Hip-hop hoodies represent British 'national identity' in Beijing Olympics closing ceremony

CONNOISSEURS of political embarrassment might remember the toe-curling scenes as Tony Blair and the Queen grimaced their way through Auld Lang Syne in the Millennium Dome eight years ago.

But that’s nothing compared with what awaits Gordon Brown and Boris Johnson at the Beijing Olympics closing ceremony.

They will be ‘treated’ to a group of hoodies gyrating to hip-hop music – in a segment intended to celebrate our national identity.

For the British political delegation, it will be a test of nerve – do they dare to stay stony-faced as Rap-on-zel, Jaxx and DJ Spinderella rap about life in an inner-city tower block?

Or do they attempt to muster some enthusiasm for the high-tempo show, and risk looking ridiculous?