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Politics live blog: David Cameron's Commons statement on EU summit Politics live blog: David Cameron's Commons statement on EU summit
(40 minutes later)
4.18pm: Labour's Kelvin Hopkins asks Cameron if he supports the Greek decision not to let the European commission run its economy.
Cameron says its their decision.
4.16pm: Richard Shepherd, a Conservative, asks for a guarantee that Britain will not give more money to the IMF.
Cameron says he has already taken Britain out of the EU bail-out fund. He has already set out the conditions which would be attached to any new IMF payments.
4.15pm: Labour's Sir Stuart Bell asks what influence Britain will have over the actions of the 25 countries joining the new eurozone pact.
Cameron says Britain is taking its own measures to stabilise its economy.
4.12pm: Mark Reckless, a Conservative, asks what it was that Cameron vetoed.
Cameron says that as a result of the veto, there is no treaty. (Or Treaty. Rather confusingly, Cameron has described yesterday's agreement as a treaty. What he means is that it's a lower-case deal, not an upper-case new plank of EU law.)
4.10pm: Labour's Ben Bradshaw says Germany grew 3% last year. Given that, why is Cameron so against worker representatives on company boards?
Cameron says Germany did not spend the last decade unbalancing its economy. He does not address Bradshaw's questions.
4.07pm: David Davies, the Conservative MP for Monmouth, says Cameron is prepared to use the veto. Does Cameron know what Miliband would do?
Cameron says he has a copy of the treaty (yesterday's agreement - a treaty, but not a Treaty) with him. Miliband will have to say whether he supports it, he says.
4.05pm: Labour's Dennis Skinner says that Cameron marched his troops up to the top of the Eurosceptic hill and then marched him back down again. There's a word for what Cameron did, says Skinner. It's appeasement. If the summit had been held in Munich, Cameron would have come back talking about having a piece of paper in his hand.
Cameron says Skinner has always voted against Europe. This time, there won't be a treaty for Skinner to vote against.
4.04pm: Simon Hughes, the Lib Dem deputy leader, says constituents want EU leaders to focus on growth.
Cameron says it was encouraging how much time was spent on the "nitty-gritty" of growth.
4.03pm: Labour's Mike Gapes asks how Britain could use legal action to stop the eurozone countries encroaching on the single market.
Cameron says Gapes does not understand how the institutions work. But he does not elaborate.
4.01pm: The full text of Cameron's statement is now on the Number 10 website.
Here's the key quote.

Mr Speaker, let me be clear.
This is a treaty outside of the EU.
We are not signing it.
We are not ratifying it.
We are not part of it.
And it places no obligations on the UK.
It doesn't have the force of EU law for us, nor does it for the EU institutions or for the countries that have signed it.
And there will be no inner group of European countries distorting the single market from inside the EU Treaty.
That is the fundamental protection we secured with our veto in December – and we stuck to it at yesterday's council.
4.00pm: Cameron says Britain will only put more money into the IMF if the eurozone countries agree to put up their own money to support the euro.
3.59pm: Cameron says Britain raises more money from stamp duty on share transactions than the French hope to raise from their new financial transaction tax.
3.57pm: Labour's Chris Bryant asks Cameron to accept that, if he went to the European court of justice to try to stop the eurozone countries using the EU institutions, he would lose.
Cameron says the eurozone countries wanted to do various things with the EU institutions. Some of them were acceptable. But some of them were legally questionable.
3.56pm: Bill Cash, a Conservative, says the European scrutiny committe that he chairs will investigate the lawfulness of the new "non-treaty".
Will Cameron promise that this new agreement won't be folded back into the standard EU treaties?
Cameron says there is no danger of this happening, because the new agreement is not part of EU law.
3.54pm: Jack Straw, the Labour former foreign secretary, asks Cameron what has been achieved by his veto.
Cameron says the new deal is not an EU treaty. Therefore it does not have the force of EU law, he says.
3.49pm: Cameron says there are two problems with Miliband's approach.
First, Miliband says he cannot say whether he supports the new treaty or not.
Miliband has had all Christmas to make up his mind. At the EU summit every country had to say whether it would sign up or not. Cameron said he said he would not sign. But Miliband has not made up his mind.
Second, this is not an EU treaty. There were treaties in Maastricht, Amsterdam and Lisbon. But there will be no treaty of Brussels, Cameron says, because Britain vetoed it.
John Bercow intervenes to stop the heckling. He complains about Ed Balls gesticulating too much. Cameron says the Labour benches are depleted because Labour MPs have been eating Balls' lasagne - a reference to this story about Balls being involved in a supposed lasagne-gate plot.
3.42pm: Ed Miliband is replying.
He says he supports the government on Iran, Syria and Burma.
On Europe, the whole House now knows the truth, he says.

A veto is not for life. It's just for Christmas.
Even Cameron's cabinet believed him. Iain Duncan Smith said at the weekend (in his interview on the Andrew Marr show) that Cameron vetoed the eurozone countries using the EU institutions.
Miliband asks Cameron to confirm that the eurozone countries will be able to use the EU institutions.
And he quotes from the press conference Cameron gave at 4am after the December summit. Cameron said the new group would not be able to use the EU buildings. Can Cameron confirm that that is not happening?
Miliband also quotes Cameron as saying that he blocked the treaty.
But, holding up the document agreed last night, Miliband says the new document looks like a treaty and sounds like a treaty.
He says it will encroach on the single market.
Britain will not be allowed to attend the new group's meetings, he says.
But who will protect Britain's interests? The prime minister has a last line of defence - the European commission.
Cameron should not have walked out of the meeting in December, Miliband says.
Instead of constructing "phantom vetoes", he should have been committed to getting a solution to the euro crisis.
The "veto that never was" has been exposed, Miliband says. Cameron's promise has "turned out to be worthless". No wonder even Cameron's backbenchers don't believe him.
3.40pm: On Syria and Burma, Cameron says the EU will be looking at what happens in the next round of elections in that country.
On Syria, he says the EU countries agreed to tighten sanctions if the violence does not end.
3.36pm: On the eurozone crisis, he says "proper fiscal discipline" in the eurozone is necessary as part of the long-term solution to the problem. This has always been agreed, he says.
In December he went to the EU summit demanding safeguards. He did not get those safeguards, so he vetoed the treaty.
As a result the eurozone countries are having to make separate arrangements. Some 25 EU countries have agreed to take part. Britain and the Czech Republic are staying outside.
On the issue of EU institutions, he says the new agreement is clear about the new union not being allowed to encroach on the single market.
Britain will watch this closely. If necessary, the government will take action, including "legal action", to prevent the new arrangements interfering with the single market.
This is a treaty "outside the EU", he says.
Britain is not part of it. It places no obligations on Britain. It does not have the force of EU law. And as a result it will not distort the single market. That is what he achieved with his veto, he says.
3.35pm: On competitiveness, he says the EU agreed to complete the services single market. And they agreed to take stepts to promote the digital economy. These measures could add 6% to EU GDP by the end of the decade, he says.3.35pm: On competitiveness, he says the EU agreed to complete the services single market. And they agreed to take stepts to promote the digital economy. These measures could add 6% to EU GDP by the end of the decade, he says.
3.33pm: David Cameron is making his statement now.3.33pm: David Cameron is making his statement now.
He says countries across Europe need bold action to secure their economies.He says countries across Europe need bold action to secure their economies.
The EU agreed important measures to improve competitiveness.The EU agreed important measures to improve competitiveness.
They discussed the treaty to improve the eurozone, he says.They discussed the treaty to improve the eurozone, he says.
And they issued a statement on Syria. And they issued a statement on Syria and Burma.
Cameron says he will cover all these areas.Cameron says he will cover all these areas.
3.27pm: The Tory Eurosceptics seem to be less critical of David Cameron than one might have expected. Why? Tim Shipman at the Daily Mail says it might have something to do with the sight of Ed Miliband attacking Cameron for selling people "down the river". (See 8.50am.)3.27pm: The Tory Eurosceptics seem to be less critical of David Cameron than one might have expected. Why? Tim Shipman at the Daily Mail says it might have something to do with the sight of Ed Miliband attacking Cameron for selling people "down the river". (See 8.50am.)
If one thing can be guaranteed to help rally support on the Tory benches is the sound of Labour's leader revving up the bandwagon.If one thing can be guaranteed to help rally support on the Tory benches is the sound of Labour's leader revving up the bandwagon.
3.18pm: David Cameron's hardest task in his statement this afternoon will be explaining what he actually achieved with his December "veto", given the fact that Britain now seems willing to allow the eurozone countries to form a fiscal union in which the EU institutions like the European court of justice will play a role.3.18pm: David Cameron's hardest task in his statement this afternoon will be explaining what he actually achieved with his December "veto", given the fact that Britain now seems willing to allow the eurozone countries to form a fiscal union in which the EU institutions like the European court of justice will play a role.
Not surprisingly, Cameron was pressed on this at his news conference in Brussels last night. Here's how he answered the charge. I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.Not surprisingly, Cameron was pressed on this at his news conference in Brussels last night. Here's how he answered the charge. I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
On the issue of the veto: look, nothing changes the fact that we were confronted by an EU treaty and we vetoed that treaty. So there was the Nice treaty, there was the Maastricht Treaty, there was the Amsterdam Treaty. All EU treaties. Well there isn't a Brussels EU treaty, because I vetoed it. It doesn't exist ...On the issue of the veto: look, nothing changes the fact that we were confronted by an EU treaty and we vetoed that treaty. So there was the Nice treaty, there was the Maastricht Treaty, there was the Amsterdam Treaty. All EU treaties. Well there isn't a Brussels EU treaty, because I vetoed it. It doesn't exist ...
So to argue that the veto doesn't matter, I think, seems, bizarre. We're not in this treaty, we're not part of it, we're not bound by it, we don't have to ratify it, we don't take it to the British Parliament. That is what the veto secures you.So to argue that the veto doesn't matter, I think, seems, bizarre. We're not in this treaty, we're not part of it, we're not bound by it, we don't have to ratify it, we don't take it to the British Parliament. That is what the veto secures you.
On the issue of the institutions, you have to understand that the EU institutions are already used in other settings that we're not involved in. They're used for the euro-group countries, they're used in Schengen.On the issue of the institutions, you have to understand that the EU institutions are already used in other settings that we're not involved in. They're used for the euro-group countries, they're used in Schengen.
The key point here for me is what is in our national interest? Now, our national interest is that these countries get on and sort out the mess that is the Euro. That's the national interest.The key point here for me is what is in our national interest? Now, our national interest is that these countries get on and sort out the mess that is the Euro. That's the national interest.
It's also in our national interest that the new treaty outside the EU doesn't encroach on the single-market or the things that we care about. That's the outcome we want to achieve. So we'll be watching like hawk. If there's any sign that they're going to encroach on the single market, then clearly we would take the appropriate action, if I could put it that way.It's also in our national interest that the new treaty outside the EU doesn't encroach on the single-market or the things that we care about. That's the outcome we want to achieve. So we'll be watching like hawk. If there's any sign that they're going to encroach on the single market, then clearly we would take the appropriate action, if I could put it that way.
2.58pm: David Cameron is going to be making his Commons statement about yesterday's EU summit at 3.30pm. Judging by the relatively small number of Tory backbenchers who have been taking to the airwaves to denounce him today, he's not going to suffer a full-scale Eurosceptic monstering. But it's not going to be an easy statement either, and we might learn a bit more about where the Tories are heading on Europe.2.58pm: David Cameron is going to be making his Commons statement about yesterday's EU summit at 3.30pm. Judging by the relatively small number of Tory backbenchers who have been taking to the airwaves to denounce him today, he's not going to suffer a full-scale Eurosceptic monstering. But it's not going to be an easy statement either, and we might learn a bit more about where the Tories are heading on Europe.
Before he starts, here's a background reading list.Before he starts, here's a background reading list.
• Cameron's statement to MPs on Europe in October, delivered just before MPs voted on having a referendum on Britain's membership of the EU.• Cameron's statement to MPs on Europe in October, delivered just before MPs voted on having a referendum on Britain's membership of the EU.
• Cameron's statement to MPs on 12 December 2011, after he supposedly "vetoed" a new EU treaty at the last EU summit.• Cameron's statement to MPs on 12 December 2011, after he supposedly "vetoed" a new EU treaty at the last EU summit.
• My blog covering the Commons exchanges when Cameron delivered his statement in December.• My blog covering the Commons exchanges when Cameron delivered his statement in December.
2.27pm: Here's an afternoon reading list.2.27pm: Here's an afternoon reading list.
• Peter Kellner at YouGov says people are less gloomy about the economy than they were a year ago.• Peter Kellner at YouGov says people are less gloomy about the economy than they were a year ago.
• And Jonathan Jones at Coffee House says the Conservative lead on the economy has been growing - even though it emerged last week that the economy shrank at the end of 2011.• And Jonathan Jones at Coffee House says the Conservative lead on the economy has been growing - even though it emerged last week that the economy shrank at the end of 2011.
• Declan Gaffney at LabourList explains why he does not support the benefit cap.• Declan Gaffney at LabourList explains why he does not support the benefit cap.
The benefit cap policy is a confidence trick on the part of the government which nobody with a serious interest in social security reform would recognise as addressing any identifiable problems with the system. It is the welfare reform equivalent of clause 28, a symbolic policy which is primarily intended to build public belief in the problem it claims to address. Although ministers like to boast about its popularity, it is based on complete contempt for the public, as seen in the 'bait-and-switch' tactics employed by ministers in promoting it.The benefit cap policy is a confidence trick on the part of the government which nobody with a serious interest in social security reform would recognise as addressing any identifiable problems with the system. It is the welfare reform equivalent of clause 28, a symbolic policy which is primarily intended to build public belief in the problem it claims to address. Although ministers like to boast about its popularity, it is based on complete contempt for the public, as seen in the 'bait-and-switch' tactics employed by ministers in promoting it.
• James Forsyth at Coffee House says Nick Boles has delivered an interesting speech on how to boost Britain's competitiveness.• James Forsyth at Coffee House says Nick Boles has delivered an interesting speech on how to boost Britain's competitiveness.
Boles argues for a huge cut in employers' National Insurance. This would be paid for by a land value tax from which people's main home and farmland would be excluded. Personally, I would rather see this funded by more spending cuts but a push to get down employers' NI, one of the most economically damaging taxes, is to be welcomed.Boles argues for a huge cut in employers' National Insurance. This would be paid for by a land value tax from which people's main home and farmland would be excluded. Personally, I would rather see this funded by more spending cuts but a push to get down employers' NI, one of the most economically damaging taxes, is to be welcomed.


The full text of the Boles speech is here.

The full text of the Boles speech is here.
1.50pm: David Davis (left), the Conservative Eurosceptic (and David Cameron's main rival for the leadership in 2005), has told the World at One that Cameron has been receiving "bad advice" on Europe and that he should revive his veto and use it to stop the eurozone countries using the European court of justice to police their new fiscal union.1.50pm: David Davis (left), the Conservative Eurosceptic (and David Cameron's main rival for the leadership in 2005), has told the World at One that Cameron has been receiving "bad advice" on Europe and that he should revive his veto and use it to stop the eurozone countries using the European court of justice to police their new fiscal union.
It is very important that the veto includes preventing the use of some of the EU institutions – not the rooms and the coffee and the staff, but the court, because the European court has a history of expanding its brief and applying principles nobody thought they would. We have suffered from it in the past, and there is a real risk that in this case, by allowing the court to have a say, then we will do ourselves harm without realising it in the future ... Reserving our position has to mean something and it has to mean we reserve the right to veto something late on, whether it is the use of the court or an element of the treaty.It is very important that the veto includes preventing the use of some of the EU institutions – not the rooms and the coffee and the staff, but the court, because the European court has a history of expanding its brief and applying principles nobody thought they would. We have suffered from it in the past, and there is a real risk that in this case, by allowing the court to have a say, then we will do ourselves harm without realising it in the future ... Reserving our position has to mean something and it has to mean we reserve the right to veto something late on, whether it is the use of the court or an element of the treaty.
Davis did not adopt a confrontational tone and, superficially, his stance is similar to Cameron's. At his news conference last night, Cameron stressed that the government had not taken a final decision to endorse the new fiscal union. (See 9.09am.) Britain was reserving its position, Cameron suggested.Davis did not adopt a confrontational tone and, superficially, his stance is similar to Cameron's. At his news conference last night, Cameron stressed that the government had not taken a final decision to endorse the new fiscal union. (See 9.09am.) Britain was reserving its position, Cameron suggested.
But, actually, the gulf between the Davis position and the Cameron position is rather wide. Davis is firmly opposed to the European court of justice having any role in the new fiscal union arrangements. Cameron may be saying that he hasn't made a final commitment, but he doesn't sound like a man who's planning to do what Davis wants.But, actually, the gulf between the Davis position and the Cameron position is rather wide. Davis is firmly opposed to the European court of justice having any role in the new fiscal union arrangements. Cameron may be saying that he hasn't made a final commitment, but he doesn't sound like a man who's planning to do what Davis wants.
1.15pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.1.15pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.
• David Cameron is preparing to make a Commons statement about the eurozone's new fiscal union following Labour claims that he sold the country down the river at the EU summit by failing to protect vital national interests. Ed Miliband made the allegation in a series of interviews this morning. He said that the "veto" exercised by Cameron at the EU summit in December had been exposed as a "phantom veto" because Cameron has now accepted that the eurozone countries can use the EU institutions to policy their new fiscal union. Previously Cameron said he would stop this. Some Tory Eurosceptics have also criticised Cameron's new stance. For example, this is what Mark Reckless said this morning.• David Cameron is preparing to make a Commons statement about the eurozone's new fiscal union following Labour claims that he sold the country down the river at the EU summit by failing to protect vital national interests. Ed Miliband made the allegation in a series of interviews this morning. He said that the "veto" exercised by Cameron at the EU summit in December had been exposed as a "phantom veto" because Cameron has now accepted that the eurozone countries can use the EU institutions to policy their new fiscal union. Previously Cameron said he would stop this. Some Tory Eurosceptics have also criticised Cameron's new stance. For example, this is what Mark Reckless said this morning.
We haven't been able to exercise a veto, we haven't been able to protect our interest and it's for that reason I think the only solution is to give the British people a referendum on our membership of the EU ... I would have liked the Prime Minister to do what he said in December, which was ensure that the single market was protected and in particular ensure that any new financial regulation which might strangle the City of London was subject to unanimity The Prime Minister said unless he gained those concessions he would use the veto.We haven't been able to exercise a veto, we haven't been able to protect our interest and it's for that reason I think the only solution is to give the British people a referendum on our membership of the EU ... I would have liked the Prime Minister to do what he said in December, which was ensure that the single market was protected and in particular ensure that any new financial regulation which might strangle the City of London was subject to unanimity The Prime Minister said unless he gained those concessions he would use the veto.

And this is what Douglas Carswell said.
And this is what Douglas Carswell said.
We're back to business as usual, ministers and mandarins cutting deals, and the people of this country ignored. If you're a Eurosceptic there's only one show in town after yesterday, and that's calling for a referendum.We're back to business as usual, ministers and mandarins cutting deals, and the people of this country ignored. If you're a Eurosceptic there's only one show in town after yesterday, and that's calling for a referendum.
But other Tory Eurosceptics have not been speaking out and, as Gary Gibbon reports on his Channel 4 blog, Cameron does not seem to be facing a widespread Eurosceptic revolt. We'll find out more when Cameron delivers his statement at 3.30pm. I will be covering it in full.But other Tory Eurosceptics have not been speaking out and, as Gary Gibbon reports on his Channel 4 blog, Cameron does not seem to be facing a widespread Eurosceptic revolt. We'll find out more when Cameron delivers his statement at 3.30pm. I will be covering it in full.
• Michael Gove, the education secretary, has announce that thousands of vocational qualifications – including courses in fish husbandry and nail technology – are to be stripped out of school league tables. Gove defended the decision when he gave evidence to the Commons education committee this morning.• Michael Gove, the education secretary, has announce that thousands of vocational qualifications – including courses in fish husbandry and nail technology – are to be stripped out of school league tables. Gove defended the decision when he gave evidence to the Commons education committee this morning.
It will add value overall. No one is served if you encourage students to take subjects which do not further advance them. There were changes made to performance tables in 2004 which led to a massive increase to the number of subjects being pursued. That was wrong and a misalignment of resources. Nothing is more likely to harm vocational education than pupils taking a course and then realising that course doesn't provide them with the qualifications they need.It will add value overall. No one is served if you encourage students to take subjects which do not further advance them. There were changes made to performance tables in 2004 which led to a massive increase to the number of subjects being pursued. That was wrong and a misalignment of resources. Nothing is more likely to harm vocational education than pupils taking a course and then realising that course doesn't provide them with the qualifications they need.
Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretary, said he would was concerned Gove was undermining some valuable qualifications.Stephen Twigg, the shadow education secretary, said he would was concerned Gove was undermining some valuable qualifications.
Labour will support attempts to maintain rigour in our qualification system. It is not right that some young people are told they can get a qualification which won't be valued by universities, colleges or employers. However, we need to be careful not to throw the baby out with the bath water. As employers like JCB have said, the government is undermining important subjects like the Engineering diploma.Labour will support attempts to maintain rigour in our qualification system. It is not right that some young people are told they can get a qualification which won't be valued by universities, colleges or employers. However, we need to be careful not to throw the baby out with the bath water. As employers like JCB have said, the government is undermining important subjects like the Engineering diploma.
David Blunkett, the Labour former education secretary, made the same point on the Today programme. "Do not send the message out that this is a wholesale trashing of what was there, and that somehow vocational education has been downgraded," Blunkett said. "If you do that, you'll do us a very great disservice."David Blunkett, the Labour former education secretary, made the same point on the Today programme. "Do not send the message out that this is a wholesale trashing of what was there, and that somehow vocational education has been downgraded," Blunkett said. "If you do that, you'll do us a very great disservice."
• Gove has revealed that he is awaiting fresh official advice before complying with guidance from the information commissioner on the use of private email accounts. As the Press Association reports, Christopher Graham, the commissioner, told Gove last month that private emails and texts which discuss official business are subject to the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and asked him to "actively discourage" his staff from using them. Graham carried out his first ever probe of a government department under the Freedom of Information law following press reports about the use of private email by Gove and his advisers. Gove told the MPs that his department's own chief freedom of information adviser had ruled last May that private email accounts are covered by transparency laws introduced under the previous Labour administration. But he also said this advice conflicted with that of the Cabinet Office, which said that anything held in a private email account was not subject to disclosure under FOI. Gove said: "We followed the advice we received from the Cabinet Office. We have received a view from the information commissioner. I am waiting for the Cabinet Office to give us updated guidance in the light of what the information commissioner says. In the meantime, we have chosen to act in line with the guidance we have received from the Cabinet Office."• Gove has revealed that he is awaiting fresh official advice before complying with guidance from the information commissioner on the use of private email accounts. As the Press Association reports, Christopher Graham, the commissioner, told Gove last month that private emails and texts which discuss official business are subject to the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act and asked him to "actively discourage" his staff from using them. Graham carried out his first ever probe of a government department under the Freedom of Information law following press reports about the use of private email by Gove and his advisers. Gove told the MPs that his department's own chief freedom of information adviser had ruled last May that private email accounts are covered by transparency laws introduced under the previous Labour administration. But he also said this advice conflicted with that of the Cabinet Office, which said that anything held in a private email account was not subject to disclosure under FOI. Gove said: "We followed the advice we received from the Cabinet Office. We have received a view from the information commissioner. I am waiting for the Cabinet Office to give us updated guidance in the light of what the information commissioner says. In the meantime, we have chosen to act in line with the guidance we have received from the Cabinet Office."
• The British Medical Journal, Health Service Journal and Nursing Times have published a joint editorial saying the government's health reforms are a "damaging … unholy mess" that will need overhauling in five years' time. Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, said: "These are scathing criticisms from three respective health journals which are normally quite reserved when it comes to making comments on health policy. The Government just has to listen to the criticisms that are being made. Quite frankly I can't see how this bill can possibly carry on, given the overwhelming opposition."• The British Medical Journal, Health Service Journal and Nursing Times have published a joint editorial saying the government's health reforms are a "damaging … unholy mess" that will need overhauling in five years' time. Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, said: "These are scathing criticisms from three respective health journals which are normally quite reserved when it comes to making comments on health policy. The Government just has to listen to the criticisms that are being made. Quite frankly I can't see how this bill can possibly carry on, given the overwhelming opposition."
• Sir Philip Mawer, the prime minister's independent adviser on ministerial interests, has told MPs that he should have investigated the allegations about Liam Fox and Adam Werritty. "I do believe that the adviser ought to have been brought in to investigate the Fox/Werritty affair, and brought in quickly," he said in evidence to the public administration committee. "Why didn't that happen? I'm not the person to answer that."• Sir Philip Mawer, the prime minister's independent adviser on ministerial interests, has told MPs that he should have investigated the allegations about Liam Fox and Adam Werritty. "I do believe that the adviser ought to have been brought in to investigate the Fox/Werritty affair, and brought in quickly," he said in evidence to the public administration committee. "Why didn't that happen? I'm not the person to answer that."
• The four children's commissioners for the nations of the UK have said the government's benefit cap could have a "serious negative impact" on children. In a joint statement they said: "Families who receive welfare benefits are particularly vulnerable because they live in poverty - small changes in their household income can have a big effect on their welfare. We are concerned that many more families and their children will be pushed into absolute poverty over the coming years if these proposed changes go ahead."• The four children's commissioners for the nations of the UK have said the government's benefit cap could have a "serious negative impact" on children. In a joint statement they said: "Families who receive welfare benefits are particularly vulnerable because they live in poverty - small changes in their household income can have a big effect on their welfare. We are concerned that many more families and their children will be pushed into absolute poverty over the coming years if these proposed changes go ahead."
• The Conservative peer Michael Ashcroft has been accused of deliberately misleading the public and the stock exchange over his business interests. As Rob Evans reports, the allegations by the BBC's Panorama centre on a construction company that allegedly built and funded a luxury mansion for a former prime minister now under investigation for corruption. In a programme broadcast on Monday night, Panorama alleged that the peer had given the misleading impression to the public that he had no involvement in the firm when the mansion was being built. Ashcroft has rejected the allegation. A spokesman for the peer said the peer had had no involvement in the day-to-day management of the construction firm for more than a decade.• The Conservative peer Michael Ashcroft has been accused of deliberately misleading the public and the stock exchange over his business interests. As Rob Evans reports, the allegations by the BBC's Panorama centre on a construction company that allegedly built and funded a luxury mansion for a former prime minister now under investigation for corruption. In a programme broadcast on Monday night, Panorama alleged that the peer had given the misleading impression to the public that he had no involvement in the firm when the mansion was being built. Ashcroft has rejected the allegation. A spokesman for the peer said the peer had had no involvement in the day-to-day management of the construction firm for more than a decade.
• Sir Christopher Meyer, the former chairman of the Press Complaints Commission, has strongly defended the record of the PCC in evidence to the Leveson inquiry. There are more details on our live blog.

• The Conservatives have set up a new party, the Conservative and Unionist Party of Northern Ireland, to serve as a "modern, centre-right, pro-Union party" for Northern Ireland. It will be linked to the Conservative party.		• Sir Christopher Meyer, the former chairman of the Press Complaints Commission, has strongly defended the record of the PCC in evidence to the Leveson inquiry. There are more details on our live blog.

• The Conservatives have set up a new party, the Conservative and Unionist Party of Northern Ireland, to serve as a "modern, centre-right, pro-Union party" for Northern Ireland. It will be linked to the Conservative party.
• The Ministry of Defence has announced that a Type 45 destroyer is being sent to the Falklands. According to the MoD, it's a routine deployment that has nothing to do with increased tension between Britain and Argentina about the future of the islands.• The Ministry of Defence has announced that a Type 45 destroyer is being sent to the Falklands. According to the MoD, it's a routine deployment that has nothing to do with increased tension between Britain and Argentina about the future of the islands.
• The Department for the Environment has announced that a new "national trust for waterways" will receive £800m in funding over the next 15 years to help it look after canals and rivers.• The Department for the Environment has announced that a new "national trust for waterways" will receive £800m in funding over the next 15 years to help it look after canals and rivers.
• Justine Greening, the transport secretary, has announced plans to decentralise control of transport infrastructure spending projects worth more than £5m.• Justine Greening, the transport secretary, has announced plans to decentralise control of transport infrastructure spending projects worth more than £5m.
12.38pm: The Labour MP John Mann has come up with an idea to help the economy. He has tabled parliamentary bills calling for eight government departments to be moved out of London. He said this would have several advantages.12.38pm: The Labour MP John Mann has come up with an idea to help the economy. He has tabled parliamentary bills calling for eight government departments to be moved out of London. He said this would have several advantages.
By spreading department headquarters around the United Kingdom, the government can begin levelling a playing field which is currently heavily weighted in favour of London and the South East. Doing so will remove pressure from the overheated London economy, save money currently spent paying employees a London allowance, bring jobs to areas hardest hit by the recession, and provide the government with a more rounded perspective when creating policies.By spreading department headquarters around the United Kingdom, the government can begin levelling a playing field which is currently heavily weighted in favour of London and the South East. Doing so will remove pressure from the overheated London economy, save money currently spent paying employees a London allowance, bring jobs to areas hardest hit by the recession, and provide the government with a more rounded perspective when creating policies.
12.28pm: Number 10 told journalists that there was "agreement round the cabinet table" when the Prime Minister reported back on the outcome of yesterday's EU summit at this morning's meeting of cabinet. Iain Duncan Smith, the work and pensions secretary, raised legal issues over the use of EU institutions but "recognised" that they had been "registered in the treaty", the prime minister's spokesman said.12.28pm: Number 10 told journalists that there was "agreement round the cabinet table" when the Prime Minister reported back on the outcome of yesterday's EU summit at this morning's meeting of cabinet. Iain Duncan Smith, the work and pensions secretary, raised legal issues over the use of EU institutions but "recognised" that they had been "registered in the treaty", the prime minister's spokesman said.
12.10pm: Theresa May, the home secretary, has said that the report into the relaxation of border controls that led to the resignation of Brodie Clark as head of the border force will not be published until the end of next month at the earliest. Originally it was due in January. But May said John Vine, the independent chief inspector of the UK Border Agency (UKBA) who is carrying out the investigation, has asked for more time.12.10pm: Theresa May, the home secretary, has said that the report into the relaxation of border controls that led to the resignation of Brodie Clark as head of the border force will not be published until the end of next month at the earliest. Originally it was due in January. But May said John Vine, the independent chief inspector of the UK Border Agency (UKBA) who is carrying out the investigation, has asked for more time.
12.05pm: The Ministry of Defence has announced that it's sending one of the Royal Navy's most advanced new warships to the Falklands. But it's only a routine deployment, they claim, not a threat.12.05pm: The Ministry of Defence has announced that it's sending one of the Royal Navy's most advanced new warships to the Falklands. But it's only a routine deployment, they claim, not a threat.
Here's what the Press Association have filed.Here's what the Press Association have filed.
Officials said the deployment was long planned, however, and not a riposte to increased tensions over the soverienty of the islands.
HMS Dauntless, a Type 45 destroyer, is due to set sail for the South Atlantic on her maiden mission in the coming months to replace frigate HMS Montrose.
It comes amid a diplomatic war of words over renewed Argentinian claims to what it calls Las Malvinas, with David Cameron accusing them of "colonialism".
The issue is especially sensitive as the 30th anniversary approaches of the liberation of the islands by Britain from an Argentine invasion.
A Royal Navy spokesman rejected suggestions the decision to send the ultra-modern destroyer to the region represented an escalation of the UK's position.
"The Royal Navy has had a continuous presence in the South Atlantic for many years. The deployment of HMS Dauntless to the South Atlantic has been long planned, is entirely routine and replaces another ship on patrol," he said.		Officials said the deployment was long planned, however, and not a riposte to increased tensions over the soverienty of the islands.
HMS Dauntless, a Type 45 destroyer, is due to set sail for the South Atlantic on her maiden mission in the coming months to replace frigate HMS Montrose.
It comes amid a diplomatic war of words over renewed Argentinian claims to what it calls Las Malvinas, with David Cameron accusing them of "colonialism".
The issue is especially sensitive as the 30th anniversary approaches of the liberation of the islands by Britain from an Argentine invasion.
A Royal Navy spokesman rejected suggestions the decision to send the ultra-modern destroyer to the region represented an escalation of the UK's position.
"The Royal Navy has had a continuous presence in the South Atlantic for many years. The deployment of HMS Dauntless to the South Atlantic has been long planned, is entirely routine and replaces another ship on patrol," he said.
11.18am: At the last election the Conservatives formed a pact with the Ulster Unionists in Northern Ireland. It didn't work out. The UUP's only MP, Sylvia Hermon, walked out because she did not agree with the alliance - she was re-elected as an independent - and all the Conservative/UUP candidates were defeated.11.18am: At the last election the Conservatives formed a pact with the Ulster Unionists in Northern Ireland. It didn't work out. The UUP's only MP, Sylvia Hermon, walked out because she did not agree with the alliance - she was re-elected as an independent - and all the Conservative/UUP candidates were defeated.
Now the Tories are having another go at organising in Northern Ireland. They are launching a new "Conservative and Unionist Party of Northern Ireland" which will be linked to the Conservative party but which will enjoy considerable autonomy.

Here's the news release about the initiative. And here's a statement from Lord Feldman, the Conservative co-chairman.		Now the Tories are having another go at organising in Northern Ireland. They are launching a new "Conservative and Unionist Party of Northern Ireland" which will be linked to the Conservative party but which will enjoy considerable autonomy.

Here's the news release about the initiative. And here's a statement from Lord Feldman, the Conservative co-chairman.

For too long politics in Northern Ireland have been built around sectarianism and division. We want to move past the politics of the peace process to a more normal state of affairs where everyone in Northern Ireland has the opportunity to vote for a modern, centre-right, pro-Union party.
For too long politics in Northern Ireland have been built around sectarianism and division. We want to move past the politics of the peace process to a more normal state of affairs where everyone in Northern Ireland has the opportunity to vote for a modern, centre-right, pro-Union party.
This new political party won't be encumbered by the conflict and divisions of Northern Ireland's past. We want to reach out to everybody in Northern Ireland, regardless of their background.This new political party won't be encumbered by the conflict and divisions of Northern Ireland's past. We want to reach out to everybody in Northern Ireland, regardless of their background.
11.05am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.11.05am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.

• Rachel Sylvester in the Times (paywall) says the most interesting divide in the government is not between Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, but between "the reactionaries and the revolutionaries within both parties".		As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.

• Rachel Sylvester in the Times (paywall) says the most interesting divide in the government is not between Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, but between "the reactionaries and the revolutionaries within both parties".
The most interesting divide in the Government at the moment is not between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats but between what could be called the reactionaries and the revolutionaries within both parties. It is a clash of those who instinctively favour big business and those who would prefer to support small start-ups and entrepreneurs.The most interesting divide in the Government at the moment is not between the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats but between what could be called the reactionaries and the revolutionaries within both parties. It is a clash of those who instinctively favour big business and those who would prefer to support small start-ups and entrepreneurs.
One No 10 adviser describes a distinction between the private sector "bureaucrats" — who manage multi- million-pound corporate machines — and the "insurgents" who risk everything to set up their own companies. "We should be on the side of the insurgents," he says. "If someone starts the next Facebook and makes £10 billion they should be rewarded and allowed to keep that money. But Stephen Hester is a quintessential example of a bureaucrat. He has never gone a day without earning a salary. He's never mortgaged his house to get a business off the ground." The machines at the Treasury and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills are, however, set up to favour existing corporate success stories over potential future winners. "Big bureaucracies are comfortable dealing with big business bureaucracies," according to the Downing Street official.One No 10 adviser describes a distinction between the private sector "bureaucrats" — who manage multi- million-pound corporate machines — and the "insurgents" who risk everything to set up their own companies. "We should be on the side of the insurgents," he says. "If someone starts the next Facebook and makes £10 billion they should be rewarded and allowed to keep that money. But Stephen Hester is a quintessential example of a bureaucrat. He has never gone a day without earning a salary. He's never mortgaged his house to get a business off the ground." The machines at the Treasury and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills are, however, set up to favour existing corporate success stories over potential future winners. "Big bureaucracies are comfortable dealing with big business bureaucracies," according to the Downing Street official.

• Philip Stephens in the Financial Times (subscription) says it was a mistake for David Cameron to lecture the Germans at Davos last week.
• Philip Stephens in the Financial Times (subscription) says it was a mistake for David Cameron to lecture the Germans at Davos last week.
Sometimes humility does not go amiss. Britain's politicians once understood the worth of self-deprecation. This thought came to mind the other day when David Cameron tipped up in Davos to tell Angela Merkel how to run her economy. Did Mr Cameron really imagine that the German chancellor was ready to be lectured by a British prime minister?Sometimes humility does not go amiss. Britain's politicians once understood the worth of self-deprecation. This thought came to mind the other day when David Cameron tipped up in Davos to tell Angela Merkel how to run her economy. Did Mr Cameron really imagine that the German chancellor was ready to be lectured by a British prime minister?
A smidgen of self-awareness might have suggested otherwise. Britain's politicians – Tory and Labour alike – are fond of reminding the world how clever they were to stay out of the single currency. The implication is that Britain boasts an economic performance to put the eurozone to shame ...A smidgen of self-awareness might have suggested otherwise. Britain's politicians – Tory and Labour alike – are fond of reminding the world how clever they were to stay out of the single currency. The implication is that Britain boasts an economic performance to put the eurozone to shame ...
Telling Germans to work less, to borrow more, and to produce shoddy cars and machine tools is not the answer. Does it ever occur to Mr Cameron's Treasury advisers, I wonder, that they could learn something from Germany about economic management?Telling Germans to work less, to borrow more, and to produce shoddy cars and machine tools is not the answer. Does it ever occur to Mr Cameron's Treasury advisers, I wonder, that they could learn something from Germany about economic management?
• Sir Roger Carr, president of the CBI, says in an article in the Times (paywall) that the row over Stephen Hester's bonus will deter people from public service.• Sir Roger Carr, president of the CBI, says in an article in the Times (paywall) that the row over Stephen Hester's bonus will deter people from public service.
The media storm over Stephen Hester's bonus has both captured and fuelled the public mood over bankers' bonuses. Sadly little distinction has been made between those who created the problem at RBS and those recruited to resolve it. The row has ignored the fact that a talented man with many opportunities for personal enrichment has chosen to accept a job that few were capable of doing and even fewer had the appetite to undertake. In the end political pressure forced the surrender of a bonus that an independent board had deemed was deserved.The media storm over Stephen Hester's bonus has both captured and fuelled the public mood over bankers' bonuses. Sadly little distinction has been made between those who created the problem at RBS and those recruited to resolve it. The row has ignored the fact that a talented man with many opportunities for personal enrichment has chosen to accept a job that few were capable of doing and even fewer had the appetite to undertake. In the end political pressure forced the surrender of a bonus that an independent board had deemed was deserved.
For those who focus on the size of the bonus rather than the magnitude of the task, Mr Hester's decision is a victory. For those with a broader perspective, the outcome is more dubious. The chances of enticing others to take on difficult tasks of national importance have undoubtedly been jeopardised. Not by the remuneration he didn't receive but for the vilification he did. This cannot be in the long-term public interest.For those who focus on the size of the bonus rather than the magnitude of the task, Mr Hester's decision is a victory. For those with a broader perspective, the outcome is more dubious. The chances of enticing others to take on difficult tasks of national importance have undoubtedly been jeopardised. Not by the remuneration he didn't receive but for the vilification he did. This cannot be in the long-term public interest.
• Gillian Tett in the Financial Times (subscription) says bankers' pay is going down.• Gillian Tett in the Financial Times (subscription) says bankers' pay is going down.
The consensus among bank executives in Davos last week was that total compensation for mid- to senior-level employees in 2011 was about 30 per cent lower than 2010 – and perhaps 60 per cent below the 2007 peak. "There is a big change now," claims one Wall Street CEO.The consensus among bank executives in Davos last week was that total compensation for mid- to senior-level employees in 2011 was about 30 per cent lower than 2010 – and perhaps 60 per cent below the 2007 peak. "There is a big change now," claims one Wall Street CEO.
Now, this decline is still far too small to pacify critics. And it remains tough to calculate the precise squeeze, since banks pay their employees in different ways and – crucially – many financiers are leaving regulated banks for work in shadow banks, where pay is even more opaque.Now, this decline is still far too small to pacify critics. And it remains tough to calculate the precise squeeze, since banks pay their employees in different ways and – crucially – many financiers are leaving regulated banks for work in shadow banks, where pay is even more opaque.
But, what is clear is that the squeeze almost certainly has further to go, as regulation bites, deleveraging takes hold and western economies ail. It probably will not take the pay ratio to 1950s levels; technology now enables financiers to hop across borders and around rules, skimming fees in opaque ways. But – just as 70 years ago – a cycle has turned; albeit slowly. By 2017, bank pay could look very different from 2007; and modern capitalism will look all the better for it.But, what is clear is that the squeeze almost certainly has further to go, as regulation bites, deleveraging takes hold and western economies ail. It probably will not take the pay ratio to 1950s levels; technology now enables financiers to hop across borders and around rules, skimming fees in opaque ways. But – just as 70 years ago – a cycle has turned; albeit slowly. By 2017, bank pay could look very different from 2007; and modern capitalism will look all the better for it.
• Robert Winnett in the Daily Telegraph says an analysis by the Institute for Fiscal Studies says the government's public sector pension reforms will make little difference to the cost to the taxpayer.• Robert Winnett in the Daily Telegraph says an analysis by the Institute for Fiscal Studies says the government's public sector pension reforms will make little difference to the cost to the taxpayer.
Public sector workers will be "dramatically" better off in retirement and receive significantly higher wages than those in the private sector despite government attempts to scale back the generosity of their pay and pensions, ministers have been warned.Public sector workers will be "dramatically" better off in retirement and receive significantly higher wages than those in the private sector despite government attempts to scale back the generosity of their pay and pensions, ministers have been warned.
The months of negotiations over the reform of public sector pensions will make "little or no difference" to the multi-billion-pound cost to taxpayers, according to a detailed analysis published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies. Millions of lower-paid public sector workers will receive higher pensions as a result of a recent government deal, which led to widespread strikes, claims the economic forecaster.The months of negotiations over the reform of public sector pensions will make "little or no difference" to the multi-billion-pound cost to taxpayers, according to a detailed analysis published by the Institute for Fiscal Studies. Millions of lower-paid public sector workers will receive higher pensions as a result of a recent government deal, which led to widespread strikes, claims the economic forecaster.
They will also continue to earn significantly higher salaries than their private sector counterparts throughout this Parliament — with wages up to a fifth higher in some parts of the country.They will also continue to earn significantly higher salaries than their private sector counterparts throughout this Parliament — with wages up to a fifth higher in some parts of the country.


• Angus Macleod in the Times (paywall) says a new poll suggests that the wording that Alex Salmond wants for the question in the Scottish independence referendum would not lead to a surge in support for the yes vote.

• Angus Macleod in the Times (paywall) says a new poll suggests that the wording that Alex Salmond wants for the question in the Scottish independence referendum would not lead to a surge in support for the yes vote.
The Ipsos MORI poll of more than 1,000 Scots for The Times shows that when Scots are asked "Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?", backing remains at a virtual standstill at 39 per cent of those certain to vote, up by only 1 per cent on a poll by the same organisation two months ago.The Ipsos MORI poll of more than 1,000 Scots for The Times shows that when Scots are asked "Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?", backing remains at a virtual standstill at 39 per cent of those certain to vote, up by only 1 per cent on a poll by the same organisation two months ago.
However, the poll, the most authoritative since Mr Salmond, the First Minister, revealed his chosen question last week, indicates better news for him because his favoured question also produces a sharp fall in support for the Union, down from 57 per cent two months ago to 50 per cent.However, the poll, the most authoritative since Mr Salmond, the First Minister, revealed his chosen question last week, indicates better news for him because his favoured question also produces a sharp fall in support for the Union, down from 57 per cent two months ago to 50 per cent.
The most likely explanation is a rise in previously pro-Union voters who are now undecided — up from 5 per cent in December to 11 per cent now.The most likely explanation is a rise in previously pro-Union voters who are now undecided — up from 5 per cent in December to 11 per cent now.


• Murray Wardrop in the Daily Telegraph says Peter Capaldi has revealed that, contrary to widespread belief, Alastair Campbell was not the model for Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It.

• Murray Wardrop in the Daily Telegraph says Peter Capaldi has revealed that, contrary to widespread belief, Alastair Campbell was not the model for Malcolm Tucker in The Thick of It.
In an interview with Radio Times, Capaldi, 53, said: "The only people that I had witnessed personally behaving in the way that Malcolm does were American agents or producers.In an interview with Radio Times, Capaldi, 53, said: "The only people that I had witnessed personally behaving in the way that Malcolm does were American agents or producers.
"You could see people at ICM in Los Angeles – malevolent forces in Armani suits – barking the foulest and most terrifying of obscenities down the phone at people."You could see people at ICM in Los Angeles – malevolent forces in Armani suits – barking the foulest and most terrifying of obscenities down the phone at people.
"The producers, too. Harvey Weinstein and the team at Miramax were long celebrated for Malcolm-like behaviour, so in fact they were the people I thought about. That was the model I took, rather than Alastair Campbell, as I didn't know him. Alastair might be a bit disappointed to know this.""The producers, too. Harvey Weinstein and the team at Miramax were long celebrated for Malcolm-like behaviour, so in fact they were the people I thought about. That was the model I took, rather than Alastair Campbell, as I didn't know him. Alastair might be a bit disappointed to know this."
10.46am: Mark Reckless, a Conservative Eurosceptic, has just told Sky that the outcome of yesterday's EU summit highlighted the need for a referendum on Britain's membership of the EU. He said he was supporting the People's Pledge campaign for a referendum, which is going to kick off with a postal ballot in a single constituency in April.10.46am: Mark Reckless, a Conservative Eurosceptic, has just told Sky that the outcome of yesterday's EU summit highlighted the need for a referendum on Britain's membership of the EU. He said he was supporting the People's Pledge campaign for a referendum, which is going to kick off with a postal ballot in a single constituency in April.
10.44am: Here's the Guardian video of David Cameron speaking at the end of yesterday's EU summit.10.44am: Here's the Guardian video of David Cameron speaking at the end of yesterday's EU summit.
He stressed that a resolution to the eurozone crisis was in Britain's interests.He stressed that a resolution to the eurozone crisis was in Britain's interests.
10.28am: Liam Byrne, the shadow work and pensions secretary and the chair of Ed Miliband's policy review, has written a pamphlet for Progress saying that Labour must stick to the centre ground. There's a summary of his argument at Progressonline. Here's an extract.10.28am: Liam Byrne, the shadow work and pensions secretary and the chair of Ed Miliband's policy review, has written a pamphlet for Progress saying that Labour must stick to the centre ground. There's a summary of his argument at Progressonline. Here's an extract.

That is why, after the third way, we need a new way back to a new centre-ground. Let's keep the insights of the 1990s but build on them for a different era. Let's keep the best of New Labour, not least the late Philip Gould's basic insight: 'What most voters want is over time and without greed to advance and improve their lives. In short, to become better off.'
That is why, after the third way, we need a new way back to a new centre-ground. Let's keep the insights of the 1990s but build on them for a different era. Let's keep the best of New Labour, not least the late Philip Gould's basic insight: 'What most voters want is over time and without greed to advance and improve their lives. In short, to become better off.'
Let's keep the insight that elections are won in the centre-ground by building an alliance around the values – aspiration, responsibility and community – that unite traditional supporters with footloose voters who change sides.Let's keep the insight that elections are won in the centre-ground by building an alliance around the values – aspiration, responsibility and community – that unite traditional supporters with footloose voters who change sides.
What does that centre-ground look like? It is bigger than before. More voters are more likely to switch sides. Look at Scotland. No one can win elections trading on old loyalties. That is true for social democrats everywhere. Attitudes have changed too. Take the latest British Social Attitudes Survey which found that support for tax increases to spend more on public services has halved from nine years ago and only a third now say that government should redistribute wealth.What does that centre-ground look like? It is bigger than before. More voters are more likely to switch sides. Look at Scotland. No one can win elections trading on old loyalties. That is true for social democrats everywhere. Attitudes have changed too. Take the latest British Social Attitudes Survey which found that support for tax increases to spend more on public services has halved from nine years ago and only a third now say that government should redistribute wealth.
This is no counsel of despair. Neither opinion polls nor by-elections point to any return to Maggie-mania. As Deborah Mattinson puts it: 'When things get really hard the instinct to put nearest and dearest first is, understandably, paramount.'This is no counsel of despair. Neither opinion polls nor by-elections point to any return to Maggie-mania. As Deborah Mattinson puts it: 'When things get really hard the instinct to put nearest and dearest first is, understandably, paramount.'
This is why Labour's leader is placing our party firmly in the centre-ground with new ideas not old attitudes. Globally, social democrats are pinpointing five basic principles that can deliver our values in tough times. But Labour is leading the way.This is why Labour's leader is placing our party firmly in the centre-ground with new ideas not old attitudes. Globally, social democrats are pinpointing five basic principles that can deliver our values in tough times. But Labour is leading the way.
10.08am: The National Union of Teachers has published the results of a survey showing its members strongly opposed to the government's proposed public sector pension reforms. Some 93% of those who responded said the NUT should continue to oppose the plans.10.08am: The National Union of Teachers has published the results of a survey showing its members strongly opposed to the government's proposed public sector pension reforms. Some 93% of those who responded said the NUT should continue to oppose the plans.
This is from Christine Blower, the NUT general secretary.This is from Christine Blower, the NUT general secretary.
This survey shows that NUT members do not accept the government's arguments for reducing teachers' pensions. They do not accept this race to the bottom, cutting public sector pensions in the same way as private sector pensions have already been cut. The NUT will continue to campaign for teachers' pensions and a fair pension for all.This survey shows that NUT members do not accept the government's arguments for reducing teachers' pensions. They do not accept this race to the bottom, cutting public sector pensions in the same way as private sector pensions have already been cut. The NUT will continue to campaign for teachers' pensions and a fair pension for all.
9.58am: The mother of Richard O'Dwyer, the British student who faces being extradited to the US over alleged copyright infringement, has had the chance to raise his case with Barack Obama via YouTube. Here's an extract from the Press Association story about the exchange.9.58am: The mother of Richard O'Dwyer, the British student who faces being extradited to the US over alleged copyright infringement, has had the chance to raise his case with Barack Obama via YouTube. Here's an extract from the Press Association story about the exchange.

The mother of a British student accused of breaking American copyright laws called on Barack Obama to halt "appallingly harsh" attempts to extradite her son as the US President faced a grilling over his plight.
Richard O'Dwyer, 23, allegedly earned thousands of pounds through the TVShack website he created, which enabled users to watch films and television shows for free.
His case topped a list of subjects that American voters put to their leader during an online question-and-answer session yesterday.
O'Dwyer's mother, Julia, 55, welcomed the US interest in her son's case today.
"It's tremendous that questions have reached Obama because at least it will raise a bit of awareness over there," she said.
"Now even Americans have woken up to the US administration's excessive use of the extradition laws between our countries.
"Given our Government won't protect its own citizens, it's up to Mr Obama to put a stop to the ridiculous and appallingly harsh attempts to extradite Richard, and others facing similarly unnecessary treatment."
During the web discussion, Obama told listeners that he was not personally involved in O'Dwyer's case but insisted the US administration wanted to ensure that intellectual property was protected "in a way that's consistent with internet freedom".
O'Dwyer, a Sheffield Hallam University undergraduate, faces jail if convicted of the allegations.
His lawyers say he would be the first British citizen to be extradited for such an offence and would effectively become a "guinea pig" for copyright law in the US ...
Obama appeared in a live video chat room known as a "Hangout", part of online search giant Google's social networking site Google Plus. He answered questions submitted via YouTube.
The mother of a British student accused of breaking American copyright laws called on Barack Obama to halt "appallingly harsh" attempts to extradite her son as the US President faced a grilling over his plight.
Richard O'Dwyer, 23, allegedly earned thousands of pounds through the TVShack website he created, which enabled users to watch films and television shows for free.
His case topped a list of subjects that American voters put to their leader during an online question-and-answer session yesterday.
O'Dwyer's mother, Julia, 55, welcomed the US interest in her son's case today.
"It's tremendous that questions have reached Obama because at least it will raise a bit of awareness over there," she said.
"Now even Americans have woken up to the US administration's excessive use of the extradition laws between our countries.
"Given our Government won't protect its own citizens, it's up to Mr Obama to put a stop to the ridiculous and appallingly harsh attempts to extradite Richard, and others facing similarly unnecessary treatment."
During the web discussion, Obama told listeners that he was not personally involved in O'Dwyer's case but insisted the US administration wanted to ensure that intellectual property was protected "in a way that's consistent with internet freedom".
O'Dwyer, a Sheffield Hallam University undergraduate, faces jail if convicted of the allegations.
His lawyers say he would be the first British citizen to be extradited for such an offence and would effectively become a "guinea pig" for copyright law in the US ...
Obama appeared in a live video chat room known as a "Hangout", part of online search giant Google's social networking site Google Plus. He answered questions submitted via YouTube.
9.51am: For the record, here are the latest YouGov GB polling figures.9.51am: For the record, here are the latest YouGov GB polling figures.
Conservatives: 40% (up 1 since Sunday)
Labour: 38% (down 2)
Lib Dems: 10% (up 2)		Conservatives: 40% (up 1 since Sunday)
Labour: 38% (down 2)
Lib Dems: 10% (up 2)
Conservative lead: 2 pointsConservative lead: 2 points
Government approval: -16Government approval: -16
9.17am: And here's more from Ed Miliband. I've already quoted the line in his ITV Daybreak interview about David Cameron selling people "down the river" (see 8.50am), but he's also been on Sky and BBC News. Here are some more of the points he's been making. I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.9.17am: And here's more from Ed Miliband. I've already quoted the line in his ITV Daybreak interview about David Cameron selling people "down the river" (see 8.50am), but he's also been on Sky and BBC News. Here are some more of the points he's been making. I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
• Miliband described Cameron's "veto" as a "phantom veto". "I say it's a phantom veto and, frankly, he's completely mishandled these negotiations," Miliband said.• Miliband described Cameron's "veto" as a "phantom veto". "I say it's a phantom veto and, frankly, he's completely mishandled these negotiations," Miliband said.
• He accused Cameron of failing to protect the interests of the City of London.• He accused Cameron of failing to protect the interests of the City of London.
[Cameron] went into those talks saying his real worry was about financial services and how that would be affected if other countries went ahead. He's secured no extra protections for financial services. The one claim he made was 'Well, look, OK, I may not have secured any extra protections, but at least it's not a fully-fledged European treaty, using those European institutions, with the wieght of the commission, the court of justice, behind it. We'll see what he says in the Commons today, but everything I'm reading and hearing suggests that that turns out not to be the case.[Cameron] went into those talks saying his real worry was about financial services and how that would be affected if other countries went ahead. He's secured no extra protections for financial services. The one claim he made was 'Well, look, OK, I may not have secured any extra protections, but at least it's not a fully-fledged European treaty, using those European institutions, with the wieght of the commission, the court of justice, behind it. We'll see what he says in the Commons today, but everything I'm reading and hearing suggests that that turns out not to be the case.
• He urged bankers to show "restraint" when it came to awarding and accepting bonuses. He also renewed his call for a tax on bonuses.• He urged bankers to show "restraint" when it came to awarding and accepting bonuses. He also renewed his call for a tax on bonuses.
9.09am: I've already quoted what Ed Miliband has been saying this morning about David Cameron's decision to allow the eurozone countries to use EU institutions to police the new fiscal union. This is what Cameron said about the matter himself at his press conference last night. I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.9.09am: I've already quoted what Ed Miliband has been saying this morning about David Cameron's decision to allow the eurozone countries to use EU institutions to police the new fiscal union. This is what Cameron said about the matter himself at his press conference last night. I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
The eurozone members have today agreed a new treaty focused on tighter fiscal discipline, which we understand is important. This is a totally separate treaty because we vetoed an EU treaty in December. We are not signing this treaty, we will not be ratifying this treaty and it places no obligations on the UK.The eurozone members have today agreed a new treaty focused on tighter fiscal discipline, which we understand is important. This is a totally separate treaty because we vetoed an EU treaty in December. We are not signing this treaty, we will not be ratifying this treaty and it places no obligations on the UK.
As I said in December this is new territory and is yet to be ratified or implemented. There are a number of legal concerns on the use of EU institutions. We don't want to hold up the eurozone doing what is necessary to solve the crisis, as long as it doesn't damage our national interest. It is good that the new treaty is explicit and clear that it cannot encroach on the competencies of the EU, and they must not take measures that in any way undermine the EU single market. We will watch this closely, and if necessary we are able to take action if our national interests are threatened.As I said in December this is new territory and is yet to be ratified or implemented. There are a number of legal concerns on the use of EU institutions. We don't want to hold up the eurozone doing what is necessary to solve the crisis, as long as it doesn't damage our national interest. It is good that the new treaty is explicit and clear that it cannot encroach on the competencies of the EU, and they must not take measures that in any way undermine the EU single market. We will watch this closely, and if necessary we are able to take action if our national interests are threatened.
8.50am: David Cameron has got some explaining to do. He will be makling a statement in the Commons at 3.30pm about yesterday's EU summit and his decision to drop his objection to the eurozone countries using the EU institutions to police their new fiscal union, and he's going to have to find a way of dealing with the Conservative Eurosceptics who feel that he's abandoned the "veto" that he deployed to their delight at the last EU summit. It's not quite clear yet how serious this revolt will be, although Number 10 will not be happy with today's Daily Mail story headlined: "Cameron compared to John Major after he agrees to EU treaty he vetoed last year." (In Conservative iconography, Major is an emblem for uselesseness, although in reality he was probably the one leader who did more than any other to keep Britain out of the single currency.) Interestingly, Ed Miliband has lined up with the Eurosceptics to deliver a kicking to Cameron on this issue. This is what Milband told ITV's Daybreak this morning.8.50am: David Cameron has got some explaining to do. He will be makling a statement in the Commons at 3.30pm about yesterday's EU summit and his decision to drop his objection to the eurozone countries using the EU institutions to police their new fiscal union, and he's going to have to find a way of dealing with the Conservative Eurosceptics who feel that he's abandoned the "veto" that he deployed to their delight at the last EU summit. It's not quite clear yet how serious this revolt will be, although Number 10 will not be happy with today's Daily Mail story headlined: "Cameron compared to John Major after he agrees to EU treaty he vetoed last year." (In Conservative iconography, Major is an emblem for uselesseness, although in reality he was probably the one leader who did more than any other to keep Britain out of the single currency.) Interestingly, Ed Miliband has lined up with the Eurosceptics to deliver a kicking to Cameron on this issue. This is what Milband told ITV's Daybreak this morning.
I'm very concerned about what David Cameron has done because he trumpeted last December that he got a great deal for Britain, he'd protected us and everything and the way that Europe was going to go about this treaty that they were going to do wasn't going to affect Britain. Now he seems to have sold us down the river on a lot of things so I'm going to be asking him in the House of Commons today what exactly has he agreed to, what protections has he got for Britain.I'm very concerned about what David Cameron has done because he trumpeted last December that he got a great deal for Britain, he'd protected us and everything and the way that Europe was going to go about this treaty that they were going to do wasn't going to affect Britain. Now he seems to have sold us down the river on a lot of things so I'm going to be asking him in the House of Commons today what exactly has he agreed to, what protections has he got for Britain.
I take a simple view – he would have been better off staying at the table and negotiating for Britain, rather than actually pretending that he had made great progress and then failing to do so.I take a simple view – he would have been better off staying at the table and negotiating for Britain, rather than actually pretending that he had made great progress and then failing to do so.
I'll post more from the interview later.I'll post more from the interview later.
Otherwise, here's the full agenda for the day.

9.30am: Michael Gove, the education secretary, gives evidence to the Commons education committee.		Otherwise, here's the full agenda for the day.

9.30am: Michael Gove, the education secretary, gives evidence to the Commons education committee.
9.30am: Nick Herbert, the policing minister, makes an announcment on crime maps.9.30am: Nick Herbert, the policing minister, makes an announcment on crime maps.
10am: Lord Hunt of Wirral, the chairman of the Press Complaints Commission, gives evidence to the Leveson Inquiry. The other witnesses are former PCC chairman Sir Christopher Meyer and former BBC and ITV chairman Lord Grade, a PCC member.

10.30am: Sir Philip Mawer, the prime minister's independent adviser on ministerial interests, gives evidence to the Commons public administration committee about his role.		10am: Lord Hunt of Wirral, the chairman of the Press Complaints Commission, gives evidence to the Leveson Inquiry. The other witnesses are former PCC chairman Sir Christopher Meyer and former BBC and ITV chairman Lord Grade, a PCC member.

10.30am: Sir Philip Mawer, the prime minister's independent adviser on ministerial interests, gives evidence to the Commons public administration committee about his role.
1pm: General Sir Peter Wall, head of the army, gives a speech to the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

1.15pm: Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, gives a speech on mental health reform to the Centre for Social Justice.		1pm: General Sir Peter Wall, head of the army, gives a speech to the International Institute for Strategic Studies.

1.15pm: Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, gives a speech on mental health reform to the Centre for Social Justice.
3.30pm: David Cameron makes a statement in the Commons about yesterday's EU summit. As Nicholas Watt reports, he faces a clash with Eurosceptics over his decision to drop his objection to the eurozone countries using the European court of justice to enforce their new fiscal union.
3.30pm: David Cameron makes a statement in the Commons about yesterday's EU summit. As Nicholas Watt reports, he faces a clash with Eurosceptics over his decision to drop his objection to the eurozone countries using the European court of justice to enforce their new fiscal union.
As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm and another after Cameron has finished.As usual, I'll be covering all the breaking political news, as well as looking at the papers and bringing you the best politics from the web. I'll post a lunchtime summary at around 1pm and another after Cameron has finished.
If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.If you want to follow me on Twitter, I'm on @AndrewSparrow.
And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.And if you're a hardcore fan, you can follow @gdnpoliticslive. It's an automated feed that tweets the start of every new post that I put on the blog.