BBC NEWS 24

[David Hansen]

On 20 Jun 00, at 9:02, Brian Gladman wrote:

> But it is somewhat hysterical. Maybe this is inevitable since both
> sides are seeking to appeal to emotions.

I'm not sure that I would agree.

Assuming the best of motives, the government believes that the four 
horsemen are on the horizon and the world as we know it will end 
unless they can grab keys. This view isn't helped by a lack of 
knowledge in the Home Office about industry and commerce. They 
tried the sober approach, but lost heavily when people such as 
yourself exposed the holes in their underpants. They have now gone 
for emotions as seen in the media and by their witdrawing from 
participation in this group. Their "sad really" comment said a lot of 
things, one of which was about an inability to understand the 
arguments being put forward.

The right side in the argument is the side which is opposed. I don't 
see any particular appeal to emotions, that arguments are well 
thought out and, if the media will allow, presented to the public in a 
sober way.

There are emotions involved, but these are personal. I am very 
emotional about the Home Office wanting to give every government 
official the power to seize *MY* keys and to prevent me from 
discussing this with anyone. I hope that I never become cynical 
enough not to be emotional about such an apalling prospect, 
especially as the Home Office are completely wrong about its effects.




 David Hansen | davidh@spidacom.co.uk  | PGP email preferred
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