Did you miss the news that the private launch business is struggling? It's kind of a basic business principle that struggling companies with a developed product don't spend a lot of money on research for replacements. Emphasis usually goes into cost cutting and reliability improvements.

I'm pretty sure all current space vehicles including Ariane have been developed with at least some government help. This get rid of NASA stance also ignores the fact that past NASA paid research has lead to commercial vehicles. This sounds like more SFF style brainstorming (ie brainfarting) like the fabulous Mircorp idea.

Regards,
Mark