I think he did yes. You can argue all day long about it though, won't make a bit of difference apart from wasting your time
As for your last statement, more through necessity now I'd say rather than design.
Andy P you're right, my views are totally entrenched as are many others but I do remember you asking the question who kept bringing the subject up. I don't remember me or Steve bringing it up except in response to a dig at him. Here's your answer. As long as someone aims to put him down we'll respond, no doubts.