For years, decades, even centuries, we Brits have, I’m sorry to tell you, been rather critical of many American ways. We have looked down on the way you drive cars that burn as much oil as a small country. We turn up our noses at the way the few Americans that actually venture out of your country always seem to wear loud, chequered golfing trousers. We are aghast at the fact that you vote for movie stars and … ahem… “other unsuitables” for top political office. The Janet Jackson breast thing had the whole of Europe in stitches. And your chocolate, let me tell you, is lousy.

But most of all, we have totally disapproved of your obsession with guns, the right to bear arms, and the right to gun down with a hand-cannon anyone that dares to venture into your home. But today, Britain is asking whether that’s such bad idea. Here’s what’s going on.

The law here allows a home-owner to use – and I quote – “reasonable force” to protect their home from an intruder. The theory is that, even if a man is inside your home, and robbing you, he still has rights – his life is worth more than your DVD player.

The problem is that nobody really knows just how much force is reasonable these days, particularly when it seems that the kid who wants your DVD player is highly likely to kill you if you get in his way.

Now the Tories of all people want us to follow the American example – you break into someone else’s house, and you leave your rights at the door. Or window. I for one, can’t say I disapprove.

On a lighter note, I must draw your attention to an error in a previous post. I recommended Persephone N Hades’ blog – “True Tales of an Infamous Courtesan” – and provided an out-of-date link. I’m happy to correct that – this is the correct address. The yarmulke / diaphragm story at the top is just too funny.

– Barry Shaverin