It is said that once people start laughing at you, you are completely finished. I think Mark Carney may have reached that point:
The scene is the governor’s office at the Bank of England. Mark Carney is talking to an aide.
Governor, about your forthcoming speech to the chambers of commerce.
Yes
It seems to be about alien life forms.
You’ve seen the news from Mars?
I have, but this speech is supposed to be about labour flexibility and the downside risks to productivity.
You don’t see the downside risks from extremophile bacteria in the briny water on Mars?
Not in the short to medium term, Governor.