Free speech that comes at a price

STICKS and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me.

- 

Tell that to successive governments and the police.

Because there is certainly a perception it's more likely hurty words will get you banged up these days than an assault with a weapon.

And it leaves the concept of freedom of speech in a mess.

I'm all for freedom of expression. I have to turn the TV over every time Gary Neville squeaks up with an unwanted opinion on football.

And yet I still respect his right to say it.

Which is why I will slam Nottingham Forest's owner for banning him from the stadium after the pundit criticised him. But I am consistent in my approach.