Stephen Booth: An independent UK must decide swiftly on its preferred place in the world

Politicians are so uncomfortable talking seriously about our international role and relationships that instead we constantly engage in proxy battles.

Sheila Lawlor: Ultimately, as the EU’s leaders recognise, the momentum is with Johnson

The big prize will be that the UK’s economic and trade freedom will be restored, something May’s backstop would have prevented, potentially indefinitely.

Alicia Kearns: Ten actions we can and should take to help the Kurds

The UK’s role is limited, as we will not and cannot put our own people into this theatre – but we must do what we can.

John Jenkins: Too many excuses are made for Iran – especially by the EU. We must get real, stand with America, and take decisive action.

I’m glad to see we’ve now had the guts to stop a tanker we believe is smuggling Iranian oil in defiance of sanctions on Syria.

The farcical horse-trading of the EU’s top job is a stark reminder of why we must leave

Who are you voting for to run the EU Commission? Have you watched the debates and scrutinised their manifestos? Oh, wait.

Conservatism is better than liberalism – and Putin much, much worse than either

What he detests is less liberalism than democracy, and the obstacle it poses to Russian foreign policy objectives.

Stephen Booth: Meanwhile, in Brussels, there are rumours of movement from the EU on the backstop

But the Commons has dug in against the Withdrawal Agreement. These immovable obstacles seemingly point in only one direction: a general election.

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown: May failed to lead Britain out of the EU – but her successor can yet succeed

There may be greater willingness by Brussels to negotiate following populist successes in the European elections.

Anthony Browne: Policy Gains from Brexit 3) Restoring Duty Free

Some MPs, such as Charlie Elphicke, have been pushing to bring it back not just to bring joy to passengers, but to help revitalise ports and other seaside towns.

John Redwood: Why populists reject the establishment – and no longer believe what it tells them

Here in Britain, the two main parties are being punished by voters for tearing up their Brexit commitments.

Rachel Wolf: Not much changes when councils change hands. And voters know it.

Good luck to every Conservative standing for election today. Let us hope that in future much more power is devolved to the roles you are competing for.

Ben Roback: Trump’s state visit. Problems abound. But interests – trade, defence, the Special Relationship – endure.

The visit should serve as a timely reminder that the last especially outlasts any individual President or Prime Minister.

For a really serious British foreign policy failure, look at Chamberlain’s attempt to appease Hitler

Tim Bouverie has written a fascinating account of the slide towards the Second World War.

Iain Dale: Why shouldn’t the Conservatives welcome back the Kippers?

Plus: Farage and my evenings. Edinburgh and my show. Notre Dame, fire, Macron – and recovery? And: Javid’s emotional intelligence.

Nous sommes Notre Dame. Why cathedrals matter.

They have a value of their own which reaches beyond their function.  They gain it not by doing anything but by being something.