And yet the answer could not be more obvious.

ECONOMIST: Axis of evil

The arrival of sophisticated competition has usurped their dominance, but the validation of the category by the likes of Google and Amazon could provide the answer, not put the kibosh on its survival.

FORBES: How Groupon Can Regain Ground

Bill Richardson, a Democrat, said he wanted to know how many guards were coming to his state, New Mexico, and was discouraged that the White House could not give him an answer.

ECONOMIST: Immigration

The National Popular Vote bill, which has been enacted in 9 states and could gain momentum with a rocky election aftermath this year, is not the answer.

FORBES: Close Election Hysteria: Let's Not Pick Our President In The Courts

The company, set to issue fourth-quarter numbers next week, has not responded to questions Ackman raised following its rebuttal to his Dec. 20 presentation, and the hedge fund manager said any business that is not a pyramid scheme could answer such questions within 24 hours.

FORBES: Icahn Squeezes Ackman With Big Stake In Herbalife, May Push For Sale

An answer of "I do not know" is unacceptable and I could only get insurance on nominating one.

BBC: NEWS | Programmes | Inside Money | Have your say: insurance 'fronting'

In a long and reasoned essay he said that an economist's normal benefit-cost answer could not be given.

ECONOMIST: Allen Kneese

An aide said Mr Clegg could not take part at the times requested and it was later agreed he would appear on Friday morning to answer listeners' questions.

BBC: Nick Clegg reveals he was given a 'big green onesie'