Today's DP carries front page report of the now public split between Mike & Dave and sensationally Dave has given Mike an ultimatum to quit his post by 5:00pm today or a dossier on Mike's confidential e-mails will be sent to the goverment watchdog, the District Auditor.

It seems that the relationship between the 2 men went sour last year with serious disagreements over Merseytram, worsened when the Lib-Dems refused the tax sweetener to Henshaws pension and now come to a head with the suspension of council communications officer Mr. Finnegan, who it seems was on Mikes side and this has really pissed Dave off. Finnegan's computer was siezed and so the confidential e-mails between him and Mike have been unearthed and are part of the dossier.

Dave told other senior Lib-Dems last Tuesday what he intended and later that day confronted Mike with the evidence.

It seems that Mike Storey is Liverpool's longest serving councillor with 30 years before the mast, but is now described by colleagues as being at an all time low.

Maybe someone will post a link to the full story later. What now?? Mike out by 5:00pm or can the empire strike back?? my gut feeling is to support Mike, Henshaw to me has always come across as a sniveling greedy bastard, and I have never forgiven him that he turned away the NIRAH project from central docks, the arsehole!!

On the other hand the dossier must be damning or Mike would've surely stuffed it back in Dave's face, can't wait for 5:00pm

Storey out Sebo in? Personally I'd like to see Henshaw and Storey settle it bare knuckle, fight to the death like. Then kill the winner.

It'd be interesting to see what is in this file. Maybe Storey is slipping backhanders to trusted stooges? Henshaw is a greedy little ferret-like shit, and should remember that he is still a public servant.

On the mound at the old Stadium site at 5:00pm today!! I'm there on the front row!!

I am obviously completely ignorant of how these thing work but Mike is elected by the people and then elected by his party, which has the largest number of councillors, to be the council leader, sounds fairly democratic to me. Dave on the other hand goes for an interview and is selected for the job like any other employee, how can he give Mike an ultimatum?

Something stinks if you ask me. If there is something dodgy going on and Henshaw has uncovered it, then fine. Fair enough. Blackmail does seem to be ferret-features style though, doesn't it?

How Liverpool's top team fell apart May 23 2005




Daily Post


Chief Reporter Andy Kelly examines the break-up of the Storey/Henshaw team which once carried all before it

IT WAS, even by Liverpool's standards, a quite extraordinary night in the town hall. The date was Wednesday, March 16 this year and it effectively marked the final stage in the collapse of the relationship between Mike Storey and David Henshaw.

Liverpool were busy losing two points to Blackburn Rovers at Anfield that night, but the most dramatic contest in the city was playing out in Castle Street.

Earlier that day, Cllr Storey had chaired a special council committee to consider whether to offer Sir David a "sweetener" to keep him as Liverpool's chief executive beyond March, 2006.

The Daily Post had revealed four weeks earlier that Sir David would leave the council by that date to avoid new tax laws which would hit his lucrative pension fund.

It was widely expected a deal would be offered despite the by-now obvious personal animosity between the two men. It was felt maintaining continuity in the run-up to Capital of Culture year in 2008 was more important.

Just a few days earlier, at a major property conference, Cllr Storey had suggested to the Daily Post a deal was almost certain.

Sir David, 55, has always maintained he did not seek or ask for such a deal which would have cost the Merseyside local government pension scheme around £200,000. What seems almost certain is that he anticipated that some sort of deal would be made. But on arrival back in Liverpool, Cllr Storey found his backbench councillors widely opposed to any such deal.

As leader, Cllr Storey could have pushed it through but, emboldened by his backbench, he may have seen the opportunity to back the man who had become his nemesis into a corner.

No deal, he said, which meant Sir David would be leaving next March at the latest.

As news spread round the town hall, huddles of councillors gathered in corners to ponder the repercussions.

There was clear paranoia and unease around the building. Cllr Storey was happy to discuss the decision but would not do so within sight or sound of Sir David or any of those executives who remained loyal to him.

I was led through back stairs and various chambers of the town hall to reach an upstairs room where the leader of Liverpool council was finally prepared to discuss the decision in private.

He spoke of Sir David's "unique contribution" to the city's renaissance and said he still wanted him to stay, but understood he had to leave.

Sir David, meanwhile, telephoned the Daily Post offices and confirmed that his position was unchanged and that he would have no option but to resign rather than face the tax implications to his pension fund of staying on. The significance of the council decision was clear, as reported in the Daily Post next day: "The fact council leader Mike Storey did not use his huge support in the party to push the measure through is a clear sign his once formidable partnership with Sir David has entirely broken down.

"At best, he did not want to take on his backbenchers on the issue, at worst he probably agreed with their take on it."

For Sir David Henshaw, the situation was almost too much to bear. Not only was his career in Liverpool, and possibly in local government, coming to an end but - even worse - the public perception was that he had been out- manoeuvred by the man who was now his rival.

The humiliation was total. Sir David had been in London on business that afternoon so he had been informed of the decision on a crackly mobile phone line rather than in person, something even Cllr Storey regretted in private.

What happened that night was the culmination of a steep decline in the two men's relationship which could be traced back to summer, 2004.

There is no doubt Cllr Storey, effectively Sir David's employer, had become increasingly concerned about his leading executive's almost presidential leadership style.

A thoroughly modern politician, Cllr Storey is fully aware of the importance of public image and media relations.

With what critics would label "typical arrogance", David Henshaw regards such matters as beneath him and has regularly spoken of the local media as "low grade" and "immature", much to Cllr Storey's frustration.

It was rumoured that there was a major row between the two men when Liverpool waterfront's flagship Fourth Grace project collapsed last summer.

But the torpedo that really sunk their relationship hit home last October over Merseytram.

It has become known in Mike Storey's inner circle as the "Hartlepool incident".

The Daily Post learned on the afternoon of Friday, October 1, that both final bidders for the trams project had decided not to proceed with their bids, angry that the city council had asked for Line Two of the network to be rerouted to John Lennon Airport.

It meant a provisional offer of £170m of government funding for Line One and a bid for up to £200m for Line Two would be lost to Merseyside.

On the back of the collapse of the Fourth Grace, the loss of a second major infrastructure project and millions of pounds of investment was almost unthinkable.

Cllr Storey was informed of the latest situation by the Daily Post that night as he drove to Hartlepool with close confidantes to support the Liberal Democrats in a key by-election there.

For the first time in six years Cllr Storey, deeply frustrated by the lack of progress, publicly criticised his chief executive.

He suggested personality issues between Sir David and Merseytravel chief executive Neil Scales might be hindering the project, something both have always strongly denied.

Cllr Storey said: "We cannot go on like this. We owe it to future generations on Merseyside.

"These are powerful and highly-paid chief executives and I am surprised they have not done more to sort out their differences."

At the time, Sir David was holidaying in Scotland to mark his wedding anniversary, but when both men spoke later and Sir David learned of Cllr Storey's comments, he raged down the telephone at the council leader.

Rumours suggested Sir David had threatened to resign within days. With hindsight, Cllr Storey must deeply regret he did not do so.

Sources close to the council leader later said he "had never been spoken to in that way before".

That phone call sounded the death knell for a relationship which had once appeared impregnable.

Although never personal friends, the two men understood that, if Liverpool was to be reborn as a city, it needed a strong alliance between its political leadership and its administrative one.

They described it as "singing from the same hymn sheet".

Cllr Storey provided the political will to freeze the rocketing council tax levels which had been a symbolic block for new investment. Sir David found the efficiencies and particularly the workforce cuts to make the sums add up.

andykelly@dailypost.co.uk

Elected official or self righteous, ego maniac, civil servant who thinks he's a guru.

Henshaw has a murky past (as well as a successful one in local government), I know 2 people who Henshaw has shit on, one ended up in prison as a result of Henshaw saving his own bacon. The man's power crazed, selfish and greedy. In fact it's times like this that I wish SSC was hosted in the UK to test whether Henshaw would dare sue me.

Storey should accept his resignation and presumably that would relieve the council of golden handshakes etc.

I reckon both might have to go and soon, I think the divisions run very deep within both the council and LibDems. If only one goes the winner would have to work with/tolerate the losers supporters, this would be too much of a distraction from the work in hand, namely Liverpool and its citizens so maybe a clean sweep would be less painful in the long run.

I couldn't believe that when I read it,Unbelievable.

Here's an Echo article that explains where everything went wrong....

How Liverpool's top team fell apart. (http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=15547176%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=how%2dliverpool%2ds%2dtop%2dteam%2dfell%2dapart-name_page.html)

Does anyone have any idea where this may leave us now,is this good or bad? :?

Storey out Sebo in? Personally I'd like to see Henshaw and Storey settle it bare knuckle, fight to the death like. Then kill the winner.

That's the best suggestion I have heard yet. I'm sick of these idiots and their public bitch-fights. Its bloody pathetic. These two dick heads should think about the city and its people, and what needs to be done to make Liverpool the place to be. I'm not a big fan of drama at the best of times- but when the chief characters are people who have important jobs to be getting on with (and salaries to match) it just makes me sick. KILL THEM BOTH, and replace them with witohut delay.

Forget the two egos at stake here! This goes about doing as much damage to the image of liverpool to potetial investors as anything that has gone before it.

They should both walk now before their childish, petulant squabble heaps more shame on our fine city.
:bash:

Both of these idiots going would be the best outcome,but how likely is that too happen? :?

Will he go by 5.00pm tonight.
This is exiting,it's just like waiting for the Brunswick & Beetham west verdict.

A pox on both their houses. I know for a fact, and personal experience, that Mike Storey is totally dishonest. David Henshaw is a very disruptive influence and a formidable barrier to the re-developement of the City of Liverpool. I have no sympathy for either of them.

If either one has the welfare of the citizens and the future and wellbeing of the City of Liverpool as their primary concern, they will each resign. But, knowing the two characters involved, it would be easier getting Tony Blair to tell the truth.

City leaders fall out after row boils over May 23 2005




By Nick Coligan, Liverpool Echo





LIVERPOOL council was today plunged into crisis as relations between the two men responsible for running the city collapsed.

Chief executive Sir David Henshaw and council leader Cllr Mike Storey have fallen out over confidential emails exchanged between Cllr Storey and the council's media chief Matt Finnegan, who is currently suspended.

It was reported today that Sir David had threatened to report Cllr Storey to a local government watchdog unless he resigns.

The ECHO understands that Sir David will strenuously deny delivering such an ulimatum.
The Liberal Democrat leader will tonight meet senior colleagues to decide his course of action.

He declined to comment today, and it is understood he has been advised not to speak publicly.

Lib Dem councillors today rushed to the council leader's support - but asked not to be identified.

One said: "Mike is the elected leader of the council, but David Henshaw is a highly-paid bureaucrat and his time has clearly come.

"The only person who will be leaving is David. Mike has 100% support from the group and councillors feel they are the only ones who can hire or fire him."

Another added: "I do not know of anyone in our group who has a bad word to say about Mike and I consider this to be the chief executive interfering with the political process.

"To intercept correspondence between councillors and officers flies in the face of democracy."

Cllr Steve Radford, of the Liberal group, said: "If Cllr Storey has acted improperly, it should not be up to the chief executive to give him an ultimatum to go - it would set a horrendous precedent. There must now be independent scrutiny." Cllr Joe Anderson, leader of the Labour opposition, today called on local government minister Phil Woolas to intervene.

He said: "I want to meet David Henshaw and be persuaded his course of action is the correct one.

"If he convinces me there has been a breach of standards by Cllr Storey, I will support the chief executive in his call for the leader to be reported to the district auditor.

"If I do not believe there is a case, I will demand there is an investigation into Sir David's behaviour."

Looks like he'll be staying then.

I wonder how long it will take before one of the Nationals picks up on this story? :bash: :bash:

This won't do - now is not the time to bring the city into disrepute. Sounds like Henshaw should be escorted off the premises, and quickly.

I wonder how long it will take before one of the Nationals picks up on this story? :bash: :bash:

Yes, and no doubt there will be an imaginary prostitute, thief, burglar and a pregnant 12 year old involved in the story. :bash:

The only thing more detestable then politicians in this country is the London press.

Fuck me, the graffiti's started already :cheers:

http://www.**************************/grass.gif

Damn straight PJ. Although I'd say that those involved both in politics and the media at the same time are the most vulgar breed of all. I can think of one gob-shite in particular who I'd happily erase from the history books. :gunz:

Forget the two egos at stake here! This goes about doing as much damage to the image of liverpool to potetial investors as anything that has gone before it.

They should both walk now before their childish, petulant squabble heaps more shame on our fine city.
:bash:

Henshaw must go and now, as for Storey, he must stay until an enquiry has decided if there has been foul play. As you say bustcapl,the priority here is to protect the still fragile image of the city.

A new CEO will need to be found and quick, and one who does not wander from his brief ,as President Henshaw has done.

Let us hope that none of the regeneration plans are affected by a city administration that appears to be going around in ever decreasing circles.

God what have I missed today! :omg:

I've been asleep for most of the day as I'm still under the weather.

As for Storey & Henshaw, I'd back Storey over Henshaw like everyone else here. Henshaw is nothing but an egotistic self centred slime of a man.

On the other hand, he's going in March anyway, so if he wants to take Storey with him, let him. :banana:

The only thing more detestable then politicians in this country is the London press.

Politicians and lawyers are leprotic, syphilatic reptiles. The only honest man ever to enter parliament was Guy Fawkes.

The only honest man ever to enter parliament was Guy Fawkes.

Often quoted. I wonder who actually wrote this first?

Well 5:00 pm came and went with no resignations to be seen, in fact Henshaw is "vehemently denying" he said that he issued an ultimatum. The dossier of Doom is said to be 56 pages and contain personal e-mails and details of monitored phone calls, sounds a bit an Eastern Bloc country in the Cold War.

Labour leader, Joe Anderson, says he has read the full dossier and says it is clear Cllr Storey's position is untenable and he should go, no suprises there eh Joe.

To add a further twist (I'm sure there will be a few more before this is sorted) there is a suggestion that Henshaw is no longer intending to take early retirement despite the tax hit on his pension. What a tactic, go holiday abroad, unleash a shitstorm at home, come back and deny you ever said it, then change your mind and dig in, Mike will be pleased at reading that!!

What, Henshaw is not leaving now?

Darn! :bash:

If there is a breakdown of trust, then I think its for the official to go, not the council leader. Elected members are entitled to have their human rights and privacy respected, and I don't like the sound of officials snooping and keeping files in this way.

If it is found that the official (even if it's a very grand Chief Executive) has used his authority to embarrass the city and jeopardise the reputation of the Council, I'd have thought that summary dismissal with loss of all pension rights would be appropriate.

Have to agree there Poli. A new precident ought to be set- if you do anything to harm the city, then you are out and stripped of all privileges.

sounds a bit an Eastern Bloc country in the Cold War.

Or Blairs United Kingdom over the Iraq War. :)

I'll go if he goes!! Comment made by Storey on Henshaw. (http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=15553467%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=storey%2d%2di%2dll%2dgo%2dif%2dhe%2dgoes-name_page.html) :)

What a bloody disgrace. Let's hope Liverpool gets a good CEO next time, one who will not turn away good quality inward investment schemes or feud with others in public.

I don't know the ins and outs of this argument, but i would be against the taxpayers of Liverpool paying extra cash out to offset someones tax liability. Henshaw is on quite a decent wage with pension, and will not struggle to live comfortably.

Yet more on Umpalumpa Vs. Catweasel

Henshaw U-turn as he condemns 'conspiracy' May 25 2005




By Larry Neild, Daily Post


LIVERPOOL council's chief executive, Sir David Henshaw, last night publicly performed a U-turn over his early retirement plans - and claimed that there was evidence of a conspiracy to force him out of his job.

The developments came as embattled council leader Mike Storey personally referred a dossier of evidence compiled by council officials against him to the national council standards

watchdog body and invited them to investigate. "I am confident I will be exonerated," he said..

The first official statements from Liverpool council's two senior figures were the focal point of an extraordinary day in the public battle between them and came after council officials released the full email dossier against Cllr Storey to all 90 members of the council.

The Daily Post has now obtained a full copy of the confidential dossier, containing a sequence of emails mainly between Cllr Storey and the council's suspended media chief Matt Finnegan. In one email, Cllr Storey refers to Sir David's "evil cabal", and in another, says the chief executive "is losing the plot".

The report's author, executive director Phil Halsall, writes: "The investigation has revealed a number of incidents of disturbing behaviour and actions with potentially serious implications for the council.

"In particular there is evidence of a clear conspiracy between Mike Storey, the leader of the council, and Matt Finnegan, the assistant executive director (media), to force Sir David Henshaw out of his position of chief executive."

Sir David said in his statement that he would remain in his town hall job until 2008, despite previously insisting his intention to quit next March.

However, the statement, released through the council's own media centre, also paves the way for a potentially expensive claim for damages against the city council for constructive dismis-

sal. If Sir David quits his post and wins a claim for damages it could cost the council several hundred thousand pounds. It could also plunge the authority into a bitter legal confrontation lasting many months, and possibly dragging on into the city's 800th birthday year in 2007.

The focus of the battle will now switch to tonight's meeting of the city council when the new Lord Mayor,,, Cllr Alan Dean, will be sworn in.

It is not yet known whether the issue will rear its head at what is normally a celebratory meeting at the town hall.

In his statement Sir David refers to a report in the Liverpool Daily Post in which we said that Cllr Storey had been given a 5pm deadline to quit as leader.

He described the report as "deeply disappointing".

Sir David said the dossier compiled by Mr Halsall "provides prima facie evidence of a conspiracy and collusion between a senior member of the city council and a senior officer on their own in the council to orchestrate a campaign to force the chief executive out of office".

"These actions expose the council to potentially very significant claims for damages for constructive dismissal, damage to reputation and claims under whistle blowing legislation.

"The chief executive also utterly refutes that this in any way connected to any pension arrangements discussed over the last few months. This too is simply untrue. Those matters were settled by the council some two months ago. The chief executive is clear that no matter what the personal financial consequences, he will be here to stay and finish the job for the 2008 European Capital of Culture, upon which so much depends for the city."

In March Liberal Democrat councillors made a stand against changes to Sir David's pension arrangements. It became clear that under pension rules Sir David stood to lose £200,000 if he continued beyond next spring.

At the time Sir David reiterated to the Daily Post his intention to leave his post next March.

Sir David said then: "The position is no different for me. My intention is to go at the end of March next year. No-one has made me any offers or talked to me about any offers."

Statement from Sir David Henshaw

THE chief executive of Liverpool City Council, Sir David Henshaw, returned to Liverpool late last night after a short break abroad and has now considered the press coverage of Monday, 23rd May 2005.

The reports in the Liverpool Daily Post are deeply disappointing. The chief executive utterly refutes the allegation that he confronted the Leader of the Council and gave him an ultimatum to quit his post. It is simply not true.

The chief executive is pleased the Section 151 officer for the city council, Philip Halsall, has published his draft report on these matters, which is to be submitted to a special meeting of the City Council.

The report provides prima facie evidence of a conspiracy and collusion between a senior member of the city council and a senior officer on their own in the council, with others outside, to orchestrate a media campaign to force the chief executive out of office. These actions expose the council to potentially very significant claims for damages for constructive dismissal, damage to reputation and claims under whistle blowing legislation.

The chief executive also utterly refutes this is in any way connected to any pension arrangements discussed over the last few months. This too is simply untrue. Those matters were settled by the council some two months ago. The chief executive is clear that no matter what the personal financial consequences, he will be here to stay and finish the job for the 2008 European Capital of Culture, upon which so much depends for the city.

The chief executive believes this is a matter about the maintaining the highest standards of public life which have always been at the centre of the chief executive's public service career. The council is under a duty and obligation to report these matters to the National Standards Board for Local Government and the chief executive looks forward to an early judgement of the case so the city can resume working towards 2008.

Statement from Cllr Mike Storey

THE Executive Director (Resources) of Liverpool City Council has furnished me with a copy of a report and emails which he claims breach the Code of Local Government Conduct.

I am relieved to finally receive a copy of the allegations against me which appear to be based on confidential emails that I am concerned are being misused to try to undermine my position.

Only one body is authorised to determine whether a serious breach of the Code of Conduct has occurred and that is the Adjudication Panel for England after an investigation by the Standards Board for England.

It is not for the Executive Director (Resources) or any other officer to judge.

I have therefore sent copies of the emails and the report to the Standards Board for England and asked them to follow their usual procedure to determine

whether I have a case to answer. I am confident I will be exonerated by the Standards Board for England and that I will then be able to put these allegations behind me and continue serving our great city of Liverpool as the Leader of the Council.

I hope that by taking this action, the current media speculation surrounding these actions will die down and I can get on with the job I was elected by the people of Liverpool and my fellow councillors to do.

Since when did the appointed officials tell the political leaders to resign? Seems Sir David is overstepping his brief, even if there is evidence of foul play. But as has been said before here, this undignified squabble is the last thing the city needs right now - put up or shut up, and soon! :bash:

this feud should be made into a celebrity deathmatch or boxing match that would be funny.

CEOs should be on time-limited contracts. I think a good one can do what he or she can do in 3 years. Beyond 5 years, they are just building an empire and their personal imprint can become damaging. The publicity shown on this thread suggests that this man may now have become a liability. Personally I don't want to read about him anymore, I think he should be removed very quickly - and in a way that doesn't let him take the Council Tax payers of the City to the cleaners.

In the latest edition of Regeneration and Renewal, Sir Peter Hall asks why the national aquarium project is going to Bedfordshire and not Birkenhead. But I think there is a question that goes before even that one - didn't this very grand Chief Executive reject the project for Liverpool? It is a serious and big investment, that is forecast to generate 2 million visitors a year I think (that is from memory, can check the article so please dont' quote the figure based on that), and he just turned it down?

I am interested in that decision, first to find out if he took it, and secondly to find out what basis he took it on.

why the national aquarium project is going to Bedfordshire and not Birkenhead. But I think there is a question that goes before even that one - didn't this very grand Chief Executive reject the project for Liverpool?

Like I said, I may be paranoid but, I think Henshaw is anti-Liverpool. He has been behind just to many beneficial proposals, for Liverpool, being rejected or scaled back to make them either mundane or worst, detrimental to the city.

As for the Storey-v-Henshaw spat, I think this is a clash of ego's and should be billed as the Plagerist-v-Egotist bout.

Simplistically, Henshaw looks after Henshaw. Why else would anyone take a £100,000k a year job on the regional equivalent of the Titanic? He looks after he, and fook thee.

Probe begins into Storey's conduct Jun 7 2005




By Nick Coligan , Liverpool Echo





A TOP-LEVEL inquiry into the behaviour of Liverpool council leader Mike Storey has officially begun, the ECHO can reveal.

A local government watchdog decided allegations about Cllr Storey's recent conduct do need investigating after 10 days of debate.

The inquiry, brought about asa result of his recent row with council chief executive Sir David Henshaw, should finish by the end of this year.

But it could drag on as long as 18 months if it turns out to be more complicated than expected.

Cllr Storey reported himself to the Standards Board for England two weeks ago following the collapse of his relationship with Sir David.

Tensions between the council's two most powerful men erupted into a public battle after the discovery of emails exchanged between Cllr Storey and suspended media chief Matt Finnegan.

They appear to show how Cllr Storey and Mr Finnegan were working behind the scenes to hasten Sir David's expected departure from the town hall.

The Liberal Democrat politician is facing five charges of breaching his code of conduct.

A spokesman for the Standards Board said: "It is very hard to put time scales on an investigation because each one is unique.

"We aim to complete 90% of investigations within six months but obviously some take longer than others.

"However, higher-profile cases are given priority."

If the Standards Board decides Cllr Storey has acted wrongly, he faces at least harsh criticism and at worst suspension from the council.

But he has the strong backing of his fellow Liberal Democrat councillors, who have refused to consider replacing him as leader.

Cllr Storey and Sir David are now going through mediation in an attempt to resolve their differences.

Sir David, however, says he has no intention of leaving his £180,000-a-year job before Capital of Culture in 2008.

Henshaw and Storey sign peace agreement Jun 23 2005




EXCLUSIVE by Andy Kelly, Daily Post





THE damaging public row between Liverpool City Council's political and administrative leaders seemed to be at an end last night as both sides agreed to settle their differences.

Council leader Mike Storey issued an apology to chief executive Sir David Henshaw for the language used in a series of confidential emails sent between himself and the authority's suspended head of media, Matt Finnegan.

That apology has been accepted by Sir David, and both men now say they are determined to re-establish their working relationship for the good of the city.

They will review the progress of this in the autumn while Cllr Storey will still face an investigation by the local government standards board.

The peace deal was brokered following a period of mediation begun by the former leader of Birmingham City Council, Sir Michael Lyons, on May 25. It also includes agreements to give extra freedom to the Culture Company and a review of the council media centre to restore any "damaged confidence".

Last night, Cllr Storey said: "David and I have had our differences but we recognise that the future success of the city is the crucially important issue.

"Working together over the last few years has contributed much to the recovery in Liverpool and we are both proud of what we have achieved. We are determined to re-establish that approach.

"I have apologised to David for the inappropriate language in the emails and I have myself referred the issue to the National Standards Board.

"We are committed to Liverpool's well-being and prosperity. We have made that our joint objective of the last few years and will, with others, get back on track very quickly."

The once-close relationship between the two men had declined over the last year as Cllr Storey became increasingly concerned at what critics described as Sir David's "presidential" style of leadership at the Town Hall.

Cllr Storey said: "We have identified a number of things to be done to improve the way the council works and we are particularly eager to ensure more inclusive, collegiate working arrangements.

"I am very pleased that we are able to look forward together and want to thank Michael Lyons for his help and support over the past couple of weeks in helping us to get back on track."

Last month, the Daily Post revealed how the breakdown in the two men's relationship had reached an astonishing climax as Sir David apparently tried to secure Cllr Storey's resignation.

Private emails - in which Cllr Storey spoke of Sir David's "evil cabal" and how he was "losing the plot" - were discovered on Mr Finnegan's computer.

Sir David confronted the Liberal Democrat leader with his evidence and made it available to all 90 city councillors.

An investigation by executive director Phil Halsall reported "evidence of a clear conspiracy between Mike Storey, the leader of the council, and Matt Finnegan, the assistant executive director (media), to force Sir David Henshaw out of his position of chief executive."

Cllr Storey was apparently keen to ensure his chief executive's swift departure after Sir David announced his intention to resign in March, 2006, rather than face being taxed on his lucrative pension from April next year.

That intention to resign has since been withdrawn by the chief executive and he too appeared intent on remaining until at least Capital of Culture year last night.

Sir David said: "Building a better future for Liverpool has always been the shared objective for Mike and me, binding together the political and managerial leadership of the city.

"I am delighted we have been able to make good progress on the issues between us and commit to working together to 2008 and beyond. I have accepted Mike's apology and we now have a basis on which to move forward.

"Clearly, there are lots of issues to attend to, especially the governance of the council, where we have to quickly bring forward the more inclusive approach that we identified some time ago.

"With strong leadership from Mike and his colleagues, and a talented management team, we have been able to make real progress in improving services and development of the city.

"I am confident we can build on that track record to ensure Liverpool will be ready for 2008 and beyond."

But other city figures were last night scathing about the apparent peace deal.

Labour leader Joe Anderson said: "I believe the damage is irreparable no matter what the statements say.

"This has set council officer against council officer and, in some cases, councillor against councillor.

"While Mike Storey has apologised to David Henshaw, neither man has apologised to the city of Liverpool for the damage done to the city's reputation and the way it has made us look to the outside world.

"Both men share a responsibility for that. I don't think the people of the city should have confidence in people who put their own personal interests before that of this city and that is what both did."

andykelly@dailypost.co.uk

The peacemaker: Sir Michael Lyons

THE man given the unenviable task of sorting out Liverpool's biggest civic crisis since Militant last night had nothing but praise for the two men he helped bring together.

Sir Michael Lyons, former chief executive of Birmingham City Council, was brought in to mediate between Mike Storey and Sir David Henshaw.

Last night, Sir Michael said: "You've got two men who are both talented, they've both got strong ambitions and big characters - that's what Liverpool values in both of them."

Sir Michael held a serious of meetings with both men to find common ground.

"From the first meeting, both said their first interest was Liverpool. They had a lot of respect for each other and had a strong relationship and that's why people were so shocked it had been damaged.

"Both were keen to find a way forward."





Council leaders pledge to work together for benefit of city

HERE is the full text of the joint statement signed by Mike Storey and Sir David Henshaw last night.

Moving forward.

We are both strongly committed to the future welfare and prosperity of Liverpool and we believe our partnership has provided the foundation for the council to make rapid improvement in the quality of its services and to help shape the development of the city over the last five and a half years.

Whilst tensions are inevitable, we recognise the events of recent weeks have weakened confidence within the council and amongst our partners.

That must be restored. We are agreed upon the importance of our working well together and rebuilding a strong relationship that involves other colleagues.

We have agreed a programme of actions on which we will work together.

1. Firstly we commit to rebuilding our personal working relationship on the basis of mutual trust, integrity in all behaviours, transparency in decision making and respect for each other's roles and responsibilities.

2. We are confident we can draw on colleagues to ensure the success of our efforts. The "one team" approach of the executive board and executive management team has made an important contribution to what has been achieved by this council in recent years.

This must be quickly refreshed. We commit to a programme of immediate action that will establish the shared agenda and effective communication that has characterised previous working.

3. A year ago, we recognised there was a need to refresh the governance of the city council. The recovery and achievement of the last five and half years, including the move from "poor" to "good" in CPA (Comprehensive Performance Assessments) terms, required highly concentrated arrangements for both political and managerial leadership.

There is now a need to move to a more inclusive and collegiate approach whilst not jeopardising our ability to move quickly and be ready to take the opportunities that the journey to 2008 and beyond offers the city.

We have already started work on this through the "gover-nance working party" and commit ourselves to make good progress with revised working arrangements for the council by the autumn.

It is our intention to ensure an open process, encouraging the views of other parts of the council, and to draw on external knowledge and experience.

4. We jointly recognise the vital opportunity 2008 provides for Liverpool and believe the Capital of Culture Company needs more freedom to prepare for that platform.

At the same time, the council needs to ensure it is fully supportive and can ensure that new costs and obligations are adequately explored. We therefore intend to establish new partnership arrangements in co-operation with Professor Drummond Bone and the Capital of Culture Board. To be completed by autumn 2005.

5. We recognise that the events in recent weeks may have created uncertainty for other members of the executive management team. We believe the council will need the energetic contributions of all its senior managers over the coming years and agree to take steps to ensure that confidence is restored and key skills retained in the period up to 2008.

6. We wish to look beyond 2008 and to ensure that both council and city have ambitious plans stretching forward to 2020. We commit to putting in place arrangements to start the process of visioning Liverpool for 2020. Progress to be made by autumn 2005.

7. We recognise recent events may have damaged confidence in our media centre. Its work is too important for that to be ignored. We are agreed on the need to consider this crucial area of the council's work and will bring forward proposals in the autumn.

Our discussions during the mediation process have helped us to get back on course and to re-establish a good foundation for this work. It is our intention to formally review the further progress made in the autumn.

"6. We wish to look beyond 2008 and to ensure that both council and city have ambitious plans stretching forward to 2020. We commit to putting in place arrangements to start the process of visioning Liverpool for 2020. Progress to be made by autumn 2005."

That bit is exciting, I'm not interested in Henshaw and his career and his pension, he is just one of very many who could do that job.

Liverpool in 2020......sounds like the title for a new thread?

Go on then Poli, start the thread.

Okay, just did.

http://skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=227886

The Storey/Henshaw situation, at best an uneasy truce, could well erupt again soon, I think they both should go.

http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=16237597%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=why%2dwe%2dwant%2dthe%2dpowers%2dto%2ddiscipline%2dthe%2dbig%2dthree-name_page.html

Well Doug the people call vote out Storey, Henshaw is playing well above his unelected station though.

Taken from this mornings DP, Andy Kelly's done a good job IMO, I like the question and answer format, interesting reading. With these two falling out like this it is a wonder Liverpool has come this far. And surely there's the rub, imagine how much further on we'd be if we had a top team working together!!


http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=16325974%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=what%2dnext%2dfrom%2dtown%2dhall%2dsoap%2dopera%2d-name_page.html

Everybody get on the LiverpoolFuture website and vote for Liverpool having an elected mayor!

It is tragic how badly Liverpool's local government has let the city and its people down over the years. There is something fundamentally wrong with the system. A radical change is needed.

Interesting article. I don't know why though, after reading it I'd formed the opinion that although Storey's halo had slipped to the point of choking him, Henshaw is actually the villain of the piece. It seemed that if Henshaw was out of the picture perhaps Storey may get back on track? Just my thoughts anyway.

I suppose in the end this stuggle will come down to 'who's the daddy??' at least Mike could be disposed of as Toadie said down the thread.

Henshaw's got to go. I'd prefer that to be sooner rather than later. If Storey survives his inquiry I feel we could be looking at Liverpool rate payers digging deep to persuade Henshaw to be on his way.

Although Storey isn't exactly perfect, I still maintain a level of respect for him, because he is the one who way back in 1999, not only saw the potential for Liverpool if we were in the running for CofC, he also saw that Liverpool could win. Even when everyone else in the country laughed when they heard we were in the running, he never looked back. Every TV and radio interview he gave he was singing Liverpool's praises at every oppurtunity. If Sir Bob Scott did the grunt work behind the scenes, Storey did the upfront PR work that won us CofC. Although I don't agree with his reported conduct, I think it's important that we have someone leading the council who is so immensly proud of their city and what it could be that they would do that. He may have strayed off the track slightly, but I think to get rid of him would be a mistake.

Although Storey isn't exactly perfect, I still maintain a level of respect for him, because he is the one who way back in 1999, not only saw the potential for Liverpool if we were in the running for CofC, he also saw that Liverpool could win. Even when everyone else in the country laughed when they heard we were in the running, he never looked back. Every TV and radio interview he gave he was singing Liverpool's praises at every oppurtunity. If Sir Bob Scott did the grunt work behind the scenes, Storey did the upfront PR work that won us CofC. Although I don't agree with his reported conduct, I think it's important that we have someone leading the council who is so immensly proud of their city and what it could be that they would do that. He may have strayed off the track slightly, but I think to get rid of him would be a mistake.

Fair point- Storey isn't as evil as Henshaw. But he can be misguided. Lpool ain't going places becuase of CofC (although it has helped.) We need lots of the green stuff to come flowing into the city.

This might sound like the dreams of a paranoid schizophrenic- but I reckon Henshaw is working for the elites in London.; Having a dirty, regressive influence behind the scenes. "What's that Darling? You don't want Liverpool to have trams? I'll see to that love [kiss]" etc.

someone posted on another board at 10.25 Thursday night that Storey has quit.

Dont know if its true - anyone know anything ??

What do we call a mike if it is ???

Nothing on BBC Liverpool about it at the moment. Sounds like a false rumour to me.

Still, not long now till Henshaw is gone. He's a dangerous man: allow him near a more powerful position and he could do a Josef Stalin and shit all over everyone.

Mike Storey is to resign today!! there is a 5 page spread in the DP along with a copy of his resignation letter sent to all members of the Lib/Dems.

Bloody hell!!!!!

It's actually true?! Fuck me...

Oh well, we could always replace him with Pete Price: nobody would tell the difference.

Can he take Henshaw with him then? :?

It looks as though the weasel Henshaw will hang on a bit longer, the Standards Board are to deliver their report about the e-mail scandal next week Mike has decided to fall on his sword before being stuffed by the report.


http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=16412407%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=mike%2dstorey%2dresigns%2dtoday-name_page.html

Henshaw needs to take a walk, Storey was right to go get someone else in with a fresh view 7 years is a long time.

I have to agree, while Storey wasn't perfect he did have vision and passion for the city and was probably the best leader this city ever had.

I think the council leader is paid about a 10th of the chief executives salary, but Mike Storey has been worth 1000 time more than Henshaw, who after all is only in it for the money and prestige (After all, who in the private sector would give him a job?)

Henshaw has set out to destroy the city, just because Mike wouldn't give him his pay rise and hurt his ego. Surely he can be sacked for bringing the city into disrepute and damaging our reputation?

It is a good thing that Storey is going. He has done good things in his post, but all politicians start to lose it once they have had too much time in power. Power corrupts the mind. Hopefully he will be replaced with somebody young, dynamic and in love with the city.

It is good for the city that there will be a change to coincide with the big changes taking place in the landscape.

When does Henshaw's post come to an end? He is worse than Storey- he's an over paid, unelected, egotist. His mind os even more corrupted than Storey's. He can go to his grave knowing that he did bad things to his own city.
-Although, he too did good things initially. Nobody can eny that. i.e. clearing out all the slack in the council work force.

Godd riddance to the both of them. :cheers:

I have to agree, while Storey wasn't perfect he did have vision and passion for the city and was probably the best leader this city ever had.

I think the council leader is paid about a 10th of the chief executives salary, but Mike Storey has been worth 1000 time more than Henshaw, who after all is only in it for the money and prestige (After all, who in the private sector would give him a job?)

Henshaw has set out to destroy the city, just because Mike wouldn't give him his pay rise and hurt his ego. Surely he can be sacked for bringing the city into disrepute and damaging our reputation?

As a councillor, all Storey gets is expenses and admin support. His paying job is as a headmaster of a school in Knowsley borough.

Henshaw has to go now. It's untenable for an unelected public servant to have seen off the elected leader of a democratically accountable body.

Remember that all this started with him threatening to retire if he didn't get a big pension increase. He was surprised not to have got this and to find out that Storey was happy to find a replacement. Storey was foolish to have allowed the ferrit to outsmart him in the skullduggery that followed and has resigned with dignity.

Hopefully, Henshaw was petty enough to have been hanging on only long enough to be seen as the "winner" of this tussle.

The ruling democratically elected party in Liverpool now cannot work with this man. He's got to go.

I have to agree, while Storey wasn't perfect he did have vision and passion for the city and was probably the best leader this city ever had.

I think the council leader is paid about a 10th of the chief executives salary, but Mike Storey has been worth 1000 time more than Henshaw, who after all is only in it for the money and prestige (After all, who in the private sector would give him a job?)

Henshaw has set out to destroy the city, just because Mike wouldn't give him his pay rise and hurt his ego. Surely he can be sacked for bringing the city into disrepute and damaging our reputation?

I'd imagine that the city have or are looking at ways to break the relationship with Henshaw, in fact isn't this what has brought about Storeys downfall?

They gave Henshaw an awful lot of power and have been repaid by a giant ego abusing it, no doubt Henshaw could work in the private sector but my feeling is he'd damage your business if you employed him. There's a lot of bad stories about him going back to his days at Knowsley, I personally know 2 people who paid a very high price for him to save his arse.

Everybody get down to the Town Hall, wearing and waving as many orange-coloured objects as you can find. I might get a coach back to join yers if you all agree. ;)

It's not Kiev, Pob.

I never said it was now, did I? And everyone knows Henshaw is a civic version of Leonid Kuchma. :)

Seriously though, it'll be interesting to have some fresh faces around. Who is likely to replace Storey?

"IT may have ended in tears and sadness - and with much regret - but Mike Storey can today look back on his reign as leader of Liverpool city council with an enormous amount of pride.

The Liverpool of 2005 is a much different proposition to the Liverpool of 1998. It is richer. It is healthier. And it is the envy of countless other cities, not just across Britain, but Europe.

We cannot and should not underestimate the giant strides which this city has taken in the last seven-and-a-half years. And while it was by no means down to one man, the many improvements and gains could not have been achieved without a strong and, at times, inspirational leader at the political helm.

The greatest prize of all, of course, was the title European Capital of Culture for 2008, which provides the backdrop to one of the most magnificent makeovers in municipal history.

This award, in itself, has transformed the image of this often much-maligned city among millions of people throughout this country and beyond and provides a launch pad of myriad opportunities in both the cultural and business worlds.

It may be a work in progress, but Cllr Storey only needs to take a walk through the ever-changing city centre to see some of the snowball effect of this priceless title. A new Liverpool is emerging and, in 2008, the departing council leader deserves his place on the centre stage.

Many have pointed to the part-nership between Storey and the city's top public servant, council chief executive David Henshaw, as being the driving force behind the capture of the culture crown and the moving forward and modernising of what a top spi"n doctor might christen New Liverpool.

But Storey's fall from grace can also be linked to Henshaw - and a spin doctor.

He is leaving - "in the best interests of the city" - after admitting misconduct over his colourful email correspondence with suspended council media boss Matt Finnegan, which appeared to show them planning to ease the departure of Henshaw, after he had indicated that he intended to step down."

Just a thought, but if the standards board clear him, could he make a come back?

Drinks all round! the bastard is out! yahooo, now all we need is a few others to go...

I wonder if Sloyne has heard yet? - He is on his cruise, its safe to say that he was not particularly fond of Mr Storey.

Arnie, Henshaw is still in situ. Now you know what you need to do now, don't you?

Matrix : [Austrian accent] "I'm a friend of David Henshaw's, can I see him please.?"

Clerk : "No, sorry, he's busy cracking open the bubbily with his one and only companion (a ferret) in recognition of his wonderful victory over Storey."

Matrix : [surveys the fixtures surrounding the clerk's desk] "I'll be back!"

http://www.chez.com/genremineur/films2/terminator/pdvd_000.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/rob*******1/hen.jpg

I've just found a whole page on Henshaw- to my disgust- on my uni website. Apparently Liverpool will have 42 tower cranes when construciton reaches its peak! What do you have to say about that Gareth?

Frankly, the report is a bit too glowing- although he has done some good things. Perhaps he and Storey are as bad as each other. Frankly, I don't like either of them. It doesn't surprise me to find Henshaw was involved in student politics- where most arsehole politicians start out their careers as slime balls.

http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.shu.ac.uk/alumni/images/henshaw%2520bw.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.shu.ac.uk/alumni/henshaw.html&h=269&w=400&sz=23&tbnid=9PjCbpLP7ooJ:&tbnh=80&tbnw=120&hl=en&start=12&prev=/images%3Fq%3Ddavid%2Bhenshaw%26svnum%3D10%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26sa%3DN

Changing the subject slightly. Did anyone see BBC North West news tonight? They ran a special edition devoted entirely (apart from the weather) to George Best. This followed a big story on the national news and was followed by an hour long tribute programme.

On this same day, the leader of a city council resigns - a decision that will have a direct effect on the lives of half a million people - and it doesn't merit a mention.

Unlike most people on this site, I remember when Best was at the peak of his career. He was a great footballer and, by all accounts, a very likeable person, I'm sorry that he should die in this way. All the same, I don't think it's mean-spirited to point out the evident bias of the BBC toward a Manchester story (as opposed to a Liverpool Storey). I doubt very much that the death of a prominent Liverpudlian would have anything like the same profile.

"IT may have ended in tears and sadness - and with much regret - but Mike Storey can today look back on his reign as leader of Liverpool city council with an enormous amount of pride.

The Liverpool of 2005 is a much different proposition to the Liverpool of 1998. It is richer. It is healthier. And it is the envy of countless other cities, not just across Britain, but Europe.

We cannot and should not underestimate the giant strides which this city has taken in the last seven-and-a-half years. And while it was by no means down to one man, the many improvements and gains could not have been achieved without a strong and, at times, inspirational leader at the political helm.

The greatest prize of all, of course, was the title European Capital of Culture for 2008, which provides the backdrop to one of the most magnificent makeovers in municipal history.

This award, in itself, has transformed the image of this often much-maligned city among millions of people throughout this country and beyond and provides a launch pad of myriad opportunities in both the cultural and business worlds.

It may be a work in progress, but Cllr Storey only needs to take a walk through the ever-changing city centre to see some of the snowball effect of this priceless title. A new Liverpool is emerging and, in 2008, the departing council leader deserves his place on the centre stage.

Many have pointed to the part-nership between Storey and the city's top public servant, council chief executive David Henshaw, as being the driving force behind the capture of the culture crown and the moving forward and modernising of what a top spi"n doctor might christen New Liverpool.

But Storey's fall from grace can also be linked to Henshaw - and a spin doctor.

He is leaving - "in the best interests of the city" - after admitting misconduct over his colourful email correspondence with suspended council media boss Matt Finnegan, which appeared to show them planning to ease the departure of Henshaw, after he had indicated that he intended to step down."

I think the Echo just about gets it right. Storey was in power during one of the greatest periods of change in modern Liverpool's history and he must deserve some of the kudos for that, however much things like European money helped.

Might be unfair but I think that without Storey, we would all be debating whether Walton's latest promise to start work on their plastic bubbles on Chavasse Park should be taken seriously.

All the same, I don't think it's mean-spirited to point out the evident bias of the BBC toward a Manchester story (as opposed to a Liverpool Storey). I doubt very much that the death of a prominent Liverpudlian would have anything like the same profile.
No offense, but thats ridiculous. Have you forgotten the whole Ken Bigley saga?

I think the over the top media attention of George Best's death is nation-wide. Great footballer- of course. Great person- I'm not so sure. He was given two livers and pissed them both up the wall- hardly a heroic thing to do. But, he is the classic case of a talented person becoming a shameful loser- the media seems to be obsessed with such things. There will be many more where he came from.

It is disgusting that Storey's resignation was hardly mentioned.- if at all. I think the free press is vastly over-rated. You still only end up hearing about the sensationalist rubbish that editors want you to hear about.

No offense, but thats ridiculous. Have you forgotten the whole Ken Bigley saga?

No I haven't but I don't remember a whole news programme being devoted to him and then followed by a tribute programme.

Surely the resignation of Mike Storey should have merited a mention, however brief.

No I haven't but I don't remember a whole news programme being devoted to him and then followed by a tribute programme.

Surely the resignation of Mike Storey should have merited a mention, however brief.
There was a whole news program devoted to him, and another to his memorial.
I think the Storey story was mentioned on Granada, included a brief interview too.

Excuse the crudeness- but the regional news programmes are absolutely shite. They are embarrassingly bad. The two I am familiar with- North West Tonight, and Up North Tonight (-West and North Yorkshire) are so cringe worthy it is unbelievable. The topics covered are usually scraped from the bottom of a barrel, and the presenters (especially over here) seem so amateurish. Frankly, I'm amazed anybody bothers to watch regional news- I instantly turn over when I see it.

All the more annoying for scousers, there is a blatant bias towards Manchester news. It is obvious, and has been the case for a long time. Liverpool should start its own channel like the city of York (population: 170,000) has.

Anyway, back on topic....


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/rob*******1/hen.jpg

... the regional news programmes are absolutely shite. They are embarrassingly bad. The two I am familiar with- North West Tonight, and Up North Tonight (-West and North Yorkshire) are so cringe worthy it is unbelievable. The topics covered are usually scraped from the bottom of a barrel, and the presenters (especially over here) seem so amateurish. Frankly, I'm amazed anybody bothers to watch regional news- I instantly turn over when I see it.

All the more annoying for scousers, there is a blatant bias towards Manchester news. It is obvious, and has been the case for a long time. Liverpool should start its own channel like the city of York (population: 170,000) has.

As a child, my Dad tuned our telly in wrongly, and we got all our regional tv from Yorkshire. Not sure how he did it, but he did. So I grew up with regional news about fish and trawlers at Grimsby, and believed I was growing up in Yorkshire. So when we later got a colour telly and it tuned in properly, I was a bit sceptical about this Manchester stuff on the regional news. Maybe that is what lies behind my personal inability to relate to anything called the "North West", and also my fondness for Leeds, which is a fantastic city! One of my sisters moved there (to Leeds), and I think it was the same thing, she'd been indoctrinated by watching the wrong regional telly into thinking it was her regional capital.

There was a whole news program devoted to him, and another to his memorial.
I think the Storey story was mentioned on Granada, included a brief interview too.

Perhaps I should be the one defending the BBC Accy as after all Best was a star of my generation. I do understand that people will be very upset about his death (Gordon Burns seemed close to tears). But what I am complaining about is that a major regional news story is not covered by what is meant to be a regional news service.

Would the same have happened if the leader of Manchester City Council had resigned? Perhaps it would - but that just reinforces the lack of professionalism of the people responsible for bringing us this programme.

As a child, my Dad tuned our telly in wrongly, and we got all our regional tv from Yorkshire. Not sure how he did it, but he did. So I grew up with regional news about fish and trawlers at Grimsby, and believed I was growing up in Yorkshire. So when we later got a colour telly and it tuned in properly, I was a bit sceptical about this Manchester stuff on the regional news. Maybe that is what lies behind my personal inability to relate to anything called the "North West", and also my fondness for Leeds, which is a fantastic city! One of my sisters moved there (to Leeds), and I think it was the same thing, she'd been indoctrinated by watching the wrong regional telly into thinking it was her regional capital.

Yes, I remember being able to get Look North from Leeds but we did get the Manchester version as well.

Yes, I remember being able to get Look North from Leeds but we did get the Manchester version as well.
well thats not too bad.. i always got stuck with welsh tv.. most of it in welsh aswell

As there was a one hour tribute programme on straight after there was no need for half an hour of news on George Best. Very sad news, but the media coverage has been a little over the top all week.

I think its been awful how the media have camped outside the hospital for the last week or so constantly bringing us updates. If I were George Best's family I would have hated that.

I have family oop North so I've seen Look North on BBC, and I hate it. They have a massive bias towards Newcastle and think its the centre of the Universe. It was quite funny seeing the C.o.C announcement back in 2003 when we won :cheers: What I also don't understand is why Look North includes Cumbria. They have news on Carlisle and the lake district all the time, yet its supposed to be news for the North East and North Yorkshire! So Cumbria is covered by North West tonight and Look North!

Steve,

When I lived in York- I lived in 3 different parts of the city. For some reason, in one of the houses I lived in we got the Newcastle version you're talking about- I don't know why it included Cumbria- they only ever mentioned the entire county about twice per month.

The Leeds version is just as bad for glamorising the 'regional capital.' All they end up doing is alienating loads of people not form the area focused on. It's probably a prject to brain wash people into losing their local identities. It's part of the European project started by Heath don't you know!

Anyway, if you want to watch news- Ch 4 news is the best in terms of analysis. Although they had a bloated Best edition today as well.

It would get on my nerves if I had to watch Manchester's news all the time. Let's have some DEVOLUTION!

Here in Sheffield, Look North seems to be incredibly biased around Leeds.

This is a very central position: I can probably pick up Midlands TV from here too.

You heard it here (Los Angeles) first - 8.45 pm Thursday

you local correspondents are crap.

:P

You heard it here (Los Angeles) first - 8.45 pm Thursday

you local correspondents are crap.

:P

Did we? :?

You heard it here (Los Angeles) first - 8.45 pm Thursday

you local correspondents are crap.

:P

We know on Thursday morning. In fact, we knew about the tiff between them before the local media did! :)

"IT may have ended in tears and sadness - and with much regret - but Mike Storey can today look back on his reign as leader of Liverpool city council with an enormous amount of pride.

The Liverpool of 2005 is a much different proposition to the Liverpool of 1998. It is richer. It is healthier. And it is the envy of countless other cities, not just across Britain, but Europe.

We cannot and should not underestimate the giant strides which this city has taken in the last seven-and-a-half years. And while it was by no means down to one man, the many improvements and gains could not have been achieved without a strong and, at times, inspirational leader at the political helm.

The greatest prize of all, of course, was the title European Capital of Culture for 2008, which provides the backdrop to one of the most magnificent makeovers in municipal history.

This award, in itself, has transformed the image of this often much-maligned city among millions of people throughout this country and beyond and provides a launch pad of myriad opportunities in both the cultural and business worlds.

It may be a work in progress, but Cllr Storey only needs to take a walk through the ever-changing city centre to see some of the snowball effect of this priceless title. A new Liverpool is emerging and, in 2008, the departing council leader deserves his place on the centre stage.

Many have pointed to the part-nership between Storey and the city's top public servant, council chief executive David Henshaw, as being the driving force behind the capture of the culture crown and the moving forward and modernising of what a top spi"n doctor might christen New Liverpool.

But Storey's fall from grace can also be linked to Henshaw - and a spin doctor.

He is leaving - "in the best interests of the city" - after admitting misconduct over his colourful email correspondence with suspended council media boss Matt Finnegan, which appeared to show them planning to ease the departure of Henshaw, after he had indicated that he intended to step down."

Does anyone find it strange that Mike Storey suddenly felt guilty about what he did, over half a year since the email scandal was uncovered? He should have admitted his guilt and resigned there and then. That way, we wouldn't have had to pay the rediculous price for mediation talks (does anyone remember the actual figure?) and we could have had a new leader by now and have moved on from this fiasco. It's quite clear that Storey has had a tip of that the investigation into his conduct is not going too well, and he's resigned before the verdict is released, which will probably conclude that he's guilty and should be made to stand down. He shouldn't have bothered with the mediation if he thought is was very possible that he would be leaving voluntarily. I somehow don't think he and Henshaw will have anything to do with each now that he's no longer leader. What a waste of money!

Here in Sheffield, Look North seems to be incredibly biased around Leeds.

This is a very central position: I can probably pick up Midlands TV from here too.
I can get all the BBC local channels on digital TV! :D You can view ITV London now too, not that I would want to lol.

It's quite amazing how damaging thoughts and ideas were sent via email, which creates multiple copies on servers/P.C.'s etc, which can be found easily.

We know on Thursday morning. In fact, we knew about the tiff between them before the local media did! :)


Gareth - dont do go all 'earlybird' on me !! :nono: :nuts: :clown:

I saw it on another website anyway so I can hardy claim to be the breaker of the news - and who cares who was first anyway - I know I dont. :angel:

Amazing though how the t'internet has changed the way news travels.

Does anyone find it strange that Mike Storey suddenly felt guilty about what he did, over half a year since the email scandal was uncovered? He should have admitted his guilt and resigned there and then. That way, we wouldn't have had to pay the rediculous price for mediation talks (does anyone remember the actual figure?) and we could have had a new leader by now and have moved on from this fiasco. It's quite clear that Storey has had a tip of that the investigation into his conduct is not going too well, and he's resigned before the verdict is released, which will probably conclude that he's guilty and should be made to stand down. He shouldn't have bothered with the mediation if he thought is was very possible that he would be leaving voluntarily. I somehow don't think he and Henshaw will have anything to do with each now that he's no longer leader. What a waste of money!

I think that the report was mentioned into day's Post. Mike Storey had read this report and realising he was 'guilty' decided to go before the report was made public.

From what he is saying in todays papers Mike Storey was willing to go in May but the Lib Dem councillors refused to accept his resignation.

I still don't understand what he has done wrong, when compared to various slimeball government ministers. If this standards board had juristiction over Blair, he would have been booted out several time over for the various lies and dodgy deals.

Well he had the balls to admit he did wrong (most politicians would NEVER dream of doing that), so he isnt all bad.

Henshaw is still there though.

From what he is saying in todays papers Mike Storey was willing to go in May but the Lib Dem councillors refused to accept his resignation.

I still don't understand what he has done wrong, when compared to various slimeball government ministers. If this standards board had juristiction over Blair, he would have been booted out several time over for the various lies and dodgy deals.

And look at Jeffrey Acher (convicted criminal), trying to get back in with the Tories. Mike Storey is probably only guilty of playing politics with a few emails, is Henshaw squeaky clean.

Having met him a few times, I would say Mike Storey is as honest as it is possible for a senior politican to be. I wouldn't say the equlvelent about Henshaw!

Paul Clein (http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=16422061%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=clein%2dnow%2dfavourite%2dto%2dtake%2dover%2dcity-name_page.html) has emerged as front-runner to take over as leader of Liverpool city council,what's he like?

A few stories in the Echo that have now appeared on their website indicated that many leading Lib Dems in the city including most of the front runners for the leader's job are saying that Henshaw's position is now untenable.

Fatso is hanging on in there for now, but we can expect his retirement pretty soon I expect. As soon as he can negotiate a package he'll be off, pockets stuffed with publically derived readies.

Paul Clein (http://icliverpool.icnetwork.co.uk/0100news/0100regionalnews/tm_objectid=16422061%26method=full%26siteid=50061%26headline=clein%2dnow%2dfavourite%2dto%2dtake%2dover%2dcity-name_page.html) has emerged as front-runner to take over as leader of Liverpool city council,what's he like?

Very inteligent bloke and probably mostly responsible for the Education Authority not being privatized by the government. I am told he wasn't a fan of Henshaw from the start, which says to me he has good judgement!!! Bit too grumpy perhaps, whereas Storey always seems to be a cheery optimistic type. Apart from that, i don't know much about him.

Very inteligent bloke and probably mostly responsible for the Education Authority not being privatized by the government. I am told he wasn't a fan of Henshaw from the start, which says to me he has good judgement!!! Bit too grumpy perhaps, whereas Storey always seems to be a cheery optimistic type. Apart from that, i don't know much about him.

I don't mind him being grumpy so long as he does his job properly,he sounds alright from your description but he needs to sort his gigs out. :)

The Government official who manages our city is apparently not safe from political egos, backstabbing and dishonourable activities of elected members. Paying more Council tax for less and less council services. This city seems to have failed for thirty years and more to produce an untainted political leadership Major government / EU investment, a property price boom and alcohol sales drove the revitalisation of the city. Credit for the ongoing regeneration would be claimed by whatever political party had been in power for the last eight years. In the meantime my city centre has become a public bar mall. I think it is about time we allowed a born and bred citizen of Liverpool to have the opportunity of steering Liverpool beyond the hype of Capital of Culture and 2008 and restore all standards of behaviour in those elected to oversee this wonderful asset.

Hello Peedoff and welcome to SSC. :wave:

The Government official who manages our city is apparently not safe from political egos, backstabbing and dishonourable activities of elected members. Paying more Council tax for less and less council services. This city seems to have failed for thirty years and more to produce an untainted political leadership Major government / EU investment, a property price boom and alcohol sales drove the revitalisation of the city. Credit for the ongoing regeneration would be claimed by whatever political party had been in power for the last eight years. In the meantime my city centre has become a public bar mall. I think it is about time we allowed a born and bred citizen of Liverpool to have the opportunity of steering Liverpool beyond the hype of Capital of Culture and 2008 and restore all standards of behaviour in those elected to oversee this wonderful asset.

Welcome peedoff,

Unfortunately Storey and Henshaw are both from Liverpool, but have caused a fu@*-up between themselves and the image of the council, especially Henshaw, who wasn't present in London for crucial Merseytram meetings. If some people don't agree with something, but the rest do, then they must show unity and work in one direction, otherwise nothing would get done, as proven with Merseytram. (even though it was probably a zombie project, having been killed by Goverment change of mind earlier in the year).

I belive all 4 candidates for leader are also from Liverpool.

As for backstabbing, you ask most council staff in the Municipal Buildings who they would prefer to see going, Henshaw or Storey. Everyone I speak to says Henshaw, and regard Mike Storey as a decent bloke who has tried to do what's best for the city.

Unfortunatly Henshaw's ego matters to him more than the city does. I don't belive the same applied to Mike Storey or probably to most other councillors. After all they are paid a fraction of what Council Officers get, get blaimed for everthing that goes wrong and none of the credit for any of the improvements in the city - as Peedoff has demonstrated.

It has become too fashionable to knock anyone who tries to get involved in local (or national) politics, the result is that anyone inteligent and honest is put off getting involved and we end up with just the sort of people we all complain about.

ECHO EXCLUSIVE: Sir David Henshaw quits Jan 30 2006
by Nick Coligan, Liverpool Echo

SIR David Henshaw today announced he is quitting as chief executive of Liverpool council.

Sir David - the most powerful unelected person at the town hall - revealed his decision to a panel of senior councillors.

It brings to an end six successful but often controversial years in charge of thousands of council employees.

While he helped win Capital of Culture status and kickstart the city's regeneration, Sir David was involved in high-profile rows with elected councillors.

Best news we've had for a long time!!!

Let's party!!!

:cheers1: :banana2:

:cheers: :cheers: :booze: :booze: :dj: :lock: :cheer: :cheers2: :cheers2: :pepper: :applause:

:applause: :applause: :cheers1: :banana2:

:carrot: :carrot: :carrot: :cheers1: :cheers1:

:banana2: :banana2: :horse: :horse: :gossip: :gossip: :hug: :cucumber: :cucumber: :banana: :banana: :drunk: :hahaha: :hahaha: :booze:

Council chief retires after feud
(BBC News, January 30, 2006)

Liverpool's top council officer - who fell out with the city's leader - is set to retire.

Sir David Henshaw, who has been chief executive for six-and-a-half years, will step down in March.

The announcement comes two months after Mike Storey resigned as council leader following a row with Sir David.

Mr Storey was found guilty of misconduct by a watchdog after emails between himself and another officer revealed a "plot" against Sir David.

Sir David had said the emails were evidence of a "conspiracy" to force him from his job.

Mr Storey, who was reappointed to the city's cabinet last week as culture supremo, stepped down after admitting to an "error of judgment".

Sir David said it had been a "privilege" to serve as chief executive.

"In addition, despite the tensions of the last six months, I would like to thank Mike Storey for his support and leadership during his time as leader of the council," he said.

"Nothing can take away the achievements of the last few years."

Pension incentive

He added that, during his tenure, Liverpool had moved from being a failing authority to a successful one which had reduced council tax charges.

He said he had decided to retire in March because his pension would be reduced if he stayed longer under new government rules.

Councillor Warren Bradley has since replaced Mr Storey as leader of the ruling Liberal Democrat group.

It is hoped a new chief executive will be in place by 2007, ahead of the city's Capital of Culture celebrations in 2008.

http://liverpool-evil-cabal.blogspot.com/2006/07/council-ban-backfires-blog-grows.html

This is the text of a letter I sent to Mr Hilton. Others may like to follow suit.
Dear Sir,

I read with concern that you have banned your 90 councillors and over 19,500 employees from accessing a campaign blog against corruption in the council.

The blog, http://liverpool-evil-cabal.blogspot.com/, should be accessible to all regardless of whether you agree with the content - surely it makes it seem much more likely that corruption is rife within the council if you are too afraid to let people read the website.

From http://www.un.org/rights/: Everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and *TO SEEK, RECEIVE AND IMPART INFORMATION AND IDEAS THROUGH ANY MEDIA* and regardless of frontiers.

Why are you so afraid to let people access this website?

Yours Sincerely,

The city should be chasing Henshaw for its money back - maybe try to get half a million out of him?

I was upset to see there was no public campaign to buy the Lowry Pier Head painting that was sold at auction recently, I think it went for a bit over a million? Grabbing back this mans pension and probably his last two years salary (when it seems he was working out of control and beyond his remit and basically working against the city rather than for it) could have gone some way to purchasing that painting. I know which would be more useful to the city.

Incidentally, what are the National Museums and Galleries for on Liverpool if they don't even bother trying to raise money for important public art?

The city should be chasing Henshaw for its money back - maybe try to get half a million out of him?

I was upset to see there was no public campaign to buy the Lowry Pier Head painting that was sold at auction recently, I think it went for a bit over a million? Grabbing back this mans pension and probably his last two years salary (when it seems he was working out of control and beyond his remit and basically working against the city rather than for it) could have gone some way to purchasing that painting. I know which would be more useful to the city.

Incidentally, what are the National Museums and Galleries for on Liverpool if they don't even bother trying to raise money for important public art?

"Incidentally, what are the National Museums and Galleries for on Liverpool if they don't even bother trying to raise money for important public art?"

Excellent post Poli and some very good points raised.