Category Archives: Life in England

Big excuse

Posted on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 by Howie

I have rarely taken the view that the words emanating from the lips of David Cameron are little more than the verbal equivalent of honey-coated horse droppings. That is, seemingly substantial and sweet – yet upon closer inspection clearly just … Continue reading →

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Austerity

Posted on Tuesday, June 29, 2010 by Howie

It’s Zeitgeist, the word of the moment, and seems to be in use a great deal across the channel in the U of K. In context, it’s use seems to consistently accompany a justification for the slashing of public expenditure. … Continue reading →

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So what is Guy Fawkes night all about?

Posted on Tuesday, November 11, 2008 by Howie

So went the question punted my way by a Frenchman standing in front of a bonfire last Saturday night. How to answer? At school we’re taught the ‘official’ version of the origins of the celebration, which recounts how a group … Continue reading →

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Is this really ‘news’ … ?

Posted on Monday, November 3, 2008 by Howie

Every time I take a trip over to the UK I usually take the opportunity to bring myself up to speed with current affairs. After all, what we hear in France of Britain is usually little more than politics or … Continue reading →

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The Biritsh Motto

Posted on Tuesday, August 26, 2008 by Howie

The French ‘Devise’ is well known to all those who have ever studied any aspect of French history. The three principles upon which the republic are founded are engraved into the very soul of the nation: liberté, égalité, fraternité (Freedom, … Continue reading →

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The problem with Britain…

Posted on Friday, July 11, 2008 by Howie

…is that there are many problems. Many of which are neatly encapsulated in my former home town of Frome in Somerset. With a population of around 25,000; it is not dissimilar to many other small towns up and down the … Continue reading →

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