Anyway, the point of this posting (if there is any..) is to point out that the political system over here is pretty much as corrupt as the American system,
There are degrees of corruptnes in all political systems. I should think on purely objective grounds the British system is a lot better than most and at least as good as the best. The American system is too dominated by money buying the president but at least they have a pretty good level of free speech.
This seems to be the case when you look at the OFT's response to Michael's letter.
That is more to do with a civil service mentality that is tied to procedures and doesn't see this particular issue as their remit. Why cause yourself a load of unnecessary hassle?
I don't think they'll do the same in Europe though.
Still waiting to hear the EU view on whether the NHS deal should have been tendered in accordance with EU policy. The EU are very slow.
So I suggest that everybodys hopes of breaking the monopoly now lie within the EU and any activism with regards that and the patent/copyright stuff is best placed in that direction.
I think it would be a mistake to stop lobbying in this country. That plays into the hands of anyone who simply can't be bothered. A better tactic might be to approach the opposition parties. Matthew Taylor, the Lib/dem treasury shadow has already asked some embarassing questions about the inland revenue not tendering large contracts. The Tories need any ammunition they can get. The only danger is that it polarises the G in the opposite direction but if the situation gets well aired in debate and in the news I can't see the papers and joe public siding with the G and a large private monopoly that is obviously fleecing them. When it becomes obvious that votes might be at stake hearts and minds follow. EU is also a worthwhile strategic ally. Take every opportunity to lobby both because you don't actually know which will work and it might be that it will take both. -- IanL Open Source - save money - employ more teachers Use Star Office the free replacement for Microsoft Office