So here I go and stick my neck out, wear my heart on my sleeve, write several earnest posts about political matters at great expense to your patience, and now this happens. I sold my political virginity far too cheaply in Sweden.
“Liberal” Folkpartiet has agreed to immigration restrictions on citizens from new EU countries on terms only somewhat less onerous than those proposed by the ruling Social Democrats. The decision wasn’t unanimous: Folkpartiet MPs voted 23-17 in favor for this counterproposal. There was quite a debate, apparently. Sounds like a party voting against its conscience.FPs proposal differs from SDs on three points:
1) Immigrants should be able to come to Sweden to look for work for up to three months — SD wants immigrants to find work from their home country before getting a work permit.
2) SD also wants to make sure immigrants have accommodation waiting for them before they get to Sweden — FP thinks that is silly.
3) Finally, FP thinks that the government should not be allowed to prolong these restrictions unilaterally, without parliamentary approval.
At least the FP wants these restrictions to expire sooner, rather than later. But what’s so hard about acting on one’s principles now? Since when does being in favor of a common labor market no longer mean actually wanting to implement a common labor market — especially if the symbolism invokes two classes of EU citizenship? Does the FP think the Poles don’t notice? Is looking good in comparison to Italy now a policy goal?
For an added bonus, watch Labor Minister Hans Karlsson not answering good questions [Real, Swedish] on this topic.
The worse thing with the realplayer-interview was the two political broilers (can I say so in English). The young politicians looked as two bad imitations of adult politicians. I am afraid of the future if it is that sort of politicians we will get.
Just wait until you get conservative radio broadcasters.
Yes, the male youth-wing spokesman/interviewer came across a bit smug and overbearing, but the female one was cute and to the point. I’d definitely take her to my leader.
The minister, on the other hand, just droned on until the minutes ran out. He looked completely devoid of a conviction that he is right.
I don’t recall the last time I saw anyone look quite so bored. The minister had the air about him of a biochemist dragged off the street to answer questions about cheese doodles on a kid’s program.
Kaxig is the word for the twerp with the Elvis hair gel issues and the poor dear with the deep shadows under her eyes looks borderline burnout and three years from now will probably be found shitaki farming in a warm barn in Jämtland.
The likeness of the presenter to the CGI figure used to sell Boxer digital tv units is worrying in the extreme.
Though not as worrying as the lack of gravity given to a growing kidney stone that the EU will have to pass eventually.