Code Bulk

Im in a debate with someone else. Basically were debating code bulk. This is just an example -> <?php if (isset($run_this_code)) {

    echo $this->run_this_code;

} echo 'Finished'; ?> Now, if I understand php correctly, the whole script gets parsed, but since $run_this code isn't set, $this->run_this_code doesn't get echoed/executed. What this other person is telling me that its more effiecient for *him* to have -> <?php echo 'Finished'; ?> instead. The script is a general purpose script. Its not built for one person. Some may use $run_this_code and some may not. So in taking out that bit of code, all it does is save the parser, what fraction of a fraction of a second?? Im just looking for ammunition so I could go and shoot this guy down... :) Thanks for listening