Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Ra Noel — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 15:45:59 GMT

I'm appalled that one would trade US citizenship for matters of convenience, as Ms. Bruton implies she has done.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Patricia L Hammons, Hesperia CA USA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:40:31 GMT

The colonization of the worlds languages is all comming back to you in spades, give them one language without the tower and god will honor your attempts to unify their soveriegn hearts. Philippians 3:23

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Bill Philadelphia — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:45:24 GMT

Thanks for a cool story. Very interesting insight into an area that one would never get to hear details about. I've travelled to England a few times for business but would have never thought about what it would be like to 'sign up' and become one of them.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Erin, Bangor, Gwynedd — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:02:22 GMT

For the thousands of UK citizens born in this apparently 'broken' Great Britain-- we Welsh, the Irish, and the Scottish-- being 'British' is, at the least, controversial, and sometimes flatly undesireable. Yet we are born here and feel connected here, speak the language of our ancestors and feel a general sense of community. Whether this emotional and political divide between 'Welsh' and 'British' and 'immigrant' and 'British' and so on is really some triumph of propaganda, I find doubtful-- it's the natural evolution of a thousand years of fractious history between a population that has always been made up of immigrants, invaders, conquerers, and resisters.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

David Glasscock, Dallas, Texas — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:03:12 GMT

Having lived in Britain for a spell, I fully agree with your analysis of Britishness being hard to quantify. The people there are proud to be British...but only to a fault. Mainly when discussing soccer or most institutions that began there, the British will defend whatever it is just for arguments sake. In addition, Brits traveling abroad are probably identify more proudly British than when they're at home. Overall, the identity of being British is often stereotyped but ultimately difficult to put into words. You have to show live examples to express what it means to be British.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Nick Manning — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:13:39 GMT

Ms. Bruton,

May we back in the USA assume that you were able to also claim British citizenship by virtue of your birthplace (UK or commonwealth) or that of your parents? Or did you renounce allegiance to the USA to become a Brit? If the latter, how can you retain your American passport?

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Linda Gerardi, New York, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:21:54 GMT

I'm an American with a clear right to British citizenship because my mother is Scottish. Although raised in the States, I was raised on the glories of being entitled to such a citizenship. If I chose to assume my British citizenship I would do so because I was proud to be British and all that represents, not because it provided me with traveling conveniences, ease of paperwork or other trivial reasons. People died as citizens and may be called on to do so again. I want to make sure I'm willing to take that stand in the name of a country before I assume its mantle. The author mentioned somewhat cynically that the ceremony was akin to a marriage. How archaic??? No,its a decision that actually outlives many a marriage and will affect future generations as I am living proof.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Creepshow, Lancaster, PA. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:23:52 GMT

Good. Stay there. Id much rather PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE QUEEN OF hearts. You forget how many Americans died because the British thought They could rule the world. THOUGHT. You are another Benedict Arnold and belong there.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

P. L. Raabenoffsky, Santa Barbara, CA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:35:40 GMT

What qualifications must be satisfied to become a British citizen?

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Dominic — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:06:08 GMT

Great! Everyone needs to move there.. We need to give constant suggestions along with plane tickets to all the illegals here and have them move to England. They LOVE illegals, they have great living standards, what else would anyone want. I am certainly going to start making suggestions to all the illegals I know... GREAT BRITAIN IS REALLY GREAT "MOVE THERE".

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Sandi, Northern NJ — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:13:42 GMT

US allows dual citizenship. You can become a citizen of most other countries and remain a citizen of the US (retaining the passport) without any problem. Very few countries actually require you to renounce your former citizenship anymore.

If a person is working in a foreign land for an extended period of time and needs to be able to travel locally, have access to health care, etc - obtaining citizenship in that country would probably be a good thing. And you still are a US citizen, so going home again is no problem!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

sickened in NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:19:34 GMT

I am a British Citizen by birth but recently became an American Citizen by naturalization. I didn't become a US citizen for convenience but because this country is my home, the place I have lived for 25 years, the place my children were born and raised.

It used to mean something to be British but sadly political correctness had stopped the "Flag waving" for fear of offending someone. The true Brits have been forced to submit to the will of immigrants who have no more loyalty to the Country than Ms Bruton.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

John Prackus — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:21:31 GMT

It's called dual citizenship ms.bruton - the writer traded no citizenship... and no need to be outraged.... how is the writer's choice actually hurting you to be so upset?! We're all world citizens

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Joel Dillon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:23:03 GMT

To Ra Noel:

Which part of 'I'm keeping my American passport' do you not understand? It is quite possible these days to have dual UK/US citizenship.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

James Lord weirton,Wv — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:28:09 GMT

If one thinks or feels a ceremony makes one a true citizen then one is as foolish as those who pray to stones or an image on a stick and is as foolish as one who pours milk or burns incenses to their chosen gods. One must as in these religions chose to do certain things,perform a cermony, speak in certain ways abide by specific rules or laws. One must give up ones past and former self one nation of birth and join with that new home; just as one so loves their faith, so one must love their new country. It is odd that in our new times, people can not see that these ideals once though of as being part and parcel of the assimilation process are now rejected for we want to keep the old home and its identy and take on a new identity with the old placed in many cases first, many simply want the privelage of America and the west ,so to be called a this or that American instead of American is rejected. For feeling that an identifier is better than being the old is more important than the new lessons all..

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

K L Patrick — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:32:34 GMT

l am an English woman who took American citizenship. This is my adoptive home.l love BBQs;the warm weather in CA; delivery; and the choice to have things my way in restaurants,the wide open Vistas, and grandeur of the landscape. l will never be an American,l hate Reeses peanut butter cups;isn't the World Series really the American Series? l miss the 10pm news from London, BBC America will have to do; and l still get my Tea imported after 17yrs.Embracing the great things about an adoptive Country doesn't make you a true native. As the British Consul said when l asked if l could still be British if l Naturalised " Madam you can take as many Nationalities as you like, and you will always be British".

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

tom Atkins Canada — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:44:06 GMT

Let's face it !! many that visit Britain would like to become one, whether they are from the U.S or mid east or whatever. To become British,are the aspirations of so many people from all walks of life, the British politics are admired by so many other countries including the U.S, who have a bastard form of democracy, as we see today within the U.S run up for Presidentcy. Recently London was selected as the Capital city of the world, with its people who get along and the life that abounds the capital.
Ms Bruton surely is a mockery to the British, and the kind we do not want in the Commonwealth, I would have felt that she should have been proud to become British, or is it that she is eccentric, or possibly having children whilst there under the NHS.!!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Evelyn, South Carolina — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 19:46:41 GMT

Haven't some of you people ever heard of dual citizenship? You don't 'trade' citizenship, you assume two. If you are appalled or feel that citizenship requires allegiance to only one nation, you need to get out more - whether that be by travelling physically or oprning up your mind. And by the way -come back through US Immigration in the line for non-US Passports and see what a welcome you get as an 'alien' - Southern hospitality it ain't.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Anne Turner — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:17:24 GMT

Having recently returned to the US after spending the better part of a decade in the UK, I understand what the author is talking about.

I refused to apply for UK citizenship though I did qualify for it, mainly on general principle. I found the UK to be far more xenophobic than the US, less accepting of foreigners, and much more eager to demand complete and immediate assimilation of its immigrants.

I, as an educated native English-speaker, was constantly told that I "must" assimilate by engaging in such activities as drinking to excess and mocking the religious. I know better; it is impossible to "become" British. You have to be born that way. The British demand the impossible of their immigrants; they require them to assimilate but will not budge an inch when it comes to accepting them.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Sam Ayodele, Toronto, Ontario, Canada — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:22:31 GMT

Reasons for an action of every individual are different. when you are hungry, homeless and probably uneducated, and your country is at war. which will you do first, find something to eat or go to war to defend your country?. while some people graduate from harvard, some others find it difficult to pay their tuition fee to attend just any university, this is beyond smartness or brilliance, but affordability, exposure, immediate responsibility.......
ninety-nine percent of world immigrants will remain where they were or at least, return back, if why they immigrated were available.
people do things for different reasons, because of different situations, and every individual decisions and actions should be respected. an object that faces you directly is backing somebody else at same time, so the two of you are not seeing it from same position.
how come it is cynical for one to take another citizenship for the reason of marriage. then it should be cynical for you to do business, take international employment or even compete in sport with others in another country.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Gary, Mansfield,Ct — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:24:58 GMT

Linda only good till you reach age 21 I believe after that all bets are off, and if you take an american passport out I believe that also puts an end to your claim of citezenship.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Delmar Fairchild, Barron, WI — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:28:41 GMT

My ancestors came to Connecticut, America from England in the 1600s to get away from the King and have a place to make their own. I don't think I would want to go back. They have universal health care that doesn't work very well, can not own Firearms to protect themselves, can't hunt. What can they do? Oh yeah, get mugged or pick pocketed by roving gangs. Then there is Scotland which has one of the highest crime rates in the world. Only the Irish have come to their senses "over there".

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Fred, Tallahassee, FL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:37:22 GMT

The UK allows dual citizenship, it is not necessary to
abandon or renounce any existing citizenship to qualify
for UK naturalization.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Anna, York, Pa — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:47:53 GMT

I predict more Americans will become British citizens simply for it's health care.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Ann Ryan — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:49:01 GMT

The truth is one cannot become British in the way that one can become American. The British popultation is not recently composed of disparate immigrant
groups coming together in one country. My family have been around since the Domesday Book was compiled. I am Anglo-Saxon through and through and I will remain so wherever I live. I cannot choose to change that essential fact. Foreigners can come and live in Britain, hopefully because they like the place and the people, but they will never be British, no matter how many ceremonies they attend.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Howard Rubinstein, New York, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:51:43 GMT

To those of you who are confused: the U.S. permits dual citizenship -- there's no need to "renounce" your American citizenship. Perhaps if you'd travel more you'd realize it's no great shakes to have American citizenship; we're not exactly beloved around the world these days, and Britain has surpassed us in standard of living.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Eric , Bellingham, WA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:54:18 GMT

I'm a dual citizen of the U.S. and U.K. and have been since birth. I grew up back and forth between both countries, but eventually I decided to live mostly in the U.S. because they try to make it as difficult as they can to be a dual citizen and if I leave the U.S. to live in the U.K. I have to pay taxes to both countries.
I have to say, that regardless of all that, I am very proud to be both British and American, but I have seen first hand how many people do get citizenship strictly as a matter of convenience, and while I understand their reasons, I wonder how many would actually stand up and fight for their country if called upon.
I am all for letting hard working, decent people immigrate/emigrate, but I think the current system in both the U.S. and U.K. is highly flawed and doesn't really look for the right things in many of the people they allow in.
I also think the U.K. has taken on far more than it can handle much too fast in terms of how many people they allow in. Of course, once people get in, it's hard to round them up, and where do you take them if their home country won't take them back?

For me, being British or American means I would serve, fight or die for my country, and am honored to do so.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

KA - London, England — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:00:05 GMT

You do NOT have to give up your US citizenship to gain a British citizenship. It is possible to have dual-citizenship.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Patrick M., Corona, CA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:05:36 GMT

How are gasoline prices in Britain?

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Charles Anderson — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:06:31 GMT

"One point of being British is that you don’t really talk about it," I couldn't agree more. Check out what we chose for a national moto: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/article2917745.ece

Welcome to Britain. Camden? Oh dear...

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

LouNYC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:11:53 GMT

Ok everyone! Please note that in the last 10 years, US law has changed to allow for dual citizenship. US nationals can now take on a second citizenship without having to "renounce" their allegiance to the US; although a person can choose to do so and in such case cannot be granted US citizenship again.

Like Ms. Bruton, I have spent a considerable time living in Europe for work and understand the practical difficulties of traveling in and out of the Schengen agreement countries (these are the countries that no longer have borders between them) and having to stand in line with hundreds of other travelers waiting for a customs official to just look at my passport, notice it is from the US and wave me through. I have considered taking dual citizenship in a European country for the sakes of easier travel and work.

That does not, for one second, diminish my pride in being an American nor my allegiance to its Constitution or its peoples.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Sal, Boise, Idaho — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:18:50 GMT

I agree with Miss Bruton completely in that a ceremony cannot change who you are or where you are from. Our Nationality is a part of what makes us who we are, and should not be given up lightly. I have done the reverse; I moved from Britain to USA, and I have no intention of becoming a US citizen, simply because that's not who I was born as. I am and will always be British, even though it makes travel outside the USA more difficult, my birthright is a huge part of my heritage and roots that I would never want to relinquish for the sake of convenience.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Gil Hyams, Gainesville, Florida — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:19:09 GMT

Good riddance if that is how you feel about citizenship to any country. Being a citizen is more than just convenience.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Tim Tolley, Owatonna, MN — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:28:44 GMT

As a British Citizen living in America for the past 10 years and contemplating doing the opposite the writer has done (i.e. become a US Citizen), it was quite nice to read this report.

Trading Citizenship is NOT what is being discussed, the advantages of holding dual citizenship are certainly worthwhile, but since Sept. 11th it has becme much more difficult to actually assume dual citizenship within the US. I want to retain by British Passport and Citihip - I am proud to be English, but this is now my home and more than likely will be living here to the end of my days.

I just wish it would be easier to maintain my British status and also become a US Citizen......

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Ann Johnson, Charleston, SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:33:36 GMT

Why so many xenophobic Americans? America love it or leave it mentality is just so ignorant. Why drive a Japanese car when you can drive the GM lemons...at least you can put the American flag on your bumper stickers and admire them everytime your car breaks down! Have you people no idea of what dual citizenship is? Better go back to school and educate yourself so you erase some of your bigotry and ignorance.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Peter, Chichester, West Sussex, England. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:37:16 GMT

It is all very well singing the praises of 'Britishness' and having pride in being British, But as an Englishman I doubt very much whether the ousider understands how much keeping the UK united is costing the English and Welsh tax payer!
Scotland has been a financial burden on the rest of the UK for some considerable time now and Scots are shown preferential treatment by our unelected, (and uneducated) Prime minister.
Would Americans accept a poorly educated socialist Mexican who can barely speak English as President? I very much doubt it. But that is what England and the English has to suffer with Gordon Brown!
The 'special relationship' between the UK nd US has already shown sings of straining under Brown. That is because the truth is, the special relationship is between ENGLAND and the US. Not the UK as a whole. And Brown, as a Scot will ruin it at all costs.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Tom, Midland, Texas — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:38:49 GMT

Sickened in NC said it all. That Egyptian fellow should have had a British passport long ago, and renounced his Egyption citizenship. I was born a dual national (USA-Canada), I hold ONE passport. I believe citizenship of convenience is sorry, citizenship should be of the heart.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Mark Rees, San Francisco, CA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:48:53 GMT

Delmar Fairchild, Kindly speak with knowledge not with hysterical ignorance, not with facts taken from the 'National Enquirer' medias. The health care system in Britain works quite as I found out when they looked after my mother recently. Uncontrolled ownership firearms is hardly the sign of a civilised society. 'Roving gangs' are in the deluded minds of the ignorant and Scotlands crime rate is a damn sight better than some of the trigger-pumping communities which I've travelled through in the Mid West of the US. At least in Britain 'trick-or-treat' kids don't get blown away at Halloween by some macho gon-toting retard which did happen in the Mid West.
Oh Delmar, one more thing , I'm no bleeding-heart liberal just an individual who detests lies and inaccuracies.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Kipper in Canada, Nova Scotia — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:54:34 GMT

I am a Brit who emigrated to Canada in 1976. I moved because I met & married a Canadian girl who couldn't accept the Brit way of life. Since then I have stayed in Canada to be near my kids as they grew up, and because I love the freedom & way of life in Canada. I never gave up my Brit citzenship or obtained my Canadian citzenship, although I will one day. My oldest in her 30s, is currently going after her US Green Card, and as we recently found out can still get her Brit passport if she wants to, even though she wasn't born there. Her intention is to eventually have her Canadian citzenship, with her US and Brit Citzenships. The main reasons for having all three are for freedom of travel and work. I don't blame her at all in this day and age of world travel, movement and work, the more who do this the better the world will be. I pity those xenophobes who never travel and yet always put down other races and religions without any actual knowledge of them except through biased media. My congratulations to anybody with dual or tri citzenship for whatever reason.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Ileana Liel, Riverside, CA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:54:57 GMT

I am US citizen by choice and as part of that process renounced allegiance to all other governments. And, yes, I pledged to protect the Constitution of the US etc, something that apparently LouNYC did not. For those who taken on dual citizenship as a matter of convenience, will you be willing to put your life on the line for both countries?

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Margaret, Southfield, MI — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:56:36 GMT

It doesn't matter what the gas prices are in England, since most people don't own cars!! But, it's probably because the gas is so much higher there. The standard of living surpassed us? Maybe residents of NYC - but, even then I'm puzzled? In WHAT way? have you looked at their teeth lately?

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

J.Adams PNS FL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 21:57:48 GMT

It's nice to see people express their opinion's. I did lean toward the insight displayed by "creepshow",...his name says it all!

People can die defending a country without ever being a citizen of that country.

The sad fact is, in recent times, had aome American citizens been carrying a British passport, they would not have been singled out for summary execution.

All the patriotic fervour displayed means little or nothing. If people find that holding dual U.K./U.S.A. citizenship, speeds the process of travelling,....go for it! It has been my privilege to "rescue" American citizens during some hardtimes in Africa. The fact that I had a British passport was the "get us home free" card. There are always pros and cons,.....use whatever is best for one's self.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Greg Chicago — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 22:03:32 GMT

ok...we get the point about dual citizen ship, move on. The old adage goes "you don't like how the country is being run then go somewhere else!"...this is exactly what this woman did and we have idiots giving her a hard time. These are the same people voting for candidates that cry on camera, or get into race baiting arguements, or cry about freedom of government yet keep people from being wiretapped and searched on the drop of a dime.

Wake up america...the more this country declines in it's ability to make educated choices, the more you will see people flocking to other countries for a better way.

I had family die in battle for this country, and we all served...hopefully everyone will wake up and stop choosing teams and start being freely independent people

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

C. Wharton — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 22:26:24 GMT

Good..........Now She can PAY TAXES in BOTH COUNTRIES! Hope the IRS is paying attention!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Steve, Seattle, Wa — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:08:17 GMT

I went the other way, born and raised in the UK, moved to the US and became a citizen. At that time, 1973, the US did not recognize dual citizenship. If they do now it's news to me. Proud to be american.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

James, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:14:56 GMT

To Margaret, Southfield, MI

I am a British Citizen who has lived in the US for almost 30 years. Proportinately speaking, there are as many people owning cars in the UK as in the US. The cars there are just more reliable and efficient. The standard of living has indeed surpassd what we have here, as evidenced by the amount of disposable income many Brits have over the majority in the US.

So far as teeth go. My sister and I saw our dentist much more frequently for regular check-ups when we were kids than many children in the US do today, and oral hygiene was maintained as we became adults. We were not the exception, we were the rule. From when I came to the US, until the present I have seen more instances of bad teeth than I ever saw growing up in the UK, especially in the northern states. The very worst was someone I worked with who had come to NC from MI.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

J. Stuart — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:22:40 GMT

"use whatever is best for one's self."....Now that is the epitome for selfishness and shameless betrayal. This is coming from a Brit who lives in FL. I had the privilege of rescuing many Brits and Europeans from West Africa when their own diplomatic staffs told them to go to the AmEmbassy because their own govts couldn't help them. God Bless America!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Robert Jefferies Vernon B.C. Canada — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:24:03 GMT

The universal health care system in Britan and Canada works just fine thanks, It is the US government that has lied to you about it's flaws so they don't have to give it to you. It's the same story with gun control they would have you believe that Canadian citizens don't have guns, believe whatever you want !!!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Scott, lithonia, Ga. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:45:34 GMT

NOT British CITIZEN, British Subject. THERE IS A DIFFERENCE.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Tracker Bill Yonah Mtn. GA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 23:56:45 GMT

A tale of two brothers. Long ago and far away. The oldest of the two was born in England. The family moved to the United States. The younger of the two was born in the United States. The older one, applied for American citizenship to apply for work in a defence plant, during the second world war. He had to renounce his British citizenship. The younger, because his father ( and mother) remained British subjects, he, although he didn’t know it was born with dual nationality. He has maintained two valid passports all his life. From what I understand, it is true, that if a British citizen applies for American citizenship, he or she must renounce British citizenship. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Mark Rees, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:08:06 GMT

Oh for goodness sake Margaret of Southfield MI! Stop reading the supermarket tabloids! According to the International Road Federation, the UK kas 451 cars per 1000 people, the US is only a little way ahead at 465 per 1000 people. Hardly a vast difference despite the incredibly stupid opinion you seem to have that the rest of the world is living in mud huts. And the snide 'have you looked at their teeth lately?' comment hardly carries any particular weight alongside the proven statistic that there are more obese Americans than any other nationality. We're not exactly full of slim, healthy, supermodels ourselves are we? Now kindly clean up your own house before sticking your uninformed nose in other peoples houses. And please, in future, make your own opinions rather than just taking them from the 'Weekly World News' or whatever you graze through while you wait for your HoHo's and Twinkies to be rung up.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Joe, Ottawa Canada — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:10:05 GMT

To Eric.

You misspelled "honored".

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

louise England — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:27:04 GMT

Margaret southfield..Most people don't own cars?
The avarage 4 person family with the average wage own 3 cars per family. i agree you have better dental care but our nhs system if fair even to the poorest in this country...including the homeless

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Janet Bone, Broomfield CO — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:31:44 GMT

If what Sandi said is true that the U.S allows dual citizenship and you don't have to renounce your citizenship from one country to become one somewhere else then I can sure see how the walls of definition beween countries are falling and we are being guided into a ONE WORLD GOVERNMENT. Especially when you hear people like John claim we're all "WORLD CITIZENS".
YEP, it's the Tower Of Babel again, only this one is the FINAL Tower. For those who don't read the Christian Bible Genesis 11 is the story of the Tower of Babel. Babel refers to God confusing the peoples languages and scattering them after they all came together to make their own 'heaven' and themeselves their own 'gods'Claiming they didn't need or want the One Almighty God. Gods Word is THE TRUTH. Jesus Is Lord. Please fall on your knees and acknowlege that before it's too late!! We are in the last days.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Mr Batson, Eugene, Oregon — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:45:19 GMT

Being British is a matter primarily of blood, heart, intellect, language. To divorce ethnicity from nationality is to destroy the Civilisation being diluted -- and the emergent police state is the result when identity becomes the mere accident of citizenship.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Citizen of the World — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:49:44 GMT

Congratulations Ms. Bruton, quite honestly I am disgusted at some of venom being spewed on this board by my fellow Americans. Grow up already, it is attitudes like that that make the rest of the world hate us. It's not like she joined the Taliban, it's Great Britain. What a close minded country I live in. You people need to get out and travel more.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Mike, Japan — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 00:59:13 GMT

We Americans are easily revolted by the idea of abandoning citizenship or otherwise "switching" to one of another country, but in a shrinking world these feelings are sure to become moot.

We are steadily moving from being citizens of our respective countries to citizens of the World. People who carry passports of multiple countries further function as an adhesive of romantic/economic/political good will between such countries and are conducive to continued piece and the mutual exchange of culture.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Angela Jeffers, Perth, Western Australia — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 01:50:53 GMT

My goodness! What a mixed bag of emotional reactions to someone obtaining British citizenship. I don't think it necessarily follows that you should be prepared to go to war for that country. And I don't see any harm in having two or three passports, it really does facilitate ease of travel. As a Brit living in Australia for the past 27 years, I have only an Australian passport, but can get a British one if I choose. I still refer to myself as a Pom, but love my adopted country. I will always be English by birth, but Australian by choice - who wouldn't want to live in wide open spaces where the sun shines almost every day of the year? (And I still support the English cricket, rugby and soccer teams. Funny, isn't it?)

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

J. M., Seattle — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 01:57:48 GMT

No matter where in the world that may be, may we all find ourselves in a safe, happy home that fits us and has boats family (of blood or spirit). If her home is in London, then be glad for her good fortune.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Jordan, Seattle, WA — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 02:02:14 GMT

Everything that we embrace as citizens of one country or another, goes by the wayside under globalization. We don't care so much about citizenship when something is cheaper abroad. And we certainly don't care about citizenship when it is easier to outsource it. I've yet to meet many Americans who are willing to risk both life, and lifestyle, for their country. The argument isn't a matter of the heart any longer. Just one of the pocketbook.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Astralis, Houston, TX — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 02:02:54 GMT

You are not allowed to keep your American passport because you're no longer American. That is fraud. Duel-citizenship is not permitted in the US after someone reaches a certain age and by your oath to the Queen and acceptance of new citizenship, you forfeit your American citizenship. You can visit America for up to 90 days, but beyond that, even if you still have family here, you must apply for a visa. And if you want to work in the US, you must apply for a work visa.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Steve, New Hampshire — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 02:12:20 GMT

I was unaware Britain had citizens; I thought it had subjects, or commoners.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

David, Californian Desert — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 02:57:08 GMT

Delmar Fairfield of WI seems to be very ill informed.
He says:-
My ancestors came to Connecticut, America from England in the 1600s to get away from the King and have a place to make their own.
Delmar that was 400 years ago man. get real; what do you think happened in the USA over the following 300 years when your ancestors slaughtered the locals.
He says:-
I don't think I would want to go back. I suspect you are not a well traveled man Delmar
He says:-
They have universal health care that doesn't work very well, What nonsense Delmar; my mother has been in hospital in Scotland for 7 months now getting a level of care that just could not be better; my sister -in-law has just had a cancer operation and had superb treatment -all at no cost to them..... again Delmar you don't know what you are talking about. You have been listening too often to the profiteering companies who sell health care in this country
He says:-
(they) can not own Firearms to protect themselves, AND Delmar, in general terms they don't need them. Very few people own guns in the UK, or have ever been involved with guns and usually they don't want to.
He says:- What can they do? Oh yeah, get mugged or pick pocketed by roving gangs. Then there is Scotland which has one of the highest crime rates in the world.
Where do you get that statistic Delmar? I will happily walk with you through central Glasgow on a Friday night. I will not be with you should you opt to do the same in Detroit, Cincinnati or Los Angeles.

Delmar. Comment on stuff like this when you learn a few facts and travel a bit
David - (a legally resident Brit in California.)

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

David, Californian Desert — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 03:06:04 GMT

When I first came to live in the USA, went to functions etc and witnessed The Pledge of Allegiance I did think it was a very noble, if somewhat bemusing thing to do. It brought people together in a common bond.
Then I began to realize why we have no similar thing in the UK. We were all brought up to know inherently that The King, and subsequently The Queen, represented our total national identity without it being regularly repeated and chanted. It just is. And has been for a thousand years and more. And nobody born outside the UK can understand what that means.
I live in the USA by choice and for all sorts of good reasons but recognize with respect the sovereign umbrella of this great nation which is still finding its stumbling, sometimes juvenile feet.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Don, Minden, LA — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 03:17:35 GMT

Yeah, this ticks me off.

How many Americans died fighting the British? Our identity was born in opposition to theirs and everything they stood for.

This is absolute crap. Stay there.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Tally Young — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 04:36:30 GMT

If Brinley Brunton had been in Wales or Scotland she would have taken Welsh or Scottish citizenship and not a union flag in sight.I would bet England's Cross of St George flag was not on display at the ceremony.
Gordon Brown's britishness campaign (quietly dropped recently)is only targeted at England and the English.
For some reason New Labour believes immigrants can become Welsh and Scottish but not English.
Campaign English Parliament

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

gladie benson Hood River Or — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 04:41:42 GMT

Very good Linda Gerardi!! I agree completly. Transplanted Canuck

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Antonio, Portland, OR — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 04:47:28 GMT

"I'm appalled that one would trade US citizenship for matters of convenience, as Ms. Bruton implies she has done." Ra Noel

Ra Noel,

She did not "trade" her US citizenship. As a matter of fact, she is STILL a US citizen. However, since she now also holds a British passport as well, it is understood that she now has DUAL citizenship!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Alan Auld Sydney NSW — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:01:07 GMT

I took Australian citizenship 35 years ago but I never stopped being English, with an accent like mine it is impossible to be anything else. Good Luck to all immigrants in the world,just be your selves. vive la difference.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Colleen, Albuquerque, NM — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:02:00 GMT

I became a dual citizen of Canada/US when I was 26 years old (in 1995)-due to my mother being a Canadian citizen. Britain may be different, but the age of 21 makes no difference as far as Canada goes. There is no need to renounce citizenship anymore. I was asked to go to the Canadian consul in L.A., at a convenient time for me, put my hand on the Bible, and among other things, I remember swearing an oath of allegiance to the Queen. Honestly, the oath meant very little to me, and I thought it odd to pledge allegiance to the monarchy. This (that I seem to take the privilege of being a citizen of both countries so lightly) probably offends some Canadians, and also some Americans, but it doesn't take away from the fact that Canadians, Brits, and Americans have all died for their countries. I appreciate their sacrifices in their blood. I am fully aware that it is a PRIVILEGE to be a Canadian and an American, and something that some people wish and aspire to be because of the opportunities and freedoms in these countries. I was born in the U.S., have lived in the U.S. my entire life (38 years), and I have never lived in Canada for longer than 2 weeks. I don't feel "Canadian," even though I hold a passport for both countries. I feel "American". The U.S. is a great country, but I don't think it's really any better than Canada or Britain (and I've visited both). There's differences between each that we could list but they're all great countries. Why is being an American such a hallowed and sacred thing? Can't we appreciate America and the sacrifices that others have made for the country without having to worship it, and denigrate others who seek citizenship elsewhere? I became a Canadian out of convenience, because I wanted the option of living there if I desired someday. I think Canada is a great country too, but that doesn't mean I don't love America as well.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

James Frederiksen — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:15:13 GMT

I'm glad the article was about what it means to be British. I've had a few unfortunate encounters with Brits on-line, but I must say it would be easier to identify an Aussie. All you need be, is rude, foul mouthed, insulting, drunken, abusive, and pompous. Making idle threats of violence is usually optional.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

johndoe@yahoo.com — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 05:34:47 GMT

I am a citizen of the world... I do not need papers!!!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Ancestral Citizen — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 06:24:59 GMT

Nationalities are obsolete. Nations exist for the convenience of politicians to know how far their power base extends. We all participate in a global economy; communicate electronically worldwide (except in a few countries with limits); and dance back and forth across borders all the time. To see how much they merge and overlap, just visit any border town adjoining Mexico or Canada.

The difference is just an artificial line in the sand.

Nations need to get caught up with real life on this. In the EU they have taken steps to do so. It is also quite easy to cross between Malaysia and Singapore, or Malaysia and Brunei, although they do have a bit of busywork with bureaucratic formsfilling.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Keith H — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 06:29:43 GMT

It's not just the legality of dual citizenship.. She pledged allegiance to the Queen of England. In this country you pledge allegiance to the flag(country). How can you have allegiance to two? At best that makes one a liar. At worst a traitor.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

joe american — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:03:04 GMT

I thank a dual citizen is a good idea , for those who travel the world. I would also say pride in who you are and where you are from is also important.I feel there should be a option inbetween.People who travel the world should not get to vote in other countrys.if you want move fine but dont expect them to change for you.Brit's are our friends i am happy when they prosper,but i am still a proud to say im american. Quit bashing were not in a contest.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Thomas G — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:04:23 GMT

Was I the only one who actually read the article? This woman did not give up her American passport, she very clearly states that. It is called dual citizenship, people! I am in the process of claiming Irish citizenship through a grandparent born there. I work for a large multinational French company and speak six European languages, so being able to live and work in most of Europe suits me just fine. Other fringe benefits include (but are not limited to), studying at Irish universities for free, being able to enter certain other countries without a visa (Brasil, for example) and being able to justify buying two different styles of Louis Vuitton passport holders.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Londonboy,London,England — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 07:59:26 GMT

Disgraceful,offencive,patronising,condescending attitude from a proud,Stereotypical Ugly American.
Neither Britain or America wants or needs fair weather citizens.
Margaret in Southfield, MI,most British people don't own cars because of the price of gas?,
Margaret are you really that Ignorant and Dumb?.As for the bad teeth comment,I guess
if Americans are going to be the fattest most obese nation on the planet your going to
need Teeth like Mr Ed's,right?.Unlike America EVERY child in the UK gets Free Dental Care.
How many Americans have NO Health Care again?,45 Million?,50 million?.God bless America?,soon hopefully.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Cicero — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 08:26:09 GMT

Having dual citizenship is convenient, but at some point in time a nation may ask you to step forward and possibly give ones life in its defense. Dual citizenship should come with a price. If you want to be a citizen of two countries, then you should be required to register on the rolls of selective service for both countries. Rules and international agreements between countries should be established to prevent "dual" citizens from shirking their responsibilities to those nations they have sworn their allegience.

People need to realize those citizen ceremonies are for a reason. The pledge of loyalty is not a matter of meaningless formality. Words have meaning. When you pledge and oath of loyalty to a nation, there is an unwritten rule that you take that pledge without MENTAL RESERVATION OR PURPOSES OF EVASION.

I have also seen proponents of "we are all citizens of the world." This is a dangerous statement. Yes, we all live on the earth, but we do not live in a world that is nationless. Claiming that we are all citizens of the world is a goal associated with globalization. In a perfect world, globalization calls for nations with out borders and the free flow of people to and from nations without restrcition. Given today's precarious position, are we really will to give up the notion of nationalism and more importantly security in order to create an environment where we are "citizens of the world?"

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Donna, Ind.,Or — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 08:49:56 GMT

I was born in Northern Ireland, and am currently residing in the USA, holding citizenship to both it and the UK. I am here looking after my 93 year old father-in-law, and my 84 year-old mother-in-law who has dementia. This couple have been together for almost 70 years and want to remain at home.Sadly the health care system in America doesn't cover this unless you have a never ending supply of your own money, then it doesn't seem to be a problem, or you are willing to have all your hard earned assets absorbed by the state you live in and then they will consider helping......it is a disgrace. Home health care is a priority for elderly people in the UK, as well as family input in caring for other family members. All my family members are there and I have never known any one to not receive medical attention. And imagine the bliss when you NEVER have to worry about the bill arriving later. My husband and I are planning to move there when we can, life there is more fun, humorous, and spontaneous. A few people here need to seriously lighten up....oh....and about the teeth issue, at least we are not so obsessed with appearance that we get into debt to look 'beautiful', our teeth are our own rather than veneers/bridges/ crowns,and we are not blinding each other with such a falsely dazzling smile....again at what cost? The biggest price paid here is loss of a genuine personality, so many people are trying so hard to be what they are never going to be, 'cos no matter what you look like on the outside, if you are a snide, callous person on the inside nothing will be able to hide that!!! SO many people are not given a chance here solely because of appearance.....
America on one hand is a great, beautiful country, just a shame about all the drawbacks that on the other hand can make it a horrible place to be.
Oh, I know the line 'if you don't like it...leave'.
Don't worry, as soon as my help here is no longer needed for my husband's parents.....I will!!!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Dai Lodge, Shelbyville, TN — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:14:57 GMT

I moved to the US from the UK four years ago, and now find it laughable to hear criticism of British teeth. Margaret should spend time with Americans who don't have health insurance before making such comments (maybe Southfield MI isn't home to any of the tens of millions who don't.) With her car comment, it's obvious that she hasn't spent any time (on the correct side of the road) on the M25!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Stephen Gash — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:20:21 GMT

I was born in Lincolnshire and lived in England all of my life.
I am English not British and want my country to be independent of Scotland (especially), Wales and Northern Ireland.
England's existence is being abolished for the sake of the laughably named "United" Kingdom.
England is the only country in the European Union without its own parliament or assembly.
I despise the notion of multiculturalism and diversity because all they have meant is an onslaught against my country, culture, democracy and identity.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Michael Hughes Sonderborg Denmark — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:31:50 GMT

Slight confusion of terms here, if you are a national of a republic, you are a citizen, in a monarchy, a subject. Therefore I am a Danish subject.
An EU passport is a wonderful thing to have, now you can drive from Portugal to Lithuania without any form of border checks or restrictions.
Welcome to our open Europe, American friends.
Michael Hughes
Denmark

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

JOHN MA — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 10:51:36 GMT

OMG do you people hear yourselves? You all are a bunch of moron's. It dosen't matter where you are born or where you live, we are all the same. We all have red blood a beating heart, and every one wants to argue over what nationality or what country you represent. The bottom line is human beings creates nationalitys, country and humans also create the problems we have today because no one is smart enough to realize we are ALL THE SAME.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Dara McNamara — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 11:47:24 GMT

Ms Patrick,
I'm on the other coast. It's very challenging. After spending most of my life in the USA, I feel more British than ever, and I'm not even a UK citizen. It was my "cradle" country, however. I should have waited two years and come in on a distinguished artists visa instead of an immigrant one with an Irish name. Boy o boy, did I run into stereotyping, but that's more pertinent to my locale than the rest of the USA. I have tremendous admiration and respect for America and believe it has an incredible ability to "right"itself if the political will is there. I am worried, however, about the UK. BBC cultural exports now express sadism, cruelty and pedophilia and/or an obsession with the past. British writers dont seem to have "permission" to express contemporary angst. But Englanders who lived within 50 miles of their ancestors for generations are now scattered all ovr Europe and NA in a new and unregistered diaspora. They/"we" feel displaced in our own lands, and second class citizens. One guy decided to leave when he saw "Asians only" signs at petrol stations. Another was harassed out of her lovely home by "imports." And so on...but no, becoming a British citizen is not an abrogation of loyalty or affection for the US; just as my US citizenship is a celebration of my regard for America, but doesn't obliterate speech cadences, affection for strange English foods, etc. Chin up, chaps!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

John Prakus — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 12:52:44 GMT

I find the flag-waving / Benedict Arnold / Queen loyalty / anti-immigration flare-ups very boring and out of touch with a progressive world.... these thoughts are the causes of most of the world's 'cross border'and inter-cultural violence imo. No one nation is immune from having varying amounts of their population excessively dwelling in such nonsense. Britons who declare themselves 'true brits' by ancestry should remember that by ancestry, they themselves are very likely foreigners in their own land -look at your ancient history -you've been invaded and/or ruled by Vikings, Romans, Scottish, Celts, Saxons, French etc, etc,-not to mention how much of a large mixed 'international blood' brit colonials brought back to England from 'relationships' with locals of foreign lands. btw, I'm a Brit with dual citizenship now living 'across the pond'. Bless my fellow Brits back home who are not wallowing in excess of 'over-priding'.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Kristin Meredith Galley — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:21:26 GMT

Wow...the ignorance here is unbelievable, and the British are the ones who are xenophobic?????
I have one year before I can begin the process of British Citizenship. I am a very proud American, married to a wonderful British man, and we have two children (who are dual passport holders). I have lived in England for two years, and have been welcomed into the country just as if I were born and raised here. I love my American heritage, but I also feel like England has provided me with a husband, a lovely way of life, and a great place to raise my children, so I am honored to assimilate as a citizen. I would never denounce the US as my home, but I will tell you: the longer I live away from home, the more sad I become about America; The statements written by people here are what we Americans are constantly stereotyped as...rude, ignorant, ethno-centric. Last week the headline on the BBC was Britney Spears...we are seen as shallow and gossipy, materialistic. Thanks to those of you who share a broader view of the world, and can speak intelligently about such topics!! You are the Americans I'm proud to see visit England!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Gilbert Dunk — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:23:45 GMT

I am proud to be a dual citizen of both Canada and the United States having served in the Marine Corps a number of years ago.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Kla, London, UK — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:42:38 GMT

It's sad to see such ignorance from Americans when us Americans abroad spend a large amount of time defending our country against everyone else.

One thing I think is interesting is that the UK government makes it cheaper to apply for citizenship than they do for indefinite leave to remain (the other requirements are the same). So in a way, they encourage those of us who are living or working abroad for a long time to take on dual citizenship versus any other sort of visa. I'll be going for UK citizenship later this year for that very reason, though I will never give up my US passport and will always consider myself American first.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Geoff Duckhouse, Redditch, UK — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 13:54:05 GMT

Re Margaret's comment that most people here in the UK don't own cars, her facts are not remotely correct , infact most families have 2 or more cars, even though we pay more than double what you pay for gas in the US. If her comments were correct it would be great, our Motorways (Freeways) would be empty, but sadly this is not the case. With regard to our teeth how many UK mouths has she inspected lately, I don't know of anyone with dental hygeine problems, we have free NHS (National Health Service) dental treatment available for people who choose not to pay for private treatment.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Dave Somerset England — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:00:37 GMT

We are British Subjects, not Citizens.
The only Citizen is a EUssr one. My last passport had Member of the EEC on the front cover, the latest one has Eoropean Citizen on the front cover.
The salami slicing of your sovernty By the EUssr.

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

Joe, MPLS — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:05:33 GMT

I for one can't wait until I can get my Irish passport. Here in the US if you overstay your passport by 9 days then try to come back here 5 years later it is nearly impossible. In Ireland and Europe you overstay you passport by 6 months they let you back in again without problems. My fiance overstayed by 9 days here, I overstayed by 6 months. I have been in and out of Europe 4 times, 3 this year alone. What a joke this country is. Each time I go there I am asked 2 maybe 3 questions. When I come back here to the US I am asked 20 questions and have to fillout a form that askes many more. When I leave Minneapolis I don't see my luggage again until I get to Cork, Ireland. Here I have to go through the questions, get my luggage, then through more questions, then get my luggage to the next plane and then have to run to my next flight. Again, what a joke. If you are a US citizen it is a huge pain. The only reason I do what I'm doing is out of real love. Europe laughs at how the US does things. I do as well. We have a couple of attacks and we overreact. How many has Europe had and yet they are more open than we are.
Yes, I can't wait to get an Irish Passport. I will keep my US citizenship, so I can come back when my dad passses or my son graduates from high school. Canada is easier for Europeans to get in and out of than for US citizens to do so. Why? Because how we do things here. Yes, our system is a joke and is broke.
I also find in amazing how Senator Norm Coleman, R- MN and other politicans are not quick to help me in getting my fiance here. She is hiding in plain sight from an x partner, that tried to kill us both. I have documentation on that in the Irish courts. They did nothing, I am guessing because I'm a US citizen. Yes, they can't carry guns but if they had been able to do so my fiance would have been murdered before I got there. Oh, yes our immigration, the people that know all, told me that her police will protect her. Yeah right. What police force in any part of the world could do that? What government could do that? Not a one. It would have been easier for them to let her here. Now I have to look for work there and live under the constant threat of beind killed because of our inept INS or what ever they are called now.
Yes, that Irish passport is looking really good. At least with that I wouldn't have to be worried about not getting a free drink and everyone is Irish on St. Patrick's day!!

Pledging allegiance to the Queen

M. Kass, Austin, Texas — Wed, 16 Jan 2008 14:36:57 GMT

I am a US Citizen and lived in the U.K. for ten years with my British husband. While there are many things I loved about England, like the really excellent National Health Service, the resulting higher quality of life due to no healthcare worries, and the incredible flora and fauna, I was still not willing to become a citizen. Like many people I went there with preconceived notions about an idealic England, where everyone was polite, the villages were quant, the crime rate low, very few cars or traffic, an excellent transportation system and the people proper and sober. To say the least I dismayed by the reality!
The people were rude, anti-American, as well as anti-anyone not born in England, and very, very intolerant of other cultures. They also refuse to accept any responsibility for their own actions, preferring to blame any country they are not afraid of. Only last week the British accused America of deliberately poisoning their poor soldiers with tainted blood. Never mind that they begged for the blood because they had neglected to replenish their own supply of “safe” British blood. And I was quickly divested of any notion that there might be an iota of gratitude for American help in both world wars, as in their opinion we were responsible for all of it anyway.
The only time you see “Patriotism” is in regard to sports or their right to binge drink to all hours. The British institution of “The Pub” is in reality a nightly excuse to get pissed. They are anything BUT proper or sober . More like irretrievably vulgar!
The quant villages are few and becoming fewer by the day. The cities were filthy beyond belief. The traffic is every bit as bad as any major U.S. city and most people DO have cars as the transportation systems are inadequate
The crime rate is higher that even the USA. Mr. Rees is mistaken (or perhaps the dreaded “Inaccurate”) because there ARE roving gangs in the U.K. These gangs, some children as young as 10, are violent, uncontrolled, and they beat pensioners to death on a whim quite frequently. Also, the trick or treaters have little to fear from homeowners, or “macho gun-toting retards” on their October nightly visits demanding money, not candy. Yes, Halloween lasts a month there and heaven help the resident that has no cash - their property will most likely be damaged. And there is little or no assistance from the police as children, up to the age of 18, are virtually untouchable. They might be slapped with an ASBO, a laughable excuse for a deterrent, but they know that they can kill you and walk free. It is the victim that is far more likely to be arrested should they live through an assault.
And as for firearms the British attitude is ridiculous. The crime rate is so bad that it is unsafe to walk home alone even in daylight and all weapons are easily attainable, even firearms, judging by the amount of gun crime in London alone. I find it ludicrous that the British think it is more acceptable to bludgeon, stab, beheaded, set afire, stomp and beat someone to death, as long as you DON’T, God forbid, shoot them with a gun!

I did not want citizenship there – dual or otherwise. Even an international job would not have made me apply for a British passport. I am thrilled to have returned permanently to the USA where the sun shines, people are unashamedly flag waving Yankee Doodle patriotic, where everyone smiles and waves, and you are allowed to defend your life and that of your family. Even my British husband prefers it!