Okay, several issues need clarifying here.
Firstly, assault is never acceptable.
Secondly, BcUK is not responsible for the behaviour of individuals.
The incident with the axe haft happened at a meet in the Midlands, not at the Moot, and it was not only BcUK members who were present.
However, as this is probably among the bigger forums around it's probably best that this sensitive issue is thrashed out here so it reaches as wide an audience as possible. It would be appreciated though if the facts around claims such as this one were kept clear,
**Shouting at someone who persistantly interrupts, sorry, unless we are aware that someone 'has' a problem then that's kind of to be expected as frustration levels rise when the normal socially acceptable routes have been exhausted. Must try harder is I suspect the wasy for all of us.
**Aspberger's syndrome is not an excuse, it's a reason.
Those diagnosed with the condition are generally very intelligent, they too need to learn, not just everyone else.
I think we can agree that courtesy is the acceptable route to dealing with both these issues. Yes ?
**Hazing and bullying.
Fun's fun but the hell with nonsense is the local phrase.
Assault is assault and is 'never' acceptable.
However, many of the members are, or have been, physical people; the services imbue what used to be called a rough cameraderie, and in some instances it continues in civvy street, but it's also seen in groups of young men. It is part of life.
It is for many normal behaviour. Indeed in many instances it is inclusive behaviour, not intended as bullying or excluding someone from a group.
Do we stop 'all' contact ?? I don't think that's the best route to be honest.
The hug I gave to the young man in question was not intended as assault, could even it be misconstrued ??
Society is complex, we learn the rules, and the changing social situations, all our lives.
Personally I dislike seeing people labelled. I suspect all too many of us recognise facets of ourselves in the descriptions of those considered to be wired differently.
Instead of perceiving them as something removed from mainstream society might it not be better to accept them as being as much individuals as the rest of us ? The corollary is that they have to accept that life is not fair, that not everyone will care to understand their condition, and they too have to make an effort to learn to deal with that while everyone learns a little more tolerance.
Frustration at another's behaviour goes two ways. Sometimes it's easier just to walk away for a bit.
How the hang did people manage in the past ? because none of this is new.
I know the thread has given me food for thought, and my last response is probably not going to be construed as terribly politically correct or very tolerant, but it is firmly grounded in real life.
I like people, I hate seeing someone marginalised or victimised, and if I'm struggling with this, I know it's worse for other folks.
In summation.
Everyone has a right to expect not to be assaulted or bullied.
Everyone has a right to courtesy, and respect for the individual.
If an issue bothers you, speak up. If no one complains, nothing changes.
cheers,
Toddy
Anyway, perhaps we'll meet up for a forage one day soon? We move to Glasgow (Bishopbriggs area) on 20th Aug and I probably need to tap you for some recipes and certainly some secret sloe bush locations - gin is awaiting! 
