I wouldn't disagree with you on that subject John, I think they should be independent of the political scene and promote as you say local issues. Having a listen-in on PMQs (which I do but always regret) is like listening to children bickering in the school playground. In a way, the coronation seems to feel like a pleasant distraction for the people and a handy opportunity for the government to use as a distraction for their own purposes.

Alan