Arran, you seem to be working under the misconception that I'm English. I was, 30 years ago, but I've been Kiwi since, and my best friend is from Glasgow, and my brother-in-law lives there, so I've no axe to grind on that score.

On your other point, I care not a toss if somone prefers to be of no fixed abode, that is OK by me. I was on friendly terms with travellers in my youth, contracting to them on occasion. However, if the homeless 'beg' in a threatening manner, shit in someone's doorway, or leave their rubbish for someone else to remove, then it is my concern, as it should be the concern of everyone in a society, even when it is in another country. There should be no need for that in any society.

As a taxpayer and ratepayer, I do also hope that the huge lumps of money that are extracted from me is well spent, including that which goes on social welfare. To help someone who is on their uppers is OK, but the sort of thing being discussed is frivolity, not helping anyone. Except possibly the organisers, as I inferred before.

I wrote 'sub-group', not sub-species.