Samizdata

Where liberty is, there is my country
– Benjamin Franklin

One last thought: Fahrenheit 9/11 is many things, but for pity’s sake let’s not call it a documentary.
– Ty Burr, Boston Globe

[A]ny time you hear the term “consumer advocate”, think “government advocate”.

– Ted Schuerzinger

Spotted in Friday’s print version of the Evening Standard:

Mr Blair’s two security advisers, Sir David Omand and Sir John Stevens, tell us each week that such bombs [in public places] are “unavoidable”, to exonerate themselves in advance from blame. They tell us to be fearful and vigilant. But they do nothing physically to protect us.

There are no walls going up to block Oxford Street from car bombs. There are no sniffer dogs at Holborn Tube or scanners at the entrance to Trafalgar Square. The citizens of London are being told, in effect, to look after themselves and don’t blame the Government. Meanwhile Sir David and Sir John spend millions protecting those for whom they work.
– Simon Jenkins

In other words: You are cannon fodder. The state is not your friend.

Have a cheerful weekend.

With thanks to Guy Herbert