There was one bright spot - one
PR minder who went the extra mile to try to respond to the needs of the journos. If Toddington Ted is Squadron Leader C****** P******n, then he needs to take a bow.
But I hope that I never again talk to an RAF pilot or nav who answers an innocuous question with a half relevant pre-prepared piece of
PR (party line) spin.
Aircrew don't need to be pre-prepared in this way - they have the sense not to talk about tactics or parametrics, and the caution to avoid talking about problems to unknown journos. But a little bit of bias in favour of their own unit/type/community (and gentle teasing of Harriers and Harrier mates) is what we expect and appreciate - since its a reflection of their confidence, esprit de corps and unit pride.