As 2017 draws to a close, the United Kingdom is in better shape than many of its supporters had dared to hope.
From a strong field, the Prime Minister’s historic speech on Brexit carries the day.
But the improvement is marginal – and three in five respondents believe she should stand down as Party leader before the next election.
Perhaps they are relieved that trade talks are looming into view. Or maybe the simplest explanation is the best – that they think May got a good deal.
“Whenever you are called upon, regulars or reserves, you always give of your best and inspire us all with your service.”
Whatever you believe, there is force in the claim that truth sets you free. But this Christmas, as at other times, it comes with a cost.
Unlike Michael Fallon, whose presence in Cabinet the Prime Minister inherited, he was her own creation at the top, and one on which she relied.
She replies: “It is with deep regret, and enduring gratitude…that I asked you to resign and have accepted your resignation.”
“Labour: wrong, wrong, wrong,” May declared at Prime Minister’s Questions.
The PM clearly feels the tide of battle has changed, and that she can wear down her adversaries.
That means taking back full control – then using our new-found independence to its greatest possible benefit.
They will “come into force after the conclusion of the implementation period”, the Prime Minister told the Commons.
With a woof-woof here and a moo-moo there, there is a new Tory focus on our feathered, scaled, winged and four-legged friends.
The full force of policy and how it is communicated will need to be wrapped in an overarching theme of securing a bright future for the country after Brexit.