So you categorise children in need, and presumably a lot of other charity targets, as "good causes." That's precisely the way to institutionalise and legitimise charity instead of making the state face up to its responsibilities. I'd say that good causes are building affordable homes, making tax-avoiders pay their fair share, looking after disabled people, providing care for the elderly, providing universal free nursery places, funding schools properly and protecting the NHS. Of course we ask where the money comes from for all of 'em. Quite right too (so please don't bother, Keith). But separating out children in need, etc., as "good causes" instead of "state responsibilities" is simply invidious. Let me have a little whimsy. Let's make the defence budget a charity! A good cause! We'd actually have to use the money for DEFENCE! No more proxy poxy useless wars!
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