I found this version:
In the beginning was ‘Front Line First’,
And then came ‘Defence Costs Studies’.
After this, came the short term savings,
And the savings were completely without substance.
And darkness was on the face of the aircrew
And they spake unto their Sqn Bosses saying
“This is a crock of ****, and it stinketh.”
And the Bosses went to their Stn Cdrs and sayeth
“It is a pail of dung, and none may abide the odour thereof.”
And the Stn Cdrs went to the AOCs and sayeth unto them
“It is a vessel of fertiliser, and none may abide its strength.”
And the AOCs went to their AOCinCs and sayeth
“It contains that which aids plant growth, and it is very strong.”
And the AOCinCs went to the CAS and sayeth unto him
“It promoteth growth, and it is very powerful.”
And the CAS went to the Minister and sayeth
“The new initiatives are actually promoting the development and efficiency of the RAF, and they are strongly recommended.”
And the Minister looked upon the RAF, and saw it was good,
And then....... the Front Line was First to take its option.
The sad fact is that this happens all too often....arrgggghhh!!!.