New title

I rarely write about my professional assignments on this blog. But after more than 40 years P-Ring, having held some quite prestigidious jobs, I never expected to have a job title which included the word "swine".

New converts

Well one American commentator has apparently found out why many Jewish born males may choose Methodism.......

This is a debate we may be having in the UK soon, so its time we put our thinking caps on.

Off for August

Well that's it. As is my policy I will duck out of blogging during August in order to take advantage of the wonderful British summer.

If you want to follow up some of the earlier discussions about climate change, read this interesting post from Melanie Phillips. I first met Melanie in the 1970s when she was with The Guardian and she is certainly a writer of great integrity, even if we don't always agree.

One other point that hasn't had much publicity. The Gambling Commission (whose website is down this weekend) recently published some research showing that 98% of all betting shops allow youngsters under 18 to place bet.

I'm surprised its that low, just put your head round the door of your local betting shop and you will see what I mean. But let's give the industry credit where it is due because that's an improvement on the situation in the 1960s - at this rate by 4450AD it will be down to zero!

I wonder why firms like Ladbrokes, William Hill and Corals haven't had their collars felt by the Gambling Commission? A couple of high profile license withdrawals would quickly ensure they start checking ages, but then the Gambling Commission work for the benefit of the industry, not to protect the public.

Anyway, back in late August unless something extremely interesting happens. Have a good summer.