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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22, 2009
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German Politician: Let the Poor Catch Rats

Advocates for poor squeal about Dickensian plan

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(Newser) – One German politician has a solution to help Berlin's poor: let them catch the rats that are plaguing the city. "People who collect bottles could get one euro [$1.40] for every dead rat," he cheerfully explained. But the Dickensian plan, which may be officially introduced today, wasn't widely hailed. "It's inhuman and cynical to send poor people out to chase rats," said an activist. Besides, the rats are protected by law against inhumane treatment.

Oh, rats.
Oh, rats.   (©surprise truck)
You dirty rat.
You dirty rat.   (©surprise truck)
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jmkowalchik
Dec 18, 08 5:53 PM CST
Leave it to politicians, where ever they may be, to come up with some stupid idea to help the poor - what a wonderful social probram! It's wonderful to also find out that rats are protected against inhumane treatment - the prisoners in Guantanamo and some of our "democratic" countries would love to know this. Sad commentary on our system. Reply
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