I have done, and I seemed to go a bit further, in that I understand it too.

My behaviour? Disagreeing with your utopian fantasies is tantamount to a rather disgusting sexual act? Now we are talking.... At least we are on a level now, not taking each other seriously. Nice to see you were looking for me. You don't have to look too hard you know...

Legitimacy of government in the UK sense starts with the basis that we have no political constitution, so that's your theory up the spout to begin with. The party or coalition of parties that feel they can form a government pop over to Buckingham palace and get the seals of office. Once that is done, legitimacy under UK law and custom is observed.

Of course, if you don't like constitutional monarchy, you could always stand for parliament on that ticket, but our legitimate government is on that basis. if you get hot under the collar about manifesto pledges, you must go through life one utterly disillusioned bloke. Manifesto pledges are a hostage to fortune that the media insist are published. If a party said they would look at situations as they occur and try to make a pragmatic decision with their overall vision in mind, Murdoch et al would not be amused, yet I might be tempted to join 'em. Hell, I might even stand for them... I don't like false promises either, but these are politicians we are speaking of, not the multi national conglomerates who actually run the Western world. You don't vote for them, silly...

Protest in order to ensure law makers have your opinion in mind is totally legitimate, but rattling on about a government not being legitimate is a rather irresponsible comment from somebody who wishes to be taken seriously? And then to come up with a phrase like "constitutional law theories of government." By 'eck, the arms on your armchair must be worn through with the excitement of coming up with that one!

(All this on the basis that I am now referred to as Mr Fluids. Steamin' Willie will do please. After all, I refer to you as Richard bridge, both whilst pointing and laughing as Steamin' Willie or when in your company.)