England is Intense

So far, England has been intense. I know it will get better and there is so much to celebrate, but this has been an intense week. I only made it to one school before I got sick, ended up with two eye infections and sadly had to write apologetic e-mails from bed about missing my first days at three different schools. And then, this is the first piece of mail we received in England, which was addressed to "Legal Occupier" (and probably was meant for the last tenants). David Price generously lent us his television when we arrived, which we've now unplugged (in fear of someone searching our place) until we can afford the £145 TV tax or return the TV. I had to type up the letter word for word, because you have to read it to believe it... I love that the legislation they refer to is the Police and Criminal Evidence Act of 1984. How do they know we're watching TV?:

Dear Sir/Madam, 

As you have not responded to our letters yet, you have left us no alternative but to proceed with the final stages of our investigation. 

An Officer has been scheduled to visit LS2 7EJ to find out if TV is being watched or recorded illegally. The Officer may visit your property any day of the week, morning or evening. 

The information below explains the procedure. You may refer to it during a visit from the Officer. 

Yours faithfully,

Jane Jeffers

Leeds Enforcement Division 

What you need to know about the enforcement process

• We can apply to court for a search warrant to gain access to your property.

• An Officer can take your statement under caution, in compliance with the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 or Scottish criminal law.

• Anything you say to the Officer may be used as evidence in court.

• You risk a fine of up to £1000, in addition to legal costs.

• If your property needs a TV License, you will still need to buy one.

What is a TV License? Watching TV is super serious over here. England has not welcomed us quite yet, but we're hoping she'll warm up to us soon...