20/07/2026
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Just when you thought the global geopolitical landscape couldn't get any more surreal, Evertonians have somehow managed to establish a firm grip on the highest echelons of Western democracy.
When Mark Carney pulled off a stunning political comeback to be sworn in as the Prime Minister of Canada, we at ToffeeWeb rightfully celebrated. Finally, a proper Blue — a man who spent his time as Bank of England Governor casually mentioning his allegiance to the Gwladys Street — was running a G7 nation.
But lightning, as it turns out, does strike twice.
Following a rapid political ascent that saw him secure a return to Parliament, Andy Burnham has officially taken up residence in No 10 Downing Street. In doing so, he becomes the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, sealing a truly unprecedented reality: two of the world's G7 superpowers are now led by card-carrying, long-suffering, dyed-in-the-wool Evertonians.
From the Greater Manchester Mayoralty to the Ultimate "No 10"
For years, Burnham has been arguably the most high-profile, vocal Evertonian in British public life. Whether he was enduring the standard Goodison existential dread from the Directors' Box or fighting tirelessly for justice for the Hillsborough families during his days in cabinet, his footballing DNA has never been in doubt.
When he left Westminster in 2017 to become the "King in the North" as Mayor of Greater Manchester, many assumed his days of aiming for the top job in British politics were done. Yet, following his victory in the Makerfield by-election, his unopposed march to the Labour leadership has put a proud scouser (raised just outside the city) into the ultimate hot seat.
Forget the traditional tactical setups: Burnham aims to be the new No 10 that some quarters of British politics have been crying out for.
The Blue G7 Summit
One can only imagine the scenes at the next G7 summit. While the rest of the world leaders are busy discussing global trade tariffs, security pacts, and fiscal policy, Burnham and Carney will inevitably be huddled in a corner of the room, intensely debating whether Everton's summer friendly victory over Dundee is a sign of a top-half finish or if the Hill Dickinson Stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock will finally yield some silverware.
Optimism in High Places
To be an Evertonian is to understand the concepts of resilience, managing expectations, and surviving against the absolute heaviest of odds. Perhaps those exact traits are why Carney and Burnham have managed to scale the heights of international leadership. If you can handle a cold December afternoon watching Everton drop points from a winning position, steering a major nation through a global crisis is a walk in the park.
From all of us at ToffeeWeb, congratulations to the new Prime Minister... even if some of us are slightly concerned about his leaning in towards yet bigger government and even more welfare support provided for the people, with a doomed wealth tax of one form or another set to destroy any entrepreneurial spirit that might be left amongst the country's high fliers.
The country faces massive challenges, but at the very least, we know the man at the helm understands the true meaning of the club motto: Nil Satis Nisi Optimum. Let's just hope his cabinet selections are a bit more inspired than some of our recent transfer windows…
Reader Comments (128)
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Les Callan
2 Posted 20/07/2026 at 15:14:19
2 Posted 20/07/2026 at 15:14:19
Some great socialist policies announced by Andy at lunchtime.
Onward and upward.
Onward and upward.
John Collins
3 Posted 20/07/2026 at 15:30:50
3 Posted 20/07/2026 at 15:30:50
Nationalise, Nationalise, Nationalise.
Then up the tax rate for the superich and the likes of Starbucks, 1,400 Starbucks locations in the UK. £550 million annual turnover. Never paid £1 in Corporation Tax last year.
Then up the tax rate for the superich and the likes of Starbucks, 1,400 Starbucks locations in the UK. £550 million annual turnover. Never paid £1 in Corporation Tax last year.
Mark Murphy
4 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:03:27
4 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:03:27
"even if some of us are slightly concerned about his leaning in towards yet bigger government and even more welfare support provided for the people, with a doomed wealth tax of one form or another set to destroy any entrepreneurial spirit that might be left amongst the country's high fliers."
"Some of us" meaning the Daily Mail readers on here?
"Some of us" meaning the Daily Mail readers on here?
Paul Hewitt
5 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:07:48
5 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:07:48
Same old shite.
Charlie Fath
6 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:09:02
6 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:09:02
John, @2...
Starbucks paid £5M in UK Corporation Tax last year, based on £95m profits. Still not enough as they are allowed, as many companies are, to pay 'sister' companies huge dividends across the globe.
Sadly, the global tax system needs changing and it's not what the UK can do on their own. Even George Osbourne tried to change this!
Starbucks paid £5M in UK Corporation Tax last year, based on £95m profits. Still not enough as they are allowed, as many companies are, to pay 'sister' companies huge dividends across the globe.
Sadly, the global tax system needs changing and it's not what the UK can do on their own. Even George Osbourne tried to change this!
Kevin Molloy
7 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:10:00
7 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:10:00
The politics of left and right are utterly irrelevant now to what happens at the top level.
You either box off the oligarchs or you're toast.
You either box off the oligarchs or you're toast.
Julian Wait
8 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:10:22
8 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:10:22
I don't follow him as closely as I might if I still lived in the UK, but I've liked pretty much everything I've heard about him. I even quite like his social media stuff, it's refreshing in a way and subtly self-deprecating. Certainly it's a nice change to switch from the long line of Oxford educated Prime Ministers (Ed: really. Oxford /s) and I fully support him and others in an effort to get public transport back on track.
(Living in Austin, TX, there's a very poor and incomplete public transport system here and you shouldn't take the ones in the UK for granted, just like the NHS, warts and all... careful what you wish for!)
Wealth tax to me is a must, I don't believe for one minute that it will dissipate entrepreneurship except perhaps by driving some to move elsewhere ... so be it. They move their money offshore already anyway.
(Living in Austin, TX, there's a very poor and incomplete public transport system here and you shouldn't take the ones in the UK for granted, just like the NHS, warts and all... careful what you wish for!)
Wealth tax to me is a must, I don't believe for one minute that it will dissipate entrepreneurship except perhaps by driving some to move elsewhere ... so be it. They move their money offshore already anyway.
Geoff Trenner
9 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:18:38
9 Posted 20/07/2026 at 16:18:38
Les, god help us.
Backwards and downwards!
Backwards and downwards!
Geoff Trenner
14 Posted 20/07/2026 at 17:16:32
14 Posted 20/07/2026 at 17:16:32
The guy in the window behind him reflects my feelings about Mr Burnham.
Geoff Trenner
15 Posted 20/07/2026 at 17:29:31
15 Posted 20/07/2026 at 17:29:31
Mark @3.
I don't read The Mail but I am more than a little concerned about bigger government and increased welfare spending.
I don't read The Mail but I am more than a little concerned about bigger government and increased welfare spending.
Andrew Ellams
18 Posted 20/07/2026 at 17:46:43
18 Posted 20/07/2026 at 17:46:43
Why Geoff? 55% of the welfare budget is on our woefully low state pension and around 27% is disability.
If you are in work benefits to that for employers who refuse to pay a decent day's pay for a day's work, which bits actually concern you?
If you are in work benefits to that for employers who refuse to pay a decent day's pay for a day's work, which bits actually concern you?
John Collins
19 Posted 20/07/2026 at 18:14:45
19 Posted 20/07/2026 at 18:14:45
The welfare for society's less fortunate, I reckon, Andrew.
John Collins
20 Posted 20/07/2026 at 18:16:17
20 Posted 20/07/2026 at 18:16:17
The guy in the window looks like he's squeezing a Turkish out, Geoff!
Steve Johnston
21 Posted 20/07/2026 at 18:51:37
21 Posted 20/07/2026 at 18:51:37
Isn't the guy in the window, Aussie cricketer Steve Smith?!?
Looks photoshopped, as think it's from when Smith was caught re: Sandpaper-gate!
Looks photoshopped, as think it's from when Smith was caught re: Sandpaper-gate!
Andrew Ellams
22 Posted 20/07/2026 at 19:43:45
22 Posted 20/07/2026 at 19:43:45
The "I'm Alright" brigade, John.
David West
23 Posted 20/07/2026 at 19:52:26
23 Posted 20/07/2026 at 19:52:26
There's more than enough money for the billionaires to have their yachts, 20 mansions private jets, and still help those who need it!
The top 1% hold 50% of the world's wealth. Bezos's wealth increases $2 -$7M per hour.
The political figures don't hold the power anymore when there's people with more money than countries.
How can the energy companies increase the price cap when Eon made £9.8B last year? How can we let them?
It needs someone to separate firms like Amazon or Facebook from things that you have no choice but to buy, like gas, petrol, electricity, buses, trains, water...
Water! How, in this country where it never stops raining, are we getting bummed by companies for water bills?
Come on, Andy, show there's a choice, a different way, not the Farage way, but a difference between politicians.
The top 1% hold 50% of the world's wealth. Bezos's wealth increases $2 -$7M per hour.
The political figures don't hold the power anymore when there's people with more money than countries.
How can the energy companies increase the price cap when Eon made £9.8B last year? How can we let them?
It needs someone to separate firms like Amazon or Facebook from things that you have no choice but to buy, like gas, petrol, electricity, buses, trains, water...
Water! How, in this country where it never stops raining, are we getting bummed by companies for water bills?
Come on, Andy, show there's a choice, a different way, not the Farage way, but a difference between politicians.
Les Callan
24 Posted 20/07/2026 at 20:37:47
24 Posted 20/07/2026 at 20:37:47
Geoff @8. I take it that you read the Daily Mail then.
John Collins
25 Posted 20/07/2026 at 20:41:43
25 Posted 20/07/2026 at 20:41:43
He writes it Les, looking at his posts
John Collins
26 Posted 20/07/2026 at 20:43:46
26 Posted 20/07/2026 at 20:43:46
"Bezos's wealth increases $2 -$7M per hour"
Still millions of kids can't get a drink of clean water. Obscene.
Still millions of kids can't get a drink of clean water. Obscene.
Paul Hewitt
27 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:15:56
27 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:15:56
Stop using Amazon.
Never have, never will.
Never have, never will.
Geoff Trenner
28 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:31:57
28 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:31:57
Les@23. Why would you ‘take’ that from my comment?
Dale Self
29 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:38:37
29 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:38:37
I miss Larry O'Hara's contributions on threads like this. Good stuff though.
Did you see the video of Bezos smirking about human's water consumption competing with data centers' needs in the near future. That is not the behavior of a healthy man.
Did you see the video of Bezos smirking about human's water consumption competing with data centers' needs in the near future. That is not the behavior of a healthy man.
Tony Abrahams
30 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:46:35
30 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:46:35
Very good post David@22. Bezos and Blackrock, are very, very dangerous people/organisations, because like you say they are richer than a lot of nations.
Money buys power, money buys silence, and money buys corruption, and the thought of money becoming completely digital, is such a terrifying thought to me.
We are nearly there anyway I hear people say, with my own view being that these people are completely unaware of the consequences if the day ever arrives.
Money buys power, money buys silence, and money buys corruption, and the thought of money becoming completely digital, is such a terrifying thought to me.
We are nearly there anyway I hear people say, with my own view being that these people are completely unaware of the consequences if the day ever arrives.
Jamie Sweet
31 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:53:17
31 Posted 20/07/2026 at 21:53:17
Looking forward to Andy getting some red cards overturned for us this season, now a precedent has been set for this sort of behaviour.
David West
32 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:21:53
32 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:21:53
Tony 30. The tables have turned.
It's not business men going to politicians for favours, it's now politicians needing favours and the money of these super rich individuals and corporations.
I've got no problem with people getting rich, entrepreneurs, innovators deserve their rewards.
But there's got to be a fairer way, people who work their arses off are just scraping by,.
The issues are so big, so complicated, so intertwined with other countries now the world is so connected that it's not 1 PM or leader that can solve these issues.
So I hold zero Hope in anything getting any better ever !
Basically the world's fucked, the Internet needs switching off, that's the root cause of it all.
It's not business men going to politicians for favours, it's now politicians needing favours and the money of these super rich individuals and corporations.
I've got no problem with people getting rich, entrepreneurs, innovators deserve their rewards.
But there's got to be a fairer way, people who work their arses off are just scraping by,.
The issues are so big, so complicated, so intertwined with other countries now the world is so connected that it's not 1 PM or leader that can solve these issues.
So I hold zero Hope in anything getting any better ever !
Basically the world's fucked, the Internet needs switching off, that's the root cause of it all.
Derek Thomas
33 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:30:06
33 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:30:06
You shouldn't be able to just swan in based on getting the Manchester buses sorted and being 'not Starmer'...or Farage.
Needs to lay out all (any) new big ticket policy directions - with costings, let them be discussed, then call an Election before the end of the year.
Needs to lay out all (any) new big ticket policy directions - with costings, let them be discussed, then call an Election before the end of the year.
Les Callan
34 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:33:47
34 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:33:47
He’ll get round to that Derek. Be patient, give him time. See he he’d Reidy down there with him today. New minister for sport ?
Terry Hughes
35 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:39:14
35 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:39:14
What a corrupt incompetent gaslighting ‘government' we have. Peter Reid outside No 10 asslicking Burnham. He should turn his house into a HMO and invite all the invaders to stay there rent free.
Peter Reid -- yet another champagne socialist.
Peter Reid -- yet another champagne socialist.
Stan Grace
36 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:43:15
36 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:43:15
"Invaders" Terry?
You really need a long look in the mirror.
You really need a long look in the mirror.
Oliver Molloy
37 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:46:10
37 Posted 20/07/2026 at 23:46:10
He says he has a ten year plan - yes ten years mmm wonder why?
Eric Myles
39 Posted 21/07/2026 at 02:44:38
39 Posted 21/07/2026 at 02:44:38
Sean #38, when my best mate was on the SS he was forced into becoming a carer for the council although he had absolutely no qualifications, empathy nor desire to do so.
I would not have accepted him as a carer for my own mother and would have played hell with the council. Fair play to him though, he looked up the rules and regulations and got himself assigned to one particular like minded individual (he liked a drink and a smoke) and did a good job in the end, and yes, actually cared.
I would not have accepted him as a carer for my own mother and would have played hell with the council. Fair play to him though, he looked up the rules and regulations and got himself assigned to one particular like minded individual (he liked a drink and a smoke) and did a good job in the end, and yes, actually cared.
Sean Kearns
40 Posted 21/07/2026 at 03:25:40
40 Posted 21/07/2026 at 03:25:40
How does one get forced into wiping arses? He couldn’t say no like?
Eric Myles
41 Posted 21/07/2026 at 04:14:15
41 Posted 21/07/2026 at 04:14:15
If he said NO the SS would stop his benefits
Before that they made him go on a sandwich making course ffs! He makes a mean chip butty now though.
Before that they made him go on a sandwich making course ffs! He makes a mean chip butty now though.
Paul Griffiths
42 Posted 21/07/2026 at 06:33:29
42 Posted 21/07/2026 at 06:33:29
Astonishing political illiteracy from Mr. Kearns (38) like but is anyone really surprised like.
A truly bizarre streams of consciousness like or Coltrane’s sheets of sound like from a few flaky sentences on Bangladeshi immigrants like to a crazed digression on uniform clothing like.
Mr. Kearns writes modestly like about his political acumen like: ‘Just wondering like as I’m not much into politics’.
But how could someone with low and shallow IQ like write this following on from his conclusive four lines on ‘invaders’ like:
‘Why is England just one big game of follow the leader? Like all the fellas now wearing the same shirts with two pockets on the front etc? Every lad in town looks the same like little minions 😂 it’s so cringe! Everyone dresses in the same gear and looks the same for fear of being cast out’.
Cutting. Incisive, like. Concise. Piercing. Acerbic, like. Necessary. Urgent, like.
The diagnosis we have long waited for like, bringing together in one decisive and insightful conception like the age-old related issues of immigration and ‘same gear’ at long last like.
All good things must come to an end like, and Mr. Kearns signs off like reminding us like that:
‘… fortunately now i’m the US and have a wonderful thing called freedom of speech’
A fair number of Blighty-based ToffeeWebbers like will doubtless agree like that they are ‘fortunate’ like that Mr. K like is in the USA like.
Sadly for them like and unlike Mr. K. like, they don’t have freedom of speech on their side of the ocean like, unlike in 'merica like. Yet more profound heuristic like razor-sharp political analysis like from Mr. K. like.
N.B. like. If any of you wish to catch a glimpse like of the real Kearns like, go to the Beto/Fans thread like and read his vile racist anti-Semitic post #51 like.
A truly bizarre streams of consciousness like or Coltrane’s sheets of sound like from a few flaky sentences on Bangladeshi immigrants like to a crazed digression on uniform clothing like.
Mr. Kearns writes modestly like about his political acumen like: ‘Just wondering like as I’m not much into politics’.
But how could someone with low and shallow IQ like write this following on from his conclusive four lines on ‘invaders’ like:
‘Why is England just one big game of follow the leader? Like all the fellas now wearing the same shirts with two pockets on the front etc? Every lad in town looks the same like little minions 😂 it’s so cringe! Everyone dresses in the same gear and looks the same for fear of being cast out’.
Cutting. Incisive, like. Concise. Piercing. Acerbic, like. Necessary. Urgent, like.
The diagnosis we have long waited for like, bringing together in one decisive and insightful conception like the age-old related issues of immigration and ‘same gear’ at long last like.
All good things must come to an end like, and Mr. Kearns signs off like reminding us like that:
‘… fortunately now i’m the US and have a wonderful thing called freedom of speech’
A fair number of Blighty-based ToffeeWebbers like will doubtless agree like that they are ‘fortunate’ like that Mr. K like is in the USA like.
Sadly for them like and unlike Mr. K. like, they don’t have freedom of speech on their side of the ocean like, unlike in 'merica like. Yet more profound heuristic like razor-sharp political analysis like from Mr. K. like.
N.B. like. If any of you wish to catch a glimpse like of the real Kearns like, go to the Beto/Fans thread like and read his vile racist anti-Semitic post #51 like.
Geoff Trenner
43 Posted 21/07/2026 at 08:39:25
43 Posted 21/07/2026 at 08:39:25
Andrew@18. The state pension needs to be kept low so that people like me don’t take any more from the state. Increase it by £5k and, after tax, I’d be £2750 better off. I just don’t need it and the country can’t afford it. Far better to target other benefits like Pension Credit, UC etc at those who need it.
I have more of a problem with disability benefit. We can’t have the number of people, including a lot of youngsters, claiming it for ADHD, anxiety and stress. The last 2 have become the 21st century’s ’bad back’.
In my line of work I advise and coach businesses on working more efficiently. Many of these businesses are struggling under the weight of Starmer’s increases to employer NICs, NMW increases and introduction of employee rights from day one. Most have halted hiring, many are cutting staff, off-shoring work and a good number of the owners are struggling to make enough to pay themselves a salary. We can’t keep loading more and more onto business.
We need people to take more responsibility for themselves, not immediately turn to government when life gets tough.
No doubt I’ll be damned as a small government, low tax Tory. All true, but I honestly believe that that route is far better for everyone than the socialism that many on here, and elsewhere, are calling for.
I have more of a problem with disability benefit. We can’t have the number of people, including a lot of youngsters, claiming it for ADHD, anxiety and stress. The last 2 have become the 21st century’s ’bad back’.
In my line of work I advise and coach businesses on working more efficiently. Many of these businesses are struggling under the weight of Starmer’s increases to employer NICs, NMW increases and introduction of employee rights from day one. Most have halted hiring, many are cutting staff, off-shoring work and a good number of the owners are struggling to make enough to pay themselves a salary. We can’t keep loading more and more onto business.
We need people to take more responsibility for themselves, not immediately turn to government when life gets tough.
No doubt I’ll be damned as a small government, low tax Tory. All true, but I honestly believe that that route is far better for everyone than the socialism that many on here, and elsewhere, are calling for.
Micky Norman
44 Posted 21/07/2026 at 08:45:10
44 Posted 21/07/2026 at 08:45:10
I won't be political on a football site unless they are absolutely tied together. So I'm looking forward to the first Daily Mail Burnham sleaze headline of “Andy Burnham seen jumping the queue at Sandhills Station after Everton match”.
And photographers and lip readers shocked as Andy Burnham seen to sing “We don't care what the red shite say”.
And photographers and lip readers shocked as Andy Burnham seen to sing “We don't care what the red shite say”.
John Collins
45 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:05:46
45 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:05:46
Andy's first move is right up my street. Remove VAT from fuel bills.
Pay for it by using the funds put aside to finance the ID card Bill that Andy scrapped. A good start.
Pay for it by using the funds put aside to finance the ID card Bill that Andy scrapped. A good start.
Jeff Spiers
46 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:15:36
46 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:15:36
Marxist Andy, welcome to Parliament.
Look after the people. The working class. Without them we'll be fucked.
Defund the Monarchy.
Look after the people. The working class. Without them we'll be fucked.
Defund the Monarchy.
Geoff Trenner
47 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:18:43
47 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:18:43
John @45.
To clarify, the VAT cut is on electricity only; gas and standing charges are not included -- and it is initially for only 6 months.
The government has admitted that ID cards are unfunded so no money has been put aside.
To clarify, the VAT cut is on electricity only; gas and standing charges are not included -- and it is initially for only 6 months.
The government has admitted that ID cards are unfunded so no money has been put aside.
Eddie Ng
48 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:22:54
48 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:22:54
Please just don't run the UK and Canada like your club's leadership team...
Eric Myles
49 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:41:37
49 Posted 21/07/2026 at 09:41:37
Geoff #43, it's admirable that you personally don't need the money and don't seek any more but there are a shitload of people out there that do.
And I'd bet that those struggling businesses you are helping out are not Amazon, Nestlé or Microsoft et al who can afford to put more back into the economies they're leeching from.
Instead, they just make their billionaire owners multi-billionaire owners.
And I'd bet that those struggling businesses you are helping out are not Amazon, Nestlé or Microsoft et al who can afford to put more back into the economies they're leeching from.
Instead, they just make their billionaire owners multi-billionaire owners.
Andrew Merrick
50 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:04:33
50 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:04:33
There is a lot that needs fixing, nationally and globally. Every new leader has to come in like a new broom... but bottom line is there is only so much to spend. So it's all about realigning expenditure, and stopping crippling waste.
Geoff has mentioned business constraints and bad back syndrome, these do need sorting out. I don't think southern voters will warm to Andy, not the South East anyway.
Devolution in practice will be interesting, look at Birmingham council for instance? Local "chiefs" will need to be accountable to someone.
Nationalising industry is a massive challenge, huge cost, to taxpayers, and obviosly will lose outside investment. But if private business shareholders don't live here, the profits go abroad and are not reinvested here, and if British shareholders are already rich, then they line their own pockets. Look at British Steel, Thames Water...
Big jobs need big ideas and balls to match; let's see how we are this time next year.
Geoff has mentioned business constraints and bad back syndrome, these do need sorting out. I don't think southern voters will warm to Andy, not the South East anyway.
Devolution in practice will be interesting, look at Birmingham council for instance? Local "chiefs" will need to be accountable to someone.
Nationalising industry is a massive challenge, huge cost, to taxpayers, and obviosly will lose outside investment. But if private business shareholders don't live here, the profits go abroad and are not reinvested here, and if British shareholders are already rich, then they line their own pockets. Look at British Steel, Thames Water...
Big jobs need big ideas and balls to match; let's see how we are this time next year.
Stu Darlington
51 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:12:21
51 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:12:21
Andy Burnham, no matter how well meaning he may be, does not have a magic wand... nor does any other politician.
As a country, we are owned and controlled by a faceless and unelected minority of wealthy and powerful people who are totally unaccountable for their actions. Politics and politicians are merely the smokescreen behind which they hide.
His major problem will be the same one all his predecessors have had since Thatcher sold off the family silver back in the '80s. Namely the vast amount of debt that is spiralling out of control year on year.
As a country we are constantly spending more than we earn and the difference can only be funded by increasing government income through tax manipulation or borrowing at exorbitant interest rates.
We simply cannot afford to fund the welfare state in its present form but unfortunately it remains such a sacred cow that politicians are all afraid to raise the issue.
As Prime Minister, he will be able to fiddle around the edges of the problem but the ultimate power lies with those people and institutions who control the real wealth of the country.
Get too close to making them pay and some scandal or other will be found to discredit Burnham and kick him back up north.
It's where the real power lies and has worked consistently for hundreds of years, highlighted by the way the distribution of wealth in this country has remained roughly unchanged over the centuries.
Good luck, Andy -- you are going to need it!
As a country, we are owned and controlled by a faceless and unelected minority of wealthy and powerful people who are totally unaccountable for their actions. Politics and politicians are merely the smokescreen behind which they hide.
His major problem will be the same one all his predecessors have had since Thatcher sold off the family silver back in the '80s. Namely the vast amount of debt that is spiralling out of control year on year.
As a country we are constantly spending more than we earn and the difference can only be funded by increasing government income through tax manipulation or borrowing at exorbitant interest rates.
We simply cannot afford to fund the welfare state in its present form but unfortunately it remains such a sacred cow that politicians are all afraid to raise the issue.
As Prime Minister, he will be able to fiddle around the edges of the problem but the ultimate power lies with those people and institutions who control the real wealth of the country.
Get too close to making them pay and some scandal or other will be found to discredit Burnham and kick him back up north.
It's where the real power lies and has worked consistently for hundreds of years, highlighted by the way the distribution of wealth in this country has remained roughly unchanged over the centuries.
Good luck, Andy -- you are going to need it!
Paul Hewitt
52 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:24:33
52 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:24:33
Stop foreign aid to countries that don't need it.
Save us billions.
Save us billions.
Paul Griffiths
53 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:28:17
53 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:28:17
Like to name them, PH @52?
Paul Hewitt
54 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:29:05
54 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:29:05
Cap welfare so no one can earn more than the average working person.
Stop inheritance tax, deport illegals straight away.
Stop inheritance tax, deport illegals straight away.
Paul Hewitt
55 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:32:33
55 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:32:33
I'm not in the government, PG.
But we still give aid to China apparently.
But we still give aid to China apparently.
Paul Hewitt
56 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:36:29
56 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:36:29
So, when you get your pay packet at the end of the month, PG, do you go round giving it to the more needy people near you?
Andrew Ellams
57 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:37:58
57 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:37:58
Paul, welfare is capped and has been for a long time.
Couples / households with children (Inside London): £486.98 per week
Couples / households with children (Outside London): £423.46 per week
Single adults (Inside London): £326.29 per week
Single adults (Outside London): £283.71 per week
Couples / households with children (Inside London): £486.98 per week
Couples / households with children (Outside London): £423.46 per week
Single adults (Inside London): £326.29 per week
Single adults (Outside London): £283.71 per week
Andrew Ellams
58 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:41:36
58 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:41:36
Oh and aid to China is currently at around £6M a year and paid directly to associations directly linked to the UK and not via the Chinese state.
Step away from the Daily Mail and/or GB News Paul. They rot the brain.
Step away from the Daily Mail and/or GB News Paul. They rot the brain.
Paul Hewitt
59 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:44:03
59 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:44:03
Andrew @57.
That's just one welfare. People can claim all sorts now a days.
The maximum you can earn from all your claims should not exceed the average working person.
That's just one welfare. People can claim all sorts now a days.
The maximum you can earn from all your claims should not exceed the average working person.
Andrew Ellams
60 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:57:54
60 Posted 21/07/2026 at 10:57:54
Still going full Daily Mail Paul.
The additional benefits are mainly sickness and disability. Unless you want to be the arbiter of who's sick or disabled enough that's a dangerous road. Remembering of course much of that comes from in work benefits for people who couldn't work without them.
The additional benefits are mainly sickness and disability. Unless you want to be the arbiter of who's sick or disabled enough that's a dangerous road. Remembering of course much of that comes from in work benefits for people who couldn't work without them.
Oliver Molloy
61 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:02:53
61 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:02:53
The benefits system is being abused to such an extent it is costing extra billions -- we all know people who have never worked a day in their life but want everything going at the expense of those who pay taxes every fucking day.
Sean, in my day, if my parents could not afford whatever, we never got it! From the age of 12 or 13, we were all out washing cars, cleaning neighbours windows, doorsteps, anything for a few bob -- no fucking handouts. These fraudulent scroungers (millions) who complain about everything are a huge burden on all of us who work.
A "single mum" who got her front windows smashed in where she lived because she didn't like it and wanted to get into a new build of houses -- she was successful, the new build of this brand new home cost £800 a month -- she pays £50 quid a month.
So taxpayers are paying £9 grand on her behalf a year -- god knows what else she gets! Examples such as this have to stop. Politicians are cowards totally.
Andy will be no different -- will he chase the likes of Amazon, Google and the super rich? Will he fuck -- he will chase small businesses for every pound they make everywhere.
Multiply the above example by thousands -- you have "advice centres" all over the UK funded by local government advising people how to apply for fucking everything, if they are turned down, they go back and they learn how to beat the system another way! -- that's a fact!
These "advice" experts will tell you they do not encourage fraudulent or untrue claims -- they just present the facts of outcomes for this or that... total bullocks.
There are genuine people out there receiving and in need of benefits and help many thousands are suffering -- going on for years and years and getting worse every year... more benefits paid out than tax taken in?
Sean, in my day, if my parents could not afford whatever, we never got it! From the age of 12 or 13, we were all out washing cars, cleaning neighbours windows, doorsteps, anything for a few bob -- no fucking handouts. These fraudulent scroungers (millions) who complain about everything are a huge burden on all of us who work.
A "single mum" who got her front windows smashed in where she lived because she didn't like it and wanted to get into a new build of houses -- she was successful, the new build of this brand new home cost £800 a month -- she pays £50 quid a month.
So taxpayers are paying £9 grand on her behalf a year -- god knows what else she gets! Examples such as this have to stop. Politicians are cowards totally.
Andy will be no different -- will he chase the likes of Amazon, Google and the super rich? Will he fuck -- he will chase small businesses for every pound they make everywhere.
Multiply the above example by thousands -- you have "advice centres" all over the UK funded by local government advising people how to apply for fucking everything, if they are turned down, they go back and they learn how to beat the system another way! -- that's a fact!
These "advice" experts will tell you they do not encourage fraudulent or untrue claims -- they just present the facts of outcomes for this or that... total bullocks.
There are genuine people out there receiving and in need of benefits and help many thousands are suffering -- going on for years and years and getting worse every year... more benefits paid out than tax taken in?
Paul Hewitt
62 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:06:21
62 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:06:21
Oliver@61. You're just pissing in the wind mate. People just don't get it.
John Collins
63 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:11:33
63 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:11:33
Geoff 47.
To clarify: a budget of £1.8B was set up to run the ID cards.
A right-wing agenda by Starmer, royally fucked off by Andy.
To clarify: a budget of £1.8B was set up to run the ID cards.
A right-wing agenda by Starmer, royally fucked off by Andy.
Jeff Spiers
64 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:13:48
64 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:13:48
Oliver. Spot on.
Paul Hewitt
65 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:21:49
65 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:21:49
And why are families having kids, left, right, and centre, when they can't afford them?
Guess it's the working person's job to do that.
Guess it's the working person's job to do that.
Eric Myles
66 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:22:13
66 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:22:13
Stu # 51,
"We simply cannot afford to fund the welfare state in its present form but unfortunately it remains such a sacred cow that politicians are all afraid to raise the issue.
Depends what you are defining as the 'welfare state'...
If your Mum had a heart attack, would you be able to pay for her treatment? Or if your Dad had dementia, would you be able to pay for his care home? How much do you pay for your children's education?
These are all 'welfare state' costs. I don't live in UK and there are eyewatering costs involved in paying for this out of your own pocket. I don't think anyone in England would vote for paying for it themselves.
"We simply cannot afford to fund the welfare state in its present form but unfortunately it remains such a sacred cow that politicians are all afraid to raise the issue.
Depends what you are defining as the 'welfare state'...
If your Mum had a heart attack, would you be able to pay for her treatment? Or if your Dad had dementia, would you be able to pay for his care home? How much do you pay for your children's education?
These are all 'welfare state' costs. I don't live in UK and there are eyewatering costs involved in paying for this out of your own pocket. I don't think anyone in England would vote for paying for it themselves.
Craig Walker
67 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:26:41
67 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:26:41
There's a very good cartoon out there which shows 3 people seated around a table. One of them is Rupert Murdoch, another is a worker in a hard hat and hi-vis jacket and the third one is an immigrant.
In front of Murdoch is a plate piled high with cookies. In front of the workman is a plate with a solitary cookie. Murdoch is saying to the worker, "Careful, mate. That foreigner will take your cookie".
There are people who are abusing the benefit system, I agree. We probably all know people but they are soft targets. Why don't we go after Michelle Mone and the like who defrauded taxpayers out of tens of billions?
Most benefits are in-work payments because work no longer pays enough.
In front of Murdoch is a plate piled high with cookies. In front of the workman is a plate with a solitary cookie. Murdoch is saying to the worker, "Careful, mate. That foreigner will take your cookie".
There are people who are abusing the benefit system, I agree. We probably all know people but they are soft targets. Why don't we go after Michelle Mone and the like who defrauded taxpayers out of tens of billions?
Most benefits are in-work payments because work no longer pays enough.
Paul Hewitt
68 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:31:44
68 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:31:44
Craig, why don't we go for both?
Stephen Meighan
69 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:44:41
69 Posted 21/07/2026 at 11:44:41
Oliver Malloy @61, Are you Margaret Thatcher's love child, by any chance?
Not every person on benefits are scroungers like you're precieving. I've worked all my life since leaving school at 16 and like millions of others have paid my taxes. Unlike you, I don't have this bitter attitude to people who find themselves in the benefits system.
Not every person on benefits are scroungers like you're precieving. I've worked all my life since leaving school at 16 and like millions of others have paid my taxes. Unlike you, I don't have this bitter attitude to people who find themselves in the benefits system.
Raymond Fox
70 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:11:42
70 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:11:42
The so-called democratic political system doesn't work efficiently but neither does any other system either, it's the best of a bad job.
Whatever party gets to govern, they are prevented from doing the really unpopular decisions that need to be done because they won't be voted for in the next election.
The country as a whole needs to compete in the world market. We have been doing badly for as long as I can remember. Anything that impedes that is bad news for us all.
The reality is business needs workers and workers need successful business. Really, the problems comes down to who gets what. Both sides think they are worth more.
As far as taxing businesses more, that seems the easy answer but, if they don't think it's worth the risk of starting a new venture or investing more in an existing company because it's over-taxed, they won't do it. That means less jobs.
I think what is bad news for everyone is the domination of more and more very large companies dominating individual markets, the choice is getting less and less.
To a lesser degree, look at supermarkets for food, they have us all over a barrel now, you have a choice of realistically 4 or 5, it's no wonder their prices keep rising way above the inflation rate.
Whatever party gets to govern, they are prevented from doing the really unpopular decisions that need to be done because they won't be voted for in the next election.
The country as a whole needs to compete in the world market. We have been doing badly for as long as I can remember. Anything that impedes that is bad news for us all.
The reality is business needs workers and workers need successful business. Really, the problems comes down to who gets what. Both sides think they are worth more.
As far as taxing businesses more, that seems the easy answer but, if they don't think it's worth the risk of starting a new venture or investing more in an existing company because it's over-taxed, they won't do it. That means less jobs.
I think what is bad news for everyone is the domination of more and more very large companies dominating individual markets, the choice is getting less and less.
To a lesser degree, look at supermarkets for food, they have us all over a barrel now, you have a choice of realistically 4 or 5, it's no wonder their prices keep rising way above the inflation rate.
Stu Darlington
71 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:15:02
71 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:15:02
Eric @66,
I'm not advocating getting rid of the welfare state, just suggesting that the demographic and economic background has changed dramatically since its inception and a complete and thorough review of society's needs today may allow us to come up with a more manageable and efficient service which is more fit for purpose.
I notice some people are taking the view that the majority of people receiving benefits are all scroungers living off the backs of the rest of us. No doubt some are... but the vast majority are not choosing to live off benefits, they have to by necessity. In fact, the majority of people receiving benefits (around 80%) are actually in work.
Maybe unscrupulous employees should be paying a living wage and not relying on zero hours contracts?
A G8 country which has food banks in every town, and homeless people living on the streets should say it all, but too many people rely on lazy Daily Mail thinking and blame the easy target, the victims.
Didn't the Nazis blame the Jews for all their economic and social problems between the wars? And look where that got us!
Great idea, deflect all our society's problems onto the unemployed and sick so the real culprits remain unchallenged.
I'm not advocating getting rid of the welfare state, just suggesting that the demographic and economic background has changed dramatically since its inception and a complete and thorough review of society's needs today may allow us to come up with a more manageable and efficient service which is more fit for purpose.
I notice some people are taking the view that the majority of people receiving benefits are all scroungers living off the backs of the rest of us. No doubt some are... but the vast majority are not choosing to live off benefits, they have to by necessity. In fact, the majority of people receiving benefits (around 80%) are actually in work.
Maybe unscrupulous employees should be paying a living wage and not relying on zero hours contracts?
A G8 country which has food banks in every town, and homeless people living on the streets should say it all, but too many people rely on lazy Daily Mail thinking and blame the easy target, the victims.
Didn't the Nazis blame the Jews for all their economic and social problems between the wars? And look where that got us!
Great idea, deflect all our society's problems onto the unemployed and sick so the real culprits remain unchallenged.
John Collins
72 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:21:18
72 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:21:18
Craig.
Divide and conquer. The nearly have fuck-alls being encouraged to look down their noses at the ones who do have fuck-all.
Divide and conquer. The nearly have fuck-alls being encouraged to look down their noses at the ones who do have fuck-all.
Paul Hewitt
73 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:22:28
73 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:22:28
Stu @71.
What twaddle.
What twaddle.
Andrew Ellams
74 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:43:06
74 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:43:06
Craig and John bang on. The Farage effect.
The paid tool of the billionaire classes for 25 years.
The paid tool of the billionaire classes for 25 years.
Derek Thomas
75 Posted 21/07/2026 at 2026/07/21 : 12:54:20
75 Posted 21/07/2026 at 2026/07/21 : 12:54:20
We now have an Evertonian as Prime Minister.
How will he do? Will there be a 'Honeymoon' period? How long will it last?
If I remember correctly, Starmer's lasted all of 6 months before there was a very large petition to ditch him. I'm actually amazed he lasted as long as he did.
Anyway, how will Andy Burnham cope with the one thing that prevents leaders from implementing their policies -- those dreaded 'Events'?
Kevin Naylor
76 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:55:53
76 Posted 21/07/2026 at 12:55:53
Who will last longer, Moyes or Burnham?
Answers on a postcard.
Answers on a postcard.
Oliver Molloy
77 Posted 21/07/2026 at 13:42:56
77 Posted 21/07/2026 at 13:42:56
Stephen @ 69..
Well read my last paragraph - keep up !
There are genuine people out there receiving and in need of benefits and help many thousands are suffering - going on for years and years and getting worse every year, more benefits paid out than tax taken in ?
Well read my last paragraph - keep up !
There are genuine people out there receiving and in need of benefits and help many thousands are suffering - going on for years and years and getting worse every year, more benefits paid out than tax taken in ?
Paul Hewitt
78 Posted 21/07/2026 at 13:57:34
78 Posted 21/07/2026 at 13:57:34
Stephen@69. Sorry but once again you're just another person who doesn't understand. Myself and others on here are not saying all people on unemployment benefits are scroungers. Or all people on sickness benefit are lying. But some don't want to work it's that simple. They are the ones the government should be targeting. Not the people who really need the help.
Tony Abrahams
79 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:10:41
79 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:10:41
I wasn’t going to get involved in such a sensible discussion because sometimes it’s better just reading the different points of view and learning, but I couldn’t help be drawn to what John@63, has written.
With my views on immigration making me sound like a far right thug, it was gratifying to read John saying that trying to force through ID cards, was a right wing agenda, because I am totally against ID cards, and actually believe that Digital Currency, is the biggest single most worrying aspect of modern times.
So I’m sometimes left, and sometimes I’m even right….The Black Eyed Peas, come to mind! (What was that, I should’ve just stayed out of this discussion👍!)
That is an incredible stat, if true what craig@69 has just written, last sentence.
With my views on immigration making me sound like a far right thug, it was gratifying to read John saying that trying to force through ID cards, was a right wing agenda, because I am totally against ID cards, and actually believe that Digital Currency, is the biggest single most worrying aspect of modern times.
So I’m sometimes left, and sometimes I’m even right….The Black Eyed Peas, come to mind! (What was that, I should’ve just stayed out of this discussion👍!)
That is an incredible stat, if true what craig@69 has just written, last sentence.
Paul Hewitt
80 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:22:13
80 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:22:13
Tony@79. I'm actually not against ID cards, used properly they could do good.
The fact that we are slowly being pushed into a cashless society is my biggest fear. Just another way that governments can control what you spend. And have.
The fact that we are slowly being pushed into a cashless society is my biggest fear. Just another way that governments can control what you spend. And have.
Frank Fearns
81 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:32:40
81 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:32:40
Andy --- can you get us a right back please?
Geoff Trenner
82 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:37:54
82 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:37:54
John @63. Budget allocated,yes. Where it would come from identified, no. Darren Jones confirmed it this morning.
I’m with you on doing away with the plan, not because it is right wing but because it is plain wrong
I’m with you on doing away with the plan, not because it is right wing but because it is plain wrong
Geoff Trenner
83 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:41:41
83 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:41:41
Eric @49.
The last sentence of my first paragraph makes in clear that I want help targeted at those who need it, through pension credits, UC etc
The last sentence of my first paragraph makes in clear that I want help targeted at those who need it, through pension credits, UC etc
John Collins
84 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:48:28
84 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:48:28
Geoff.
It will come from the same area the ID budget was coming from.
I would take it a step further by taxing the super rich, and passing their money on to benefit the people who keep the wheels turning in the country.
It will come from the same area the ID budget was coming from.
I would take it a step further by taxing the super rich, and passing their money on to benefit the people who keep the wheels turning in the country.
Eric Myles
85 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:57:13
85 Posted 21/07/2026 at 14:57:13
And then contradict it Geoff with
We need people to take more responsibility for themselves, not immediately turn to government when life gets tough.
We need people to take more responsibility for themselves, not immediately turn to government when life gets tough.
Stu Darlington
86 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:03:56
86 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:03:56
Paul @73,
There's none as blind as them that won't see!
There's none as blind as them that won't see!
John Collins
87 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:06:55
87 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:06:55
Tony 79.
ID Cards the thin end of the wedge mate.
Digital Currency is the main one, Tony. The powers that be will be looking to limit certain foods and goods consumed per month by the general public.
I went for a coffee a week or so ago. Ordered, coffee put on counter, and I was presented with a card machine. I got a tenner out to pay. Girl said, "We don't take cash."
Me: "I don't use credit cards."
She went blank and called the manager over.
"You will have to pay with card."
I told her "I don't own cards, you will have to put the coffee back in the machine."
She changed her mind and took the tenner.
ID Cards the thin end of the wedge mate.
Digital Currency is the main one, Tony. The powers that be will be looking to limit certain foods and goods consumed per month by the general public.
I went for a coffee a week or so ago. Ordered, coffee put on counter, and I was presented with a card machine. I got a tenner out to pay. Girl said, "We don't take cash."
Me: "I don't use credit cards."
She went blank and called the manager over.
"You will have to pay with card."
I told her "I don't own cards, you will have to put the coffee back in the machine."
She changed her mind and took the tenner.
Sean Kearns
88 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:12:01
88 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:12:01
Needing a license just to watch Live TV in your house is the craziest shit going! Never mind ID cards etc… A license. To watch. Live TV!!! Blows my mind….
Also, when you use cash, the government can't track what you like and force advertisements down your throat through your mind control device (smartphone)…
See the studies the US government did on low-frequency radio waves back in the day and mind control with TVs. The low-frequency radio waves that come through our TVs and phones can alter our moods and emotions, albeit very slightly…
It's also causing many people to get mental illness and depression or anxiety etc... but the benefits for Big Brother outweigh the negatives for us.
Also, when you use cash, the government can't track what you like and force advertisements down your throat through your mind control device (smartphone)…
See the studies the US government did on low-frequency radio waves back in the day and mind control with TVs. The low-frequency radio waves that come through our TVs and phones can alter our moods and emotions, albeit very slightly…
It's also causing many people to get mental illness and depression or anxiety etc... but the benefits for Big Brother outweigh the negatives for us.
Eric Myles
89 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:13:50
89 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:13:50
I've had similar in a bar in Bekasi John. Asked the guy behind the machine if he had a card, then told him to pay it and left the cash for him.
Geoff Trenner
90 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:23:58
90 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:23:58
Eric@85.
The pension credit & UC comment referred to recipients of the state pension and the self reliance comment related to the anxious and stressed claiming disability benefit. But you knew that
The pension credit & UC comment referred to recipients of the state pension and the self reliance comment related to the anxious and stressed claiming disability benefit. But you knew that
David West
91 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:26:01
91 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:26:01
You can't remove cash altogether. There has to be a back up option, I can't wait for the fuckin Internet to breakdown.
Ian Pilkington
92 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:27:33
92 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:27:33
Can we please move away from the Burnham love-in (“he’s one of us”, unfortunately so was Kenwright ) and get back to football and EFC in particular?
Jeff Spiers
93 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:40:47
93 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:40:47
Ian, Well said. it would be a breath of fresh air.
Eric Myles
94 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:53:44
94 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:53:44
David #91, just wait for a power outage at your local 7/11 and they tell you they can't sell anything 'cos the machine don't work.
Cash is still useless then.
Cash is still useless then.
Paul Hewitt
95 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:53:59
95 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:53:59
David @91. They don't want you having another option. That's the idea.
Eric Myles
96 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:54:29
96 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:54:29
I didn't Geoff #90, but thanks for clarifying.
Sean Mitchell
97 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:56:28
97 Posted 21/07/2026 at 15:56:28
Can Burnham look into Dick Masters and his corrupt cronies?
Putting an end to the clear and obvious bias and corruption would be great.
Putting an end to the clear and obvious bias and corruption would be great.
Mike Powell
98 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:02:02
98 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:02:02
Spot on, Ian.
Let's get back to football, and when are we going to sign a right-back.
Let's get back to football, and when are we going to sign a right-back.
Andrew Merrick
99 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:10:57
99 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:10:57
The occasional politics discussion is ok, I often discuss current affairs with opinionated friends, not everyone cares for it I know, but maybe they should?
Back to footy then
Back to footy then
Tony Abrahams
100 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:20:24
100 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:20:24
I agree with both Paul and John, and like I have already said the way that the human race are just going along, tap, tap, tapping, scares the fucking shit out of me more than anything else I’ve lived through in my life so far.
Less and less cash machines, small businesses having to pay a percentage of everything that goes through their accounts for having to use something which is being forced upon them. Everything is easy, until it stops being easy, and like I say to anyone who listens, I struggle to think how my city, would have survived The Thatcher era, if we would have never had a black economy.
We did survive though and it’s because of our own experience, that I ask the question to everyone. I have yet to get an answer from anyone who can explain to me how Liverpool, would have not only survived but came out the other side stronger, and I’ve asked a lot of intelligent people since we started living again after COVID, which makes me think that the so called cynical people who rejected the pandemic, were actually more aware than the rest?
Less and less cash machines, small businesses having to pay a percentage of everything that goes through their accounts for having to use something which is being forced upon them. Everything is easy, until it stops being easy, and like I say to anyone who listens, I struggle to think how my city, would have survived The Thatcher era, if we would have never had a black economy.
We did survive though and it’s because of our own experience, that I ask the question to everyone. I have yet to get an answer from anyone who can explain to me how Liverpool, would have not only survived but came out the other side stronger, and I’ve asked a lot of intelligent people since we started living again after COVID, which makes me think that the so called cynical people who rejected the pandemic, were actually more aware than the rest?
Tony Abrahams
101 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:29:13
101 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:29:13
I'd love to start talking about Everton again but it's very quiet with these silent Friedkins at the helm.
I remember when Liverpool were taken over by FSG and the American that used to come on ToffeeWeb, called Jamie Crowley, telling us that they were winners.
I haven't heard anyone from America telling us anything similar about TGF. They just tell us that they are very good at making money and they don't really like talking about it.
Without trying to offend anyone, I am beginning to feel like Dr Harold Shipman when he ran out of patience!
I remember when Liverpool were taken over by FSG and the American that used to come on ToffeeWeb, called Jamie Crowley, telling us that they were winners.
I haven't heard anyone from America telling us anything similar about TGF. They just tell us that they are very good at making money and they don't really like talking about it.
Without trying to offend anyone, I am beginning to feel like Dr Harold Shipman when he ran out of patience!
Don Alexander
102 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:31:38
102 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:31:38
The following is a clip from a movie in WW2 starring Kathryn Hepburn and Spencer Tracy;
https://youtu.be/2eq2YoBYIDc?si=TCflb9UNzBoStaLq
Sound familiar?
https://youtu.be/2eq2YoBYIDc?si=TCflb9UNzBoStaLq
Sound familiar?
Don Wright
103 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:35:08
103 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:35:08
And top story Referee Anthony Taylor has announced his retirement with immediate effect, hoorah
Don Alexander
104 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:38:24
104 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:38:24
Sorry folks, whilst I found the video on YTube it seems to be unavailable to forward.
The movie's called "Keeper of the Flame" and it's about how the Bezoses of that day, in league with politicians and media folk, sought to divide the population into mutually antagonistic hatreds against each other whilst the rich got richer and richer.
Plus ca change!
The movie's called "Keeper of the Flame" and it's about how the Bezoses of that day, in league with politicians and media folk, sought to divide the population into mutually antagonistic hatreds against each other whilst the rich got richer and richer.
Plus ca change!
John Collins
105 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:39:47
105 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:39:47
I asked the manager of a local superstore why the three cash machines had been out of order for three weeks?
"we are waiting for the engineers"
I asked "if the card readers went down 3 weeks ago would the cash machines be working"
He went red.
As for the covid issue.
Given the detrimental medical episodes due to vaccine,and the verdicts from medical boards some of the vaccines were not fit for purpose,I consider the cynics intelligent people.
"we are waiting for the engineers"
I asked "if the card readers went down 3 weeks ago would the cash machines be working"
He went red.
As for the covid issue.
Given the detrimental medical episodes due to vaccine,and the verdicts from medical boards some of the vaccines were not fit for purpose,I consider the cynics intelligent people.
Andrew Merrick
106 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:51:38
106 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:51:38
And we don't like red do we!
John Collins
107 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:54:32
107 Posted 21/07/2026 at 16:54:32
Don,
Frightening mate.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1197444662487491/?mibextid=ZZyLBr
Frightening mate.
https://www.facebook.com/reel/1197444662487491/?mibextid=ZZyLBr
Don Alexander
108 Posted 21/07/2026 at 17:36:18
108 Posted 21/07/2026 at 17:36:18
Cheers John. I'm not too good at this, erm, internet thingy!
Ged Simpson
109 Posted 21/07/2026 at 17:57:40
109 Posted 21/07/2026 at 17:57:40
Oliver 61. As someone who worked for Citizens Advice for many years, I disagree with your view.
My experience is that advice agencies provide advice and representation to those who mostly cannot afford to buy it themselves. Certainly at Citizens Advice work was closely checked.
The advisers work within and according to a system and rules set up by elected government and their civil servants.
I mostly represented people in judges' chambers County Court at repossession hearings. Plenty were an inefficient system did not pay housing benefit or mortgage help..that people (many working on very low wages) were legally entitled to
It was not my job to decide if client kept their house in the end but to present their case in best way possible within the law.
For me and welfare rights advisers, the reps and lawyers from many banks, councils and government were well practiced at spinning a yarn.
Occasionally the Tribunal or District Judge would point this out but despite what was disgusting behaviour, there was little consequence and fees and wages were of course paid.
Without any representation, many of our clients would just be dogs to the wolves.
The amount of people who reached out for help and went through a frightening appeal or defence process that were blaggers was much smaller than you are implying.
But hey. For the small amount who do manage to pull off a con, then the tax payer has lenders, local and national government and most of the media to ensure the fire of their paranoia and hysteria is properly stoked.
I blame Everton's owners!
My experience is that advice agencies provide advice and representation to those who mostly cannot afford to buy it themselves. Certainly at Citizens Advice work was closely checked.
The advisers work within and according to a system and rules set up by elected government and their civil servants.
I mostly represented people in judges' chambers County Court at repossession hearings. Plenty were an inefficient system did not pay housing benefit or mortgage help..that people (many working on very low wages) were legally entitled to
It was not my job to decide if client kept their house in the end but to present their case in best way possible within the law.
For me and welfare rights advisers, the reps and lawyers from many banks, councils and government were well practiced at spinning a yarn.
Occasionally the Tribunal or District Judge would point this out but despite what was disgusting behaviour, there was little consequence and fees and wages were of course paid.
Without any representation, many of our clients would just be dogs to the wolves.
The amount of people who reached out for help and went through a frightening appeal or defence process that were blaggers was much smaller than you are implying.
But hey. For the small amount who do manage to pull off a con, then the tax payer has lenders, local and national government and most of the media to ensure the fire of their paranoia and hysteria is properly stoked.
I blame Everton's owners!
Tony Abrahams
110 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:27:59
110 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:27:59
Basically Don, these people are the real masters of war.
I wish I had the talent to download the great Dylan song about the Masters Of War, because sometimes it feels like we are in the middle of a different kind of war right now.
I wish I had the talent to download the great Dylan song about the Masters Of War, because sometimes it feels like we are in the middle of a different kind of war right now.
Jeff Spiers
111 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:34:06
111 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:34:06
Guys. As the flames of the World Cup are dying down, Google the 1966 World Cup games played at Goodison Park, and why fans were angry at the FA.
Watch the talent that graced Goodison. I was fortunate to be around then. Great memories!
Watch the talent that graced Goodison. I was fortunate to be around then. Great memories!
John Collins
112 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:34:13
112 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:34:13
https://youtu.be/JEmI_FT4YHU?si=KxOJ_ydudbAFAwuq
There you go Tony.
Direct from the Genius.
In decades of listening to music Bob wrote my all time favourite song.
There you go Tony.
Direct from the Genius.
In decades of listening to music Bob wrote my all time favourite song.
Jeff Spiers
113 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:49:10
113 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:49:10
Don104. Divide and and Conquer, been at it for thousands of years. Still working.
John Collins
114 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:53:27
114 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:53:27
Caesar over 2,000 years ago.
"Give them bread and circus, they will never riot."
We've just had the circus
"Give them bread and circus, they will never riot."
We've just had the circus
David Israel
115 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:57:40
115 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:57:40
David West #91: and where would we read ToffeeWeb? Or would it be published by Rothermere Newspapers?
Finally, folks, this thread has gone way off the site's purpose! If you want to talk polítics, you should look for the comments sections of the Daily Mail... apoarently the most popular paper among Toffees!
ps: Don't forget, bring back the old Liberal Party if you do love your country! ;-)
Finally, folks, this thread has gone way off the site's purpose! If you want to talk polítics, you should look for the comments sections of the Daily Mail... apoarently the most popular paper among Toffees!
ps: Don't forget, bring back the old Liberal Party if you do love your country! ;-)
Jeff Spiers
116 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:57:56
116 Posted 21/07/2026 at 18:57:56
John. Thanks for that one. Frightening
Tony Abrahams
117 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:08:47
117 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:08:47
Just give me the name of it John, and I will raise you with another of his countess/endless great tracks mate!
His closest friends were black-men because they seemed to understand - what it’s like to be in a society with a shackle on their hand.
Definitely the master of the lyrics for me was Mr Zimmerman, and he brought us some luck playing in Liverpool, pictured near Bramley Moore, on Dublin St - on the same day as one of the greatest FA Cup final comebacks in 1966!
His closest friends were black-men because they seemed to understand - what it’s like to be in a society with a shackle on their hand.
Definitely the master of the lyrics for me was Mr Zimmerman, and he brought us some luck playing in Liverpool, pictured near Bramley Moore, on Dublin St - on the same day as one of the greatest FA Cup final comebacks in 1966!
John Collins
118 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:12:29
118 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:12:29
Like a Rolling Stone Tony.
Like I posted earlier mate,pure genius.
Like I posted earlier mate,pure genius.
John Collins
119 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:18:31
119 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:18:31
The beat poets were his good friends as well mate.
Read a story where Alan Ginsberg cried when he read the lyrics to Like a Rolling Stone for the first time.
Read a story where Alan Ginsberg cried when he read the lyrics to Like a Rolling Stone for the first time.
Dale Self
120 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:42:08
120 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:42:08
Whatever the proper name of it, Hurricane has to be in the conversation, although Mozambique was quite catchy.
John Collins
121 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:46:14
121 Posted 21/07/2026 at 19:46:14
Dylan and Rueben Carter became good friends after he was pardoned Dale.
They used the song in the campaign.
They used the song in the campaign.
Frank Fearns
122 Posted 21/07/2026 at 21:01:16
122 Posted 21/07/2026 at 21:01:16
What's going on now. We need a right-back and throw in a CF for luck.
Ah 1966... watched it outside a tele shop in Wembley high street and Eddie Cavannagh has still got my autograph book.
In case anyone doesn't know who he is, he's the bloke who got rugby tackled by a copper running across the pitch. Did a brilliant job by letting his jacket off with the first copper. Worth watching.
Ah 1966... watched it outside a tele shop in Wembley high street and Eddie Cavannagh has still got my autograph book.
In case anyone doesn't know who he is, he's the bloke who got rugby tackled by a copper running across the pitch. Did a brilliant job by letting his jacket off with the first copper. Worth watching.
Martin Berry
123 Posted 21/07/2026 at 23:59:28
123 Posted 21/07/2026 at 23:59:28
The Prime Minister being an Everton supporter, well all I can say is
"Dont Blame The Fans"
It will be interesting to see how close the Club hierarchy gets to the new incumbent, but there again knowing Labour he may just have his seat longer at BMD than at No 10 !
"Dont Blame The Fans"
It will be interesting to see how close the Club hierarchy gets to the new incumbent, but there again knowing Labour he may just have his seat longer at BMD than at No 10 !
Eric Myles
124 Posted 21/07/2026 at 00:52:34
124 Posted 21/07/2026 at 00:52:34
Eric Myles
125 Posted 22/07/2026 at 01:03:56
125 Posted 22/07/2026 at 01:03:56
All Along the Watchtower, especially the version Dylan thought was better than his own, and the same with Like a Rolling Stone.
Paul Griffiths
126 Posted 22/07/2026 at 05:49:21
126 Posted 22/07/2026 at 05:49:21
David Israel 115 - Finally, folks, this thread has gone way off the site's purpose!
You might want to check first before posting David. This thread is on Andy Burnham.
You might want to check first before posting David. This thread is on Andy Burnham.
Paul Griffiths
127 Posted 22/07/2026 at 05:54:11
127 Posted 22/07/2026 at 05:54:11
Top man Ged Simpson - 109.
What a critical and valuable role you have devoted your life to.
And what a valuable corrective you have provided to the uninformed and bigoted fella who claimed with no support that you and your colleagues just advised 'the cheating great unwashed' on how to play the benefits system.
What a critical and valuable role you have devoted your life to.
And what a valuable corrective you have provided to the uninformed and bigoted fella who claimed with no support that you and your colleagues just advised 'the cheating great unwashed' on how to play the benefits system.
Dale Rose
132 Posted 22/07/2026 at 09:42:04
132 Posted 22/07/2026 at 09:42:04
I don't think anyone here is seeing the big picture.
With this much power now behind the club, international law could now decree that we win the Premier League every year, go straight to the Champions League Final without qualifying, and ban the word 'red'.
With this much power now behind the club, international law could now decree that we win the Premier League every year, go straight to the Champions League Final without qualifying, and ban the word 'red'.
Raymond Fox
133 Posted 22/07/2026 at 10:37:46
133 Posted 22/07/2026 at 10:37:46
I believe, Dale.
Ray Jacques
134 Posted 22/07/2026 at 15:44:35
134 Posted 22/07/2026 at 15:44:35
Paul Griffiths, this post maybe about Andy Burnham as you state, but throughout you have thrown insults at people who do not share your political beliefs. Typical of the morally superior. The standard, lazy and unspecific insults are just tiresome and dated now.
Anyway, hopefully the aforementioned Mr Burnham can find us a right back.
Anyway, hopefully the aforementioned Mr Burnham can find us a right back.
Paul Griffiths
135 Posted 23/07/2026 at 06:29:30
135 Posted 23/07/2026 at 06:29:30
Ray Jacques 134 - great to hear from you. Would you care to detail these 'insults' for me please, quotes naturally. What are my political beliefs and who do I insult?
If I agree that these 'insults' are indeed 'insults', apologies that
they are 'lazy. tiresome and dated'.
Did you mean this - 127 'Top man Ged Simpson - 109. What a critical and valuable role you have devoted your life to?
If I agree that these 'insults' are indeed 'insults', apologies that
they are 'lazy. tiresome and dated'.
Did you mean this - 127 'Top man Ged Simpson - 109. What a critical and valuable role you have devoted your life to?
Paul O\\\'Neill
136 Posted 22/07/2026 at 07:54:54
136 Posted 22/07/2026 at 07:54:54
Blimey, these comments have opened my eyes how many of my fellow toffee-webbers are conspiracy theorist cranks and Tories.
Fair dos, vote for and believe what you like, and I'll get on with most people, (and some of the comments about use of cash were reasonable, although good luck at HDS which is cashless) but I draw the line at the rubbish spouted about Covid and vaccines.
As a registered nurse who worked in Intensive Care during Covid, I think I'll go with the world class consultant who headed up our temporary unit and said he'd never seen X-rays like them, or the previously fit and healthy man who, just before he was intubated in an effort to save his life and then never woke up, said he wished he'd had his vaccine.
All medications, without exception, have potential side effects, including vaccines. They save far, far more people than they harm. So could the amateur virologists shut their holes please.
Now, about that right-back...
Fair dos, vote for and believe what you like, and I'll get on with most people, (and some of the comments about use of cash were reasonable, although good luck at HDS which is cashless) but I draw the line at the rubbish spouted about Covid and vaccines.
As a registered nurse who worked in Intensive Care during Covid, I think I'll go with the world class consultant who headed up our temporary unit and said he'd never seen X-rays like them, or the previously fit and healthy man who, just before he was intubated in an effort to save his life and then never woke up, said he wished he'd had his vaccine.
All medications, without exception, have potential side effects, including vaccines. They save far, far more people than they harm. So could the amateur virologists shut their holes please.
Now, about that right-back...
Alan McGuffog
137 Posted 23/07/2026 at 08:17:11
137 Posted 23/07/2026 at 08:17:11
Paul, 136. You've no business on ToffeeWeb talking sense.
Eric Myles
138 Posted 23/07/2026 at 08:20:10
138 Posted 23/07/2026 at 08:20:10
Ooh, let's not get started on Covid, immigration got a bit heated in another thread.
Jeff Spiers
139 Posted 23/07/2026 at 09:24:03
139 Posted 23/07/2026 at 09:24:03
Paul. I was taken to Wigan A&E during Covid. 2 nurses confirmed it was'nt Covid, thank god for that. I was lucky. It was only Pneumonia!!! Same nurses were adamant that Covid was a big scam. The things I heard shook me to the core.
It works both ways. Good and bad. But I still have an opinion. You are in no position to tell anyone to shut their hole.
It works both ways. Good and bad. But I still have an opinion. You are in no position to tell anyone to shut their hole.
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1 Posted 20/07/2026 at 14:35:59