All pass

North is the one with a decision to make with his average twelve points in a balanced hand.

It is frequently correct to pass such a hand in fourth seat with no one to preempt.

Opening 1NT

A non-vulnerable opening bid of 1NT in fourth seat might pay off in the long run in pairs scoring.

East might be tempted by a 4-4 Landy take-out holding both majors but will probably resist the temptation with only 4-4 shape and vulnerable.

If East is tempted then West will end up playing in 2♥.

What happens?

Even with more than half the points in the pack, North’s opening bid of 1NT has not worked out.  The diamonds take for ever to establish, and EW are blocking both hearts and clubs whilst attacking the spade suit.  Declarer will usually make six tricks.

If West reaches 2♥ he might just scrape home with two finesses lying right - the play of the trump suit could well be critical.

Conclusion

There won’t be much of a swing playing at imps scoring, but at pairs North will almost certainly do best by passing on this occasion.

Beginner and above