Dear David F.,

The only thing better than a bagel is a bagel topped with
something tasty - cream cheese, or at the very least
butter. Cream cheese and lox. Delishably yum!

But what about the tax on a tax when you buy petrol?
Far more important than a republic.

Is Mise,

Start your own discussion on that topic
kindly don't try to divert mine.

You may also think about the fact that the new
government has only just been elected. Give
them time. They have a great deal of challenges
facing them. They can't do everything at once.
Miracles do happen - but not over night.

Personally, I have nothing but respect for HM the Queen. I was lucky to have been within touching distance of her, on one of her Royal Tours down under. Though she probably didn't see me, the Duke did, I was in plain clothes and armed, and he nodded his acknowledgement of my presence.

Later, I was tasked with another copper from the ABDC ( Oz.Bomb Data Centre) to search their private apartment at Government House. It consisted of just three modest rooms. Her bedroom, and across the short hallway, was the Dukes almost identical, and a very comfortable sitting room, complete with TV, Radio, and with a modest collection of the latest copies of the English newspapers for them to read, just a couple of short steps nearby.

We were instructed by Special Branch not to engage conversation with any of the Royals unless they themselves initiated it. I did speak briefly, in the grounds of Govt. House, with one of the Royals who was travelling with the Queen. The Duke of 'something or other'. A tremendously down to earth guy, and so easy to talk with, albeit it was only for five or six minutes.

One thing I did learn about our Queen, she's frugal, and hates wasting anything, whether it be food, electricity or whatever else. I learnt so much from my brief encounter with the Royals, humbleness, humility and patience. I hope it made me a better person as a result of it.

Foxy,
Not trying to divert your topic at all, but it was you who introduced the republic
, I’m merely pointing out that a reduction in the price of motor fuel is of much more immediate importance.
Forcing people to pay tax on a Government imposed tax is indefecible.

Dear O Sung Wu,

Thank You for sharing your experiences with the royals.
My husband met the Queen on one of her visits to
Melbourne. He was a coach of a basketball team at the
time. I don't remember the details - but I do remember his
saying how lovely she was and made people feel at ease.