Blair the party man

A lot of nonsense has been talked about the possibility of Tony Blair becoming the first president of the EU if a treaty is ever agreed that does away with rotating presidencies. Even if he were to be offered it, why would he want a job paying only €23,000 a month plus allowances? Blair would be better off putting together a portfolio of sinecures, directorships and engagements. He has, for instance, until next Wednesday (27 June) to seek further details on a €280,000 contract organising the annual Christmas party for children of the staff of the European Investment Bank for 2007-10. His experience in dealing with the European Parliament during the UK presidency should help him cope with “approximately 700 children aged between three months and 11 years”.