fusible plug,
Yes, I agree, arguing over the VAT as you put it, is not really worth that much in the scheme of things.
The real issue is that of taking the gamble without anything at the end of it. I take it that you paid for your own TR and was fortunate enough to get a job on the back of it. Did you have any indications that you would be taken on upon successful completion, or at any other time before completion? For me, that is the real issue here.
Splat