There is a huge amount of work to be done to restore and defend our democracy.
Sir Eric’s proposals are a welcome first step towards restoring trust in the ballot box, but photographic evidence is the essential gold standard.
This most basic local service is under increased threat.
“Signing up is a show of support for the Prime Minister”, the email argues, trying to frame the referendum as a test of loyalty.
Passive buck passing from the Electoral Commission and the Police is not good enough.
Plus: Farewell, Ivan Massow. How Eric Pickles cost me £50,000. David Laws’ new book. And: the rise of Jeremy Corbyn is my fault.
The Trade Union Bill is right. But it ends the effective truce on Party funding – so let’s prepare ourselves now for Labour’s revenge strike.
The previous government tended to over-promise and under-deliver on matters like restricting new turbines. With the Liberal Democrats out, will that change?
The Conservative candidate Peter Golds came third.
Priti Patel, Alok Sharma, Shailesh Vara – all have played a part in the big push among Indian-origin voters. It needs more money and support.
It is right to recognise Pickles’ achievements as Communities Secretary – but he must be supported in his new role too.
Number 10, Matthew Hancock, the Whips, Ministers themselves: all must ensure that Sir Humphrey’s grip is loosened.
Now he has an important new role as the Anti-Corruption Tsar.
An order will stop the destruction of hard copy and electronic documents by the Council.
It also confirms the poor judgement of Ken Livingstone.