James Bryce
A SPECTACULAR flyover by military jets to mark Spain’s National Day celebrations has been cancelled as the recession continues to bite.
The traditional participation of tanks in the annual parade – on October 12 – has also been scrapped, as the Spanish government looks to make a 60% saving on last year’s bill.
The occasion, attended by the king, prime minister, and senior members of the government, opposition and diplomats, will now cost €1 million.
“The celebration of National Day will be marked by austerity and sobriety,” military sources said.
“It is a question of combining the solemnity of the occasion with the combined effort being made by Spanish society to overcome the crisis.”
The celebration, known as Columbus Day in the US, marks the anniversary of the date when Christopher Columbus discovered America in 1492.
It is also dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar, the patron saint of hispanic people.
The parade should consist of bankers being flogged down the streets, followed by bent politicians chased by rabid dogs. A crawl-past of begging bowls could bring up the rear.
…and then fantastic dancers and musicians, children who respect their families, a procession of really tasty fresh food, lots of really friendly people who look out for their neighbours, and then at the end mayors being flogged etc etc. Viva España!