I am sorry, but my knowledge of the French language is limited. I followed a French course at the Citadelle, 40 years ago, but I have forgotten almost all that I had learned.
To go back to English, yes, there is no doubt about it. The case you've just heard is an example where an ombudsman, somebody who isn't strictly bound by rules and regulations--and more importantly, is completely independent--is absolutely essential.
Independence is most important. Also, my friend has mentioned the matter of perception. Yes, there's an old saying that justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be imparted, and it's the same thing. The ombudsman's impartiality must be shown.
With the defence department ombudsman, it's a pity his term was short-lived, and I don't know how his successor is doing, but yes, this is one of the cases where it would happen. Sometimes we have laws and we have also what is right and what isn't right. Sometimes the regulations.... I believe it was Charles Dickens who said “the law is an ass”. I wouldn't say that, but nevertheless, there are some things in the regulations where perhaps some discerning person should say this is not right; this is not fair to this person. Therefore, an independent ombudsman, yes, we're for it 100%.
Thank you, sir.