It's An Ill Wind

I'll get off my soapbox of the last two days and stop pontificating about the sad state of America's education system. Today we'll turn to a subject with serious international ramifications - breaking wind (or as it's known in the African country of Malawi, "fouling the air," a lovely euphemism). From JammieWearingFool:

Breaking wind is set to be made a crime in an African country.

The government of Malawi plan to punish persistent offenders 'who foul the air' in a bid to 'mould responsible and disciplined citizens.'

But locals fear that pinning responsibility on the crime will be difficult - and may lead to miscarriages of justice as 'criminals' attempt to blame others for their offence.

One Malawian told the website Africanews.com: 'My goodness. What happens in a public place where a group is gathered. Do they lock up half a minibus?

'And how about at meetings where it is difficult to pinpoint 'culprits'?

'Children will openly deny having passed bad air and point at an elder. Culturally, this is very embarrassing,' she said.

If 'fouling the air' does indeed become a criminal act, Britain's Prince Phillip stands to be convicted on circumstantial evidence. (Thanks to BMEWS.)

 

Her Royal Highness the Queen (on the left in the lovely purple outfit) does not seem amused. The remainder of the royal party, however, seem to be having a hard time controlling themselves...