Draw Breath

Reading Judge Paul Darlow's reasoning for not prosecuting a man for a racially aggravated offence in today's London Times inspires a few double-takes.

The accused was already in custody for a crime he hadn't committed, which can't have helped his state of mind. However, he didn't exactly help himself by firstly refusing to be examined by the doctor and secondly calling the doctor a "f..king paki".

Understandably outraged, the doctor took the case to court, only to have the case thrown out by Judge Darlow who claimed he should have taken the insult on the chin. Apparently, being in a position of power means that you should ignore these slurs when they are thrown. To add insult to injury, the Judge advised the accused that should the situation occur again, he should “call him a fat bastard and don’t say anything about his colour.” (!)

The Commission for Racial Equality are studying the case. No doubt, support groups for the over-weight are also!