It's really none of my business since it doesn't affect anyone this side of the pond John, but I'd have thought that it was high time that A's and F18's got automatic slots. Particularly with the growth that both classes have demonstrated in the US. Doesn't the Tornado class rate a slot as well?

Do you not give a youth team a slot to come and play with the 'big boys'? I'm thinking particularly of your top rated youth team that are working towards an Olympic place.