Does metric-only labelling require changes to package sizes?

An argument made against metric-only labelling in the US is that manufacturers would need to change packaging to rational metric sizes. Ronnie Cohen looks at the UK’s experience over the past 50 years.

Continue reading “Does metric-only labelling require changes to package sizes?”

Straight bananas and the metric system – the EU legacy?

With Brexit still dominating the news, Ronnie Cohen looks at one of the biggest obstacles to completing our transition to the metric system: its perceived link to the European Union.

Continue reading “Straight bananas and the metric system – the EU legacy?”

Global Britain or Imperial isolation?

On 29 March, Sir Tim Barrow, Permanent Representative of the United Kingdom to the European Union, handed a signed six-page letter from the British Prime Minister to the President of the European Council, invoking Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty and confirming the UK’s intention to leave the EU. So where do we go from here?

Continue reading “Global Britain or Imperial isolation?”

Supplementary Indications revisited

Supplementary indications received a reprieve in 2007, and will now, subject to the Brexit deal negotiated with the EU, need to serve only the needs of the UK economy. Ronnie Cohen wonders where US influence is likely to lead us.

Continue reading “Supplementary Indications revisited”

Isolationist thinking behind Trump and Vote Leave

UKMA did not takes sides in the EU referendum campaign – the UK would have to do business with a world that is predominantly metric whatever the outcome. However, one of our regular contributors, Ronnie Cohen, detects a theme of isolationism in pronouncements by both Trump and Vote Leave. Here is his personal viewpoint.

Continue reading “Isolationist thinking behind Trump and Vote Leave”

Metric euromyths peddled by British national newspapers

Ronnie Cohen takes a look at eight myths involving the EU and the metric system.

Continue reading “Metric euromyths peddled by British national newspapers”

Continued use of medieval units damages UK’s image abroad

Following the Brexit vote, leading ministers have used a number of buzzwords and phrases to try to promote the UK in a positive light as they talk about new trade deals, free trade, investment, lower taxes and lighter regulation. Can they be serious?

Continue reading “Continued use of medieval units damages UK’s image abroad”

EU in or out: metric either way

In February, the Prime Minister confirmed the date of the referendum which will decide whether the United Kingdom remains in or leaves the European Union (EU). The referendum will take place on 23 June 2016. In this article, Ronnie Cohen looks at some measurement issues related to the decision on EU membership.

Continue reading “EU in or out: metric either way”