Official BBC Measurement Policy

As we become used to metric measures for social distancing, Ronnie Cohen, one our frequent contributors, looks at the measurement policy of our national broadcaster. Apparently, it is the over 50’s who are responsible for the muddle.

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Legal position on metric social distance signs

Now that we have all become accustomed to metric social distance signs, it might be a good time to look at their legality, which some have questioned. Ronnie Cohen has investigated and reports his conclusions.

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1819 – a massacre and a missed opportunity

This article looks at the first report of the Commissioners appointed early in the nineteenth century to consider weights and measures. It gives examples of the reasons why the Commission was appointed, comments on some of its recommendations, and then speculates on an alternative outcome had the Commission taken a different view.

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Our common measurement language

One of the most important, and perhaps surprising, human achievements during the nineteen and twentieth centuries was the adoption around the world of a common language of measurement. Ronnie Cohen provides an illustration of the benefits this can bring.

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Muddled measures in car brochures

One of the last bastions of imperial units is our road network and hence car manufacturers’ marketing campaigns. Ronnie Cohen has been looking at some their promotional material.

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