Sir Humphrey

I am finding Twitter an increasingly intolerant site, long on anger, and short on reasoned debate. As a rule, I now rarely, if ever, engage here beyond posting blog threads or retweets. Its nothing personal, I just don't find that this site brings me joy anymore.

I suppose I should be flattered that the South China Morning Post (@SCMPNews ) has ripped off my research and twitter thread without having the decency to attribute my work... scmp.com/news/hong-kong…

A new Archives release. Minute of 2002 meeting between CDS and Gen Myers (Joint Chiefs) discussing UK planning in invading Iraq, and revealing comments on scale of disagreement inside US military about the invasion plans.

Fascinating Archive release - the 2002 note from Geoff Hoon (SofS) to Tony Blair recommending Admiral Boyce be let go after 2yrs as CDS, and not extended in post citing a wider succession problem if he stayed in post. Really interesting insight to MOD politics and SofS/CDS ties.

According to previously unseen highly SECRET files release today (22 Jul), in 1989, the UK Government began planning in the utmost secrecy for the mass evacuation of millions of people from Hong Kong ahead of handover to China. This was called 'The Armageddon Scenario'

Sunset at Liddington hillfort, a peaceful site near Swindon, some 2700yrs old and reputedly the site of Arthurian battles.

In 1992 serious concerns were raised about the release of unflattering letters comparing the merits of different Royal Family members attending Ugandan independence. It was not seen as 'worthy' of Duke of Edinburgh attending. Fascinating glimpse into Royalty and decolonisation.

The best National Archive release of the day- the 'Happy Birthday' message from Vladimir Putin to Tony Blair on his 48th birthday! Having Putin wish you "good health" does sounds ominous!

.@HMSPWLS arrived in Darwin, Australia this morning #CSG25 #TalismanSabre2025 19 Jets on deck, including 034 recovered from India (plus one USMC jet)

G’day Darwin! 👋 It’s great to be in the Northern Territory- we’re looking forward to getting to know the Top End of Australia 🇦🇺🦘

Royal Navy aircraft carrier and fleet flagship, HMS Prince of Wales, visits Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory in her latest stop. The visit marks the first time a Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carrier has visited Australia.

Latest news article: F-35 jet stranded in India for 37 days recovered to HMS Prince of Wales off Australia navylookout.com/f-35-jet-stran…