Looks like other departments have decided they can’t wait any longer for the sadly ineffective Chancellor to do something!

Communities Secretary Hazel Blears has announced a package of measures to support families trying to remain in their own property and to help first time buyers get on the property ladder. All based around shared ownership deals from what I can see, so not quite a “give-away” as some people suggest.

She steadfastly refused to comment on “Stamp Duty” and what should be done with it saying, "You will have to ask the Chancellor." So at last someone is trying to do something. Hallelujah!!!

Sadly, our depressed and diffident Chancellor is still fiddling, while the Economy burns.

What possessed Alistair Darling to come out with that confidence busting statement about the economic future being the worst for 60 years? That's really going to help!

Was it some unconscious desire to be removed from his role as Chancellor on to a more advisory role? I think like many people, Alistair has discovered it is easier to state the options, than to choose one.

Did he have any idea that such a comment might have an effect on what actually happens and whether we actually do have a recession? Clearly he didn’t, which doesn’t suggest he has the foresight required to do the job. I’d suggest Gordon takes back control for a short time and make a few decisions immediately, such as: · Raise the Stamp Duty Threshold to £1,000,000.

· Remove VAT on all Loft and Wall Cavity insulation materials.

· Build some social housing, keeping building workers busy and boosting economic activity in all secondary markets (furniture, carpets, kitchens, fittings, bricks, mortar, work, etc.).

· Reverse proposed increases in Road Tax on all cars purchased prior to the last Budget.

· Plan to gradually replace Road Tax with direct Indirect Taxation on Fuel, so that those who use most pay the most. This is so simple!

· Show you have ideas to boost economic activity and are in control.

· GIVE US ALL SOME HOPE!!!

Or alternatively select a Chancellor who can make a decision for you, even if they haven’t been in the Treasury all their lives. What about Hazel Blears? She seems to be noticing what’s going on and trying to do something.