I think Joe and the other Clones do a sterling job and, as far as I can see, try to confine deletions to nasty personal attacks rather than courteous (and quite normal) differences of opinion (guests included).

It's not that I don't understand what you are saying, Roger, it's that I don't agree with you, so there's no need to feel "forced to labour".

If the video evidence of Rodney King is shown on TV being kicked and punched - is that not evidence that (at least some) LA's finest are not doing a good job or setting a good example? Remember also that they have clear and understood rules to work to and to protect us.

Is it really sensible - having seen it - to deny that evidence - to go on to still express a personal opinion that that are doing a good job? What value can that opinion hold - if it is held despite the evidence? Is it not a bit unwise to start to qualify the extent of the poor man's abuse by saying things like 'it was not too bad', 'they were not kicking him too hard' or 'they did not actually kill him' - or even that he was enjoying it??????????????

This is what I mean by being forced to labour things. Not opinions for you to agree with or not - but solid rock-bottom evidence that demonstrate what folk defend - is not in fact what is happening............

If someone has a bruise - it is not going to go away just because you express an opinion that it is not there. You may have an opinion that the bruise was not hurting as much as the person said it did - but they are to one feeling the pain and should know. Would it not be more sensible to make some real effort to try and ensure that this person did not receive any more bruises?