It might come to that Fifi!

Thanks Golfpro. I'll ask. I did turn down a full year's uni accommodation (I applied just in case the house fell through). At that time they didn't appear very forthcoming, but I'll ask them what options exist.

Don't say oxymoron on here. Last time I used it I got lambasted (another great word) by an angry Dutchman in Glasgow.

Yes indeed. The house I'm supposed to be buying in Wales will not complete before I have to move, so I have nowhere to live!

As I don't know anyone at the uni, I have little choice but to go youth hostelling for a week or two until the paperwork get's done.

Anyone any better ideas for a homeless PhD fresher with no mates?

Anyone remember the first time B*Witched appeared on Going Live and repeatedly used the "feck" word (not realising that it was being misinterpreted in England)?

Juno, a must see film in your lifetime. One of my all time favourites.

But this government particularly appeals to this section of the population as means of trying to redistribute income. Whilst I have no great problem with this, when a government spends billions in administration and paper work to set up the tax credits system before it even pays out a penny to anyone (and then overpays many people too), you have to wonder whether it would have just been simpler and cheaper to raise the income tax threshold.

I nominate the word "debauchery". It sounds great and very fitting for its intended meaning. I think everyone should have a weekend of debauchery at least once in their lifetime.

What other nominations do people have for great words?

Let's combine the two!

That said, who would vote for this? The current government is propped up by this section of the population so they'd never do it.

Personally, I think community service is the answer. You work for your benefits but have one day off per week to apply for paid work. At the same time, raise the income tax threshold to remove the poverty trap. What other ideas?

I'm not sure that it is the correct term, but that is effectively what it is. Yes, I've had the full effect once. Unpleasant!

I've forgotten the term but is something like acid feedback. Quite normal, I've had it in my time too.

It's a good point H. I actually think our government pulled a master stroke when they were one of the few countries not to restrict freedom of movement for the 10 accession countries in May 2004. Effectively, we got the very best Polish workers coming here and they came here to work and fill labour shortages. Just the sort of people we need here. Go-getters are very welcome.

It does go to show though, that some people are prepared to up sticks and move half way across Europe for work yet we have part of this country where large numbers of people have no intention of working, or if they do, they are not prepared to move to areas where there are labour shortages. The question is, what do we do about it?

Yes, me too. Received an email message this morning that I will be teaching two tutorial groups over the next 20 weeks. I think it's great!

Now there's a hot one. I mean I really like U2 but when I do wonder about Bono's moral position sometimes.