O G San

Saddam's Capture Changes Nothing in Politics JoeUser Forums

Even for those of us who opposed, and continue to oppose, the war in Iraq, it's impossible not to take some pleasure at the sight of the Butcher of Baghdad paraded in front of the cameras. Looking like Karl Marx after a few too many, this is an ignominious end for a man who once terrified millions. The hawks have been cock-a-hoop over Saddam's capture. I say let them have their day in the sun. It's been nothing but bad news for them for the past few months. Each good day is followed by

Beijing, I've Been Expecting You in Politics JoeUser Forums

Monday, 10th November,2003 Arrive in Beijing at 2:30 p.m. and promptly make the first of many mistakes. Accept the offer of a hotel room from the bright young man behind the left-luggage counter. It is, he assures me, “close” to the Forbidden City. I later discover that “close” translates as a one hour walk. The Hua Feng Hotel isn’t too bad in the end complete with surly staff and toilets which flush at least four times out of ten. In the evening I go for a stroll in the vague