As ever with intelligent debate the argument moves forward without friction. I agree the rules do not need changing. They just need to be adhered to more rigidly. If that means adding a paragraph on the assumption of effect then so be it.

And the point about passion is of course on the money. But I still maintain the public (by that I refer to the not currently involved directly but able to buy a ticket to watch public) will only get excited about a sport when they know the rules. typically draughts is more popular than chess due almost entirely to the effort needed to grasp the rules.

Im playing the devils advocate here and really feel comfortable with the rules (after a period of personal re education) but if pushed still feel simpler rules = greater accessibility to the paying masses. We have an elitist sport on our hands. Our next move as an industry needs to be considered carefully. However; I gladly conceed thanks in no small part to Tony the standard of scoring and adherence to the rules (written of implied) has led to an increase in standards generally in the UK