I think this place has developed entirely too much angst...

[pdcorlis]

Interesting Jock - do you think that is a hold-over from the austerity of WWII and the post war period, or is it something deeper in the character or culture?

[Jock Scot]

Interesting Jock - do you think that is a hold-over from the austerity of WWII and the post war period, or is it something deeper in the character or culture?

Oh it goes way back.The idea of "new money" is even today frowned upon by some. Any "new money" was regarded as loud, brash and no more than showing off(with a pinch of jealousy, no doubt!). Therefore "old money" from old families(they often had no money!)so say had the breeding. Don't forget there are families in the UK that go back some 500 years and they are still regarded as new by those that can go back 1000 years!Silly maybe, but this is why you "brash colonials" mystify some of us in the UK somewhat!Ok I am generalizing hugely,but it is in our breeding, for good or ill.