War is 60% of our budget. That's the ONLY place cuts need to come from.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

120. I can't help thinking of the contrast between Britain and Norway

Both receive a considerable amount of money from North Sea oil.

Norway has invested its oil earnings in improving its own infrastructure and the lives of its people. They enjoy one of the highest living standards in Europe. Even business magazines have praised the wise way in which Norway uses its oil money.

Britain, on the other hand, has a huge military budget--the fourth largest after the U.S., China, and Russia--as if it can't get over the fact that it no longer rules 1/3 of the world. Frankly, despite the country's many charms, Britain's roads, railroads, public housing, and newer buildings look shabby in comparison to those in Norway. Where it was once one of the richest countries in Europe, it now has the largest gap between the rich and poor in Europe and is tied with the U.S. for lack of social mobility. The Tories' austerity program is barely touching the military budget.

Things that make you go "hmmmm."