diff --git a/pyNN/common/projections.py b/pyNN/common/projections.py
index d3f578882..6c04e7038 100644
--- a/pyNN/common/projections.py
+++ b/pyNN/common/projections.py
@@ -255,7 +255,7 @@ def randomizeSynapseDynamics(self, parameter_name, rand_distr):
 
     # --- Methods for writing/reading information to/from file. ---------------
 
-    def get(self, attribute_names, format, gather=True, with_address=True,
+    def get(self, attribute_names, format, gather='all', with_address=True,
             multiple_synapses='sum'):
         """
         Get the values of a given attribute (weight or delay) for all
diff --git a/pyNN/neuron/cells.py b/pyNN/neuron/cells.py
index cc2d55ed5..118fb92ed 100644
--- a/pyNN/neuron/cells.py
+++ b/pyNN/neuron/cells.py
@@ -607,5 +607,5 @@ def clear_past_spikes(self):
         end = self._spike_times.indwhere(">", h.t)
         if end > 0:
             self._spike_times.remove(0, end - 1)  # range is inclusive
-
-    
+        else:
+            self._spike_times.resize(0)