More bad political news following Thatcher's re-election but developments on The Lady and then a problem visit to Mum, who is depressed about wheelchair-bound
A fine sunny day with a cool breeze keeping the temperature nice. First in bed with morning mug of tea studying the Sunday Times. Much comment in papers and on Radio about the Thatcher cabinet changes and the unfairness of the electoral system. It seems that Whitelaw’s peerage is a hereditary Viscount-ship, the first hereditary title since 1964. Also that there is now a possible majority on a House of Commons free vote for the restoration of the death penalty. At least Whitelaw managed to get Leon Brittain in place of Norman Tebbit to the Home Office and so it may not happen.
Tebbit said to have past commented that he dislikes the radio religious spokesmen as they do not preach the Old Testament! Then a large fried breakfast of eggs, mushrooms and bacon which I fear is too much for my growing girth and with my daughter to St Ives there to inquire after progress on repairs to my boat “The Lady”. There was none but it is promised for this week and it gave me a chance to collect my tool box and other goods. Home through pleasant sunny countryside to note with more than passing interest, the neighbours daughter in restless mood and display with brief bikini. Relief and then to let out the ducklings and lunch on cold chicken, cheese and salad with strawberries and cream to follow. Ducklings away and then to Stanton by car with family all; my mother’s birthday being tomorrow. A difficult visit with my mother liable to depressive spells with her being wheelchair-bound and fast realising the condition is permanent. Debbie manages a great fall with cuts and grazes everywhere. Tonight I prepare my work and priorities for the next day. I fear that I have too much to do this week and little chance to do it. The news is full of Michael Foot’s intended resignation as Labour Party Leader and his upset that Clive Jenkins of ASTMS prematurely released the news. Neil Kinnock, Peter Shore declare their candidacy and Labour are again set to tear themselves apart. A clear cool evening with much trouble gathering in the ducks, they having obviously been fed by riverside visitors.