Telford GUARDIAN

Compulsory ID cards in the UK have become a hot topic of debate, especially with recent proposals from the Labour Party to introduce a mandatory digital ID known as the "Brit Card." However, the introduction of such a system raises significant concerns about government overreach, privacy, and civil liberties.  Here’s why compulsory ID cards are not only unnecessary but also a step too far for a government that has not even mandated this in its election manifesto . (Video linked).  Historical Context and Public Sentiment The UK has a long history of rejecting compulsory ID cards, with the last mandatory system being scrapped in 1952. This decision was rooted in a widespread belief that such measures infringe on personal freedoms and are incompatible with British values. The notion that ID cards could be used for broader purposes, such as law enforcement, has historically been met with skepticism.  Recent polling indicates that while a majority of Britons may su...

Matt Goodwin: The Professor Stirring Up British Politics You might have heard the name Matt Goodwin popping up a lot lately, especially if you follow any Reform UK Ltd social media pages. He is often quoted or has "posts" shared by both Telford and The Wrekin platforms. So who is he exactly?  He’s a former university professor who’s now a big voice in the Reform UK party. But his way of talking about hot-button issues like immigration has made him a seriously controversial figure. Let's break down what he's saying and why it's getting so much attention. Using Strong Words That Divide A lot of the controversy around Goodwin comes from the language he uses. He often describes immigration as an "invasion." That’s a very powerful, scary word. Think about what an "invasion" implies—it suggests we’re under attack from a dangerous enemy, not that people are coming here to work, study, or find safety. Critics say this kind of talk isn...

So Much for "Fiscal Responsibility": Who's Really Funding Reform UK? Let's have a straight talk about money and politics. We keep hearing a certain party, Reform UK Ltd, talking about being "fiscally responsible" and looking out for the "ordinary person." But before we listen to what they say, maybe we should look at where their money comes from. Because when you follow the cash, the story changes completely. Think about it.  You work hard for your money.  You know what it's like to budget, to worry about bills, to put a bit away for a rainy day. Fiscal responsibility means being careful, honest, and fair with money, right? So, let's look at the people bankrolling Reform UK Ltd. This isn't about small donations from thousands of working people. This is about huge cheques from a tiny group of the super-wealthy. Where's the Cash Coming From? In just one year, a handful of mega-rich donors gave Reform nearly £5 million. Sin...

 This was broadcast around London this week. You deserve to see it too  🇵🇸✊💚 #palestine ​ #labour ​ #lammy ​ #starmer ​ #shaundaviesmp ​ #TelfordDeservesBetter ​ #WrekinDeservesBetter ​

Reform UK Ltd Conference: A Reflection on Toxicity and the Need for Change Over the weekend of September 6th and 7th, 2025, the Reform UK Ltd conference in Birmingham showcased not just political rhetoric but a deep-seated negativity that runs through the veins of its organisation. While some might portray this gathering as a hub for free speech and progressive thought, the actions and words of its leaders revealed a more troubling reality – one characterised by racism, homophobia, fear of transgender people, and a simple ignorance of complex issues surrounding immigration. Lucy Connolly with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage.  Picture:  Alamy At the heart of this Reform UK Ltd conference was Lucy Connolly, a woman whose notoriety does not stem from her political insights but rather from her criminal past. Recently released from HMP Peterborough after serving time for inciting violence against asylum seekers on social media, Connolly emerged as a far-right symbol of "free speech"...