"I asked him a simple question and he refused to answer it ..,"

It was only a "simple question" in the phrasing. It was NOT a simple question to answer.

""Why should I believe the account of 'creation' that is written in the Bible rather than the reality revealed by modern science?""

He did not suggest that YOU should believe it..(though he'd probably be delighted if you did)... he said HE believes it. The short answer is that he believes it because he believes it. That, of course, is not a very good answer, but it is the position held by millions of Christians... and of course, there are similar positions held by Muslims, Astrologers, racists.. and superstitious people all over the world.
   The long answer is a complex description of how he came to his belief, what he hears from those who share his beliefs and his understanding of the place of logic & evidence and how to recognize & evaluate each. I have been debating these things with Pete for several years.

You... and several others... fail to note that Pete is quite a rare bird. He takes the time to TRY to face the combined might of several learned of us who disagree with his basic concepts and definitions and, to us, odd conclusions. I enjoy... well, am fascinated by, the insight into how fundamentalist creationist/YEC positions are defended.
   I do NOT feel 'insulted' by having my position(s) misunderstood and denied. I feel frustrated and vaguely 'worried' about how the human mind can work in order to follow such amazingly awkward tracks. Pete is no threat to me, and if I understand the trends in the UK, no threat to any of you either.



I am reminded of one of my 5 or 6 all time favorite Peanuts cartoons...(this can apply to either side of an argument, but here it seems similar to the idea that yelling at Pete will help)

Lucy is standing in front of Charlie Brown, demanding..."Change your mind!"

Charlie Brown looks startled.

2nd panel..louder.."Change your MIND!"

Charlie Brown looks upset..

3rd panel..screaming"CHANGE YOUR MIND, I SAY!"

4th panel..Lucy, walking away muttering.."I wonder why it's so hard to get people to change their minds these days."