Huhne Gulty

[leatherpantsman]

Ah Essex Lad, you have given an extreme example which, if put before a jury would result in the jury believing the ten rather than the one. The one (let's call him the liar) would then be found guilty on the charge and would be sentenced on that charge. It is unlikley that the liar would be charged with a separate offence of perjury.

Usually things are not as clear cut (or extreme) as that, which is why there does not seem to be that many perjury cases. There have been a few points taking cases and some lying politicians (Archer and Aitken I think) but the harsh facts are that unless you can prove someone is lying, the liar may profit.

And a lie is a lie is a lie is a lie. No shades of gray. If only things were that simple - thanks Mum!!

[andy at handiwork]

Irrespective of what wrong he has done, I found the messages that passed between Huhne and his son some of the saddest things I've read in a long while. As a parent I would be devastated if my relationship with my son deteriorated to that level. I hope that in years to come they can both reach some form of contact that is free from the destructive rancour evident in those exchanges.

[Phil Phee]

I concur! But (rhetorical question!) how could the gutter press morally square themselves to publish such extracts? We don't know the (full family) context but at least Hunhe expressed love for his son - unlike many, less demonstrative, parents - while Hunhe's son sounds like 'Kevin the teenager'. Frankly, a bizarre dysfunctional family, which saddens me. I'm sure others love to see this slo-mo car crash, tho.