Blog 2023 Malcolm Blair-Robinson

Child Protection

The Serious Case Review of the death of Khyra Ishaq reveals once again the inadequate nature of the entire system of dealing with the whole challenge of vulnerable children and families.

This is why I have argued at some length for the need of reform and proposed the setting up of a new judicial structure based on District Child Commissioners with the power of a judge, sitting in an inquisitorial Court, supported by their own team of Investigating Officers. This organisation would take over the role that at present is part undertaken by often harassed and intimidated social workers or unsuited Police. The DCC would receive referrals from any organisation or person concerned about a child’s welfare, including police, social workers, carers, teachers and churches, carry out a sensitive, family oriented but robust investigation and, if needed, make necessary Court Orders based upon the outcome of those investigations.

The police would still be needed to investigate criminal acts revealed and the social services would be called on to provide support. The nightmare of the adversarial court would be averted as would the tragedy of a worried teacher calling upon the house, being threatened, calling the police and but to no avail.

Refreshing Foreign Policy

I have been dismissive of our foreign policy both under Miliband and Hague. This maybe the point when I have to change my tune.

I am enormously impressed with Cameron’s outspoken encouragement for Turkey in its bid to join the E.U. and his recognition of its importance as a westernised democratic Muslim power of the Middle East. His remarks were a slap in the face for France which has long been critical of Turkey joining. His attack upon the Gaza blockade will have left Israel in no doubt that there is no free lunch for it in London and that Cameron will be a tough critic if it does not come forward to direct talks with a constructive, rather than its usual nihilist, agenda.

All this en route to India with a giant entourage to forge a stronger alliance and build trade with Asia’s emerging power, with which we have ties of  culture, kith and kin. This is all very good and shows a bigger shift in the nuance of British foreign policy than commentators thus far have picked up.

Where is William Hague?  He is the invisible man of the coalition he helped to set up. Is he miffed at being displaced by Nick Clegg as the Number 2 in the government?

Losses and Progress

BP is making progress. The new CEO is American and the old one leaves only with his contractual dues based on nearly thirty years service and not some lavish pay off. However its assumption that it will not be considered grossly negligent may prove optimistic. Neither is there any certainty on what the size of the final compensation payout to what the Chairman calls the small people will eventually be, especially if voracious lawyers put in big claims.

Nevertheless things look better organised and with the halting of the oil flow a calmer atmoshphere prevails. At least there is an end in sight. Chapter 11 is no longer in view but what shape BP will be when all is done and dusted and how much it will be worth is far from clear.