it's allowed because it's discussion group on the Internet. In
discussion groups, anything is permissible until content is
removed by a moderator. Content isn't typically removed by
moderators when they're not looking. Often even if they are, it
is not removed unless somebody complains. Even if somebody
complains it is sometimes not removed because it is generating
useful discussion, even if the impetus is questionable. The fact
that it's here doesn't necessarily mean it's condoned by the
community or the powers-that-be. It's like many laws that are on
the books: You can get away with anything until the neighbors
complain. Paul isn't complaining - he rather enjoys the
attention and why not?
