Jim, I didn't say things were great; I suggested that the UK economy is not as Sapper made out.

You might address your question to the Institute of Directors (or at least Ruth Lea there - she's no friend of the Labour Government) or to the Manufacturer's organisation. They seem to know things that you, Sapper and I don't.

I'd say, what the evidence that "so many banking institutions are in deep s**t? "

And that a big reason currently why all is not dire is that the Government won't allow a major bank to go under, as they've demonstrated with Northern Rock. Despite the run on it, it's still worth billions.

And another coupla questions.

How come a financial blue chip can lose nearly all its value built over 80+ years in 40+ hours?

how come banks have all of a sussen become too suspicious of each other to lend to each other?

No wonder people in the mainstream are so mistrustful, period. A set-up to drive people into me versus everybody. Tho we curiously have to trust each other for safe food, regular safe water, et cetera. Thank goodness.


    Ivor