Jeremy Irons criticises bondholder bailout

Legendary actor Jeremy Irons has criticised the last government for totally bailing out the bondholders and warned the present one it should protect householders who are unable to pay for properties which are in negative equity.

The Oscar-winner, who was bestowed with honorary Corkman status yesterday, said he did not see why bondholders, who he said were basically gamblers, had to be bailed out in full.

“The high-rollers got away with it relatively scot free,” said Mr Irons. “Many householders now in negative equity should have been protected. We should allow people to pay mortgages which reflect the [current] value of their home.”