Generally speaking in Britain they made it as far north as Hadrian's Wall... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hadrian's_Wall
Just what exactly can the UK do if Iceland decides not to pay? Having agencies cut their credit ratings can only go so far. I think Iceland can pretty much get away without paying. I think the only major consequence for Icelanders if this does happen is that they won't be able to import anything because no one will lend them "hard currencies".
Your logic is baffling. The UK is bankrupt and Iceland has a future? It would be funny if it was sarcasm.
If Iceland was a person, Iceland would have maxed out it's credit cards and declared bankruptcy protection. How can anyone argue that Iceland is the good guy in this situation? On a simular comparison: The US is also maxing out it's credit cards, which is why the US had to increase it's credit limit recently...
the UK can do nothing. why do they have to borrow to pay for imports? Iceland has exports and potential capital inflows. if they need new loans they will make asset backed loans just like co's which are in default on their debt. there will be plenty of lenders who will want to do with business with Iceland.
what's this good guy bad guy description? the lenders took arisk for extra interest payments. it didn't work out. Iceland with all its assets will start over with new lenders if necessary or maybe even the old lenders if they can see a way to make a profit.
your remark is funny because it shows a lack of a sense of reality. make a case if u can that the UK is not bankrupt in anyway but name. make a case that the UK has a brighter future than Iceland.
It is interesting but in my internet store I see statistically significantly increased buying from Iceland. What I am selling is designed for hobby but prices are lower than in "old EU countries". So I explain it "they still want their hobby but save a bit".
I don't mean 'made it' as in 'established a significant foothold for a few centuries' like what the Romans did in Britain. Agricola and his legions did, however, conquer much of Scotland; it's just that after Agricola's recall, subsequent Roman Governors lacked the will and the resources to hold on to it.