The Dept Of The Obvious

...has been hard at 'work' finding new and more complex ways to state what anyone down The Red Lion could've told them.

Children who do not get along with their classmates at the age of 10 often end up joining political parties or church groups as adults, according to a new study.

Researchers found that children's self-image could be so dented by their early experiences that they were drawn to organisations where their friends were ready-made and chances of rejection lower.

Researchers said they may also achieve some kind of status in a church group or political party not found in regular social circles.

So it's official: MPs are all wierdos and losers. That'll explain the oranges. It's not like they improve with age either. Samizdata mentions Tom Watson's Christmas message.

Christmas is a dangerous time of the year. Tree lights send 350 of us to hospital each year. 1000 people suffer trimmings damage. 17 people died through christmas candle disaster. This, before you even get in the kitchen.

I defy anyone to read that and not have a sudden desire to beat him up and steal his lunch money.