[Nasty McPhilthy]

If the company run by Smith and Hemingway submitted a proposal, I'm sure it would have been considered.

Do you know if they did, and aren't they the ones that form so many joint ventures with the Chicoms?

[BubbaTheRocketScientist]

Do you know if they did, and aren't they the ones that form so many joint ventures with the Chicoms?

It is my understanding that the original contracts in question were awarded to P&O many years ago. I have no idea what the business climate was at that time. It is also my understanding that the current issue did not involve any new contracts or new bids - merely the approval of transfer of the existing P&O contracts.

Regarding the Chicoms, better a joint venture with the Chicoms than a wholly owned foreign government operating our ports. Either way, would you have an objection?