The bank levy approach focuses on banks and bailouts, whereas an FTT focuses on putting sand in the wheels of speculators in addition to banks.

FORBES: European Union To Talk Bank Levy, Financial Transaction Tax

Use a shovel to clear snow out of the way of the wheels and pour cat litter, sand or gravel in front of the wheels to help get traction.

BBC: How to drive in snow and icy weather

Snap-up bank-note holders that press while they sterilise are also available, as are bug-killing tissues, floors, wallpaper, stuffed toys, bicycle child seats, sand boxes, origami paper and steering wheels.

ECONOMIST: The Japanese are a super-clean lot. Obsessively so?