Some perspective on the "HARRY THE NAZI!!!!" episode, first from Gerard Henderson:
In the lead-up to the second Gulf War, many demonstrators took part in marches in which the democratically elected leaders of the "coalition of the willing" (led by the United States, Britain and Australia) were depicted as having a fascist or Nazi disposition. For example, demonstrators in Sydney on February 16, 2002, carried a large portrait of John Howard on which was drawn an Adolf Hitler-style moustache.
Now, the young Prince Harry has met the Australian Prime Minister. Who knows? In a historical mode, he may have come to the conclusion that if Hitler was just like Howard, then the founder of national socialism may not have been too bad after all. In which case, what could be wrong with wearing Nazi insignia when out and about with the (equally ignorant) King's Road set?
and then from the ever eloquent Mark Steyn:
The French sports minister suggested the "scandal" would undermine Britain's bid to host the Olympics. Londoners should be so lucky.
But, if I understand the concern of the sporting world correctly, being a totalitarian state that's killed millions is no obstacle to hosting the Olympics, but going to a costume party wearing the uniform of a defunct totalitarian state that's no longer around to kill millions is completely unacceptable.
Posted by Quentin George at January 18, 2005 07:37 PM