[Python-Dev] PEP 3003 - Python Language Moratorium

[Jesse Noller]

On Nov 8, 2009, at 7:01 PM, geremy condra <debatem1 at gmail.com> wrote:

> On Sun, Nov 8, 2009 at 6:06 PM, Steven D'Aprano  
> <steve at pearwood.info> wrote:
>> On Sun, 8 Nov 2009 11:14:59 am Steven D'Aprano wrote:
>>> At the very least, I believe, any moratorium should have a clear end
>>> date. A clear end date will be a powerful counter to the impression
>>> that Python the language is moribund. It says, this is an  
>>> exceptional
>>> pause, not a permanent halt.
>>
>> Proposal:
>>
>> No new language features in odd-numbered point releases (3.3,  
>> 3.5, ...).
>> Even-numbered point releases (3.4, 3.6, ...) may include new language
>> features provided they meet the usual standards for new features.
>>
>> 3.2 is a special case: as an even-numbered release, it would normally
>> allow new features, but in recognition of the special nature of the  
>> 2.x
>> to 3.1/3.2 migration, no new language features will be allowed.
>>
>> Advantages:
>>
>> * It slows down changes to the language while still allowing
>> sufficiently high-standard new features.
>>
>> * Alternate implementations have a stable language version to aim  
>> for.
>> Assuming point releases come ever 12-18 months, that stable language
>> version will last 2-3 years.
>>
>> * It doesn't have the psychological baggage of an unconditional ban  
>> on
>> new features for the indefinite future. It gives a fixed, known
>> schedule for when new features will be permitted, without the
>> uncertainty of "at the BDFL's pleasure".
>>
>>
>> --
>> Steven D'Aprano
>
>
> FWIW, I view a definite end point as a definite plus.
>
> Geremy Condra
>

There is a time outlined in the pep.