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London is perhaps one of the most multicultural cities in the world, with roughly 40% of its population being foreign, according to the census of 2001 (national statistics 2006, online). Its diverse patchwork of people all coming together to create a unique cultural diversity that some countries in their entirety cannot even boast of. Multiculturalism has its obvious, often spoken of benefits, but can multiculturalism have negative aspects? Spend some time in London, and you will soon be acutely aware of the barrier of language that exists between many of its inhabitants. Caused by lack of confidence or will to learn, many Londoners don't bother to educate themselves enough to speak the common tongue of the city. Even at a basic level. People shove past you on the tube or in the street, without so much as a sideways glance, seemingly unable to offer an apology. A misunderstanding of the nuances of the english language can also lead to ambiguous statements becoming rude or offensive without need, as can be experienced from service staff in retail and catering, as well as maintainence and even on the transport system.

One could be forgiven for being angered by this certain lack of manners and at the same time, forgiven for not remembering that there are many who simply may not even be able to communicate well enough to offer them. Unfortunately, it can then create an air of impersonality and lack of interaction as people walk past each other, heads down, desireless or helpless to connect. Segregation becomes inevitable. Understanding too, becomes imperative, but clearly, isn't something that everyone provides. In some cultures too, the use of manners in certain situations is a way of demeaning someone, or even oneself.

The effects of different cultural norms has further reaching effects as well, especially relevant to some aspects of society than others. In the service industry for example, some who may view their job as important and worthwhile, may find it hard to understand the lack of desire or effort applied by someone performing the same tasks whose own views deem their position to be a menial, mundane, useless, thankless, down-putting job. There are many companies who could owe a lack of productivity, company morale or respect to this kind of misguided attitude. And to the detriment of not only business in this city, but to tourism and of course, the economy.

The implications for the city of London spread even further still. Some, for

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