McGrath, lad, as far as I'm concerned, you could never think of enough good reasons to tax anything at 80% (at least for me). I would bet that you would be very lonely, if we were all in one big room and an announcer said, "all who believe that an 80% tax on anything is a good idea, please move to the left of the room - all who believe that such tax could never be justified, move to the right of the room. The building would tilt right and you'd end up on our side.

However, I indeed do believe in Government oversight, which through the making of law can actually impose a tax, but in a different, less objectional form. For example, our government (US) already oversees air purity, by requiring manufacturers of the automobile and other vehicles, to provide engines that reduce pollution. Most local States/Cities test vehicles once per year to see that they are complying. This is certainly a tax to which I do not object. The reason is simple. It places the product produced in the free market - a competitive environment. Government never invented anything, but it's for sure that if you have two or more manufacturers competing for consumer dollars, they'll find ways to deliver economically.

As to oil spills (as an example), government should force offenders to clean up spills, etc. It's difficult for the offender to pass such costs on, simply because of competition (this may not be a good choice as an example, because we are probably dealing with an ologopoly in the oil industry and not true competition).

My point is very simple. Don't let government take your money and promise you they will be efficient with it! Ain't gonna happen!!!!

Cheers to you my friend and fellow Mudcatter! These words are written in good humour and good cheer. We are all in this world together and I know we both want to make the best of it.

Jim