Not just testing, which has always happened in schools to measure progress, but standardised national testing at various stages younger than 15/16.

I'm impressed he managed to get any sort of story at all out of that waffle.

Surely, the most telling question is the last one that you posted - Milne is very clear in his question and if she didn't think it was going to be up for grabs as a funding criteria, she could have just said "No".

Our trip to Egypt was made by our guide too, we still keep in touch.

One of my favourite memories is sitting on top of one of the little water taxis in Aswan as we cruised a bit further down the Nile stopping off at a Nubian village.

You are right about the "sales" techniques in the markets being an eye opener for men - it was for my husband.

An amazing man, who's place in history will never be forgotten. There are very few people who can transcend ethnic, national, wealth and religious boundaries - Mandela was one of them.

One of the most touching tributes I have read today is from Muhammad Ali:

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Mandela. His was a life filled with purpose and hope; hope for himself, his country and the world. He inspired others to reach for what appeared to be impossible and moved them to break through the barriers that held them hostage mentally, physically, socially and economically. He made us realise, we are our brother’s keeper and that our brothers come in all colours. What I will remember most about Mr.Mandela is that he was a man whose heart, soul and spirit could not be contained or restrained by racial and economic injustices, metal bars or the burden of hate and revenge. He taught us forgiveness on a grand scale. His was a spirit born free, destined to soar above the rainbows. Today his spirit is soaring through the heavens. He is now forever free.”

Am in Wellington, so will definitely donate cash as that is probably the most practical thing.

Also, if they want fresh fruit and homemade jams, perhaps if they haven't already they could get in contact with Community Fruit Harvesting - https://www.facebook.com/pickfruit

I love the stories of items with a story behind them.

I spend way too much time cruising the aisles at Moore Wilson's variety department, fortunately I am limited by the small size of my kitchen, which means lots of double duty.

My favourite things are my enamel falcon pie dishes, mandoline and my large, deep frypan with lid.

Having said that, the item I most covert is a Thermomix. Friends of mine in the UK has one, and say it is worth the ridiculous amount of money.