It's that time of year

The very sharp chap that writes España Economia y Noticias thinks that Spain should leave the euro - no ifs, ands or buts. We don't agree with that, but we do with his insistence that the task that falls on to president-elect Mariano Rajoy's shoulders is one of leadership - not only in Spain, but also in the eurozone. That writer expresses our sentiments perfectly (translation ours):

'It has to be explained to Ms. Merkel that Spain, like Germany, has prepared a plan to exit the euro, a plan that can be put into effect in any moment in which circumstances recommend it and if the long- and short-term legitimate interests of Spain are not taken into account.'

Rajoy has received an indisputable electoral mandate to enact promised reforms within the Spanish economy. Once in progress (and taking the short odds bet that Germany won't budge), he will have the right to question a northern Europe that uses his country to pluralize pork. We hope he's got the guts to play hardball.

Partly in this regard, the following headline appeared on Reuters today:

'Exclusive - Spain's new government mulls outside aid'

The map at the top shows what we, barring inclement weather, will be occupying ourselves with over the next couple of months - starting tomorrow. To derive acres, multiply the figures by 2.5. Posting may be sparse. Or perhaps merely terse.

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