I think this will go around in circles and isn't adding very much to the thread, I've said what I wanted to about the unlikely notion of sacking someone after they've handed in their notice in order to somehow save money and the rather silly/naive reasons presented where money is supposedly saved... I think the posts are clear enough so I'll leave it at that thanks - ironically, as I mentioned before I'm not looking for an argument but it is pretty clear now that you're quite keen to have one despite having quite a weak position to defend ergo, I'm out.