So it was with a sense of pride that the Fact Compiler discovered that DfT officials have won both second and third place in the coveted Troughing Stakes.
This from the Bureau of Investigative Journalism via the Daily Telegraph:
Here are the most wined-and-dined mandarins in Whitehall, based on the published hospitality information for central government departments, and FOI research.
1. Dave Hartnett, Permanent Secretary for Tax, HMRC
Accepted hospitality on 107 occasions.
2. Mike Mitchell, Director General National Networks, Department for Transport
Accepted hospitality on 89 occasions.
3. Simon Webb, Director General: International Networks & Environment, Department for Transport
Accepted hospitality on 80 occasions.
How noble that Messrs Mitchell and Webb should sacrifice their waistlines in pursuit of a better understanding of transport issues.In these austere times an example to us all.
Of course such onerous duties take it out of a man, so it comes as no surprise to discover that Dr Mike will hang up his napkin in November.
Discreet soundings are already being taken on who should replace him.
Eye understands that an ability to think on your stomach heads the list of candidate attributes.
UPDATE: This from The Master...
Presumably it is safe to assume that Dr Death wasn't wined and dined on East Coast...