Categories: uncategorized
Date: 21 January 2007 10:11:09
I tried very hard to be a normal grown up yesterday, I really really did but it's just in "their" world they don't see it quite like I (we) do.
Anyway the conversation went something along the lines of:
"Do you understand about long term investments?"
"Um, a little" (resisted the temptation to tell him I do have Economics and Business Admin as the minor and complimentary parts of my first degree and am currently teaching AS Business Studies)
"Ok well they involve a funds manager investing in shares and bonds"
"Yes, do you offer any ethical options?"
Shifts uncomftably behind desk, "um we used to do one, but I think it's now only open to existing investors."
"Ah, I see"
"It's ok though most of the companies we invest in are fine... most of it's banks and technologies companies"
I interupt - trying v hard to be good and so not even mentioning that banks aren't overly ethical "Technologies companies could be difficult, depending upon what type of technologies they are developing"
He ignores and carries on "Well lots of it is just pharmacutical companies aswell"
Now here I was really good and didn't mention the fact that the drugs companies are forcing people to die of AIDS because of the patents issues, but rather looked at the positive work they do for people
He ploughs on "The only one I could see being a problem is they do often go for petrol companies, like BP and Shell, but it wouldn't be much"
At this point I could bear anymore. "No, I'm sorry - I couldn't do that"
He looks at me, remembering I am the customer and says, "That's fine, I respect your right to hold those beliefs if that's what you think is right"
At this point I smile weakly thinking, interesting he used the word beliefs, I would have used principles but actually yes they are linked to my beliefs (but he didn't know that).
So yes I did try to be a grown up yesterday but.........