Uncharitable 'Charities'

Certain organisations are classed as 'charities' and enjoy tax concessions, on the grounds that they operate for the public benefit. I have grave doubts about the whole institution of organised charity, fearing that a great deal of the money they amass is spent on paying their own employees, rather than given to needy the charities are supposed to help.

However the abolition of charitable status would be complicated and could not be done quickly - far too many people have a vested interest in keeping things as they are, but I think some cases of conspicuous abuse need to be dealt with quickly

 Organised religions are usually given charitable status. Yet some religious organisations operate in ways that are clearly not of benefit to the public, encouraging members of their flocks to be self righteous zealots, rather than tolerant and helpful members of society. It is such teaching that makes some young men vulnerable to recruitment by terrorists. In such cases charitable status could be revoked, so that the institutions in question pay full business rates on their land and buildings, and any other taxes that would be due from a non-charity with a similar income.

Apology

I'm sorry to have blogged so little lately - I didn't blog for most of May, and until yesterday had said nothing this month.

I've been busy selling a house. In May I was sorting through old bills and guarantees to answer questions from the buyer's solicitor, and for most of this  month, after completing the sale, I've been cancelling services for the old house and claiming rebates, and also shredding large numbers of documents that are now redundant.

The hectic period seems to be over now, so I hope to post more frequently hereafter.

A lost name

Supermarkets have started to sell a beverage they call "Pear Cider" yet cider is made from apples, and the somewhat similar beverage made from pears is called "perry"