David Goldstone - Mr "Value for Money"

Ladies and gentlemen please be upstanding for the CEO of The Value for Money Department - Mr David Goldstone.

In a move that has pissed large number of people off, the government has announced the creation of the Value for Money Department, appointing David Goldstone as its CEO. Goldstone, who will work just one day a week, is set to receive an eye-watering equivalent of £250,000 per annum. This decision has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the very concept of value for money.

The Appointment of David Goldstone

David Goldstone's appointment has been met with widespread criticism, not least because of his hefty salary for a part-time role. Goldstone will be paid £950 a day for an average commitment of one day a week. This arrangement has been described as a slap in the face to taxpayers, especially given the department's mandate to ensure efficient use of public funds.

A Troubled Career

Goldstone's career has not been without controversy. He was previously involved in the collapse of Ideoba, a high-tech company that failed to secure a £150,000 loan from the Welsh government. Goldstone, who was acting as a property adviser at the time, advised against providing the loan, a decision that led to the company's closure and the loss of up to 100 jobs. This incident raised serious questions about his judgment and the appropriateness of his advice.

Goldstone's involvement with HS2 has also been problematic. As a non-executive director, he was part of the team overseeing the high-speed railway project, which has been plagued by massive budget overruns and delays. Despite his efforts, HS2 has become a symbol of government overspending and inefficiency, casting further doubt on his ability to ensure value for money.

The Irony of the Value for Money Department

The creation of the Value for Money Department, ostensibly to ensure that public funds are used efficiently, is deeply ironic given the circumstances of Goldstone's appointment. The decision to pay him such a high salary for minimal work undermines the very principles the department is supposed to uphold. It sends a troubling message about the government's priorities and its commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Public Reaction

The public reaction to this appointment has been overwhelmingly negative. Many see it as a blatant misuse of taxpayer money and a clear example of government hypocrisy. Critics argue that the funds allocated to Goldstone's salary could be better spent on essential public services or addressing pressing social issues.

Conclusion

The appointment of David Goldstone as the CEO of the Value for Money Department is a costly irony that highlights the government's questionable decision-making. Given Goldstone's troubled career and the exorbitant salary for a part-time role, this move raises serious concerns about the government's commitment to fiscal responsibility and the efficient use of public funds. As the public and media continue to scrutinise this decision, it remains to be seen whether the Value for Money Department will live up to its name.