Danton and Disneyland...la Patrie en Danger.

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In the aftermath of the French Revolution, the monarchical powers of Europe went to war against this upstart nation, determined to crush these upwellings of liberty. France was endangered, its new armies stretched to the limit.

Georges Danton, leader of one of the revolutionary factions, was asked how the opposing forces could possibly be beaten. He replied

'With boldness, more boldness and continuing boldness.' (1)

France once again is in danger....of losing its AAA rating.....and the Prime Minister, Francois Fillon, as befits the son of an historian,  has taken Danton's words to heart.

As part of the austerity measures announced to make up France's deficit he has boldly announced that the VAT charged on the admissions to theme parks will increase from 5.5 per cent to 19.6.

Let speculators tremble.

Even more boldly, he has announced that there will be an increased tax on fizzy drinks - a double blow to the visitors to Disneyland and Parc Asterix - not only to raise money, goodness me no, but because the sugar added to these drinks leads to obesity.

Let Standard and Poor retreat.

And just when the parent who has rashly promised his tax efficient family of three children a visit to a theme park reaches for the cup which cheers and also inebriates he learns of the continuing boldness of Monsieur Fillon....a further tax on strong liquor.

Let bankers breathe again.

France is saved!




(1) Pour les vaincre, Messieurs, il faut de l'audace, encore de l'audace, toujours de l'audace et la France est sauvée.’