Run awaaaaaay!

by andy on 8th February 2010

Ronald Regan once said ‘The most terrifying words in the English language are “I’m from the government and I’m here to help you”‘.

For all his faults, he had that right. I’ve learned this evening (via Corrugated Soundbite) that a Minister for Pubs has been appointed. Gods – specifically Bachus – help us.

Which government introduced the smoking ban ? I can’t seem to recall.

{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }

manwiddicombe 9th February 2010 at 1:04 am

This story first appeared on a News of the World political blog and so far that’s the only source quoted for the news.

We may yet be safe .. .. ..

andy 9th February 2010 at 6:49 am

The source Corrugated Soundbite had was LocalGov.Co.uk. They say it’s John Healy who apparently is currently Minister for Housing. I’ve never heard of him before.

Duty is down this year by more than £250 million and there’s an election in the air. By some oversight, smokers will be allowed to vote. I think they’ve just noticed one or two unintended consequences of their actions.

robinb 9th February 2010 at 9:58 am

its also been appearing in the morning advertiser :

http://www.morningadvertiser.co.uk/news.ma/article/85875?dm_i=A9M,3GP1,19L9SQ,AT2U,1

I wonder what the package of deals is going to be and if it involves tax concessions !

manwiddicombe 9th February 2010 at 10:03 am

Cheers for the links! Until I’d read those the only reporting I’d seen had referenced back to the NOTW as the source of the information.

Bugger. We’re all dooooooomed.