I seem to have cut myself off mid sentence; I am clearly inept ; apologies! Just to say also, that your example of the ODO versus Porter scenario is an excellent little parable for modern life generally and another excellent reason why all responsible citizens should be listening to the Gas Spanner. A totally different example but related in the sense that it's about how words are used to influence and control our thought processes, would be the relatively recent and widespread misuse of the word ''disclosure' when what is (or at least should) be meant is ''allegation''. This is now a widespread thing amongst not only social workers and teachers but also police officers (who should know better). Most of the professionals who say ''disclosure'' when describing what someone has said where that person is making claims against another person, do so without actually thinking ; it spreads like a wildfire. I don't think if you were to ask them why they said ''Jane has disclosed'' rather than ''Jane has alleged'' or even just ''Jane has told me"', they would turn around and say ''because I must believe all victims, women never lie''. However, I suspect that this is exactly what is behind it. Social workers used to be encouraged to take seriously what children told them. This is of course, as it should be, but it most certainly should never mean believing unquestionable what is said. This is no longer the case and there are gravely dangerous implications for this not only for the children concerned and their families, but for society as a whole. The fact that police officers are also now doing the same and misusing language in this way, is very alarming.

Another excellent episode Ben. I think it's the same in all public sector services; you always get those who are very much aware that they are providing a service to the public and take their responsibilities seriously and have a sense of pride and dignity when carrying out their duties. But sadly you will always also get those who think the job exists for their own comfort and convenience and view their duties as a chore to be avoided]

Another excellent episode Ben. I think it's the same in all public sector services; you always get those who are very much aware that they are providing a service to the public and take their responsibilities seriously and have a sense of pride and dignity when carrying out their duties. But sadly you will always also get those who think the job exists for their own comfort and convenience and view their duties as a chore to be avoided]