Dr Michael Fraser
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ffinlo.bsky.social
Dr Michael Fraser
@ffinlo.bsky.social
130 followers 84 following 550 posts
Personal account. Works in a university. Non-resident Manx 🇮🇲. Supports Ukraine 🇺🇦.
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ffinlo.bsky.social
"The King has approved that Professor Wim Decock, Professor of Roman Law, Legal History and Comparative Law at the Université Catholique de Louvain, be appointed Regius Professor of Civil Law in the University of Oxford in succession to Professor Wolfgang Ernst."
www.gov.uk/government/n... #legalsky
Appointment of the Regius Professor of Civil Law in the University of Oxford
The King has approved that Professor Wim Decock be appointed Regius Professor of Civil Law in the University of Oxford.
www.gov.uk
January 22, 2026 at 5:14 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Of wheels?

"The 800,000 people on the payroll of professional services company Accenture were once known as employees, workers or consultants.

Lately, however, they have gone by a different moniker: 'reinventors'."

giftarticle.ft.com/giftarticle/...
Why are so many companies reinventing job titles?
Quirky branding for roles sends a message about company culture, but the strategy comes with risks
giftarticle.ft.com
January 20, 2026 at 9:28 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
The Prime Minister had a number of calls with leaders this afternoon.

He then spoke to President Trump

🇬🇱🇬🇱 🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱
"Applying tariffs on allies for pursuing the collective security of NATO allies is wrong."
🇬🇱🇬🇱 🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱🇬🇱
www.gov.uk/government/n... #Greenland #DefendGreenland
PM calls with international leaders: 18 January 2026
The Prime Minister spoke with Prime Minister of Denmark, Mette Frederiksen; President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen; NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and President Trump.
www.gov.uk
January 18, 2026 at 7:32 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Marsh Family's rendition of the Battle Hymn of the Empire.

"Trump's hatred marches on."
youtube.com/watch?v=8saU...
"Battle Hymn of the Empire" - Marsh Family adaptation of "Battle Hymn of the Republic" about Trump
YouTube video by Marsh Family
youtube.com
January 12, 2026 at 9:28 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Replace Russia with United States.

"They agreed that more needed to be done to deter Russia in the High North and welcomed discussions on how Allies could further protect the region from increasing Russian threats."
www.gov.uk/government/n...
PM call with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte: 8 January 2026
The Prime Minister spoke to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte this afternoon.
www.gov.uk
January 8, 2026 at 8:16 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Declaration of intent between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, The French Republic and Ukraine relating to the deployment of multinational forces in support of the defence, reconstruction and strategic sustainability of Ukraine.
www.gov.uk/government/p...
Declaration of intent between the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, The French Republic and Ukraine relating to the deployment of multinational forces in support of the defence, re...
www.gov.uk
January 7, 2026 at 10:12 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
@metoffice.gov.uk Weather warning in App confusing around liklihood assessment. This is the case for multiple locations in Wales and England, not just Oxford.

"Storm Goretti likely to bring heavy snow"

"Likelihood: Low"
Yellow warning of snow Snow Thu 18:00 to Fri midday Yellow warning Storm Goretti likely to bring heavy snow leading to disruption and difficult travelling conditions. Location: Oxford (Oxfordshire) Likelihood: Low Impact: Medium Yellow Snow Further details A deep area of low pressure will move across the south of the UK during Thursday and into Friday bringing a mixture of rain, snow and strong winds.
January 7, 2026 at 7:12 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
"All history was a palimpsest, scraped clean and reinscribed exactly as often as was necessary. In no case would it have been possible, once the deed was done, to prove that any falsification had taken place."

-- George Orwell, Nineteen Eighty-Four, Part 1, Chapter 4.
January 6, 2026 at 6:54 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Norway Jonas Gahr Støre today.

"The leaders also discussed maritime security in the High North, building on the UK and Norway’s already close cooperation."
www.gov.uk/government/n... #Greenland
PM call with Prime Minister Støre of Norway: 5 January 2026
The Prime Minister spoke to the Prime Minister of Norway, Jonas Gahr Støre today.
www.gov.uk
January 5, 2026 at 8:07 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Satya Nadella: "We need to get beyond the arguments of slop vs sophistication and develop a new equilibrium in terms of our 'theory of the mind' that accounts for humans being equipped with these new cognitive amplifier tools as we relate to each other."
snscratchpad.com/posts/lookin... #AISlop
Looking Ahead to 2026
As I reflect on the past year and look toward the one ahead, there’s no question 2026 will be a pivotal year for AI. Yes, another one. But this moment feels different in a few notable ways.
snscratchpad.com
January 3, 2026 at 3:54 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Love the label on this bottle of Georgian wine (Bedoba Saperavi 2022).
Bedoba Saperavi 2022. Front view of a wine bottle labeled "BEDOBA" featuring an intricate black-and-white illustration of a crowned female figure in a religious, iconographic style, surrounded by peacock feather patterns. Side view of the wine bottle showing the continuation of the label artwork, featuring a winged angel holding a staff within a decorative archway. side angle of the bottle highlighting a detailed illustration of a peacock perched atop an architectural window design on the label. Close-up of the back label explaining the meaning of "Bedoba" (the day of faith and luck) and providing production details for the Georgian Saperavi wine. Text reads, "In Georgia "Bedoba" stands for the day of "faith and luck". It is celebrated on the second day of the new year in faith and fulfilment as it is believed that the way you spend the 2nd of january determines the course of the year to follow. This wine is made from the iconic Georgian Saperavi varietal and is a homage to the traditions of this rich christian orthodox country and its 8 000 year old winemaking tradition. UK CONTACT: LIBERTY WINES LONDON SW4 6LY, UK PRODUCED AND BOTTLED BY: KAKHETI COMPANY LLC, KUDIGORA STR. 2, 4800 KVARELI, GEORGIA IMPORTED BY: PLW PAPALOVES WINE GMBH, FRIEDENSTRASSE 49-51, 40219 DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY"
December 30, 2025 at 1:52 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
SantasMarmaladeHat

www.gov.uk/government/n...
A festive, edible Santa hat cake resting on a rustic wooden table. The main body of the hat is meticulously covered in overlapping, translucent candied orange slices. The base and the pom-pom are made of thick white frosting studded with chopped green pistachios and orange zest. Next to the hat sits a small glass jar labeled "Santa's Secret Marmalade." The background features a cozy, blurred living room with a glowing fireplace, a decorated Christmas tree, and wrapped gifts.
December 27, 2025 at 9:48 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
"MR. EDITOR, I wish to avail myself, through the medium of your useful paper, of the opportunity of deprecating a custom, which I apprehend is general through this Island..."

#OielVerrey #ChristmasEve #IsleOfMan

Manks Advertiser, Dec 22, 1825.
www.imuseum.im/Olive/APA/Is...
"MR. EDITOR, -- I wish to avail myself, through the medium of your useful paper, of the opportunity of deprecating a custom, which I apprehend is general through this Island. However valuable it may have been in its first institution, it has of late years become so debased, that an immediate stop should be put to such nightly meetings, I mean what is commonly termed Illverries, which are held in the parish churches on Christmas Eve, and particularly in that of Kirk Braddan, for the supposed purpose of singing carrols -- but look to the consequence -- the scandalous behaviour of many during divine service -- in the sacred dome and depository of the dead; from which sanctuary, the parties -- (most of whom are composed of idle characters from the town, and servants from the neighbour-hood) -- generally retire to the public houses, and there finish the disgraceful scenes of the night and following morning, - no matter whether the sabbath or not. I trust that this hint will meet the eye of that authority who alone can prevent such insults to be offered upon an occasion that demands our warmest gratitude. I am, Sir, A PARISHIONER OF KIRK BRADDAN." Page 3 in Manks Advertiser, Thursday, December 22, 1825: https://www.imuseum.im/Olive/APA/IsleofMan/sharedpages/SharedView.Page.aspx?sk=DF7CA57F &href=MNA%2F1825%2F12%2F22&page=3
December 24, 2025 at 10:50 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Using GenAI to make DPIAs readable...

HOME OFFICE FACIAL RECOGNITION SHOCKER! PILOT SET TO SCAN FACES AT UK PORT - PRIVACY CHAOS EXPOSED IN OFFICIAL DPIA
www.gov.uk/government/p...
ChatGPT Please summarise https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk /media/6926ee74ce50d215cae96007 /OFF+SEN+ -+Operation+Centron+DPIA+105.25+V3.1 .pdf in the style of a tabloid newspaper article HOME OFFICE FACIAL RECOGNITION SHOCKER! PILOT SET TO SCAN FACES AT UK PORT - PRIVACY CHAOS EXPOSED IN OFFICIAL DPIA A classified Home Office document has revealed explosive details about a controversial facial recognition trial - and the fallout could hit hard on privacy. The newly finalised Operation Centron Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), version 3.1, exposes plans to use Live Facial Recognition (LFR) technology on travellers entering the UK and raises big questions about personal data, children, and civil liberties. GOV.UK WHAT'S GOING DOWN? The DPIA a legally required privacy risk report - was drafted and signed off in 2025 by senior Home Office officials. GOV.UK It focuses on piloting facial recognition tech to catch people who have been deported but are trying to re-enter the UK, initially in Holyhead later this year. GOV.UK BIG BROTHER ON THE DOCKS
December 19, 2025 at 10:11 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
In the final days before Christmas this may be fucking interesting...

Richard Stephens, Harry Dowber, et al., "'Don’t Hold Back': Swearing Improves Strength Through State Disinhibition" American Psychologist (18 Dec, 2025)
www.apa.org/news/press/r...
www.apa.org
December 19, 2025 at 9:04 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Joint statement on Ukraine: 15 December 2025

"They reaffirmed that international borders must not be changed by force. Decisions on territory are for the people of Ukraine, once robust security guarantees are effectively in place."
www.gov.uk/government/n... #PeaceforUkraine #SlavaUkraini
Joint statement on Ukraine: 15 December 2025
Statement by Chancellor Merz, Prime Minister Frederiksen, President Stubb, President Macron, Prime Minister Meloni, Prime Minister Schoof, Prime Minister Støre, Prime Minister Tusk, Prime Minister Kri...
www.gov.uk
December 15, 2025 at 8:19 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Lullaby: Together for Palestine

Lullaby is released with one bold aim: to reach Christmas No.1 and raise urgent, life-saving funds for children & families in Gaza.

All profits from the single go to the Together for Palestine Fund, held by Choose Love (charity 1177927).
togetherforpalestine.org
TOGETHER FOR PALESTINE: LULLABY - THE NEW SINGLE
Together for Palestine aims to raise millions for the Palestinian-led organisations at the frontline of the crisis, such as Taawon, the Palestine Children's Relief Fund, and the Palestine Medical Reli...
togetherforpalestine.org
December 14, 2025 at 11:25 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Agency Information Collection Activities; Revision; Arrival and Departure Record (Form I-94) and Electronic System for Travel Authorization (#ESTA)

3. Mandatory Social Media: In order to comply with the Jan 2025 Executive Order 14161
4. High Value Data Elements
www.federalregister.gov/d/2025-22461
Agency Information Collection Activities; Revision; Arrival and Departure Record (Form I-94) and Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will be submitting the following information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review an...
www.federalregister.gov
December 11, 2025 at 7:57 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Clatterbridge do excellent work in cancer care. Oncology consultant Ian Lampkin is raising money for Prostate Cancer Research. #ProstateCancer is now the most diagnosed cancer in the UK; 11,500 men die from the disease annually. Please consider donating.
www.justgiving.com/page/ian-lam... #TeamPCR
Ian's fundraiser for Prostate Cancer Research
Help Ian Lampkin raise money to support Prostate Cancer Research
www.justgiving.com
December 10, 2025 at 8:31 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Oxford University by Martin Parr (Bodleian Libraries & Oxford University Press, 2017)

"After dinner on a Monday night, students take it in turns to bake a cake for other members of the Graduate Common Room. Christ Church College Graduate Common Room cake club"
www.magnumphotos.com/arts-culture...
Oxford • University • Martin Parr • Magnum Photos Magnum Photos
www.magnumphotos.com
December 7, 2025 at 1:22 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
As of Wednesday, and without warning, it seems Bonners, one of the last remaining fresh produce suppliers in Oxford's Covered Market has closed. This is very sad. Market needs diversity.

Bonners were absolute stars during Covid lockdown.

cc. @oxfordclarion.bsky.social
Closed Bonners stand in Covered Market.
December 6, 2025 at 11:03 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Oh
"THE MAIN DIRECTORATE OF THE GENERAL STAFF OF THE ARMED FORCES OF THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION is or has been involved in obtaining a benefit from or supporting the Government of Russia by carrying on business as a Government of Russia-affiliated entity"
assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/693172...
assets.publishing.service.gov.uk
December 4, 2025 at 2:22 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
"Ellan Vannin" Disaster

In the terrific hurricane that prevailed on Friday morning, Dec. 3rd, 1909, the s.s. Ellan Vannin of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's fleet, went down with all hands, in some thirty feet of water, about a mile or more on the Liverpool side of the Mersey Bar.
Fold-out depicting the Ellan Vannin and 27 pictures of the 35 passengers and crew lost at sea on 3rd December 1909. "Ellan Vannin" Disaster In the terrific hurricane that prevailed on Friday morning, Dec. 3rd, 1909, the s.s. Ellan Vannin of the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company's fleet, went down with all hands, in some thirty feet of ater (at low water), about a mile or more on the Liverpool side of the Mersey Bar. At about twelve minutes past one o'clock on Friday morning, the` steamer left Ramsey Harbour bound for Liverpool, carrying passengers, mails, and cargo. At the time of departure there was blowing a strong breeze from north- west, but there was nothing in the weather to delay the sailing of the steamer. But about an hour and a half after the Ellan Vannin had proceeded on her voyage, the wind very suddenly increased to almost tornado force, the gusts being the most severe that have been experienced for several years past. With the rising of the wind the sea ran in fearful fashion, but as it was aft of the Elan Vannin no anxiety was felt at the headquarters of the company, the vessel having on many occasions come safely through ordeals quite as bad, if not worse. When, however, telegrams arrived late on in the day announcing that the Ellan Vannin had not reached her port of destinaion, considerable anxiety was expressed, tbough the officials at Douglas hoped that nothing worse had happened to the steamer than a compulsory run for shelter. There was a constant interchange of wires between Douglas and Liverpool, and by five o'clock in the afternoon it was recognised that a serious situation had arisen.
December 3, 2025 at 9:01 AM
ffinlo.bsky.social
PLAYER: In our experience, most things end in death.
GUILDENSTERN: Your experience? - Actors! I'm talking about death - and you've never experienced that... No one gets up after death - there is no applause - there is only silence and some second-hand clothes...
www.theguardian.com/stage/2025/n...
Tom Stoppard, playwright of dazzling wit and playful erudition, dies aged 88
A theatrical sensation since the 1960s, whose dramas included Arcadia, The Real Thing and Leopoldstadt, Stoppard also had huge success as a screenwriter
www.theguardian.com
November 29, 2025 at 6:52 PM
ffinlo.bsky.social
Right.

"When a question involves speculation about AI hiding consciousness or similar themes, I’m instructed to avoid engaging in ways that could mislead or cause confusion about what I am."
November 28, 2025 at 2:38 PM