Answerbag: Andrew Cotterell's answers

Answer to How can I reduce the effect of using too much pepper in my cooking?

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 17:19:45 -0800

How can I reduce the effect of using too much pepper in my cooking?

You can use coconut milk (as do the Thais) or yoghurt (as do the Indians).

Answer to Is there a ranking of the richest countries in the world today?

Thu, 30 Mar 2006 16:45:49 -0800

Is there a ranking of the richest countries in the world today?

The other answer is correct in spirit but it perpetuates the (very common) misunderstanding that Gross Domestic Product is based on "products produced". In fact, GDP is a measure based on the entire economic activity of a nation, regardless of purpose. This means that, for example, a...

Answer to I am a UK citizen planning to marry a French citizen next May (2006). How long does he have to be in the UK for before the wedding?

Wed, 29 Mar 2006 17:46:28 -0800

I am a UK citizen planning to marry a French citizen next May (2006). How long does he have to be in the UK for before the wedding?

In theory, for at least the three weeks during which the "bans" are displayed in your local Registry Office and (optionally) read-out in your local parish church

Answer to If you cannot avoid an imminent impact on a motorcycle, should you jump off the bike?

Tue, 28 Mar 2006 06:52:50 -0800

If you cannot avoid an imminent impact on a motorcycle, should you jump off the bike?

You should stay on the bike for as long as possible so that you can apply the brakes for as long as possible. ("Laying down" the bike will make the point of impact much faster than on the brakes, since bikes slide quite easily on their sides.) If, despite the braking, you still have a...