http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metric_Martyrs
-----Original Message----- From: Vik Olliver [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, 12 February 2009 9:05 am To: [email protected] Subject: Re: en_nz dictionaries? On 12/02/09 Payne, Owen wrote: > Um, technically it went metric, but they never really had the spine > to enforce it, so all the kids are taught in metric, whilst the rest > of the country uses imperial. If you ask about this anyone over 40 > tells you it's because they find it easier to work out!!!! > I disagree. I'm slightly over 40 and from the UK. I remember things going metric, just. Some things were a bit weird (hosepipe in 20 metre rolls, diameter of 1/2 or 3/4 inch etc.) and for a long time things sold in pounds were just relabelled 454g. However, once the use of metric standards was enshrined things definitely became easier. An example would be building materials on 600mm centres, and the metric thread standards. Just re-labelling in metric does not equate to metrification, the materials you use need to be available in malleable metric sizes as well. The dimensions of things like standard sizes of timber evolved to make sense in the imperial system. To make sense in metric, actual dimensions need to change - or it is indeed easier to work it out in imperial. Vik :v) ********************************************************************** This electronic email and any files transmitted with it are intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. The views expressed in this message are those of the individual sender and may not necessarily reflect the views of the Christchurch City Council. If you are not the correct recipient of this email please advise the sender and delete. Christchurch City Council http://www.ccc.govt.nz **********************************************************************
