“My message today is this: Britain is a great place to do business.”
Security, cohesion, integration, solidarity: all are intangible. But we pay – literally – to gain them. Why single out self-government?
It’s a politically sensitive subject and the Government has a lot on its plate, but the Treasury is right to be concerned with ensuring value for money.
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.
Normally it’s the other way round. How long will it be before the traditional divide reasserts itself?
“We’ve instituted it within the NHS already and I would like to see the whole Government going to that position because it’s the responsible thing to do.”
Were it not for the backstop, May’s deal would get over the line – with support from an overwhelming majority of Conservatives, including us.
Plus: Cox, another possible. Plus 15 names in total. Women for May. And: I will make sure the Treasury backtracks on the loan charge scandal.
We must look at the benefits that reusable nappies can offer, and promote greater awareness so that people can make an informed choice.
We need to be alive to adding to the impression that the fixing of a social harm can wait a few months while we find a way to replace lost revenue.
The Government has been bold on this so far and now it must be bolder still. For some, this pause may have tragic consequences.
Outside Westminster, Crouch’s resignation will make little impact on a Budget that has gone more or less according to plan. Inside, it may not be quite the same story.
I well remember the representations from Treasury and BEIS to focus on the risks and play down the opportunities.