Friday, March 18, 2011

Libya No fly zone - some quick thoughts

I do think this is a positive move, a no fly zone is a step to protect civillians and is a proportionate response to the situation. I am slightly concerned about the wiggle room Resolution 1973 gives member states to protect the citizens of Libya short of putting an occupation force on the ground. There is a lot of room basically to wipe out Col Gaddaffi's forces wherever they congregate in any numbers under the Resolution as whilst he remains committed to wiping out the opposition any attack on his armed forces would reduce the risk to the civilian population.

However, just because a power is given under a resolution doesn't mean it has to be used. Sensible heads will hopefully prevail.

Of course David Cameron has been at the forefront of efforts to impose the no fly zone. If you were being cynical you would suggest that he has spotted an opportunity to save himself by being the international statesman. In history the Falkland Islands gave Margaret Thatcher the same opportunity. Of course even if he has spotted an opportunity it doesn't really matter as long as the civilian population are protected.

Another cynical comment is that what would be really handy to operate a no fly zone would be an aircraft carrier full of harrier jump jets. It is such a shame we mothballed one last month. Still Mr Cameron, probably not the time for a full u-turn.

Thursday, March 03, 2011

Uplifting Songs

I thought I would start linking to songs that make you feel good, that uplift your soul.

First up - Katy Perry - Firework



"You just got to ignite and let it shine!"

The video is good too, it has me thinking about creating a video of some sort. Think short film or something.

Second - Bruno Mars - Just the way you are



Again excellent video, love the way they have used the tape thread in an animation sequence.

"When I see your face, there is not a thing that I would change, cos your amazing just the way you are"

Now don't you all feel better.