I am pretty sure it is not a question of the money or the government being skint. It is a difficult situation they face - Do they sacrifice this couple for the good of the many? If they pay the ransom it will send the message that this type of crime does pay and put countless others at risk. If they don't pay the price they put this poor couple at risk. I don't know what I would do but I know it is a no win situation. Maybe Leadfingers is right?

DeG