Comments on: U.K. Parliament squashes BlackBerry use

House of Commons lays down the law after a prominent politico gets caught sending an errant--and profane--message.

[blackeye]

19th Century Politicians in a 21st Century World

Is it me or do these people not realise that we're living in a real-time world?

Perhaps we?ve discovered the real problem?. MP?s haven?t been communicating with the outside world!

[David Arbogast]

Its about respect for the issues

Policy makers are expected to meet and discuss issues intelligently. Clinging desperately to an external communications device only suggests that the individuals need help doing their job, and have no clear understanding of their responsibilities and goals without constant outside feedback. People who are elected or appointed to do a job are supposed to be able to handle their job appropriately. Opening themselves up to external influence from special-interest groups for every real-time question/decision is dangerous and clearly demonstrates that the individual is not properly qualified for the work they are supposed to accomplish.

I agree with the rule. I once had an interview with 6 people who were all using PDAs to communicate while I was answering questions. In the end, they made me an offer and I turned it down. Technology is great, so long as it doesn't replace respect for individuals. I did not want to work for people who made it common to hold private discussions during my interview, and I would not vote for a political leader who needs constant communication with outside groups to validate their actions.