This week my wider family accepted delivery of a new washing machine. The previous machine had given many years of loyal service, but finally had pegged out.

We chose carefully. Price was important, and the features needed to cover the basics. We chose from a well-known High Street retailer, because we like to think they have a reputation at stake if things go wrong. The main user will be a pensioner, so peace of mind was important rather than battling to get repairs. It was delivered, unpacked, plumbed in and the old one taken away.

And then the sales call. Would we like an extended warranty? No thanks.

“Ah, but you see, white goods these days don’t last as long as they used to. It is because they have to be more energy efficient.”

Really!