John Hemming MP Condemns 'Metrication Of Traditional British Phrases'

MP Comes Down On Broadcasters Over A Tonne Of Bricks

A Liberal Democrat MP has tabled a Commons motion criticising broadcasters for using of the phrase "tonne of bricks" as it is in metric rather than imperial measurement.

An Early Day Motion tabled by Birmingham Yardley MP John Hemming on Monday encourages other MPs to support the view that:

"This House notes the reports in the BBC and other media outlets of the intention of the Chancellor of the Exchequer to come down like a tonne of bricks on wealthy people who sell properties through offshore companies to avoid stamp duty.

"Recognises that this is part of a trend of metrication of traditional British phrases; believes that, given that a ton is greater in weight than a tonne, this understates the Chancellor's commitment to action; accepts that there is merit in using some metric units for measurement.

"But regrets the unnecessary metrication of traditional British phrases; and calls on the BBC and other media to cease the metrication of traditional phrases forthwith before people end up being exhorted not to give another 24.5 millimetres rather than not giving another inch."

At the time of writing Hemming was the only MP to have signed the motion.

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