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  • Mr. Observer, bacon butties are delightful (with tomato sauce, of course).

    I don't really have breakfast, beyond a chocolate bar. I was amused to discover, upon reading Ian Mortimer's Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England, that my earlier than usual lunchtime (11am) is in keeping with medieval customs.

    Ed Miliband doesn’t think bacon butties are delightful.
  • Morris_DancerMorris_Dancer Posts: 61,806
    Mr. Eagles, well, nobody forced him to invite the press to record him do battle with a bacon butty.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
  • eristdooferistdoof Posts: 5,065

    eristdoof said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    They do say that to eat well in England one must have breakfast three times a day.

    Did you read that in a book written by J.R.R. Tolkien?
    J R Hartley.
    Fly Fishing?

    Both yellow pages and independent bookshops are things that the internet have pushed in to the category "nostalgia".
    Nostalgia’s not what it used to be.
    I'm sure, as Punmeister General, you'd appreciate that around here "Ostaligie" is very popular: Ost=East implying East Germany.
  • IanB2IanB2 Posts: 49,868
    TOPPING said:

    IanB2 said:

    I am increasingly of the view that bacon is only good between heavily buttered slices of bread. On a breakfast plate it is perennially disappointing.

    You could burn it, American style? I got quite fond of their crispy bacon on my trip.
    If you ever stop to think how many rashers one typically gets in America it would scare the living daylights out of you.

    Once, in Kentucky, I asked as a first course for potato skins. There were 18 half potatoes. Not the skins the whole thing. Nine potatoes, covered in loveliness, as a first course.
    No Mac & Cheese as a side dish? ;)

    When I first stopped working mornings, I got in the habit of a cooked breakfast, as a great way to start the day. Six months later I had my cholesterol tested as part of my annual check up and it had shot up from below to well above average. Doctor was insistent that the breakfasts had to stop, sadly, so now it's an occasional treat.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468
    TOPPING said:

    Tomatoes although necessary I appreciate in a full English, are nevertheless always eaten begrudgingly.
    If they are essential in a 'full English' then I've never had one. Can't stand tomatoes as tomatoes, although I'll eat them in sauces and soup. Don't like beans for breakfast either; egg yolk and been sauce is revolting.
    Prefer a 'full Welsh"; bacon, sausage, egg(s) and fried laverbread and oatmeal,

    But I very, very rarely have it.
  • tlg86tlg86 Posts: 26,176

    Mr. Observer, bacon butties are delightful (with tomato sauce, of course).

    I don't really have breakfast, beyond a chocolate bar. I was amused to discover, upon reading Ian Mortimer's Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England, that my earlier than usual lunchtime (11am) is in keeping with medieval customs.

    Ed Miliband doesn’t think bacon butties are delightful.
    It really would be bad luck if he actually does like them and eats them often.
  • AnorakAnorak Posts: 6,621
    Presumably to make sure no Corbyn supporters would be on the list.
    https://twitter.com/jonwalker121/status/1234748677559848960
  • IanB2IanB2 Posts: 49,868
    Anorak said:

    IanB2 said:

    I am increasingly of the view that bacon is only good between heavily buttered slices of bread. On a breakfast plate it is perennially disappointing.

    You could burn it, American style? I got quite fond of their crispy bacon on my trip.
    Burn the heretic!

    American bacon is the devil's creation. You'll be advocating covering it in maple syrup next. *shudders*
    First time I had it, long ago, I assumed the hotel had just overcooked it.

    But it grows on you. Unlike all the sweet stuff, as you say. Worst breakfast offering I came across, in Rapid City, consisted mostly of donuts.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992
    edited March 2020

    TOPPING said:

    Tomatoes although necessary I appreciate in a full English, are nevertheless always eaten begrudgingly.
    If they are essential in a 'full English' then I've never had one. Can't stand tomatoes as tomatoes, although I'll eat them in sauces and soup. Don't like beans for breakfast either; egg yolk and been sauce is revolting.
    Prefer a 'full Welsh"; bacon, sausage, egg(s) and fried laverbread and oatmeal,

    But I very, very rarely have it.
    They are necessary but, and I haven't seen the stats on this, I'm guessing they are over 80% of the time left uneaten.
  • PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 78,210
    The contest is all over if this result transpires tonight :

    https://twitter.com/Politics_Polls/status/1234780143299813376
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468
    tlg86 said:

    Mr. Observer, bacon butties are delightful (with tomato sauce, of course).

    I don't really have breakfast, beyond a chocolate bar. I was amused to discover, upon reading Ian Mortimer's Time Traveller's Guide to Medieval England, that my earlier than usual lunchtime (11am) is in keeping with medieval customs.

    Ed Miliband doesn’t think bacon butties are delightful.
    It really would be bad luck if he actually does like them and eats them often.
    He talks about them sometimes on his "Reasons to be Cheerful" podcast. It's a good, if sometimes off the wall, listen.
  • CookieCookie Posts: 13,833

    I am increasingly of the view that bacon is only good between heavily buttered slices of bread. On a breakfast plate it is perennially disappointing.

    Good quality bacon is wonderful, whether on a plate or in a sandwich. Poor quality bacon - is always disappointing. Tesco have gone downhill in this respect recently. Their tatse the difference smoke back is now no better than bog standard.
  • BarnesianBarnesian Posts: 8,605
    edited March 2020

    I am increasingly of the view that bacon is only good between heavily buttered slices of bread. On a breakfast plate it is perennially disappointing.

    On a butty with HP sauce. Yum.

    EDIT: I see Carlotta got there before me.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468
    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Bro-in-law sold his car to buy his fiancee her ring. She had a car, so they weren't without transport.
  • NigelbNigelb Posts: 71,228
    eristdoof said:

    alex_ said:

    This is genuinely reassuring.

    https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/mar/02/uk-supermarkets-braced-for-stockpiling-if-coronavirus-escalates-panic-buying

    BTW has anyone suggested that we might be slightly better prepared as a country because of no deal planning done over the last 18 months... ;)

    Why do people stockpile toilet paper? Is its supply chain particularly vulnerable or is it just a cliche?
    There are those old enough to remember the toilet paper shortage of in the early 70s. This was around the time of the winter if discontent and suddenly toilet paper just disappeared and it rook weeks for it to return.
    The winter of discontent was 1978-79 not early seventies. I'm guessing it was not that wiinter which had the "great toilet paper shortage". I was 10 then, the ideal age to find everything to do with urinating/defecating unbelievably hilarious, and I have no memeory of it at all.
    I remember well the early 70s power cuts (and even the (pointless) sugar hoarding. I too have no recollection of the great toilet paper disappearance.

    Was it localised ?
  • StockyStocky Posts: 10,222
    kinabalu said:

    isam said:

    I’ve never had a breakfast with baked beans on it, can it be ‘full’ without them? In the past I’ve had Sausage, Bacon Egg, mushrooms and toast if that counts. I don’t really eat red meat now so it was all a long time ago

    Have you got something against baked beans?
    Culinary tip: don`t just open the can and heat them for five minutes - try really cooking them - I mean on the hob with some black pepper, on the lowest heat for a good 30 mins, stirring occasionally. They go all claggy and it brings out the sweetness.Yum.
  • isamisam Posts: 41,118
    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?
  • GallowgateGallowgate Posts: 19,468
    Foss said:

    tlg86 said:

    @HYUFD - The bigger story there is that the local elections may be delayed.

    The Beeb have a story about Labour expecting a thrashing at the locals. They may be glad of a delay and a chance for a change of narrative.
    Expectation management?
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if you don't have a ton of money, so long as you're not getting into debt to do so, saving on other costs then investing in one good ring makes more sense than multiple frivolous purchases.

    As for whether I can tell the difference between stones I'll be honest I'm not that fussed. But my wife is and I want her to be happy. My wife thinks its illogical I argue about politics with strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
  • PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 78,210
    Sanders is 1.44 for the MA primary. Looks too short to me.
  • BarnesianBarnesian Posts: 8,605
    edited March 2020
    Pulpstar said:

    There might be a touch of value backing Biden ( 4.7 ) in the presidential market, his implied price is 2.3 which looks too long.
    Sanders implied price is 2.4 which is probably fair.

    I expect Biden will get a boost in the next batch of H2H polling vs Trump.

    I agree. Biden's implied price in the presidential market should be sub 2.
  • Casino_RoyaleCasino_Royale Posts: 60,491
    Pulpstar said:

    The contest is all over if this result transpires tonight :

    https://twitter.com/Politics_Polls/status/1234780143299813376

    It might be worth laying Bloomberg some more. Even at 16s.
  • AnorakAnorak Posts: 6,621
    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Tomatoes although necessary I appreciate in a full English, are nevertheless always eaten begrudgingly.
    If they are essential in a 'full English' then I've never had one. Can't stand tomatoes as tomatoes, although I'll eat them in sauces and soup. Don't like beans for breakfast either; egg yolk and been sauce is revolting.
    Prefer a 'full Welsh"; bacon, sausage, egg(s) and fried laverbread and oatmeal,

    But I very, very rarely have it.
    They are necessary but, and I haven't seen the stats on this, I'm guessing they are over 80% of the time left uneaten.
    Tomatoes and egg-yolk (it's mandatory that they are runny) are essential in that they provide moisture in an otherwise dry breakfast. One might conjecture that the increasing prevalence on baked beans is a direct result of tomatophobes like yourself seeking a moist replacement. #science
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688
    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    They're also some of the tastiest though.
  • SandpitSandpit Posts: 54,623
    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    Because there's a bunch of people in the media who think that patriotism (except towards the EU) should be illegal, and that anyone waving a Union flag is an evil member of the BNP?
  • AnorakAnorak Posts: 6,621
    edited March 2020
    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    It's spectacularly pathetic jingoism. Order an Irish Breakfast in Dublin (and in the EU - horrors!) and you get exactly the same thing.
  • StockyStocky Posts: 10,222
    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    Well, I guess it`s divisive in that it contrasts proper patriots with their mug of tea and fry-up with brown sauce with the metropolitan elite (such as kinabalu) with their fucking lattes, hash browns with two types of soy sauce and Benn Act.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992
    edited March 2020
    Anorak said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Tomatoes although necessary I appreciate in a full English, are nevertheless always eaten begrudgingly.
    If they are essential in a 'full English' then I've never had one. Can't stand tomatoes as tomatoes, although I'll eat them in sauces and soup. Don't like beans for breakfast either; egg yolk and been sauce is revolting.
    Prefer a 'full Welsh"; bacon, sausage, egg(s) and fried laverbread and oatmeal,

    But I very, very rarely have it.
    They are necessary but, and I haven't seen the stats on this, I'm guessing they are over 80% of the time left uneaten.
    Tomatoes and egg-yolk (it's mandatory that they are runny) are essential in that they provide moisture in an otherwise dry breakfast. One might conjecture that the increasing prevalence on baked beans is a direct result of tomatophobes like yourself seeking a moist replacement. #science
    Totally with you on the egg yolk. I find something jarring perhaps too sweet (or acidic?) about the tomatoes.

    Then again there is no full English that can't be improved with marmalade.
  • PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 78,210
    edited March 2020

    Pulpstar said:

    The contest is all over if this result transpires tonight :

    https://twitter.com/Politics_Polls/status/1234780143299813376

    It might be worth laying Bloomberg some more. Even at 16s.
    This morning's moves (All stakes, not liabilities or profits)

    Lay Bloomberg 14.5 £100(Nom)
    Back Biden 4.7 £30 (Pres)

    Lay Sanders 1.4 £7 (MA) (More of an interest for the night this one than anything serious)
  • BarnesianBarnesian Posts: 8,605
    Stocky said:

    kinabalu said:

    isam said:

    I’ve never had a breakfast with baked beans on it, can it be ‘full’ without them? In the past I’ve had Sausage, Bacon Egg, mushrooms and toast if that counts. I don’t really eat red meat now so it was all a long time ago

    Have you got something against baked beans?
    Culinary tip: don`t just open the can and heat them for five minutes - try really cooking them - I mean on the hob with some black pepper, on the lowest heat for a good 30 mins, stirring occasionally. They go all claggy and it brings out the sweetness.Yum.
    Best with HP sauce.
  • FossFoss Posts: 1,019

    Foss said:

    tlg86 said:

    @HYUFD - The bigger story there is that the local elections may be delayed.

    The Beeb have a story about Labour expecting a thrashing at the locals. They may be glad of a delay and a chance for a change of narrative.
    Expectation management?
    "In a worst-case scenario, Labour risks losing 315 seats and control of historic strongholds such as Sheffield."

    "The document suggests that the situation could be even worse as the party's polling hasn't taken into account the recent Conservative poll "bounce" but it adds that it can not yet estimate the effect of a change of leadership on the election results. "

    https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-51709639
  • david_herdsondavid_herdson Posts: 17,744
    IanB2 said:

    Anorak said:

    IanB2 said:

    I am increasingly of the view that bacon is only good between heavily buttered slices of bread. On a breakfast plate it is perennially disappointing.

    You could burn it, American style? I got quite fond of their crispy bacon on my trip.
    Burn the heretic!

    American bacon is the devil's creation. You'll be advocating covering it in maple syrup next. *shudders*
    First time I had it, long ago, I assumed the hotel had just overcooked it.

    But it grows on you. Unlike all the sweet stuff, as you say. Worst breakfast offering I came across, in Rapid City, consisted mostly of donuts.
    This may well not be unconnected to the fact that 42% of US adults and 18% of children* were classed as obese in the 2017-18 stats.

    I've only been the the US twice (once for half a day), and the standard of food and drink is awful as any kind of consistent diet.

    * Age 2-19.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468
    Nigelb said:

    eristdoof said:

    alex_ said:

    This is genuinely reassuring.

    https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/mar/02/uk-supermarkets-braced-for-stockpiling-if-coronavirus-escalates-panic-buying

    BTW has anyone suggested that we might be slightly better prepared as a country because of no deal planning done over the last 18 months... ;)

    Why do people stockpile toilet paper? Is its supply chain particularly vulnerable or is it just a cliche?
    There are those old enough to remember the toilet paper shortage of in the early 70s. This was around the time of the winter if discontent and suddenly toilet paper just disappeared and it rook weeks for it to return.
    The winter of discontent was 1978-79 not early seventies. I'm guessing it was not that wiinter which had the "great toilet paper shortage". I was 10 then, the ideal age to find everything to do with urinating/defecating unbelievably hilarious, and I have no memeory of it at all.
    I remember well the early 70s power cuts (and even the (pointless) sugar hoarding. I too have no recollection of the great toilet paper disappearance.

    Was it localised ?
    I was running a pharmacy in Essex the 70's. We sold toilet rolls and I have no memory whatsoever of a shortage. Nor, TBH, of anything else. IIRC, too, power cuts were in the winter of 73-4, when Heath was having his punch-up with the miners.
    All sorted out when Wilson came back in Feb. 74
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    Anorak said:

    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    It's spectacularly pathetic jingoism.
    What's wrong with that?

    Moderate patriotism is not a bad thing, extreme versions like jingoism can be though. I'd rather pathetic jingoism than extreme jingoism. All things in moderation as the saying goes.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if you don't have a ton of money, so long as you're not getting into debt to do so, saving on other costs then investing in one good ring makes more sense than multiple frivolous purchases.

    As for whether I can tell the difference between stones I'll be honest I'm not that fussed. But my wife is and I want her to be happy. My wife thinks its illogical I argue about politics with strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
    As I said, it is a marketing triumph; the diamond industry has played a blinder. Normal and sensible people, despite it being hugely illogical, think that they "need" a diamond.
  • AnorakAnorak Posts: 6,621
    TOPPING said:

    Anorak said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Tomatoes although necessary I appreciate in a full English, are nevertheless always eaten begrudgingly.
    If they are essential in a 'full English' then I've never had one. Can't stand tomatoes as tomatoes, although I'll eat them in sauces and soup. Don't like beans for breakfast either; egg yolk and been sauce is revolting.
    Prefer a 'full Welsh"; bacon, sausage, egg(s) and fried laverbread and oatmeal,

    But I very, very rarely have it.
    They are necessary but, and I haven't seen the stats on this, I'm guessing they are over 80% of the time left uneaten.
    Tomatoes and egg-yolk (it's mandatory that they are runny) are essential in that they provide moisture in an otherwise dry breakfast. One might conjecture that the increasing prevalence on baked beans is a direct result of tomatophobes like yourself seeking a moist replacement. #science
    Totally with you on the egg yolk. I find something jarring perhaps too sweet (or acidic?) about the tomatoes.

    Then again there is no full English that can't be improved with marmalade.
    I've had manx kippers served with jam on the Isle of Man. That was an odd combo.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    Stocky said:

    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    Well, I guess it`s divisive in that it contrasts proper patriots with their mug of tea and fry-up with brown sauce with the metropolitan elite (such as kinabalu) with their fucking lattes, hash browns with two types of soy sauce and Benn Act.
    What if I like a latte and HP sauce with my full English breakfast?
  • PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 78,210

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    Danish bacon is always cheaper at the supermarket - there's a reason for that, I always buy British
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    They're also some of the tastiest though.
    I know and when I was vegetarian it was a bacon butty that sank me.

    However, animal welfare is really important and there are massive issues surrounding the way pigs are treated especially, as I say, on the Continent. They deserve better.

    p.s. if this provokes McAngry into a 'snowflake' jibe, forget it.
  • TGOHF666TGOHF666 Posts: 2,052
    Anorak said:

    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    It's spectacularly pathetic jingoism. Order an Irish Breakfast in Dublin (and in the EU - horrors!) and you get exactly the same thing.
    No they have those potato scone things and sometimes the cabbage mash thing - Kilcannon.


    Plus the accompanying pint is Guinness not IPA...
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688
    Pulpstar said:

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    Danish bacon is always cheaper at the supermarket - there's a reason for that, I always buy British
    Good for you. Our farmers are pretty hot on animal welfare.
  • moonshinemoonshine Posts: 5,751
    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-to-set-out-governments-action-plan-on-the-coronavirus-outbreak--2

    Boris Presser with Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer today
  • PulpstarPulpstar Posts: 78,210
    Florida truly does have the worst type of Democrat voters

    Nevertheless a good poll for sleepy Joe.

    https://twitter.com/Politics_Polls/status/1234673139050659840
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992
    One thing that I find genuinely worrying is the prevalence of those on here who seem to prefer brown to red sauce.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if you don't have a ton of money, so long as you're not getting into debt to do so, saving on other costs then investing in one good ring makes more sense than multiple frivolous purchases.

    As for whether I can tell the difference between stones I'll be honest I'm not that fussed. But my wife is and I want her to be happy. My wife thinks its illogical I argue about politics with strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
    As I said, it is a marketing triumph; the diamond industry has played a blinder. Normal and sensible people, despite it being hugely illogical, think that they "need" a diamond.
    I don't think I "need" a diamond. I think my wife wants one and I'm willing and able to get her one because it would make her happy and both romantically and analytically it makes sense to get her one.

    Just as I don't "need" a Playstation 4. But my wife was willing and able to get me one, as she knew it would make me happy.
  • SandpitSandpit Posts: 54,623
    Foss said:

    Foss said:

    tlg86 said:

    @HYUFD - The bigger story there is that the local elections may be delayed.

    The Beeb have a story about Labour expecting a thrashing at the locals. They may be glad of a delay and a chance for a change of narrative.
    Expectation management?
    "In a worst-case scenario, Labour risks losing 315 seats and control of historic strongholds such as Sheffield."

    "The document suggests that the situation could be even worse as the party's polling hasn't taken into account the recent Conservative poll "bounce" but it adds that it can not yet estimate the effect of a change of leadership on the election results. "

    https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-51709639
    Sounds very much like expectations management. Assuming KS wins the leadership race, he's going to have a honeymoon bump in the polls as people think a lot more of him than they do of the previous leader. Most of the seats up in May were last contested in 2017, at the height of Theresa May's popularity just before the general election.
  • ChameleonChameleon Posts: 4,264
    France and Germany both on the cusp of 200.
  • AnorakAnorak Posts: 6,621
    Stocky said:

    kinabalu said:

    isam said:

    I’ve never had a breakfast with baked beans on it, can it be ‘full’ without them? In the past I’ve had Sausage, Bacon Egg, mushrooms and toast if that counts. I don’t really eat red meat now so it was all a long time ago

    Have you got something against baked beans?
    Culinary tip: don`t just open the can and heat them for five minutes - try really cooking them - I mean on the hob with some black pepper, on the lowest heat for a good 30 mins, stirring occasionally. They go all claggy and it brings out the sweetness.Yum.
    Claggy (and it's cousin clarty) are sadly under-appreciated words.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468
    TOPPING said:

    Anorak said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Tomatoes although necessary I appreciate in a full English, are nevertheless always eaten begrudgingly.
    If they are essential in a 'full English' then I've never had one. Can't stand tomatoes as tomatoes, although I'll eat them in sauces and soup. Don't like beans for breakfast either; egg yolk and been sauce is revolting.
    Prefer a 'full Welsh"; bacon, sausage, egg(s) and fried laverbread and oatmeal,

    But I very, very rarely have it.
    They are necessary but, and I haven't seen the stats on this, I'm guessing they are over 80% of the time left uneaten.
    Tomatoes and egg-yolk (it's mandatory that they are runny) are essential in that they provide moisture in an otherwise dry breakfast. One might conjecture that the increasing prevalence on baked beans is a direct result of tomatophobes like yourself seeking a moist replacement. #science
    Totally with you on the egg yolk. I find something jarring perhaps too sweet (or acidic?) about the tomatoes.

    Then again there is no full English that can't be improved with marmalade.
    I feel about marmalade as I do about tomatoes. Other may well enjoy; I just don't.

    My mother made marmalade every September, and although I wanted to like it, I just couldn't.
  • AlastairMeeksAlastairMeeks Posts: 30,340
    isam said:

    isam said:

    I regularly have a full English breakfast. I do not expect that to make the newspapers. Is the suggestion that the UK negotiating team is going to have such furred arteries that they are going to collapse in the face of the elite Brussels team that has prepared with zero fat yoghurt sprinkled with flax seeds and double espressos?

    I don’t think I have ever had one. But it’s fair enough to describe a dish named after our country as ‘patriotic’ for an easy headline. Why would people get bothered by it?
    What irks people (and "irk" is, I think, the mot juste) is the completely brainless pandering to all of the typical Telegraph readers' worst instincts. It's the "Two World Wars and One World Cup" school of Brexit.

    Of course, it's best ignored, like most of the Telegraph's output.
    It’s probably just a joke, to make their readers smile while hoping some lefties get wound up by it

    Why read a paper if you’re closed minded enough to know before you do so it’s going to make you angry? You’re just going to repeat the same prejudices on a daily basis and end up like @vonPyotr on Twitter! Better to accept that you disagree, and view it as a window into a worldview you don’t share
    Someone you approve of disagrees with you!

    https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/509469-every-day-the-new-york-times-carries-a-motto-in
  • NigelbNigelb Posts: 71,228
    IanB2 said:

    Anorak said:

    IanB2 said:

    I am increasingly of the view that bacon is only good between heavily buttered slices of bread. On a breakfast plate it is perennially disappointing.

    You could burn it, American style? I got quite fond of their crispy bacon on my trip.
    Burn the heretic!

    American bacon is the devil's creation. You'll be advocating covering it in maple syrup next. *shudders*
    First time I had it, long ago, I assumed the hotel had just overcooked it.

    But it grows on you. Unlike all the sweet stuff, as you say. Worst breakfast offering I came across, in Rapid City, consisted mostly of donuts.
    Donuts can be good once in a while.

    I used to go to a place in San Jose which made them fresh around 6am, and was sold out by 8.30. One of the best things I ever tasted.
    https://www.mercurynews.com/2011/05/13/a-la-carte-lous-donuts-entrepreneur-charles-chavira-dies-at-51/
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688
    English mustard. Not Dijon poopoo or American ooze. Proper Colmans's full-punch English.

    No English breakfast is feasible without it.

    :D
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    They're also some of the tastiest though.
    I know and when I was vegetarian it was a bacon butty that sank me.

    However, animal welfare is really important and there are massive issues surrounding the way pigs are treated especially, as I say, on the Continent. They deserve better.

    p.s. if this provokes McAngry into a 'snowflake' jibe, forget it.
    Not sure who you're referring to as McAngry, I don't use that jibe so guessing not me.

    To each their own. I respect people who are vegetarian because they want to be and keep it to themselves. I don't respect people who are vegetarian and expect others to be and preach to others - just as I don't respect preachy religions etc

    If you care about animal welfare look for the Red Tractor mark on your meat. If its got the Red Tractor you know it has good animal welfare and that will include pork.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826

    English mustard. Not Dijon poopoo or American ooze. Proper Colmans's full-punch English.

    No English breakfast is feasible without it.

    :D

    The only thing American mustard is good for is hot dogs, nothing else ever.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468
    TGOHF666 said:

    Anorak said:

    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    It's spectacularly pathetic jingoism. Order an Irish Breakfast in Dublin (and in the EU - horrors!) and you get exactly the same thing.
    No they have those potato scone things and sometimes the cabbage mash thing - Kilcannon.


    Plus the accompanying pint is Guinness not IPA...
    The scones and colcannon are very tasty. Especially the scone. When I were a lad, we used to have the remainder of last night's mashed potatoes fried for breakfast.
  • moonshinemoonshine Posts: 5,751
    TOPPING said:

    One thing that I find genuinely worrying is the prevalence of those on here who seem to prefer brown to red sauce.

    Not that you would approve. But I have an excellent recipe for brown sauce that is so good you never want anything else. It’s in a book by Kylee Newton, that also has loads of good chutney and jam recipes.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if you don't have a ton of money, so long as you're not getting into debt to do so, saving on other costs then investing in one good ring makes more sense than multiple frivolous purchases.

    As for whether I can tell the difference between stones I'll be honest I'm not that fussed. But my wife is and I want her to be happy. My wife thinks its illogical I argue about politics with strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
    As I said, it is a marketing triumph; the diamond industry has played a blinder. Normal and sensible people, despite it being hugely illogical, think that they "need" a diamond.
    I don't think I "need" a diamond. I think my wife wants one and I'm willing and able to get her one because it would make her happy and both romantically and analytically it makes sense to get her one.

    Just as I don't "need" a Playstation 4. But my wife was willing and able to get me one, as she knew it would make me happy.
    There's a difference. If you could have a different make of game that allowed you to do all the things on a PlayStation I'm assuming you would be happy with it.

    The point being your PlayStation has a function.

    A diamond is only valuable because enough people have been convinced that it is somehow an important element of a relationship. It is a signifier only. And the diamond industry has done brilliantly by creating such a fiction.

    But as we both agree it harms no one and brings pleasure so all is good.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    They're also some of the tastiest though.
    I know and when I was vegetarian it was a bacon butty that sank me.

    However, animal welfare is really important and there are massive issues surrounding the way pigs are treated especially, as I say, on the Continent. They deserve better.

    p.s. if this provokes McAngry into a 'snowflake' jibe, forget it.
    Not sure who you're referring to as McAngry, I don't use that jibe so guessing not me.

    To each their own. I respect people who are vegetarian because they want to be and keep it to themselves. I don't respect people who are vegetarian and expect others to be and preach to others - just as I don't respect preachy religions etc

    If you care about animal welfare look for the Red Tractor mark on your meat. If its got the Red Tractor you know it has good animal welfare and that will include pork.
    Seconded
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688
    On the topic of fabulous combinations, two discovered at our girls' boarding school.

    One was sausage and marmalade encased in sliced white Mother's Pride.

    The other, a particular classic, is fish fingers, marmalade and tomato ketchup all, again, encased in white sliced bread.

    Sheer magnificence.
  • DecrepiterJohnLDecrepiterJohnL Posts: 27,937
    moonshine said:

    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-to-set-out-governments-action-plan-on-the-coronavirus-outbreak--2

    Boris Presser with Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer today

    It is less fun if Boris has stopped dressing up as the groups he is meeting, like in the election. Shirtsleeves rolled up for the doctor and safety specs for the scientist, perhaps.
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688

    Just to throw another factor under the grill, pigs are some of the worst kept animals in Europe. Particularly in Denmark.

    They're also some of the tastiest though.
    I know and when I was vegetarian it was a bacon butty that sank me.

    However, animal welfare is really important and there are massive issues surrounding the way pigs are treated especially, as I say, on the Continent. They deserve better.

    p.s. if this provokes McAngry into a 'snowflake' jibe, forget it.
    Not sure who you're referring to as McAngry, I don't use that jibe so guessing not me.

    To each their own. I respect people who are vegetarian because they want to be and keep it to themselves. I don't respect people who are vegetarian and expect others to be and preach to others - just as I don't respect preachy religions etc

    If you care about animal welfare look for the Red Tractor mark on your meat. If its got the Red Tractor you know it has good animal welfare and that will include pork.
    Seconded
    Thirded
  • kinabalukinabalu Posts: 42,230
    Stocky said:

    Well, I guess it`s divisive in that it contrasts proper patriots with their mug of tea and fry-up with brown sauce with the metropolitan elite (such as kinabalu) with their fucking lattes, hash browns with two types of soy sauce and Benn Act.

    Flat white is my hot beverage of choice.

    And I HATED the Benn Act. It gifted the GE to the forces of regression and darkness.
  • NigelbNigelb Posts: 71,228

    English mustard. Not Dijon poopoo or American ooze. Proper Colmans's full-punch English.

    No English breakfast is feasible without it.

    :D

    Actually Anglo/Dutch mustard, these days.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992
    moonshine said:

    TOPPING said:

    One thing that I find genuinely worrying is the prevalence of those on here who seem to prefer brown to red sauce.

    Not that you would approve. But I have an excellent recipe for brown sauce that is so good you never want anything else. It’s in a book by Kylee Newton, that also has loads of good chutney and jam recipes.
    Perhaps I am being overly closed minded. Perhaps it is nicer than I am making out. I might try it next bacon butty time, but what a cost if I was right.
  • OldKingColeOldKingCole Posts: 33,468

    On the topic of fabulous combinations, two discovered at our girls' boarding school.

    One was sausage and marmalade encased in sliced white Mother's Pride.

    The other, a particular classic, is fish fingers, marmalade and tomato ketchup all, again, encased in white sliced bread.

    Sheer magnificence.

    A relations (by marriage) eats marmalade on cheese plus toast (not cheese-on-toast) for breakfast,
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992

    On the topic of fabulous combinations, two discovered at our girls' boarding school.

    One was sausage and marmalade encased in sliced white Mother's Pride.

    The other, a particular classic, is fish fingers, marmalade and tomato ketchup all, again, encased in white sliced bread.

    Sheer magnificence.

    Abso-bloody-lutely. Although not tried the second, sounds amazing.
  • MysticroseMysticrose Posts: 4,688
    Nigelb said:

    English mustard. Not Dijon poopoo or American ooze. Proper Colmans's full-punch English.

    No English breakfast is feasible without it.

    :D

    Actually Anglo/Dutch mustard, these days.
    Because of the Unilever ownership? The recipe remains British though :)

    I like the kind you mix from powder. Packs a real punch.
  • moonshinemoonshine Posts: 5,751

    moonshine said:

    https://www.gov.uk/government/news/pm-to-set-out-governments-action-plan-on-the-coronavirus-outbreak--2

    Boris Presser with Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer today

    It is less fun if Boris has stopped dressing up as the groups he is meeting, like in the election. Shirtsleeves rolled up for the doctor and safety specs for the scientist, perhaps.
    You just reminded me of that presser he did with all the police cadets. That really was weird. It would be amusing if there were a bunch of undergraduates there this time holding their Bunsen burners
  • StockyStocky Posts: 10,222

    Stocky said:

    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    Well, I guess it`s divisive in that it contrasts proper patriots with their mug of tea and fry-up with brown sauce with the metropolitan elite (such as kinabalu) with their fucking lattes, hash browns with two types of soy sauce and Benn Act.
    What if I like a latte and HP sauce with my full English breakfast?
    Soft Brexit?
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if you don't have a ton of money, so long as you're not getting into debt to do so, saving on other costs then investing in one good ring makes more sense than multiple frivolous purchases.

    As for whether I can tell the difference between stones I'll be honest I'm not that fussed. But my wife is and I want her to be happy. My wife thinks its illogical I argue about politics with strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
    As I said, it is a marketing triumph; the diamond industry has played a blinder. Normal and sensible people, despite it being hugely illogical, think that they "need" a diamond.
    I don't think I "need" a diamond. I think my wife wants one and I'm willing and able to get her one because it would make her happy and both romantically and analytically it makes sense to get her one.

    Just as I don't "need" a Playstation 4. But my wife was willing and able to get me one, as she knew it would make me happy.
    There's a difference. If you could have a different make of game that allowed you to do all the things on a PlayStation I'm assuming you would be happy with it.

    The point being your PlayStation has a function.

    A diamond is only valuable because enough people have been convinced that it is somehow an important element of a relationship. It is a signifier only. And the diamond industry has done brilliantly by creating such a fiction.

    But as we both agree it harms no one and brings pleasure so all is good.
    I disagree. A function of a diamond is that it is genuinely pretty to look at. My children since toddlers admire sparkly things too - they've not been taught that it is something they feel too without any marketing, without any industry backing.

    Do you have any art in your home? What purpose does art serve?

    But I agree 100% with your final sentence.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    kinabalu said:

    Stocky said:

    Well, I guess it`s divisive in that it contrasts proper patriots with their mug of tea and fry-up with brown sauce with the metropolitan elite (such as kinabalu) with their fucking lattes, hash browns with two types of soy sauce and Benn Act.

    Flat white is my hot beverage of choice.

    And I HATED the Benn Act. It gifted the GE to the forces of regression and darkness.
    Flat white is an Anglosphere invention ;)
  • moonshinemoonshine Posts: 5,751
    TOPPING said:

    moonshine said:

    TOPPING said:

    One thing that I find genuinely worrying is the prevalence of those on here who seem to prefer brown to red sauce.

    Not that you would approve. But I have an excellent recipe for brown sauce that is so good you never want anything else. It’s in a book by Kylee Newton, that also has loads of good chutney and jam recipes.
    Perhaps I am being overly closed minded. Perhaps it is nicer than I am making out. I might try it next bacon butty time, but what a cost if I was right.
    If you’re feeling racy and can’t be faffed making your own then Wilkin & Sons is the one to go for
  • malcolmgmalcolmg Posts: 43,359
    alex_ said:

    IanB2 said:

    I see that from Friday TfL is banning people from boarding the new Routemaster (aka Boris) bus by either the rear or centre doors on a whole list of routes. It seems people getting on at the back aren't always paying. Who'd have thought?

    Still probably just as effective to put conductors on a a sample of buses.
    Just have inspectors check random buses , £80 if caught without ticket. If they cannot pay immediately then down the nick for fraud.
    Soon stop these unscrupulous thieving Londoners. What a dump that place is full of ne'er do wells in all walks , Westminster antics spread to the public, despicable behaviour indeed.
  • Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,821
    Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826

    Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.

    Sometimes sophistication is overrated.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if y strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
    As I said, it is a marketing triumph; the diamond industry has played a blinder. Normal and sensible people, despite it being hugely illogical, think that they "need" a diamond.
    I don't think I "need" a diamond. I think my wife wants one and I'm willing and able to get her one because it would make her happy and both romantically and analytically it makes sense to get her one.

    Just as I don't "need" a Playstation 4. But my wife was willing and able to get me one, as she knew it would make me happy.
    There's a difference. If you could have a different make of game that allowed you to do all the things on a PlayStation I'm assuming you would be happy with it.

    The point being your PlayStation has a function.

    A diamond is only valuable because enough people have been convinced that it is somehow an important element of a relationship. It is a signifier only. And the diamond industry has done brilliantly by creating such a fiction.

    But as we both agree it harms no one and brings pleasure so all is good.
    I disagree. A function of a diamond is that it is genuinely pretty to look at. My children since toddlers admire sparkly things too - they've not been taught that it is something they feel too without any marketing, without any industry backing.

    Do you have any art in your home? What purpose does art serve?

    But I agree 100% with your final sentence.
    So you contend that buying specifically diamonds for wives as opposed to any other sparkly stone or substance is a wholly naturally occurring phenomenon and that peer pressure, marketing, and perceived status has nothing to do with it?

    Okay. On that we disagree.
  • TGOHF666TGOHF666 Posts: 2,052

    TGOHF666 said:

    Anorak said:

    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    It's spectacularly pathetic jingoism. Order an Irish Breakfast in Dublin (and in the EU - horrors!) and you get exactly the same thing.
    No they have those potato scone things and sometimes the cabbage mash thing - Kilcannon.


    Plus the accompanying pint is Guinness not IPA...
    The scones and colcannon are very tasty. Especially the scone. When I were a lad, we used to have the remainder of last night's mashed potatoes fried for breakfast.
    Scottish Breakfast should have haggis and Lorne sausage - if it doesn’t it is a quisling yoon breakfast.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992
    moonshine said:

    TOPPING said:

    moonshine said:

    TOPPING said:

    One thing that I find genuinely worrying is the prevalence of those on here who seem to prefer brown to red sauce.

    Not that you would approve. But I have an excellent recipe for brown sauce that is so good you never want anything else. It’s in a book by Kylee Newton, that also has loads of good chutney and jam recipes.
    Perhaps I am being overly closed minded. Perhaps it is nicer than I am making out. I might try it next bacon butty time, but what a cost if I was right.
    If you’re feeling racy and can’t be faffed making your own then Wilkin & Sons is the one to go for
    Noted.
  • Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,821

    Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.

    Sometimes sophistication is overrated.
    Not in this case!
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992

    Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.

    I would have said that no full English is complete without a side order of snail porridge but that goes without saying.
  • The ICC couldn’t organise a pregnancy on a council estate.

    England will play India in the Women's T20 World Cup semi-finals on Thursday after South Africa's match with West Indies was abandoned because of rain.

    The washout means unbeaten South Africa top Group B ahead of England and will meet Australia in the last four.

    Both semi-finals will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground with England's match starting at 04:00 GMT.

    However, further rain is forecast for Sydney on Thursday and no reserve day is in place for the matches.

    Were a game to be washed out, the group winners - India and South Africa - would progress to Sunday's final at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, meaning England and hosts Australia would be eliminated.

    England's 2017 World Cup winner Alex Hartley told Test Match Special it is "mindblowing" there is no reserve day.


    https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/51718018
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    edited March 2020
    TOPPING said:

    So you contend that buying specifically diamonds for wives as opposed to any other sparkly stone or substance is a wholly naturally occurring phenomenon and that peer pressure, marketing, and perceived status has nothing to do with it?

    Okay. On that we disagree.

    No. All sorts of stones can be bought and I've bought different types of stones ranging from cubic zirconia (sp?) to diamonds for my wife. But all serve a purpose and that purpose is being pretty. Pretty is a purpose.

    Diamonds are the PS4 of gemstones while cubic zirconia are like the Megadrive emulator that plays emulated old Megadrive games that my wife also got me - fun in its own way but not the same thing.
  • TOPPINGTOPPING Posts: 42,992
    eadric said:

    IshmaelZ said:

    I am doing some stuff to my house, and contemplating futureproofing myself by installing one of those Japanese arse shower thing.

    I did have a peek at my stocks earlier and I've lost money on pretty much everything I chose, but offset by the immense overperformance of one winner, my Japanese arse shower manufacturer.

    (Also when I sold my bit-coins I let my cat pick some stocks, his picks are doing way better than mine.)
    I already have a bum gun in my loo. Gotta admit this is nothing to do with my clairvoyance over coronavirus, they’re just nice, comfy, and a lot more hygienic than just paper.

    So when you’re all miserably tearing the Daily Star into strips, you can picture me peacefully perched on my porcelain throne. It may give you solace.
    And for that reason, I'm out.
  • Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.

    I know but these are the sort of people who think pineapple is an acceptable topping on pizza.
  • malcolmgmalcolmg Posts: 43,359
    isam said:

    It’s known as a ‘Full English’ so not that much of a stretch to homily call it ‘patriotic’ in a headline. Don’t wallies like James O’Brien ever just think ‘I disagree with them politically but I’m not going to make a prat of myself by forcing an angry opinion out of it’?

    At least he’s not falling for and promoting fake paedo news today I suppose

    https://twitter.com/mrjamesob/status/1234603452187205633?s=21

    How low can the UK get, they really are a bunch of absolute bell ends running the show. Constantly making a fool of themselves with such stupid jingoistic crap. Wonder if they will be waving flags or blue passports as they enter the room doing Morris dances.
  • SelebianSelebian Posts: 8,760
    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    TOPPING said:

    Why did it have to be a diamond?

    Because its pretty and the way it reflects the light is pretty. Because I knew she'd appreciate it.

    Depreciated over our lifetime it costs a tiny fraction of a penny per day that she will wear the ring, so the better question is why not a diamond? What could I better buy her that she will appreciate more for a fraction of a penny?
    Oh yes if you have a tonne of money go for it. If there are no other similarly complex sparkly stones and you can evidently tell the difference between a diamond and, say, cubic zirconia, then go for it.

    It's just that it's illogical.
    Even if you don't have a ton of money, so long as you're not getting into debt to do so, saving on other costs then investing in one good ring makes more sense than multiple frivolous purchases.

    As for whether I can tell the difference between stones I'll be honest I'm not that fussed. But my wife is and I want her to be happy. My wife thinks its illogical I argue about politics with strangers on the internet so who am I to argue?
    As I said, it is a marketing triumph; the diamond industry has played a blinder. Normal and sensible people, despite it being hugely illogical, think that they "need" a diamond.
    I think that's true - and the high street chains take advantage of that.

    I'm of course far to smart to fall for such stuff :wink: but, nonetheless, my wife does have a diamond engagement ring. I wanted to get the ring from a particular jeweller on the island where we took our honeymoon (also our first proper holiday together - the honeymoon was of course after I'd bought the ring!). The ring I liked best had a diamond as the gem. Probably they'd have made me one with a different gem if I'd requested it (items made to order) but I'm not sure what else I would have chosen. Cubic zirconia would be a possibility indeed (does it have the same longevity?) but given this is something to be worn everyday and with other jewellery, colourless is useful. My sister in law has a gorgeous engagement ring with blue topaz as the gem, but it does limit a bit what else she can wear on that hand/wrist.

    The diamond in my wife's ring is pretty tiny - I could have bought a ring with a much bigger diamond for the same price from the high street, but for me that would have been missing the point. My wedding band is from the same jeweller and again I could have got one much cheaper, but it brings me memories every day not only of my wife, but our holidays and honeymoon together in this place. Unless coronavirus gets me in the next year, I hope it's cost per day worn is going to be miniscule (currently 25p per day, many 'waste' more on coffee).
  • malcolmgmalcolmg Posts: 43,359

    alex_ said:

    This is genuinely reassuring.

    https://www.theguardian.com/business/2020/mar/02/uk-supermarkets-braced-for-stockpiling-if-coronavirus-escalates-panic-buying

    BTW has anyone suggested that we might be slightly better prepared as a country because of no deal planning done over the last 18 months... ;)

    Why do people stockpile toilet paper? Is its supply chain particularly vulnerable or is it just a cliche?
    There are those old enough to remember the toilet paper shortage of in the early 70s. This was around the time of the winter if discontent and suddenly toilet paper just disappeared and it rook weeks for it to return.
    Well, if loo roll runs out, the country always has the Daily Mail, The Sun and The Star. Perhaps, as a public service, they will use softer paper for their upcoming plague editions ;)
    you can add the express to that
  • Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,821
    TOPPING said:

    Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.

    I would have said that no full English is complete without a side order of snail porridge but that goes without saying.
    Actually the very first thing you need for a proper English breakfast is good-quality bacon, now rarely found in the UK. Consumers have been conned in thinking that something fraudulently called 'bacon' (made from pigs bred to be tasteless and with meat injected with brine) is the real thing. Hot tip: buy Italian pancetta instead, it's still real bacon.
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826

    Not very sophisticated gastronomes, you lot.

    I know but these are the sort of people who think pineapple is an acceptable topping on pizza.
    Its not acceptable.

    Its essential.
  • ParistondaParistonda Posts: 1,843
    isam said:

    Breakfast preferences aside, why would a newspaper calling a dish named after the country ‘patriotic’ in a headline be at all controversial? It’s an easy headline, so what?

    It's not controversial as its not offending anyone, it's just a bit ridiculous. It's not patriotic, anymore than using a red telephone box or getting on a double decker red bus is considered a patriotic act. Of course it's true that the Telegraph headline is clearly designed to provoke exactly this kind of outrage and the best response is to just ignore it.
  • Beibheirli_CBeibheirli_C Posts: 8,163

    Actually the very first thing you need for a proper English breakfast is good-quality bacon, now rarely found in the UK. Consumers have been conned in thinking that something fraudulently called 'bacon' (made from pigs bred to be tasteless and with meat injected with brine) is the real thing. Hot tip: buy Italian pancetta instead, it's still real bacon.

    Get a garlic paste and lightly rub the pancetta on one side. Take a chicken breast and slice in half and roll up inside the garlic face of the pancetta.

    Place in a medium-hot pan with a little rapeseed oil and turn until the pancetta is cooked brown (preferably crispy at the edges) and serve with breads / veg / potatoes (whichever works for you)
  • malcolmgmalcolmg Posts: 43,359
    TOPPING said:

    Update: Eurostar same density as usual. People on laptops and reading The Times. A few coughs.

    Except...Someone across the aisle huddled under the table in a Hazmat suit with tins of baked beans and hexi blocks scattered around him, mumbling something about "exponential growth...why don't they take me seriously...soon no one left...damn you PB..."

    SeanT or Mysticross out on a day trip
  • Richard_NabaviRichard_Nabavi Posts: 30,821

    Actually the very first thing you need for a proper English breakfast is good-quality bacon, now rarely found in the UK. Consumers have been conned in thinking that something fraudulently called 'bacon' (made from pigs bred to be tasteless and with meat injected with brine) is the real thing. Hot tip: buy Italian pancetta instead, it's still real bacon.

    Get a garlic paste and lightly rub the pancetta on one side. Take a chicken breast and slice in half and roll up inside the garlic face of the pancetta.

    Place in a medium-hot pan with a little rapeseed oil and turn until the pancetta is cooked brown (preferably crispy at the edges) and serve with breads / veg / potatoes (whichever works for you)
    Sounds good! Maybe not for breakfast, though!
  • rottenboroughrottenborough Posts: 62,767
    Boris speaking to press on virus.
  • Beibheirli_CBeibheirli_C Posts: 8,163

    Nigelb said:

    English mustard. Not Dijon poopoo or American ooze. Proper Colmans's full-punch English.

    No English breakfast is feasible without it.

    :D

    Actually Anglo/Dutch mustard, these days.
    The condiment that Tesco calls "English mustard" in England it labels as "Mustard" in Scotland. In a cafe at a major Scottish tourist attraction I've also seen Twining's "English Breakfast" Tea (a blend of Assam, Ceylon and Kenyan) described on a blackboard as "Breakfast" tea. "Not having that Westminster muck here! Oh wait, if we can call it by a different name and sell it..."
    I used to drink a lot of Twining's breakfast tea until I converted to Green Tea and never looked back :)
  • Philip_ThompsonPhilip_Thompson Posts: 65,826
    My views of pineapple on pizza is most like views of cricket in Dreadlock Holiday.
  • Boris speaking to press on virus.

    And to the Country
This discussion has been closed.