New Statesman -

How the uncrowned king of Scotland lost his way

Rob Brown — Tue, 03 May 2011 17:51:18 GMT

The Scottish National Party, under the clever leadership of Alex Salmond, is likely to retain power in Holyrood in the elections of 5 May. Yet its goal of independence seems more distant than ever.

How the Celtic Tiger was tamed

Rob Brown — Wed, 23 Feb 2011 10:26:37 GMT

As Ireland heads to the polls, it expects not change but more of the same.

From free state to failed state

Rob Brown — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 11:48:02 GMT

The popular consensus is that Ireland�s debts are unpayable and the �rescue package� simply adds to the burden. As gallows humour turns to national trauma, one party looks set to prosper.

Why Irish eyes aren�t smiling

Rob Brown — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 11:54:00 GMT

Ireland and Canada offer contrasting warnings from the front line of the budget deficit wars.

When Gerry met Jesus

Rob Brown — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 10:19:39 GMT

The Sinn Fein president showed he lacked biblical wisdom just when it could have been of benefit.

Failed by Fianna

Rob Brown — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 08:31:56 GMT

The Irish government rejected fiscal stimulus and slashed public spending instead. The result is economic meltdown. Is this a foretaste of life in Britain under the Tories?

A toothless tiger

Rob Brown — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 09:51:12 GMT

Observations on Ireland

Scotland the Broke

Rob Brown — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 09:45:00 GMT

Uncertainty and anxiety are the presiding moods north of Hadrian�s Wall as much as anywhere else. Scotland the Brave has become Scotland the Broke, reports Rob Brown