Bureaucracy Run Completely Amok

Ok, if there was any doubt whatsoever that Britain has gone completely around the bend with the nanny state, this item should remove any doubt. A few people in a small village of Embsay wanted to organize a free Christmas party for locals to be able to celebrate the holiday together. A nice idea, right? Well, they thought so, until the local council bosses informed them that they would have to produce a risk assessment in order to hold the party.

Specifically, a risk assessment on the free mince pies they were planning to give away.

STUNNED villagers have been told their Christmas party will be cancelled unless they carry out a risk assessment - on mince pies.

Council bosses ordered that large posters warning revellers the pies contain nuts and suet pastry must be placed alongside festive decorations.

Local resident Steve Dobson wanted to organise a free party with a fireworks display, mince pies, mulled wine and a Santa's grotto so villagers could celebrate together.

But organisers at Embsay, North Yorks, were told they would have to carry out a "detailed risk assessment" of the refreshments and entertainment before permission could be granted.

The home-made mince pies are being baked and given free by the Embsay and East by Women's Institute. Steve said: "It is bureaucracy gone mad. I got a letter from the council saying we had to carry out a risk assessment of everything involved in the event. When I asked if that included the mince pies I was told it was."

The cocoa content and temperature of the hot chocolate must also be checked.

Steve added: "We have even had someone from the village ask us if our Santa has been checked with the Criminal Records Bureau."

The council says they just want it to be very, very safe. Really. Honest. What's next? Environmental impact statements on fruitcakes? Oh, wait, we're actually in favor of that.