Sorry about the games but it's the cat

Notice how many of the great and good are discovering other pressing engagements such as washing their hair, waxing their legs, shaving up their noses or whatever that unfortunately clash with the opening ceremony of the Olympics in Beijing.

Apparently these other engagements were well known about months ago if anyone had bothered to ask and have nothing whatsoever to do with shifts in public and world opinion or popularity ratings. As for China and Tibet? Never came into the equation old boy.

So they can placate the Chinese by telling them they would love to come but sorry they can't find anyone to look after the cat which, in turn, means everyone can save face and, more importantly, save their place at the financial trough that is China. Meanwhile our leaders avoid being seen on TV and in newspapers sitting through the ten hours of tedium, or at least I am sure it will seem that long for those who endure it, before the athletes can finally start. This of course will mean they can avoid having to show their full support to their hosts while at the same time explaining their complete lack of it to their electorate.

Then, with the smoke, mirrors and spin that is modern politics, come the next election the non-appearance, if it is raised, can become a brave stance for human rights, a move to avoid embarrassing our close friends the Chinese or even a difficult decision taken to secure jobs at home depending upon the direction of the wind and whether there is an R in the month.

Sitting on the fence with your best foot forward while watching your back, leading the charge and bringing up the rear all at the same time. Thank you for your support, I shall wear it always.