A new twist on an old favourite. Question: How many ministers/blondes/psychiatrists (feel free to fill in the social stereotype of your choice) does it take to change an old-fashioned 100-watt light bulb? Answer: None.
From 1 September the joke will have become redundant due to the fact there won’t be any traditional light bulbs left to change.
The European Union has banned the sale of incandescent bulbs in order to slash energy bills and cut carbon dioxide emissions. This is an act which will force us all to become eco-warriors or, if we don’t comply, law-breakers. Under the European Directive, from next week manufacturers in Europe are legally not allowed to sell the banned bulbs to retailers. Eight months ago, when leading shops implemented a voluntary ban, it triggered an unexpected frenzy of manic hoarding. So unless house owners have successfully stockpiled the old Osrams, they now have no alternative but to switch to a greener, fluorescent variety of bulb.
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