My colleague’s frequent cigarette breaks, strong coffees and hand-lotion are fraying my olfactory nerves so much that it is affecting my morale and I am considering leaving my job. How can I resolve this without upsetting her?
Your co-worker is probably complaining to your boss about the intolerant prig she has to work with. I suggest you look for a job that doesn’t involve any human contact, work from (your presumably odourless) home or, if all else fails, buy a peg. Carole Morgan, via e-mail
I saw a burly man in a charity shop select a lace basque and ask the assistant if he could try it on. She agreed. When I expressed my shock, she said he was a regular. Was she right to permit this?
In accordance with European directive EC21/41-04, she is also mandated to assist with fitting to avoid prosecution for gender discrimination. There is a less well-known clause cautioning staff to avoid storing lots of bodices too close to the doorway. Something about having all your basques in one exit. Frank Hall, via e-mail
When I was unemployed, my fiancée paid our rent and lent me money. I got a good job and started to pay the debt. Then she left me. Should I pay the rest?
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This is a no-brainer. You have acknowledged that you should pay (good boy), you can afford to and you are prepared to. So ask her with your cheque book ready — and pay in one go or you’ll irritate her further. Camilla Collier, Cheltenham
My girlfriend was offered a flat ahead of two others. She was unsure if the landlord implied that the sexual orientation of the others was a factor in his decision. She is loath to benefit from bigotry, but the flat was possibly awarded on her excellent credit-rating. Should she turn it down?
She should have asked the landlord outright, saving herself this mental battle. People are too afraid of conflict, and this is the ground on which bigotry flourishes. James Hackett, Balham