Not content with stoking the ire of Liverpudlians by accusing them of enjoying wallowing in grief, the blond Tory bumbler Boris Johnson has now offended the good people of Portsmouth by decribing their city as "too full of drugs, obesity, under-achievement and Labour MPs."
But does it really matter?

The idea that entire urban populations should rise as one when criticised by 'outsiders' is quite ridiculous. Liverpool, it has to be said, does not have a good track record in being able to take a bit of stick, especially from politicians.
But in the case of Boris's alleged outburst - following the dreadful execution by terrorists of Ken Bigley in the autumn of 2004 - our indignation was justified.
But there was one complication. Boris Johnson did not actually write the article complained of, but was editor of the publication concerned. As this was printed as a piece of editorial comment, he had to carry the can.
It involved being ordered by the Conservative front bench to return to Liverpool and apologise.
So far so bad.
But, if the case of Portsmouth, Boris Johnson really is the author of comments printed in GQ magazine, it scarcely matters.
I am all in favour of radical free speech in this age of clover-wrapped public relations.
I recently described New Brighton as "the last resort" (think about it) after all the moaning and groaning of those resisting redevelopment plans for the promenade, and I stick by those sentiments.
The future does not lie with blistered paint, tatty curtains, rotting wrought iron and a few burger joints.
Sometimes people (and places) have to be viewed afresh by outsiders to give any kind of meaningful perspective.
Talking of which, a friend has just returned from holiday in one of my own favourite cities, Seville.
A place where EVERY street and byway could qualify to be European Capital of Cultur., So please, please, don't get too excited about the Three Graces, St George's Hall, two cathedrals and Sefton Park. Just travel a bit more.

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