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Thursday 21 April 2016

Boaty McBoatface

You've probably heard the saga, although ladysolly hadn't until I told her. I think she's too wrapped up in bridge.

So in case you're also too wrapped up in the devil's pasteboards, I'll give you a summary.

We built a research ship, at a cost of £200 million, and the Great British Public were polled to determine what the name should be.

Boaty McBoatface was overwhelmingly the most popular choice, a lot more than the next four put together.

"Oops", said our respected and respectable politicians. "Can't have that".

But why not?

We're British. We're known for our whimsy and eccentricity. A ship called Boaty McBoatface will attract *tons* of positive publicity, and I, for one, would be proud to serve aboard a ship of that name. Plus, why consult the public if you're going to ignore the popular choice?

But maybe ... Ed Vaizey, our minister of culture has stepped in, and has criticised the minister for science (Jo Johnson) for vetoing the splendid choice of Boaty McBoatface.

I really really hope that the voice of the people prevails.

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