Thoughts and prayer are... banned

It’s a mad, mad world; and the law is an ass. To anyone self-identifying as an ass – I do apologise. 

After 25-plus years working in and writing on the law, I have to hold up my hands and accept that the law is indeed an ass; at least certain elements introduced in recent times. I’ll stop short of going so far as to say: ‘The law is an ass, and written by donkeys’. (But don’t mind me if you disagree).  

First, our law-makers are voted into office and are owed due honour and respect by virtue of their office. Second, we are exhorted to pray for those in authority; has prayer for those in authority ever been more needed?