Administrator
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This story, from the Guardian diary, falls into the category of "obviously rubbish but nevertheless amusing"
· Heartening news from Whitehall that John Birt is winning his battle to quell the surging tide of self-importance that some believe characterised his BBC career. These days Lord B is employed by Mr Tony Blair for the crucial task of "blue skies thinking", one he fulfils from the Cabinet Office at 70 Whitehall, where a refurbishment programme is in progress. As part of this, a bespoke spiral staircase has been built for his lordship. The purpose, we gather, is to enable him to enter and exit his office without mingling with the more plebeian elements (previously he had to endure a long walk down a corridor also used by the lower orders). The precise cost, although presumably immense, sadly eludes New Labour's relentless drive towards open government. "I've spoken to various people about this," the Cabinet Office's Helen Desmond tells Marina Hyde, "and I'm sorry but we don't comment on specific refurbishment arrangements." So you can't tell us anything more at all about this marvellous staircase? "No," she reiterates firmly, "we don't comment on specific refurbishment arrangements." If anyone with expertise cares to speculate wildly, feel free to get in touch.
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