Well, I suppose that Branson is trying to accomplish space tourism is one thing; but private sub-orbital tours is only really good in terms of long-term space 'colonisation' and it's only baby-steps at that.

I've scoured the internet but can't seem to find a single thing mentioning a response to the RAS report on lifting the policy ban on funding manned spaceflight. I think it'd be a real shame if the UK decided to remain completely uninvolved in it - it probably isn't good for convincing those interested in space-related jobs to stay in the country either.

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If a man is offered a fact which goes against his instincts, he will scrutinize it closely, and unless the evidence is overwhelming, he will refuse to believe it. If, on the other hand, he is offered something which affords a reason for acting in accordance to his instincts, he will accept it even on the slightest evidence. The origin of myths is explained in this way.
-- Bertrand Russell (1872-1970)