The Olympic Games, that corrupt, trite junket that descends upon us every four years is to secrete itself like some obscene Jabba the Hutt on London in 2012. Worse, far worse, the whole sorry mess will be coming by invitation. And the egregious Ken Livingstone assures us that despite the costs rising sharply above the predicted budget, it will be value for money.
Ken Livingstone has denied the 2012 Olympics finances are in chaos – as he contradicted what Culture Secretary Tessa Jowell told MPs on Tuesday.
Ms Jowell said the cost of the Olympic Park had risen from £2.4bn to £3.3bn, blaming inflation and the decision to spend £400m on a “delivery partner”.
But London’s Mayor insisted the £2.4bn figure stood, saying any increase was due to other regeneration work.
When two professional liars compete for our attention, it can sometimes be difficult to unravel the truth. However, on this occasion, I’m inclined to go with Jowell; the rising costs were entirely predictable as previous Games have done much the same thing. So it’s Ken telling porkies as he engages überdenial mode.
Putting aside my own personal dislike for sport for a moment; I accept that other people like to watch people run about and jump and stuff. I have no problem with this. I have no problem with the idea of spending on regeneration providing the land exchanges hands equitably and for the going rate. I do object when people are forced out of their property though (although some have won a reprieve, this does not alter the principle).
What I object to is the arrogance and conceit of people like Livingstone who in their presumptuousness decide that we will have this dreadful junket, and, London council tax payers will pay for it, like it or not. Now, to rub salt into the open wound, the price has risen dramatically and will, doubtless, continue to do so. And who foots the bill? It won’t be Ken.
But Mr Livingstone said he was “determined” that there would be no increase in the £20 a year for 25 years each London council tax payer will pay.
I should hope not. It’s taking a liberty imposing the increased tax in the first instance. If Ken wants the Olympic Games, let him pay for it. Stealing money from people by force is an outrageous imposition, but, then, what do we expect? This is ZANU Labour in the flesh. Spiteful, hateful, greedy, grasping and arrogant to boot.
Is Livingstone going to be around for that length of time?
I’m sorry, I just can’t bear the prospect. I’ll have to dig out the old Mauser and inflict some serious damage on either him or myself.
‘Only’ 500 quid per taxpayer. What an absolute sodding bargain. It’s a bit like all that cash they spent on firework displays. Huge money simply blown away. You can bet the commuters were truly thrilled by it all. We’re all greatly in your debt Ken. Far too greatly…
I believe that is the plan. Of course, London’s voters might think differently. Once can always hope.
Can you imagine what a fiasco the whole bloody thing will be. Still Wembley Stadium may be ready in time. If not perhaps we can hold a gamblers’ Olympics in The Dome. I’m afraid that I’ve never understood what pleasure there is in watching one person running faster than another.