It is almost inevitable that any ‘blue-sky’ session is going to produce ideas that are impractical, embarrassing, or both – but not that they get into the papers.
Tough measures brought in to ensure that the island remains free of the virus have once again killed off tourism for the foreseeable future.
It would be irrational for any government that believes in the peaceful settlement of disputes not to negotiate a settlement.
A new Prime Minister, and a changing of the guard at the Foreign Office, is a chance to change tack on the British Indian Ocean Territory.
It would be responsible for promoting the British brand right across the country – and there is a lot to promote.
The Government’s long rearguard defence of the British Indian Ocean Territory has reached a higher theatre than I ever expected.
“I will be campaigning with my heart and soul to win that vote and to deliver this Brexit deal, for the good of our United Kingdom and all of our people.”
The current rules blur the line between fishing waters and properly-protected areas, and our Overseas Territories need more support.
Do we really want them either to declare independence, or else become benefit claimants, funded by British taxpayers?
The Blue Belt policy of working with UK Overseas Territories to “create the largest marine sanctuaries anywhere in the world” is succeeding.
While we still have a commitment to spend 0.7 per cent of our GDP on foreign aid, I would much rather see such funds allocated to our Overseas Territories.
One way to ease their relocation to the UK would be to suspend the two-year Habitual Residence test on British Citizens living abroad.
Cameron’s insistence on binding Britain to the OECD has undermined not just May’s vision for overseas development, but his own.
Plus: I miss the Liberal Democrat conference. I miss the beards. I miss the sandals. I miss being asked for a discount on a 50p postcard…