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War on lightning
11:16am, Wednesday 9 February 2005

From The Scotsman:

An average of about 1,000 people a year have been killed by terrorists worldwide over the past ten years - and that figure includes the Twin Towers atrocity.

Each death indeed represents a shattering tragedy for the families involved. But, approximately the same numbers die each year as a result of lightning strikes. So, statistically, you have about as much chance of being a terrorist victim as you have of being struck by lightning.

Now, doesn't that just put things into perspective? The time and effort being expended on "enhanced" airport security, identity cards, imprisonment without trial and increased police and government powers just looks ludicrous when cast in this light.

Let the government put its efforts into stopping lightning strikes first...

Appalling topical joke
11:55am, Wednesday 26 January 2005

Tony Blair is visiting an Edinburgh hospital. He enters a ward full of patients with no obvious sign of injury or illness, and greets one of them. [more...]

Made me laugh
11:13am, Tuesday 25 January 2005

Ham sandwich?

And if you liked that, you'll love this...

Here's an interesting read...
10:03am, Monday 17 January 2005

Safecracking for the computer scientist by Matt Blaze.

Taste test
9:23pm, Thursday 13 January 2005

My colleagues' verdicts on Beech's violet creams:

1. "What on earth?" (goes to get a drink of water)
2. "Mmmm!" (eats two more)
3. "Wow, parma violets."
4. stunned silence

Gina still thinks they taste like soap. I'm inclined to agree.