@Geri Side note about re-nationalisation that I only just learned about. Just after WWII a whole load of things were nationalised and it didn't cost the public a penny at the time. The shareholders were issued some very long-term bonds (government IOUs) by way of compensation and job done. So the appalling UK water companies could be re-nationalised quickly just after a thorough, realistic valuation to work out the value of bonds to issue.