Paul, wasn't there a time in the UK where the power authority had two different rates - one for lightbulbs (ceiling fixtures) and one for wall sockets?

I seem to recall reading that on someone's website...

Actually, if you think about it, having the sockets dangling from the ceiling (so you can plug things into them) is better from a child safety point of view. Almost no chance of Junior sticking paper clips and such into the receptacle. [Linked Image]

Of course if a heavier gauge of flexible wiring was used it would be better, instead of lamp cord. [Linked Image]