Craig Hoy: The middle ground is where elections are won and lost in Scotland

Davidson has parked the Conservatives there – and the emergence of the Independent Group opens up new opportunities.

Henry Hill: New report says Scottish independence negotiations will be ‘tougher than Brexit’

Also: Welsh Labour slump in latest poll; SNP push Mundell over post-Brexit funding; DUP resist calls for 50/50 police recruitment – and more.

Henry Hill: Salmond inquiry warns Scottish Government not to destroy any evidence

Also: Labour hint at laws compelling private businesses to deal in Welsh; SNP divided over ‘soft indy’ call; and DUP hold their line on the backstop.

Yes, our system favours the established parties. But it is not invulnerable to change. This could be the start of a breakthrough.

The failure of the SDP by no means proves that a new movement of this kind is doomed to failure.

Meghan Gallacher: The SNP is breaking its election pledge to limit Council Tax rises to three per cent

There will also be a levy on workplace car parking places. Residents could be taxed hundreds of pounds a year for driving into work.

Henry Hill: SDLP link-up with Fianna Fail has a rocky start as senior MLA quits

Also: Backlash grows against SNP’s new tax; Labour AM apologises for antisemitic comment; and Scottish Tories say they’ve stopped Johnson.

Andrew Gimson’s Commons sketch: May bores for Brexit, and has hopes of dividing and ruling

The Prime Minister assured Labour MPs that she will stand up for workers’ rights.

Conservatives should take their Scottish colleagues’ fears about Johnson seriously

The next leader must be someone able to woo the unconverted and broaden the Tory tent. As Mayor, he was that candidate. But is he still?

Craig Hoy: The SNP’s high-tax agenda could give the Scottish Tories an opening

But there are dangers that a future push for fiscal responsibility could be mischaracterised as ‘Conservative cuts’.

Thomas Kerr: The people of Scotland deserve a Council Tax freeze

Glaswegians have seen increases in their taxes – but no improvement in local services. This is why Conservatives are standing up for hard-working families.

Henry Hill: Trimble raises over £10,000 for legal challenge to the backstop

Also: SNP insist on leading Holyrood inquiry into Sturgeon’s handling of Salmond allegations; and Ulster Unionists call for Direct Rule in the event of a no-deal Brexit.

James Bundy: A Department for the Union would strengthen our United Kingdom

It would be responsible for promoting the British brand right across the country – and there is a lot to promote.

Henry Hill: Sturgeon warns SNP to brace for early election if budget falls

Also: DUP urge Government to adopt more aggressive approach to EU negotiations; Cardiff Conservative councillor reinstated; and more.

Commons Brexit votes. What to watch for this evening. All hangs on the Cooper amendment.

If it passes, a signal will be sent that the Commons is likely to take control of Brexit policy – even if the Brady amendment also passes.

Henry Hill: Salmond arrested as ministers get tough with Sturgeon

Also: Car bombing in Londonderry sparks concerns of ‘Brexit violence’ as SDLP announce partnership with Fianna Fail.