We support the abstention, particularly on the grounds of Philip's last sentence (below). Sincerely, RA Ronald N. Andruff RNA Partners, Inc. 220 Fifth Avenue, 20th floor New York, New York 10001 www.rnapartners.com V: +1 212 481 2820 x 11 F: +1 212 481 2859 -----Original Message----- From: owner-bc-gnso@icann.org [mailto:owner-bc-gnso@icann.org] On Behalf Of Philip Sheppard Sent: 2009-05-15 03:29 To: bc-gnso@icann.org Subject: [bc-gnso] Draft GNSO Council letter to the GAC In reply to Phil Corwin, this letter has been produced at Council level prompted by an individual Council member. The presumption of a need to abstain is based on my experience and knowledge of the issues and the historic position of BC members. That is why I asked the BC members to validate the presumption ! For the record (speaking as AIM) I support abstention on grounds that a Council reply is not needed as the Board is to reply. Why upset government when they can be your ally? Philip