British Expatriate Network

It is an article of faith in some conservative circles in Britain that the UK should be more like the USA where there is less 'red tape' and regulation.

Of course anyone here who has dealt with health insurers knows this is not always the case.

Another example, the wierd propensity, at least here in New England, to require licenses for pretty much any trade. Some have safety issues - electricians for example - that I can understand. Others just seem needless and perhaps a way of collecting revenue but calling it a 'fee' rather than a tax.

Another American truism is the nations obseession with punishing people in a wholly disproportionate manner. Like say jailing and unlicenced manicurist

http//www.boston.com/news/local/new_hampshire/articles/2005/05/10/free_state_pleads_guilty_to_manicuring_without_a_license?mode=PF

Grappa, obviously not a Ghandi fan then?

I'd question what he said further. There are many other instances in history where protests and civil disobedience shamed the powers that be into making changes - see African Americans getting the vote, modification of the British Poll Tax etc.

I agree; I'm guessing the jail time was not only not a surprise to the defendnat, but wholly intended as part of his protest.

The whole thing just seems absurd to me. In Massachusetts you even need a license and to have attended a course to be permitted to cut hair.

I've always thought those mothers who put a bowl on their kids heads and cut round it deserve some sort of punishment. :D :D

Yeah, that is a very good point. :lol:

Maybe this article will shed some light as to why a licence is needed.

http//mediresource.sympatico.ca/health_news_detail.asp?channel_id=79&menu_item_id=&news_id=1350

Also, this doesn't just happen with pedicures but manicures too. Depends on the cleanliness of the salon and implements used.