Britain: Harrow Town Council bans 'jargon'

LONDON, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- The Harrow Town Council in England has pledged to replace "school crossing patrollers" with the phrase "lollipop ladies" in an effort to reduce jargon.

After polling townspeople, the council replaced several of what it considered bewildering jargon phrases when speaking to the public, The Times of London reported Tuesday.

Henceforth, "civil enforcement officers" will become "traffic wardens," while "school crossing patrollers" become "lollipop ladies" and "civic amenity sites" become "rubbish tips," The Times reported.

"Our residents want to hear plain speaking and that is what we'll deliver," vowed Councilor Paul Osborn. The council also pledged to answer phone calls within 30 seconds and acknowledge e-mails within 24 hours, The Times reported.