then how come both SAS and LH are so keen to ditch their share?
Because their management (due to their own incompetence) allowed Sir MB to negotiate a deal which protected his interests. They are losing money like everyone else and LH in particular are VERY exposed as a result of the 'put' option that Sir MB might take advantage of at any time. I would want rid of my share as well under the circumstances. Providing Sir MB keeps 50%+1 share it matters not one jot who the other 50%-1 share belongs to. Personally I would like to see him take it all back cos bmi is a company that is on the way up again.
BTW - ask an intelligent question rather than just ranting and you might get an intelligent asnswer.