Stop going on about the rates
"no wonder BT lost so much money. Contracters - get a grip on reality, you really are not worth that much. Regardless of your skill set."
I'm sick of green eyed monsters knocking contractors rates, it says much for the basic mindset of humanity that instead of thinking "hell yeah , good on him/her , another guy in the rat race like me but making it work better , now how do I get me some of that action" , instead wanting them to get paid less , like you.
People should just stop moaning about contractors rates , especially fellow workers. You are envious of it? Take the step , form your own company , choose to live without the security of steady work and do it ! :) ( As long as you have long years of experience and skills for people to want to hire you that is)