Hi Booger

The problem with the 50/50 methodology is who is to decide the weight given to the issues. I may appear to lose a view if its 90/10, but the 10 might be so improtant for whatever reason that I decide to override the 90.

We both have systems that allow people in a position of trust to make these decisions on our collective behalf and they run the risk of losing their positions if we find out that their overriding for the 10 is wrong.

I don't know how much access we have to MI6 and 5, but I can see why so much of what they do has to be covered by our "official secrets act" which becomes (mostly) a matter of public record after a suitable period of time.

Whilst as I say I agree to the need for this type of system, I do think that you get a feel for whther your government is displaying the required integrity. Generaly we throw out our politicians when they are seen to have lost this or to have screwed up the economy for the majority of voters.

Re Jseal and Ginger - I think it is too soon to judge the effects of the so called WOT. I see a general tactic of reducing their opportunities both financially and where they can safely operate whether in our own countries or theirs.

I imagine that there are a few rogueish states left but there appears to be a shift to their coming on board. All this takes time and I would expect a short term increase as the effectiveness of this policy bites.

Bad luck about the physicist Ginger - I'm with a linguist - much more use!!

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Vigil, if you were my husband, I would give you poison.

Madam, if you were my wife, I would take it.