The broad constitutional consensus Starmer cited is fragile, and based on part on a substantial minority of unionists falsifying their preferences.
Rather than simply leaving Corbyn in limbo, the decision not to restore the whip will be seen by the hard left as another provocation.
What use a large majority if the Prime Minister cannot, or will not, prevail over an electorally insignificant lobby of progressive constitutionalists?
Also: true scale of the Irish Protocol’s impact on commerce, and Stormont’s ‘rank incompetence’, show how Ulster unionism needs a refresh.
Johnson’s supporters still think the controversial provisions can be delivered if the Government holds its nerve. But the clock is ticking.
When older heads avoided last month’s Commons debate, the 2019 intake rode out to defend their leader. Many will never so readily do so again.
The different administrations are all in different places with increasing bad blood between them. Also, devosceptics look set to win seats in Wales.
Just over 56 per cent support the decision not to extend the programme through the Christmas holidays, versus almost 38 per cent who disagree.
To both treat every Covid patient who needs it and maintain regular services through the ‘winter crisis’, the NHS needs a more muscular intervention.
Fewer than one in four are holding out for Biden. Does this reflect their view of which will be better for Britain, or simply instinctive mistrust of the Left?
Also: another miserable week in Government for the SNP; the deep damage of the Irish Protocol grow clearer by the day; and more.
The First Minister’s absurd decree banning the sale of ‘non-essential’ goods spotlights the tension between devolved lockdowns and reserved finances.
The media have been quick to pick up on some less well-chosen remarks, but this paints a misleading picture of the full debate.
It worked so well the last ten times, after all. Also: Reckless defects to Abolish as controversy over Drakeford’s lockdown – and who’s paying – deepens.
The 70-strong Conservative Union Research Group wants to support the Government’s mission to strengthen the United Kingdom.