Why the reference to WWII? It's hardly here or there. And it's hardly a big balls situation when we're talking about the Mayor of London when actually he's got a point. This story focuses on Obama and America, but when you read on, apparently two-thirds of embassies do pay the charge. So why one rule here and one rule there?
I'm just playing Devil's Advocate though. There is a lot of opposition to the congestion charge and some see it as a tax on drivers, already unfairly treated by other taxes, and simply a means to generate free cash. It's worth remembering that Boris represents London and the interests of its people. He will be keen to appear even-handed. He's controversially supported the charges, despite it seriously putting small businesses at risk (a delivery driver may need to travel through London multiple times a day) and so opponents of the system may reasonably ask, why should foreign embassies be exempt? They don't contribute to the UK economy and state visits put a strain on resources already. Boris defends the charge on an environmental basis, yet he should turn a blind eye to extravagant motorcades? And then when you think that we in the UK are facing some very severe cuts in services, knowing that there's £5million owed leaves a bad taste.
Again I stress I'm just trying to see through the bullshit! I don't give a damn about whether they pay or not, but if I regularly travelled through London, I'd be against the congestion charge system anyway. On the other hand, if I lived in London, I'd also be somewhat reassured to know the Mayor feels everyone should pay it and doesn't just pick on easy targets.
Boris is a fascinating character. He comes across as a bumbling pillock one day and a political genius the next. My first reaction to this story was to laugh! It's typical Boris and his gameplan isn't clear. I suspect he knows it's a shot to nothing, but the fact he's trying shows his first consideration will always be the city. That's excellent PR and the US Embassy might want to consider that benefit for themselves before dismissing it.
Schwarzenegger was no fool in that department...
Actually you might not be able to play this, but Boris's appearance on Top Gear was hilarious. Jeremy Clarkson challenges his environmental, anti-car views, but he comes across well...
