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Nanny State

Australians love their Vegemite, a paste made from brewers’ yeast with various vegetables and spices added; they spread it on toast. But Indigenous Affairs Minister Nigel Scullion says it’s something more — a “precursor to misery” — because of reports it’s being purchased in bulk by Aboriginals to make alcohol. Scullion has asked for Vegemite to be banned in places where alcohol is already banned, and says businesses who sell it “have a responsibility to report any purchase that may raise their own suspicions.” But Prime Minister Tony Abbott rejects the idea of the government stepping in. “The last thing I want to do is have a Vegemite watch,” he said. (RC/BBC, Australian AP) ...It can be made into alcohol? First time I’ve heard of a good use for Vegemite!