Just to complete the circle, cmosse, I took the lens to Merchant City Cameras in Glasgow. He said that, if the lens wouldn't focus manually, it is definitely a lens problem and no point in him looking at it. I then took it to the Sony Centre, where they were only too happy to let me try it on an A65. It did not work. I am now waiting for Fedex to collect the lens for return to OSD.
BTW I had a little play with the A65 and was not impressed with the electronic viewfinder (the A700 has an optical one). Apparently most modern DSLRs have electronic viewfinders these days. Any thoughts?
Skighpilot
It sure is. What's more, the replacement has just arrived and seems fine. I cannot fault Onestop Digital, it is not their fault the first lens was faulty. Their service has been impeccable and I would not hesitate to recommend them.
Thanks everyone for your input.
Skighpilot