[QUOTE] True. We get the crap because we're British and your EU comrades know we'll accept rubbish anyway with a polite "thank you". That's no reason why they should take advantage of our good nature. They, on the other hand, insist on only our very best so that's what they get.[/QUOTE] Have you not considered that the reason our "EU comrades" get away with foisting rubbish on to us it because we, as consumers, are prepared to accept it? These are businesses and as such are attempting to make a profit. If the general public is happy to purchase poor quality merchandise from shops then that is what the shops will stock. If, on the other hand, we didn't buy the rubbish, and instead bought quality produce from those places that sold it, at the corresponding higher price, then the other shops would begin to stock the better quality merchandise. If european suppliers can find a market for rubbish then they will sell it, if we are that market, then that is our own fault for being prepared to accept it. It's not as though there is a lack of options available to us. In my own small town there are two large supermarkets, two independent butchers and a farmers market. I can buy rubbish or I can buy good quality produce, the same options are available to you. Yes, quality costs. Not everyone may be able to afford this, however, most can. As for them insisting "on only our very best", I'd do the same. If I was going to the trouble of importing produce I would want to ensure it was good quality. Do not forget that trade within europe is performed by companies, their aim is to make a profit. [QUOTE] Strangely enough we never had "warehouses full of rotting produce" before the CAP. Farm produce sold locally was not only fresh but less transportation helped the environment.[/QUOTE] Selling farm produce locally may well be a wonderful thing, unfortunately, it's not financially viable. Farming is a business. The days of farming for fun and pleasure have never existed, the idea of the jolly farmer wandering across the yard selling a few eggs to supplement his income are fantasy. Yes, selling large amounts of produce to a local supermarket is a nice idea. Doesn't work though. Consider the way in which a large organisation such a supermarket *chain* is run. I'm not saying that the way things are is good, or even the best way. I don't think that we, as a nation, could survive without strong european links, preferably being right at the heart of europe. What would your solution to the CAP be? <European limitations on free speech> <snip> Ok, how about looking a little closer to home. How about Clause 28? You remember, that little matter of not being able to "promote homosexuality". I realise that it has now been scrapped, but it is just one small example, how does that square with your assertion that "Free speech is a right in this country"? Or doesn't it matter, because that's about queers? [QUOTE] The fact that you Europhiles refuse to acknowledge the inherent dangers is, to say the least, quite frightening.[/QUOTE] Most of us are aware of the issues, dangers and possibilities that are available to us, and are prepared to make judgements accordingly. You, unfortunately, seem to have closed your mind and do not see anything other than that you wish to see.
