I'm not sure how it can't be construed as a joke given the poor accuracy of the CAPTCHA "paint" app and the fact that if you fail the first ridiculously complicated image, you are greeted with this image as the second CAPTCHA to replicate: http://www.geee.net/acids/cntpaint.gif

Granted, maybe they just have humor on the Contact Form (they also say "Your message has been sent to the Prime Minister who will be making some more cuts shortly." when you fail both CAPTCHAs), I haven't read the writings you're referencing.