Well, I've ruled out Ireland from my future pub crawl, guess I'll remove Scotland too. If it keeps up I'll be limited to "new Europe".
I don't know what the 'pub scene' is like in Poland, Romania and other countries which have been supportive allies (and so are regarded as "new Europe") but I agree; I'm more likely to spend my tourism dollars there rather than in nations whose governments are oppressing their people (as well as tourists).
(Don't misunderstand; I feel indebted to and very proud of Scotland for her support in the War on Terror. Scotland's legendary Black Watch troops were instrumental in freeing up US troops for the current assault on Fallujah, and the Black Watch has taken troop losses. Scotland's support is highly regarded and sincerely appreciated.)