What's all this "you have to buy your own computer for your own house in England" got to do with the price of fish? It seems you are just hell-bent on confrontation, and coming across as Mr Reasonable FT. I will tell you that Mr Reasonable in China will not cut any ice.

Actually, on stepping back, it seems you are the one bent on confrontation because of me having some past squabble with your brother/best friend in Central China, that you haven't been able to let go after nigh on 3 years.

Some facts:

1. I am not in China at this time, and have no plans on returning.
2. Yes, it pays to be reasonable, flexible,call it what you will. Although I will agree with you being Mr Reasonable in China won't get you far. It still doesn't entitle you to your own pc in your apartment. I have worked at a very good university in Guangdong province, I can forward details if necessary, and they never provided PC's in the ft's flats, although internet was available through the LAN if you had a laptop, and of course PC's in the FT's office. Some schools may do it, and give you a top of the line PC, others may give you a three year old dusty beast of a PC, some places not at all...it all depends on the admin of said place, wouldn't you agree?