Notes
Patrick Moore writing humour as R.T. Fishall.

Reprinted in 1982 and 1983.

Publisher’s Blurb – Lower Cover
'These mines must be stored with the bottom at the top. For clarification, the top of the container has been labelled bottom.'
Admiralty instruction issued during the Second World War

Publisher’s Blurb – Inside Upper Cover
There can be no doubt that this hilarious book, encompassing years of the author’s spirited activity as a self-appointed scourge of bureaucrats, will be condemned by many as irresponsible, insidious, a threat to the whole fabric of British Life, if not the structure of Western Civilization.

A completely new code of conduct is proposed for filling in forms, dealing with the Inland Revenue (make the brutes work), paying rates, coping with incorrect telephone bills, traffic wardens, British Rail, etc. The systematic murdering of the English language by Civil Servants is analysed, there is a glossary of official jargon, information on the T.P. (Twit Percentage) to be found in all branches of officialdom, hints about the R.P. (Rogue Policeman) who spends his time motorist-hunting. Most important are the Fundamental Laws (F.L.s) to be adopted when handling bureaucrats (fight back).

While the author insists that the law of the land must always be strictly observed, his invaluable advice will, if rigorously and skilfully applied, bring the wiiole form-filling industry to a grinding halt and immeasurably improve the quality of life.

Publisher’s Blurb – Inside Lower Cover
R.T. Fishall returned the publisher's 'Author Information' form uncompleted in an unstamped envelope with a well-aimed staple through its middle. Sidgwick and Jackson regret that they are therefore unable to supply any biographical details about the author.