I don’t know if you read Brian Moore’s column, Loose-Head, but he makes some interesting observations.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/rugby-world-cup/8763304/Rugby-World-Cup-2011-Brian-Moore-best-start-to-a-tournament-so-far-but-still-no-shocks.html

“Oh my God that’s awful. Typical of a multinational conglomerate to steal charity money. They are a disgrace. I shall boycott them from now on.”

There. That’s much better. Isn’t it? “

No, just childish.

And I didn’t say you were defending them.l It was in answer to your comment:

“….. against a company unlikely to be defended here.”

“An extreme example perhaps,…..

Yes it is.”

But which nevertheless makes the point.

I am not sure that Tesco needs defending here, does it? It would seem that the original comment that 50% of the proceeds are taken by Tesco and given to other charities is substantially correct. If I put money in a bucket held by collectors representing a specific charity I do not expect some of it to go elsewhere.

Yes, Jay quoted the figures and I put them in perspective. As for the future everytghing costs more but no one ever knows. As for your last question – as you said you were 100% pro space exploration, does it need an answer?

Couldn’t have put it better, myself.:) I have never had the pleasure of meeting him but one day…you never know. And only 4 hours!!

Linc – I suppose it depends how important one’s view of space exploration is. To put it in perspecticve the total stated cost to the US taxpayer is the same as 10 F35 Lightning fighters. So if they reduced that programme to 2,433 instead of 2,443 aircraft there would be no extra cost!;)

I think Virgin Galactic has deposits from 6 or more passengers for the first flight – hopefjully next year, as you stated.

I am 100% behind further space exploration and, correct me if I am wrong, but NASA and previous administrations have been “planning” Mars for years. No doubt the present incumbent is thrashing around for markers in case his quest for a second term fails!;);)

If that is Tesco’s national policy then I’m afraid I will not be donating in those buckets.