>Chris
>
>>>Isn't it more appropriate in this case to say that the police have warned him 18 times not to beat his wife, he days that he doesn't, and the police get evidence over 12 years that he does?
>
>No, this would imply that the Police (UN) have status, power and competence. You've already told us that the UN is full of bludgers and even some French, so your analogy fails. How about -

That has been my point all along. The police (UN) are unable or unwilling to do anything about it. So, do you let the husband continue to beat his wife, or do you step in and do something about it? Or are you the neighbor who says don't get involved?