Bungling Bugger

Melanie Phillips sent me here where Lord Norman Lamont, who was Chancellor of the Exchequer, 1990-93, had this to say about Israel:-

Sadly, the West is perceived as having a long history of imposing its will on the Middle East to protect its own interests...

Of course, Israel should be recognised. But, like it or not, the creation of the state of Israel is seen by many Arabs as an act of Western colonialism. Some, on the Right, such as the late Julian Amery, did support the creation of Israel as a noble colonial venture. While Tony Blair was absolutely right to condemn President Ahmadinejad's outrageous comments about wiping Israel off the map, why was he so puzzled? He knows better than anyone that resentment over the partition of Ireland has lasted for more than 80 years. It is hardly surprising that bitterness over the appearance of a brand new state, with a population of six million people, is still there after 58 years. It is sad to say, but, after the Israeli bombing of Lebanon, to many Arabs Mr Ahmadinejad's remarks now seem less outrageous, and his popularity has soared.

Ah, "brand new state" as if (a) Israel was actually not the "reconstituted Jewish national home", as phrased by the League of Nations and (b) let's ignore that half the Arab states are actually 'brand new', too.

"Noble colonial venture" or an act of justified historical recompense?

"Sad to say"? Have you told them it is outrageous and evil to plan to destroy another state?

Eeks.

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Bugger

n.

2. Slang A contemptible or disreputable person.
3. Slang A fellow; a chap: "He's a silly little bugger, then" John le Carré.