Tyke.
Let us return to the subject in hand, if we may.
(Too many Red Herrings going on here.)
Firstly you say that you attempted to PM me with details (??) whatever that means, but, obviously as a non-member I didn't receive it/them. I'm wondering what it could possibly be that you don't want other people to read?
I have tried to stick to the facts as I know them and Mea Culpa if the anger and frustration boils over occasionally. I'm only human after all, and I normally try and apologise for any outbursts, but, I've been involved with this sorry saga since Nics crash in 1981. and was goood friends with Tony Rose, and knew Lal Waterson reasonably well.
I'm also only too well aware that Daves legal friend is very hot on what is and isn't said in public fora. So I'm very careful what Isay.

Secondly, if you do talk to Mr B, could he re-assure us that all the master tapes are in a playable condition?

If for any reason they are not, then that is regrettable, but not a hopeless situation.
Having read the articles re tape reclamation in Sound On Sound it is remarkable what can be done nowadays, and there would be no shame attached if the tapes have been damaged or shed their oxide over the years (It's happened to some very big companies after all).

When was the last time he examined them? And please beg him not to fast spool them, any failure in the binding glue that holds the oxide to the backing could irreparably ruin them.

If indeed they are unsalvageable, then we can all just pack up and go home. No recriminations.

It's just not knowing that is so frustrating.

If indeed they are all fine, then we carry on the fight.

Ralph