Having suffered Virgin West Coast on a regular basis over the last 20 years, watching the cost of my First Class Season Ticket climb faster than the Bell X1 every time I have to renew, forgive me if I don't have too much sympathy for the Bearded One.
That said, huge rail subsidy aside, Virgin Group was only paid £300 million on dividends from the rail franchise, only pocket change.
I have no desire to see people lose their jobs, I have suffered this myself several times over the years, but Virgin Atlantic is no different than any other airline, they don't deserve better treatment, despite the fact they are my first choice when I travel to the US on business.
Rotorwills, speaks the truth, but thanks to many years of spin Sir Richard comes across as a everyman most of us won't accept it.