IN the grand scheme of things very few things annoy me. I am more than happy to put up with people's little habits, and I think most folk are basically all right.

Yet, I find the idea of speaking another language in the company of those that don't quite off-putting.

People do it and it annoys the hell out of me.

It is not as if I am so self-conscious that I think people are making fun of me...(okay I am a little).

But I do think that it can be a little bit uncomfortable. And I for one hate feeling uncomfortable in any situation.

I know there are people that think everyone and anyone should be able to speak a level of English.

Speaking English makes you more English, I was told once.

But that is a load of rubbish. I know people who can't speak English, but are more English than those who can.

But is there any need for two people to be talking in another language when they can speak perfect English?

There have been incidents in recent times while I have been in conversation and someone starts to speak in another language in the company of a third person who obviously doesn't.

And when someone is multi-lingual it can be quite easy to get into the mood of things and start to talk in several different languages at once. But when someone speaks perfect English is this really necessary?

I kind of feel guilty that I am hiding some amazingly funny joke from the fella who sadly can only speak the one language.

But, of course, there are exceptions to the rule. If you find discussing things easier in a different language, then that's fine.

I know when we go on holiday we never ever try to speak the host nation's language because we are lazy.

And sometimes not speaking English can get you out of a whole load of trouble.

But is this not just damn right rude?

And why is there any need to complicate stuff when a simple Speak English my good man, we have nothing to hide' will obviously do.