These began 65 years ago today - when the topical intolerance was to be a member of the Communist Party, or to be even accused of it.

Many refused to answer whether they were - or were at any time - a member of the Communist Party; on the grounds that it was their own business.

Hollywood actors - such as Edward G Robinson - suffered greatly as a result; even though EGR had nothing to do with Communism, he refused to confirm or deny it.


McCarthyism has given way nowadays to different types of intolerances - with religion continuing to top the bill.

But, on a slow day, we are quick to substitute climate change or Brexit - as the target of our discontent.

At all costs though, targets must be maintained. What would we do - if we had nothing to complain about?