The possible appreciation of neighbours is a value to me as are safe paths, but this just tells “them” that “someone” will do “something” and prop up their stupid system. If I’m to play Hank Rearden I’d rather be the one in part three so I ended the little conversation with the council by pointing out that all of Clapham was dangerous and they better get to it!

Interestingly MP’s and Ministers are not subject to surcharge, otherwise Brown would be a bankrupt and potentially serving 999 year in jail.

The fact that insurance companies have cowed, schools, local authorities and scout groups is a national scandal. They have lobbied hard to ensure ‘insurance’ is in place for every conceivable risk including acts of nature by Law, then offer advice that ensures that renders the insurance invalid if you carry out an act that places the insurance company in peril of paying out. This is final nail of lunatic Health & Safety legislation.

Life is a risk, the Community already own the Roads and Pavements, leaving the ‘job’ upto the State means that it will not happen, as the State is nigh on bankrupt. As you say as simple indemnity for clearing any natural hazard, snow, ice, fallen trees, blocked drains and overflowing rivers is what is required.

We have been reduced to children because we constantly wait in fear for permission. I cleared and salted the pavement outside of our property. I have not been arrested, nobody has died, suffered loss or broken limbs. Quite the converse, as soon as I started doing it, the rest of my neighbours did the same, and we were thanked for it.

Taking personal responsibility rather than leaving it to ‘them’, is all that is required. Plus its a damn sight cheaper too.

Freedom is a state of mind.