Cummings’ skills set

His, Williamson’s and Johnson’s intent to rebalance higher and further education reflects their Red Wall-focused vision – but will it happen?

Neil O’Brien: The New Puritans want to tear down our liberal settlement. Here’s what they think – and why they must be resisted.

Countries need a balance of self-criticism and self-confidence. People are often called on to act for a greater good. But if Britain is shameful, why bother?

Alistair Lexden: On this day, May 8, 75 years ago. Churchill’s VE Day statement in the Lords Chamber.

The great Parliamentarian then spoke to his colleagues from the heart. “Some Members wept,” Channon noted.

We still do not understand Spanish flu – so no wonder the danger posed by the coronavirus is unquantifiable

The NHS issues studiously calm advice, and we wait to see whether the disease can be contained.

WATCH: Fox on Remembrance Sunday. “Extremism and fanaticism always has a price. Lest we forget.”

“Nearly half a million Britons died in World War Two fighting against the anti-semitism, anti-semitism and brutal racism of the nazis.”

Ryan Bourne: Thatcher and Cameron made us happier

It really is remarkable. Every self-reported measure of wellbeing has improved near continuously in the past eight years.

The Englishman’s Betrayal

In the wake of Johnson’s deal, the Government must balance its plan for Northern Ireland with strengthening “our precious Union” – all four parts of it.

Johnny Mercer: On this Armed Forces Day, let’s honour the men and women who protect our country

If if you see a serviceman or woman today, or indeed a veteran young or old, and don’t know what to say – just a simple ‘thank you’ will do.

“For mighty dread had seized their troubled mind”

Unlike the angel, we’re unable to announce tidings of great joy. But it’s worth mulling why the Christmas season can pause even Brexit hostilities.

Alan O’Kelly and Hugh Byrne: It’s time for a Conservative Friends of Ireland group

The Party has not yet cultivated a formal relationship with the Irish community in Britain and this is an opportunity to reach out to what can be a powerful network.

WATCH “They shall grow not old…” – Lord Ashcroft on how Binyon came to write his famous verse

‘The Fallen’ has become synonymous with the act of remembrance, but the origins of the poem are less well-known.

The unknown names that live for evermore

These acts of remembrance may in some slight measure salve grief, and enable those who have not had to endure such things to give thanks for those who do.

WATCH: “We will remember them.” The inspiration for Laurence Binyon’s “For the Fallen”.

Lord Ashcroft on the origins of the famous war poem, part of which is read aloud, up and down the land, each Remembrance Sunday.

Daniel Hannan: If Momentum wants more war memorials, why won’t its members crowd-fund them?

Imagine if they raised money to help honour the soldiers who answered Britain’s call during two world wars – thus showing more than anger and resentment.

Greg Knight: It’s time to stop putting the clock back each year – and plunging us into afternoon darkness

Churchill said more daylight hours would “enlarge the opportunities for the pursuit of health and happiness among the millions of people who live in this country”.