She's accused governor George Bush of making it easier for companies to pollute, and is angry that in just six years he left an appalling legacy for both Houston and the state.

BBC: Climate chaos: Transcript

But Mr Lansley, in reply, accused Mr Burnham of leaving an "appalling" legacy of debt, declining productivity and increasing bureaucracy in the NHS from his time in office.

BBC: House of Lords told delays 'could kill off NHS bill'

The blame is variously put on the brutal legacy of apartheid, widespread poverty, appalling levels of unemployment, the absence of a father in two out of three black homes, high alcohol and drug abuse, and extremes of inequality.

ECONOMIST: The great scourges