Willie, protests are part of the democratic process. To register discontent, especially with policies that were not in the government's manifesto (in fact, of course, the Condems didn't have a joint manifesto and no-one actually voted for them) is a perfectly legitimate way to try to influence future policy. Occasionally, governments will try to do this themselves by having a referendum, but usually only if they think they can win. The alternative is to wait until the next election, by which time untold damage could have been done.

As to minority views - well, we'll see. And as for the old 'envy' chestnut, oh, do us a favour!