The BBC changed HYS. It is just a blog now with moderated comments.
On the one hand it’s good that the BNP can’t use it for propaganda so easily, but the lack of structure means you have no chance of being read unless you post in the first minute of the debate.
The BBC seems to hold the opinions of the general public in high regard. Unfortunately most people are ignorant but still want their say, so some ranking is required. Otherwise you might as well talk to a brick wall for all the good it will do since no matter how insightful and considered your words are no-one will read them.
It also results in a lot id reparation. If people replied to each other the debate might move forwards. Wait, what am I saying? This isn’t a debate.