danger!
We didn't realise that by giving him the middle name of "Danger", just what we were instore for. It seemed that his fate was written in the stars, before we even knew it!
It was September 2011 and I had given birth via emergency C-section at 3am. I also didn't realise how poignot 3am a time was, as that time would feature highly for many years to come! Bryce, my husband at the time, said excitedly to me, can I still give him the middle name of DANGER? I'm about to sign the birth certificates for the babies!
As my eyes rolled back into my head, I muttered a yes, before dropping out of consciousness!
I woke up in another room, away from my 2 babies. I had no idea what was going on. Within moments, Bryce came to me, eyes beaming telling me happily that Michael "Danger" and Jasmine "Erica" were now being looked after in NICU (neonatal-intensive care unit).
70 days later, we were able to take them home.
1 week later, and we would be vising the hospital again with a sick little Jasmine for another stay in the children's ward. One of many to come over the following 12 months.
To this day, I think that Danger was the name that chose him, not the other way around.
While his little twin sister 'Jazzie', was busy battling her 'failure to thrive', many bouts of chronic respitory infections, 'Mikey' was kicking goals with eating, sleeping, pooping and generally growing into a big and robust boy.
Mikey had his first seizure just shy of turning 1 years old. That seizure changed his life and our life as a family, forever. It would completely alter the progression of the little boy who had the middle name of Danger, who spent 70 days in the NICU and Special Care Nurseries with his twin, to something completely different.
The little boy who had just learnt to crawl the week prior, was beginning to talk and become familiar with the world around him had lost it all through one prolonged seizure.


"Top Kill" Failed. The camera feed is a fake. And so are the cleanup workers.
It would also appear that the live feed is actually a considerably more mild leak — more palatable, I suppose. A fake. Like the cleanup workers BP had bussed in for the president.
Enough is enough. Boycott BP.
John Perkins, reformed Economic Hitman, just posted this animation from Studio Joho to his Twitter feed. It's brilliant.
With the new version of Cygwin, SSH suddenly doesn't seem to phone $HOME anymore. Which is usually going to be set to something like c:\Users\<username>. In general Cygwin is supposed to look at $HOME first and then use alternative home settings, such as /etc/passwd.
The quick fix is to make sure the relevant entry in /etc/passwd matches what you have in $HOME.
Why dread the Fed? Audit it!
Chris just implored his corner of Twitterspace to post more blog entries, so here goes.
You know that ponderous-seeming institution that overshadows everyday American life? The one that controls the currency supply by printing as much of the stuff as it possibly can? The one that grows the economy by encouraging the U.S. populace to dig itself into a Mariana Trench of debt? You know.. the Fed. The dreaded Fed.
Well, although Ron Paul's attempt to audit the Fed was recently derailed by Chris Dodd and his cadre, Senator David Vitter has brought the bill back.
In other words: Tell your senator that you would like the Federal government and the Federal Reserve to reveal where our money has been going, what's been done with it, and how exactly we have managed to arrive at this particular economic precipice.
I guarantee the revelations will be more powerful than a Michael Bay summer blockbuster.
Normally I don't read technical interviews, but the Register's interview with BrokeP is fascinating. Kelly Fiveash asks great questions and doesn't pull any punches.
Apparently TPB has "become this HAL entity that kinda runs itself".
Maybe it can explain to the record labels about how they're completely doomed.
Ira Flatow had an excellent interview this last Science Friday with Cape Wind's Jim Gordon and Denise Bode of the American Wind Energy Association. Cape Wind finally has the go-ahead to complete America's first offshore wind farm on Nantucket sound.
Be sure to listen to the callers. Having just learned about the escalating disaster in the Gulf of Mexico, I couldn't help but come away from the interview with a feeling that the show had been professionally "hit" by the oil lobby. Or maybe it was disinformation orchestrated by the Institute for Energy Research of which Denise warns. Or perhaps those were actual angry NIMBY Cape residents pretending to have more noble concerns.
Either way, I wasn't buying it. Jim deflected the arguments with the nonchalance of over-learned routine.


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RUGBY PLAYERS
Payne STEWART
View More Information More Pages
Photo/Foto: George Herringshaw
Springfield, U.S.A. Died October 25, 1999 (aged 42).
Championship Performances
(Top 20 finishes)
US Masters: 8th= 1986, 9th= 1993.
US Open: 1st 1991, 1999, 2nd 1993, 1998, 5th= 1985, 6th= 1986, 10th= 1988, 13th= 1989. Open: 2nd 1985, 2nd= 1990, 4th= 1987, 7th= 1988, 8th= 1989, 11th= 1995, 12th 1993.
PGA: 1st 1989, 5th= 1986, 8th= 1990, 9th= 1988, 12th=1985, 13th=1991, 1995.
Ryder Cup: 1987-93 (4), 1999 (P19, W7, H2, L10).
Back to Top More Pages
Payne STEWART - U.S.A. - Biography of his golfing career.
1979-86. Close to his first major, at the 1985 Open.
On the 25th October 1999 the golfing world mourned the loss of one of it's favourite sons when Payne Stewart's private jet crashed,killing all onboard. Stewart was much loved for his bubbly personality and flamboyant dress sense but above all he will be remembered as a true gentleman on and off the course. Payne had joined the professional game in 1979 and it was on the Asian Circuit that he first began to dispay his talents. He tasted success at the 1981 Indian and Indonesian Opens on his way to a third place finish in the Order of Merit. The following year he captured his first US Tour event with victory at the Quad Cities Open,mainly thanks to a superb closing round 63. In 1983 he won the Walt Disney World Golf Classic,playing some fine golf to return rounds of 69,64,69 and 67 for a nineteen under par total.
It was to be four long years before the man from Springfield would add to those two Tour victories but in that time he proved himself to be a prolific money winner. In 1986,for example,he finished third on the US Tour Money List with a total of $535,389. For any ambitious golfer however,which Payne certainly was,it is all about winning tournaments and in 1985 he came within a whisker of landing one of the games biggest. In a high scoring Open Championship at Sandwich the American finished just one stroke behind the champion Sandy Lyle,who returned a two over par total. Stewart's undoing proved to be his second round 75 and despite a closing effort of 68 (the photo above shows Payne on the 17th tee during the final round),compared to Lyle's 70,it was the Scot who clung on for his first major. (David Scranage)
The photo above of U.S. golfer Payne Stewart was taken on 14th. July 1987 at the British Open.
Picture by George Herringshaw. ©
Years 1987-90. His first major - at 1989 PGA.
Payne Stewart returned to the winners rostrum with his victory at the 1987 Hertz Bay Hill Classic - a success that played no small part in him making his Ryder Cup bow that same year. It was not the debut he would have hoped for,however,as the Americans went down to their first defeat on home soil for many a year. Payne had the misfortune to come up against the formidable Ballesteros/Olazabal pairing in each of his first two matches and on both occasions went down to the narrowest of defeats. He came back strongly though to register a four-balls win in partnership with Andy Bean,whilst in the singles he gained some revenge over Olazabal with a two up victory.
The year of 1989 proved to be a magnificent one for Payne - he won $1,201,301 on his way to a second place finish in the Money List but,more importantly,he captured his first major title when winning the PGA Championship. He had started the tournament poorly with an opening round 74 but rounds of 66 and 69 brought him back into contention,albeit six strokes back on leader Mike Reid. Last day nerves struck Reid,however,and Payne's closing 67,for a twelve under par total,was sufficient to give him a one stroke victory from Andy Bean,Curtis Strange and the faltering Reid. At the 1990 Open Championship Stewart produced some highly consistent golf to return three consecutive rounds of 68 followed by a closing day 71. Any other year he could have expected to lift the trophy but Payne was unfortunate enough to encounter Nick Faldo at the very peak of his powers. The Englishman played some sublime golf to finish at eighteen under par with Stewart five shots back at thirteen under. (David Scranage)
Stuart Franklin took this photograph of Payne Stewart on 23rd. September 1993. © G.H.
1991-93. Second major - at 1991 US Open.
Payne Stewart captured his second major with a play-off victory over Scott Simpson in the 1991 US Open,played at the Hazeltine National course. The two Americans had finished the four rounds all-square at three under par which meant,under US Open rules,returning for a further eighteen holes the next day. Neither man could reproduce the form of the previous four days,but it was Payne who took the honours with a round of 75 compared to Simpson's 77. Stewart was back on Ryder Cup duty for the rather ill-tempered 1991 match at Kiawah Island as the Americans triumphed for the first time since 1983. Payne's contribution was the useful return of two and a half points from his four matches,with each of his two wins coming in partnership with Mark Calcavecchia. Amid the most amazing tension the Americans took the trophy courtesy of a 14 1/2-13 1/2 scoreline in a match that went down to the last green of the last match.
In 1993 Stewart,who was always recognizable due to his trademark plus fours,came close to landing a second US Open crown. He finished at six under par but had to settle for second place just two strokes behind Lee Janzen who had played consistently well all week to shoot two 67s and two 69s. The '93 Ryder Cup saw Payne produce his best return in the event,with three points from a possible four,to help his team retain the trophy. Stewart's performance epitomised the fighting spirit he had shown thoughout his career as in the first day morning foursomes he and Paul Azinger had been handed a 7&5 thrashing by Ian Woosnam and Bernhard Langer. (David Scranage)


How soon after buying can you sell?
For many property investors and speculators, time is the key in a successful and profitable property transaction. Here's what you need to know about Simultaneous Transfers.
Investing in property is often viewed as a good means of growing personal wealth for individuals, and as a viable source of income for investors. In addition to the typical buyer considerations, there are a few additional factors that play a part in the success of the venture.
Timing and location are without a doubt the two most important considerations when it comes to investing in fixed property.
Successful property investors often buy in locations where the demand is low, or starting to increase, with the intention of improving its value before selling it on for a profit when the market indicates better prices. Another approach would be for investors / speculators to purchase property and immediately sell again in order to realise a profit. Timing in this process is crucial in terms of determining the right time to sell.
Property is typically seen as a long-term investment due to the liquidity and the return-on-investment cycles being lengthy. Due to legislative constraints and the registration process that is required as part of a property transfer, speculation in property is less commonplace than in stocks, where liquidity is high and turnaround times are short.
Legally, it is not possible to transfer more rights than one has, which means that only the owner of a property, as registered in the Deeds Office, can transfer rights relating to this property. It is, however, possible to "on-sell" a property, provided that the necessary conditions are included in the relevant contracts of sale.
As such, a second contract of sale may be entered into, with/without the required clauses that stipulate that the first contract of sale and transfer must be unconditional in order for the second sale to proceed. The registration of transfer of the property in terms of the first and second contracts will then take place simultaneously in the Deeds Office (i.e. one immediately after the other).
While the aim of such a transaction is often for a quick turnaround, it should be noted that the typical timeframe for transfers is 90 days, as per Law Society guidelines. However, this should not be relied on, as there are many factors that can alter the turnaround times, especially in the instance of "linked" transfers.
Although it is possible for transfers to take place simultaneously, in effect, there are two separate transfers taking place, i.e. the property is first transferred to the original buyer and then it is transferred a second time to the final buyer. Because each transfer must be dealt with separately, according to Section 17 of the Deeds Registries Act, all legal requirements must be met separately for each transfer. This includes all relevant documentation and transfer fees associated with the property transaction.
When it comes to costs, if the original buyer (broker) was able to sell to the second buyer at a higher price, the difference will constitute the profits of the sale, and this is where the potential benefits lie for investors or speculators. An original buyer in such a scenario will simply act as a conduit / broker who will buy and on-sell to a third party purchaser who will effectively provide finance for both transactions. This is often the case with repossessed properties where brokers or agents buy on Sheriff auctions and immediately sell to third parties at a marginal profit.
When calculating the possible return on investment, remember to take Capital Gains Tax into account.