To a CIO, a computer that was too attractive or cute radiated a lack of seriousness of purpose .

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What to previous generations would be obvious threats requiring hard but necessary steps to counter are treated with a lack of seriousness.

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But Mr Brown will cite Tory opposition as proof of lack of seriousness about the public finances, or of a sordid zeal for more swingeing cuts in public services.

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Given this lack of seriousness, it may be time for a reappraisal as to whether the alliance as currently constituted is largely useless if not an actual impediment to our safety.

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