TPT March 2007

C ontents

Following the leaders Although some might say that talking politics is irrelevant to a magazine dedicated to the tube and pipe industry, it is impossible to deny that a whole raft of politically defined policies have both a direct and indirect impact upon our industry. From the environmental issue – which only but a scientific minority now disputes – to the route of new pipelines, free trade agreements, pegging of currencies, export/import quotas, entry into the EU, and decisions of war. All of these issues – living and breathing with political debate – are affected by the machinations of our governments. And we are about to enter a fascinating new period whereby many notable parts of the world will usher in a fresh set of leaders. There is Russia, where in 2008 a successor to Vladimir Putin will take over, with Dmitri Medvedev and Sergei Ivanov current favourites for the job. With energy and pipelines currently a major issue, the direction of Russia and Russian policy will surely be of great interest to our industry. Then there is Britain, with the imminent end to Tony Blair’s time as Prime Minister, and the prospect of a successor or even a completely new government. And in France too, presidential elections will take place in April with socialist Segolene Royal fighting it out with Nicolas Sarkozy for the leadership prize. These two European elections are certain to have an influence on the future direction of the EU. Then, of course, on the other side of the Atlantic there is the current scrum to find the two runners for the 2008 election in the USA. Will it be Hilary Clinton and Rudy Giuliani? Or John Mccain and Barack Obama?

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Those countries not undergoing an immediate leadership change, such as China and India, may even benefit from their country’s continuity. Whatever picture is formed by this political jigsaw, it is undoubtedly going to affect us all, and our industry with it. We don’t have to argue about it, but we can at least sit up, take notice, and give it some thought. Rich Sears Editor • Email: richard@intras.co.uk

Incorporating Tube & Pipe Asia

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