> Surely it's better to have a subsidised minimum service than to rely on charities? See, it depends on who you are. If you are a well-connected member of the

> Surely it's better to have a subsidised minimum service than to rely on charities? See, it depends on who you are. If you are a well-connected member of the political class you prever to give charity because it's you who directs the flow of money. If you are part of the unwashed masses you prefer a subsidy, because there is the democratic process involved, and experts in public policy and the general public might have influence what is done with the funds.