NatWest vs Smile

It's probably just a neat coincidence, but today I received something in the post from NatWest, just one business day after Smile gave me an account. (Keep in mind that NatWest have apparently been unable to post anything useful like bank statements to me for six to nine months despite numerous complaints.) The letter from NatWest contained a new ATM card, even though my current one isn't due to run out for another year. The reason? They decided to upgrade me to having a Switch/Solo/CirrusMaestro card, which means I can use my card in more retailers and ATMs. It also has a chip in it and supposedly I have to use my PIN to buy things now, instead of just signing my name or even nothing.
(I was quite horrified when I arrived here in 2002 and discovered that bank cards weren't PIN protected!)
Good to see that the country that once ruled the world is finally catching up on the technology that their prison colonies have had for decades. :)

(no subject)

I keep being reminded that it is friday, but it feels distinctly like Monday.
Am at work, but have done about five minutes of actual work today. Ho hum. it's not like anyone else actually turned up today anyway.

Now, as to my birthday party next weekend (10th): Would people prefer to have a party at:
* My house
* Someone else's house (offers anyone?)
* Some pub or club venue in town (I don't like this option)

There's no point in holding a party somewhere that no-one wants to go, so, make your suggestions!