Yes, my initial post was intemperate, McGrath - thanks for pointing that out. Although I strongly believe that it is entirely appropriate to display such intemperance when discussing 'modern' business practices. I do not regret posting that message and I stand by every word.

Nevertheless, the subsequent post from Teribus was (predictably) scornful and I reacted against that scorn by flinging personal abuse.
Now, normally, I would apologise ... but in this case I retract nothing. You deserve everything you get, Teribus! If you ever post anything which is not quite so slavishly supportive of the status quo and/or questions the set-up just a tiny bit then I might think about changing my mind.

Remember, Teribus, in the 'red-in-tooth-and-claw, 'dog-eat-dog' universe that is all that you can imagine or aspire to, you shouldn't be surprised when some mutt takes a bite out of you!