PM's not-so-coded message – no World Cup for Christchurch
Christchurch mayor picks up on the "r" word "loud and clear."
On TV3's Firstline this morning, Prime Minister John Key initially talked around the issue when asked about the future of World Cup games in Christchurch.
The government had to collect more information and hold further talks with the International Rugby Board (IRB) over the next few days, the prime minister said (the government is due to deliver a recommendation to the IRB on whether it thinks games should go ahead in the quake-hit city; the recommendation may be delivered before Friday).
But ultimately, Mr Key said, people "have to be realistic."
In a live interview that immediately followed, Christchurch mayor Bob Parker said it was several months until the cup and that he was an optimist.
But Mr Parker also picked up on the Mr Key's use of the "R" word.
"Be realistic, the prime minister says," the mayor said. "I hear him loud and clear."
Many online also thought they heard the implied message loud and clear – "be realistic" is not-so-subtle code that Christchurch should prepare for a "no."
IRB litigious?
Asked if he agreed with comments that the IRB was "litigious," Mr Key said the IRB had insurance and that negotiations with the World Cup body were "constructive."
NBR staff
Tue, 15 Mar 2011
Tue, 15 Mar 2011
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PM's not-so-coded message – no World Cup for Christchurch
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