Society appears divided between those who consider that everyone's a pervert and those denying that such people exist whereas, in reality, most are somewhere in the middle. But, thinking about it, I suspect it's only those who believe they should have and express opinions on everything - something the new media has encouraged.

But I think, to be fair, there are no more of those than there ever were (it's just that more people hear you on Twitter than used to over the garden fence).

Us opinionated types need to seem informed (on very little actual information; mainly on instinct).

Why is this?

one man's pervert is another's friendly neighbour.

I was talking to a French friend via Skype just a few days ago and I mentioned the 'pedo panic' in the UK.

Didn't have a clue what I waS on about but when I explained he responded:

(in Clouseau style French Accent) "oh zee English..barmy , crazy. They think their own shadows are perverts creeping up on them" followed by throaty French chortle.

I didn't think it was that funny but he did. Chuckled away for quite awhile as he said unmentionable things about our dress sense, habits & politics.

They also have a more forgiving attitude - Charles Trenet was imprisoned before all charges were dropped for allegations that he had sex with "young men" - it didn't do his career any harm, and is still considered a National Institution 12years after his death

I love the French; several amusing holiday stories in due course!