For all the conspiracy theories about the motives behind the Pope’s resignation, my favourite is that Pope Benedict has hatched a selfless plot to keep Berlusconi out of the news and therefore reduce his chances of winning the elections at the end of the month. The Pope’s love and compassion for his adopted country has compelled him undertake this remarkable sacrifice. Not sure I agree, but I like the idea of his setting an example by saying, are you not really too old, tired, ineffectual to continue? What worries me considerably however is the implication that the more the Italians see of Berlusconi, the more likely they are to vote for him! Stretching the realms of credibility as far as many are concerned…
You Can Take the Girl Out of Bradford ... 