I agree entirely, Paul. I think it is a deliberate ploy, just as built in obselescence and peer pressure are. I don't know if I would have gone as far as to say it was corporate child abuse as yet but I can see exactly what you mean.

What about the pressure on parents as well? I know someone not to far above the breadline who will not send her son to school unless he is wearing the latest £120 trainers and has the latest Prada mobile phone. This is a 12 year old lad we are talking about. The family are struggling to make ends meet yet they will sacrifice basics for the sake of fasion. There is something wrong.

Are these corporations all in league? Make the kids feel bad. They get depressed. the parents buy them things to make them feel better. The credit card and loan companies rub their hands...

It's sick. I am lucky. rather like LTS our brood would go naked rather than wear a designer label!

Cheers

Dave