Wigs and Whigs

Was going to wax lyrical about Ken Clarke and his fancy garb tonight. Never did a wes'cut and gaiters befit a man so well. But, instead, let's have a look at the controversy over the new "55% and you're out" rule, which seems to have resulted in periwigs being wrenched from scratchy scalps and fits of the vapours all round.

The question of Parliament being able to bind itself in perpetuity is the stuff of first year law degree essays. Laws change all the time by will of Parliament. So relax.

You can see this as some amazing devolution of power away from the prime minister, or you can see it as restriction of the ancient freedom to kill off a government with a simple majority of one.

Even if it's just a pragmatic attempt to staple these parties together for an effective period, it can all be changed by Parliament in the future. And if you're worried about a future government's ability to claw back powers, just remember how many powers this last Labour government assumed over you in the last 13 years.

Interesting times in Wales and Scotland today. Head Girl for the Lib Dems discovered a whole new repertoire of facial expressions for Cheryl's visit to the Assembly. Think we all remember George Osborne's openness on the issue of the Barnett Formula, and Cameron's willingness to see the referendum on additional Assembly powers go ahead. And we'll be waiting, chaps. Though Scotland may not be quite as up for that Barnett formula review as Wales is, when it comes down to it.

Quick word on Stephen Timms MP, who was stabbed by a constituent today. Met Mr Timms at a Centre for Social Justice event a couple of years ago. Ok, he's Labour, but he struck me as a genuine parliamentary good guy. Committed to his constituency, committed to helping people, and seeking no acclaim for something he was honoured to see as his job. Good to know there are some like that, isn't it? Get well soon, Stephen.