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Politics live blog: MPs debate health bill and Queen addresses Parliament Politics live blog: MPs debate health bill and Queen addresses Parliament
(about 3 hours later)
8.58pm:
Simon Hughes is now speaking for the amendments to the health bill proposed by the Lords. He said that the bill has been immensely improved since it left the House of Commons to be considered by the House of Lords a year ago.
"The process of the bill has hugely improved it, " he said, noting that there had been 2,000 amendments in the last year.
The current debate related to 374 amendments which were all in the right direction, Mr Hughes said. "The interesting thing is there are only three amendments from the Labour Party, " he said.
8.33pm:
Health Secretary Andrew Lansley accused Labour of "political opportunism" in demanding the publication of the risk register, adding civil servants needed "safe space" in which to advise ministers.
He said: "They do not represent a balanced view, they are not a prediction of the future. They set out a worst-case scenario to challenge decision making.
"The point is that we have looked at that balanced view of capturing where the risks and indeed the benefits indeed lie in the impact assessment.
"But publication of the risk register would prejudice the frankness and integrity of the decision-making processes of government and the Government is opposed to their publication."
Hi I'm Conal Urquhart and I'm taking over the live blog.
The MPS are now discussing the Government's refusal to publish the "risk register" on the proposed changes to the NHS. The document includes all the problems envisioned by civil servants associated with the new legislation.
Frank Dobson, a former health secretary, accused the Tories of being a "party of chancers" and said the Government was taking "unjustified risks" over the NHS.
"If they are not prepared to disclose to the rest of us what risks they have been advised they are bringing about, then they are both cowardly and stupid," he said.
Liberal Democrat MP John Pugh (Southport), a fierce coalition critic of the Government's reforms, said failing to release the register would "create further alarm" and risk worsening an already "huge mistake".
He added: "Abandoning the Bill could be the safer option."
Stephen Dorrell, the health select committee chairman, defended the government's decision to withhold publication of the register. He said confidentiality meant civil servants and experts could be candid with ministers, safe in the knowledge their views would remain secret.
He said: "There needs to be confidence within the civil service which side of the line advice that is being given at any moment in time will fall.
"If civil servants are in a place where they can give advice to ministers believing that advice will remain confidential and then after the advice has been given the line is changed and that advice falls to be published, the risk we run is that across Whitehall the space will not exist because there will not be confidence that advice will not later fall to be published."
8.14pm:
Prominent critics of the Health Bill on the Lib Dem benches, including John Pugh (Southport) and Andrew George (St Ives), abstained from the vote and no Lib Dem MPs voted with Labour to block the progress of the bill.
5.30pm: Here's an afternoon summary.5.30pm: Here's an afternoon summary.
• Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, has said that Labour would repeal the bill "at the first opportunity". He made the pledge as MPs debated an emergency motion relating to whether the bill should be delayed because the risk register has not been published. Labour lost the vote. MPs will spend a few more hours debating the bill, but it will finish its passage through parliament tonight and become law soon afterwards. In his speech, Burnham said Labour's campaign against the measure would continue.• Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, has said that Labour would repeal the bill "at the first opportunity". He made the pledge as MPs debated an emergency motion relating to whether the bill should be delayed because the risk register has not been published. Labour lost the vote. MPs will spend a few more hours debating the bill, but it will finish its passage through parliament tonight and become law soon afterwards. In his speech, Burnham said Labour's campaign against the measure would continue.

The only hope I can give to people worried about the future of the NHS today is that this might be the end of the bill, but it is just the beginning of our campaign. The NHS will find a way of working around these changes. It won't deteriorate overnight. And we will be working to mitigate the worst effects of this bill ...
The only hope I can give to people worried about the future of the NHS today is that this might be the end of the bill, but it is just the beginning of our campaign. The NHS will find a way of working around these changes. It won't deteriorate overnight. And we will be working to mitigate the worst effects of this bill ...
While on a day like today it's hard for me to give any encouragement people worried about what the Government is doing, I can at least say this: that we will repeal this bill at the first opportunity and restore the N in NHS. We have given this fight all we had. All I can say is our fight will go on to protect and restore our party's finest achievement.While on a day like today it's hard for me to give any encouragement people worried about what the Government is doing, I can at least say this: that we will repeal this bill at the first opportunity and restore the N in NHS. We have given this fight all we had. All I can say is our fight will go on to protect and restore our party's finest achievement.
Andrew Lansley, the health secretary, accused Burnham of hypocrisy, saying that this week he signed a petition opposing the health cuts worth £20bn when Labour's election manifesto said it would "deliver up to £20bn of efficiencies in the frontline NHS".Andrew Lansley, the health secretary, accused Burnham of hypocrisy, saying that this week he signed a petition opposing the health cuts worth £20bn when Labour's election manifesto said it would "deliver up to £20bn of efficiencies in the frontline NHS".
I've finished for the day now. But a colleague will be topping up this blog later as the debate goes on.I've finished for the day now. But a colleague will be topping up this blog later as the debate goes on.
5.27pm: The government has won, by 328 votes to 246 - a majority of 82.5.27pm: The government has won, by 328 votes to 246 - a majority of 82.
5.13pm: MPs are now voting. Since they are just voting on a motion saying the Commons has considered the issue of deferring the bill (which it obviously has, and not just today), it's actually a pointless vote. But Labour are using it as a means of registering a protest.5.13pm: MPs are now voting. Since they are just voting on a motion saying the Commons has considered the issue of deferring the bill (which it obviously has, and not just today), it's actually a pointless vote. But Labour are using it as a means of registering a protest.
Curiously government MPs are actually voting in favour of the Labour motion (saying the Commons has considered the matter). And Labour MPs are voting against.Curiously government MPs are actually voting in favour of the Labour motion (saying the Commons has considered the matter). And Labour MPs are voting against.
5.07pm: Andy Burnham is winding up the debate now.5.07pm: Andy Burnham is winding up the debate now.
He says Lansley did not address any of the main points in the debate in his speech.He says Lansley did not address any of the main points in the debate in his speech.
The government should respect the law, he says.The government should respect the law, he says.
Ministers do not have the permission of the people of the country to put the NHS through its biggest re-organisation in history. They are making a "catastrophic mistake", he says.Ministers do not have the permission of the people of the country to put the NHS through its biggest re-organisation in history. They are making a "catastrophic mistake", he says.
4.58pm: Lansley says he cannot say what the government's response will be to the full ruling from the information tribunal because he has not seen it yet.4.58pm: Lansley says he cannot say what the government's response will be to the full ruling from the information tribunal because he has not seen it yet.
He quotes from what Burnham said when he was a minister justifying his decision not to publish a risk register. And he rejects Burnham's claim that that was different because those comments related to a strategic risk register, not a transition one. That argument doesn't apply because there is a substantial overlap, Lansley says.He quotes from what Burnham said when he was a minister justifying his decision not to publish a risk register. And he rejects Burnham's claim that that was different because those comments related to a strategic risk register, not a transition one. That argument doesn't apply because there is a substantial overlap, Lansley says.
Lansley says Labour's manifesto said Labour would deliver efficiency savings worth £20bn. But yesterday Burnham turned up at the Department of Health with a petition opposing cuts worth £20b, he says. (See 3.38pm.)Lansley says Labour's manifesto said Labour would deliver efficiency savings worth £20bn. But yesterday Burnham turned up at the Department of Health with a petition opposing cuts worth £20b, he says. (See 3.38pm.)
Lansley says the NHS is getting better.Lansley says the NHS is getting better.
This is "political opportunism dressed up as principle", he says. All this debate has achieved is to hold up the next debate - the consideration of the amendments passed in the Lords - by 90 minutes. That is a disservice to the Lords, he says.This is "political opportunism dressed up as principle", he says. All this debate has achieved is to hold up the next debate - the consideration of the amendments passed in the Lords - by 90 minutes. That is a disservice to the Lords, he says.
4.54pm: Andrew Lansley, the health secretary, is responding now.4.54pm: Andrew Lansley, the health secretary, is responding now.
He says John Bercow is very generous. But there was no need for him to grant this debate because there is no emergency. MPs considered the risk register issue in February, and the Commons decided that the bill could go ahead without the risk register being published.He says John Bercow is very generous. But there was no need for him to grant this debate because there is no emergency. MPs considered the risk register issue in February, and the Commons decided that the bill could go ahead without the risk register being published.
Risk registers are not written for publication. They are written in a "safe space" where ministers can give advice to ministers. They do not represent a "balanced view", he says.Risk registers are not written for publication. They are written in a "safe space" where ministers can give advice to ministers. They do not represent a "balanced view", he says.
4.53pm: Caroline Lucas, the Green MP, says the government won't publish the risk register because it would put a nail in the coffin of the bill. The bill will disadvantage the poor, she says. But the campaign against it will continue.4.53pm: Caroline Lucas, the Green MP, says the government won't publish the risk register because it would put a nail in the coffin of the bill. The bill will disadvantage the poor, she says. But the campaign against it will continue.
4.52pm: There is now a three-minute limit on backbench speeches.4.52pm: There is now a three-minute limit on backbench speeches.
4.48pm: Sarah Wollaston, a GP and Conservative MP, says that if she read about the risks associated with taking a particular drug, she would not take it. That's because accounts of risks are one-sided.4.48pm: Sarah Wollaston, a GP and Conservative MP, says that if she read about the risks associated with taking a particular drug, she would not take it. That's because accounts of risks are one-sided.
She accuses Labour of "shroud waving" on this issue.She accuses Labour of "shroud waving" on this issue.
Andy Burnham reminds her that she once described the bill as being like a hand grenade thrown into the NHS. Wollaston says her remark has been taken out of context.Andy Burnham reminds her that she once described the bill as being like a hand grenade thrown into the NHS. Wollaston says her remark has been taken out of context.
4.45pm: A reader on Twitter points out that the Guardian published this article from Allyson Pollock attacking the LSE research that Frank Dobson criticised in his speech. (See 4.04pm.)4.45pm: A reader on Twitter points out that the Guardian published this article from Allyson Pollock attacking the LSE research that Frank Dobson criticised in his speech. (See 4.04pm.)
4.37pm: Labour's Grahame Morris says he has got up from his sickbed to speak in today's debate. The bill will increase the risks to the NHS, he says. David Nicholson, the NHS chief executive, said so when he gave evidence to the health select committee. Nicholson said the bill would make it harder for the NHS to achieve the £20bn efficiency savings dubbed the "Nicholson challenge".4.37pm: Labour's Grahame Morris says he has got up from his sickbed to speak in today's debate. The bill will increase the risks to the NHS, he says. David Nicholson, the NHS chief executive, said so when he gave evidence to the health select committee. Nicholson said the bill would make it harder for the NHS to achieve the £20bn efficiency savings dubbed the "Nicholson challenge".
4.31pm: Stephen Dorrell, the Conservative former health secretary, says civil servants need to know whether or not the advice they give to ministers will be published.4.31pm: Stephen Dorrell, the Conservative former health secretary, says civil servants need to know whether or not the advice they give to ministers will be published.
He says it cannot be right to delay the bill on the basis of advice that has not even been published.He says it cannot be right to delay the bill on the basis of advice that has not even been published.
4.25pm: Labour's David Anderson says the Tories oppose the NHS because "it's the living example that collectivism works".4.25pm: Labour's David Anderson says the Tories oppose the NHS because "it's the living example that collectivism works".
If the Tories had fought the election saying they wanted a market system in the NHS, they would have lost the election badly, he says.If the Tories had fought the election saying they wanted a market system in the NHS, they would have lost the election badly, he says.
He also criticised the Tories for the "contempt" they showed towards Dr Kailash Chand, the doctor who organised the "kill the bill" e-petition, in the Commons debate on the health bill last week.He also criticised the Tories for the "contempt" they showed towards Dr Kailash Chand, the doctor who organised the "kill the bill" e-petition, in the Commons debate on the health bill last week.
(Andrew Lansley described Chand as a Labour adviser and said he wanted GPs to on strike over the bill. Chand has written an article for Total Politics today explaining his position.)(Andrew Lansley described Chand as a Labour adviser and said he wanted GPs to on strike over the bill. Chand has written an article for Total Politics today explaining his position.)
4.20pm: Henry Smith, a Conservative, says the Labour request of the risk register is down to "political opportunism". Burnham opposed the publication of risk registers when he was in office, he says.4.20pm: Henry Smith, a Conservative, says the Labour request of the risk register is down to "political opportunism". Burnham opposed the publication of risk registers when he was in office, he says.
Andy Burnham intervenes to ask if Smith understand the difference between a strategic risk register and a transitional risk register. Smith says he does understand the difference.Andy Burnham intervenes to ask if Smith understand the difference between a strategic risk register and a transitional risk register. Smith says he does understand the difference.
4.14pm: John Healey, the former shadow health secretary, says everyone in the UK depends on the NHS. It treats 3m patients every week. It is exceptional, he says.4.14pm: John Healey, the former shadow health secretary, says everyone in the UK depends on the NHS. It treats 3m patients every week. It is exceptional, he says.
He reminds MPs that he made the original FoI request for the release of the bill's risk register.He reminds MPs that he made the original FoI request for the release of the bill's risk register.
He is not asking for the release of policy advice, he says. And he is not asking for information that would damage the government's risk management.He is not asking for the release of policy advice, he says. And he is not asking for information that would damage the government's risk management.
He is asking for this risk register because it is a special case.He is asking for this risk register because it is a special case.
4.11pm: John Pugh, a Liberal Democrat MP, says he has spoken out against the bill before. But the Lords has decided to approve it, he says.4.11pm: John Pugh, a Liberal Democrat MP, says he has spoken out against the bill before. But the Lords has decided to approve it, he says.
The cabinet may be banging the tables today. But they may be banging their heads against the wall in future, he says.The cabinet may be banging the tables today. But they may be banging their heads against the wall in future, he says.
4.04pm: Frank Dobson, the Labour former health secetary, is speaking now. He says the NHS is probably the most vital institution in the country. No one should take risks with it.4.04pm: Frank Dobson, the Labour former health secetary, is speaking now. He says the NHS is probably the most vital institution in the country. No one should take risks with it.
David Cameron told a private meeting of Conservatives that he was taking risks with it because it was facing an "invisible crisis". The crisis is invisible because it does not exist, he says.David Cameron told a private meeting of Conservatives that he was taking risks with it because it was facing an "invisible crisis". The crisis is invisible because it does not exist, he says.
The majority party call themselves conservatives. But they are a party of "chancers", he says. Real conservatives would only change the NHS if they were persuaded there was a real need for change. Ministers have not been able to persuade people such a case exists.The majority party call themselves conservatives. But they are a party of "chancers", he says. Real conservatives would only change the NHS if they were persuaded there was a real need for change. Ministers have not been able to persuade people such a case exists.
Cameron is basing his case for NHS reform on some of the most "worthless and shallow" research ever carried out by the LSE, he says. The research found the hospitals that compete against each other are 7% more efficient. But that amounts to just a few minutes per hour, he says.Cameron is basing his case for NHS reform on some of the most "worthless and shallow" research ever carried out by the LSE, he says. The research found the hospitals that compete against each other are 7% more efficient. But that amounts to just a few minutes per hour, he says.
Dobson is referring to this research, I think.Dobson is referring to this research, I think.
He says pushing the bill through without publishing the risk register is "cowardly and stupid". He accuses ministers of being "wreckless" and "dodgy", and of acting like second-hand car salesmen.He says pushing the bill through without publishing the risk register is "cowardly and stupid". He accuses ministers of being "wreckless" and "dodgy", and of acting like second-hand car salesmen.
3.59pm: Tony Baldry, a Conservative, is speaking now.3.59pm: Tony Baldry, a Conservative, is speaking now.
He says MPs should read the two speeches from Lord Wilson and Lord Armstrong in the House of Lords yesterday. Wilson and Armstrong, who are both former cabinet secretaries, said officials would not give candid advice to ministers if they knew risk registers were going to be published.He says MPs should read the two speeches from Lord Wilson and Lord Armstrong in the House of Lords yesterday. Wilson and Armstrong, who are both former cabinet secretaries, said officials would not give candid advice to ministers if they knew risk registers were going to be published.
Here's Lord Armstrong's speech.

And here's Lord Wilson's speech.		Here's Lord Armstrong's speech.

And here's Lord Wilson's speech.
3.59pm: John Bercow says Andrew Lansley will speak later in the debate, instead of responding to Burnham now.3.59pm: John Bercow says Andrew Lansley will speak later in the debate, instead of responding to Burnham now.
3.55pm: Stephen Dorrell, the Tory chairman of the Commons health committee, asks if Labour thinks government departments should publish all risk registers.3.55pm: Stephen Dorrell, the Tory chairman of the Commons health committee, asks if Labour thinks government departments should publish all risk registers.
Burnham says Labour published a risk register relating to a third runway at Heathrow. And he says there is a difference between the strategic risk register, which is remaining secret, and the transitional risk register (the one specifically dealing with the bill), which the information tribunal said should be published.Burnham says Labour published a risk register relating to a third runway at Heathrow. And he says there is a difference between the strategic risk register, which is remaining secret, and the transitional risk register (the one specifically dealing with the bill), which the information tribunal said should be published.
He says Labour will go on fighting the bill even after it becomes law.He says Labour will go on fighting the bill even after it becomes law.
He says he respects those Liberal Democrats who voted against the bill. But the party as a whole has betrayed the public, he says.He says he respects those Liberal Democrats who voted against the bill. But the party as a whole has betrayed the public, he says.
Labour would repeal the bill "at the first opportunity", he says.Labour would repeal the bill "at the first opportunity", he says.
3.52pm: A Labour MP says a constituent whose daughter cannot swallow is worried that her care will get worse under the bill. Tory MPs shout "scaremongering". Burnham says that if the government wants to show that this is not scaremongering, it should publish the risk register.3.52pm: A Labour MP says a constituent whose daughter cannot swallow is worried that her care will get worse under the bill. Tory MPs shout "scaremongering". Burnham says that if the government wants to show that this is not scaremongering, it should publish the risk register.
Caroline Lucas, the Green MP, intervenes to say that the Lib Dems used to favour Freedom of Information but that they have now abandoned that cause. Burnham says he agrees.Caroline Lucas, the Green MP, intervenes to say that the Lib Dems used to favour Freedom of Information but that they have now abandoned that cause. Burnham says he agrees.
3.49pm: Burnham says David Cameron said last year the bill was needed because the NHS did not deliver patient-centred care. He said deaths from heart attacks were too high. But that was before new research in January showing that deaths from heart attacks had gone down.3.49pm: Burnham says David Cameron said last year the bill was needed because the NHS did not deliver patient-centred care. He said deaths from heart attacks were too high. But that was before new research in January showing that deaths from heart attacks had gone down.
Burnham says new research also shows that NHS productivity has gone up, contrary to claims made by ministers.Burnham says new research also shows that NHS productivity has gone up, contrary to claims made by ministers.
3.48pm: Burnham changes his mind on interventions. He accepts one from John Redwood, who asks if he thinks Labour undermined the NHS when it introduced private providers into the service.3.48pm: Burnham changes his mind on interventions. He accepts one from John Redwood, who asks if he thinks Labour undermined the NHS when it introduced private providers into the service.
No, says Burnham. Labour did that to bring waiting lists down.No, says Burnham. Labour did that to bring waiting lists down.
3.44pm: Andy Burnham is starting.3.44pm: Andy Burnham is starting.
He says he is grateful to the Speaker for allowing the debate.He says he is grateful to the Speaker for allowing the debate.
On this, of all days, MPs should be celebrating what the NHS has done to bind the nation together during the 60 years of the Queen's reign.On this, of all days, MPs should be celebrating what the NHS has done to bind the nation together during the 60 years of the Queen's reign.
But, instead, MPs are voting to "dismantle" it.But, instead, MPs are voting to "dismantle" it.
And they are doing so without knowing the full facts, as set out in the transitional risk register.And they are doing so without knowing the full facts, as set out in the transitional risk register.
Labour have always argued that combining the efficience drive with re-organisation poses unprecedented risks.Labour have always argued that combining the efficience drive with re-organisation poses unprecedented risks.
Waiting lists are going up. Health professionals have said that it would be "safer to abandon the bill", he says.Waiting lists are going up. Health professionals have said that it would be "safer to abandon the bill", he says.
Burnham says he won't be taking inteventions, because he wants to allow time for other MPs to speak.Burnham says he won't be taking inteventions, because he wants to allow time for other MPs to speak.
3.38pm: A Tory spin doctor has just handed me a copy of a petition apparently collected by Andy Burnham and some of his Labour colleagues. It says those signing it are "opposed to the government's health and social care bill and £20bn of 'unmandated' cuts in NHS funding over the next four years". The Tories claim this is hypocritical because they say Labour would have implemented the £20bn "Nicholson challenge" cuts if they had won the election.3.38pm: A Tory spin doctor has just handed me a copy of a petition apparently collected by Andy Burnham and some of his Labour colleagues. It says those signing it are "opposed to the government's health and social care bill and £20bn of 'unmandated' cuts in NHS funding over the next four years". The Tories claim this is hypocritical because they say Labour would have implemented the £20bn "Nicholson challenge" cuts if they had won the election.
3.29pm: The health debate will be starting in the next 10 minutes. MPs will spend 90 minutes debating a motion tabled by Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, under the standing order 24 procedure.3.29pm: The health debate will be starting in the next 10 minutes. MPs will spend 90 minutes debating a motion tabled by Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, under the standing order 24 procedure.
Here's the text of the motion.Here's the text of the motion.
That this House has considered the matter of whether the House should defer consideration of Lords Amendments to the health and social care bill until after disclosure of the NHS transitional risk register.That this House has considered the matter of whether the House should defer consideration of Lords Amendments to the health and social care bill until after disclosure of the NHS transitional risk register.
There will be vote at 5.20pm. Labour have no chance of winning, but they are using this as a way of registering a protest.There will be vote at 5.20pm. Labour have no chance of winning, but they are using this as a way of registering a protest.
3.14pm: Here's an afternoon reading list.3.14pm: Here's an afternoon reading list.
• Stephen Williams, the Lib Dem MP, describes on his blog what happened when MPs met Prince Philip after the speech this morning.• Stephen Williams, the Lib Dem MP, describes on his blog what happened when MPs met Prince Philip after the speech this morning.
At the reception afterwards we were grouped in eights to meet either the Queen or the Duke. My group met Prince Philip first, who asked if we were all MPs? No, said Baroness Doreen Miller. Duke – "how am I supposed to tell the difference?" Lady Miller promptly produced her red striped badge identifying her as a member of the House of Lords. I showed him my green striped Commons photo-badge. He held it – "could be anyone, easily faked!" And off he went, our royal encounter over. But I was pleased at the end, just as the Queen was leaving, Mr Speaker introduced her to me and some colleagues. He called for "three cheers" and, looking somewhat startled she gave us a wave and was off back to her other London Palace.At the reception afterwards we were grouped in eights to meet either the Queen or the Duke. My group met Prince Philip first, who asked if we were all MPs? No, said Baroness Doreen Miller. Duke – "how am I supposed to tell the difference?" Lady Miller promptly produced her red striped badge identifying her as a member of the House of Lords. I showed him my green striped Commons photo-badge. He held it – "could be anyone, easily faked!" And off he went, our royal encounter over. But I was pleased at the end, just as the Queen was leaving, Mr Speaker introduced her to me and some colleagues. He called for "three cheers" and, looking somewhat startled she gave us a wave and was off back to her other London Palace.
• James Kirkup at the Telegraph says that the Queen used her speech to remind politicians of their own mortality.• James Kirkup at the Telegraph says that the Queen used her speech to remind politicians of their own mortality.
We live in a cynical age, and a lot of that cynicism is directed at our politicians. The Queen's address today did not reflect that corrosive and essentially negative feeling – as she pointed out, Parliament remains "an unshakeable cornerstone of our constitution and our way of life".We live in a cynical age, and a lot of that cynicism is directed at our politicians. The Queen's address today did not reflect that corrosive and essentially negative feeling – as she pointed out, Parliament remains "an unshakeable cornerstone of our constitution and our way of life".
Instead, she did something rather more subtle and much more useful, asking our politicians to pause and reflect on how much they really matter. Something else to thank her for.Instead, she did something rather more subtle and much more useful, asking our politicians to pause and reflect on how much they really matter. Something else to thank her for.
• Richard Murphy at Tax Research UK says that the general tax avoidance rule being announced tomorrow will be very limited in its scope.• Richard Murphy at Tax Research UK says that the general tax avoidance rule being announced tomorrow will be very limited in its scope.
• James Morris at the Shifting Grounds thinks George Osborne is about the make a serious mistake over the 50p top rate of tax. Shifting Grounds is a new, heavyweight group blog written by people who are broadly sympathetic to Ed Miliband's strain of Labour thinking.• James Morris at the Shifting Grounds thinks George Osborne is about the make a serious mistake over the 50p top rate of tax. Shifting Grounds is a new, heavyweight group blog written by people who are broadly sympathetic to Ed Miliband's strain of Labour thinking.
While most voters oppose the move, the rate of a tax that 99% of people don't pay is not the kind of thing regular families get too caught up about. But what most people care about and what the Westminster village cares about are rarely closely correlated. Osborne's decision here has taken on a political importance far beyond its economic significance. The one thing advocates and opponents of the 50p rate agree on is that it has turned into a 'symbol'.While most voters oppose the move, the rate of a tax that 99% of people don't pay is not the kind of thing regular families get too caught up about. But what most people care about and what the Westminster village cares about are rarely closely correlated. Osborne's decision here has taken on a political importance far beyond its economic significance. The one thing advocates and opponents of the 50p rate agree on is that it has turned into a 'symbol'.
The problem for Osborne is that this piece of symbolism is the last thing the Tories need. Lord Ashcroft's post-election polling interviewed 2000 Tory 'Considerers' – people who considered voting Tory before thinking better of it. In Ashcroft's words, 'the idea that the Conservatives still favoured the rich rather than ordinary people was by far the most common barrier' stopping these voters going Tory. Osborne needs these considerers to reach a different conclusion in 2015. After five years of incumbency which is unlikely to yield significant economic improvement for the typical family, he needs these voters to think that his party no longer favours the rich over them.The problem for Osborne is that this piece of symbolism is the last thing the Tories need. Lord Ashcroft's post-election polling interviewed 2000 Tory 'Considerers' – people who considered voting Tory before thinking better of it. In Ashcroft's words, 'the idea that the Conservatives still favoured the rich rather than ordinary people was by far the most common barrier' stopping these voters going Tory. Osborne needs these considerers to reach a different conclusion in 2015. After five years of incumbency which is unlikely to yield significant economic improvement for the typical family, he needs these voters to think that his party no longer favours the rich over them.
• Sunny Hundal at Liberal Conspiracy says Boris Johnson has hijacked the supposedly-neutral mayor of London Twitter account for his re-election campaign.• Sunny Hundal at Liberal Conspiracy says Boris Johnson has hijacked the supposedly-neutral mayor of London Twitter account for his re-election campaign.
• Kevin Meagher at LabourList profiles Dave Watts, the new chair of the parliamentary Labour party.• Kevin Meagher at LabourList profiles Dave Watts, the new chair of the parliamentary Labour party.

Around a quarter of the entire PLP is made up from the north west bloc, and Watts, a former regional whip, was well-placed to call in favours from his colleagues. A task made all the easier, it has to be said, because Dave Watts is definitely one of Labour politics' nice guys ...
Around a quarter of the entire PLP is made up from the north west bloc, and Watts, a former regional whip, was well-placed to call in favours from his colleagues. A task made all the easier, it has to be said, because Dave Watts is definitely one of Labour politics' nice guys ...
He is the type of rootsy yet pragmatic figure the party's MPs need right now. He is a settler of tempers, not of scores. An able backroom fixer he will bring some much needed 'real world' perspective to the top of the party. This is a smart appointment.He is the type of rootsy yet pragmatic figure the party's MPs need right now. He is a settler of tempers, not of scores. An able backroom fixer he will bring some much needed 'real world' perspective to the top of the party. This is a smart appointment.
2.52pm: In the Commons Harriet Harman, Labour's deputy leader, has just reminded Nick Clegg what he said about cutting the 50p top rate of tax in November last year.2.52pm: In the Commons Harriet Harman, Labour's deputy leader, has just reminded Nick Clegg what he said about cutting the 50p top rate of tax in November last year.

I do not believe that the priority at a time like that is to give a tax cut to a tiny, tiny number of people who are much, much better off than anyone else.
I do not believe that the priority at a time like that is to give a tax cut to a tiny, tiny number of people who are much, much better off than anyone else.
She said that if George Osborne cut the 50p top rate of tax in the budget, Labour would vote against it. Would Clegg?She said that if George Osborne cut the 50p top rate of tax in the budget, Labour would vote against it. Would Clegg?
Clegg said that his priority was to help people on low and middle incomes. The wealthy should pay more, he said.Clegg said that his priority was to help people on low and middle incomes. The wealthy should pay more, he said.
2.46pm: Newsnight's Allegra Stratton has got an interesting take on the "tycoon tax" plan.2.46pm: Newsnight's Allegra Stratton has got an interesting take on the "tycoon tax" plan.
Tycoon Tax out, super-rich 'benefits cap' in. Sources: Osborne will make new cap on tax brks/avoidance continuation of benefits crackdown.Tycoon Tax out, super-rich 'benefits cap' in. Sources: Osborne will make new cap on tax brks/avoidance continuation of benefits crackdown.
— Allegra Stratton (@BBCAllegra) March 20, 2012— Allegra Stratton (@BBCAllegra) March 20, 2012
2.39pm: Sadiq Khan, the shadow justice secretary, asked Clegg if he thought there should be a referendum on Lords reform.2.39pm: Sadiq Khan, the shadow justice secretary, asked Clegg if he thought there should be a referendum on Lords reform.
Clegg said that all three main parties proposed Lords reform at the election. But, interestingly, he did not rule one out. There was "an open debate to be had" about this, he said.Clegg said that all three main parties proposed Lords reform at the election. But, interestingly, he did not rule one out. There was "an open debate to be had" about this, he said.
2.36pm: Nick Clegg (left) is taking questions in the Commons now. David Rufley, a Conservative, has just told him that his Lords reform bill is "rather squalid". Clegg said it was about time the Lords embraced "a smidgeon of democracy".2.36pm: Nick Clegg (left) is taking questions in the Commons now. David Rufley, a Conservative, has just told him that his Lords reform bill is "rather squalid". Clegg said it was about time the Lords embraced "a smidgeon of democracy".
2.02pm: The Labour MP Katy Clark told the World at One that the Queen should be replaced as head of state.2.02pm: The Labour MP Katy Clark told the World at One that the Queen should be replaced as head of state.

As we go forward, I think we should be having a constitutional debate about how we choose someone as head of state that has the characteristics that represent us as a nation. And in my view, while we're looking at issues such as getting rid of the hereditary principle in the House of Lords, we should be saying very clearly that the role of head of state is too important a role to be chosen by an accident of birth.
As we go forward, I think we should be having a constitutional debate about how we choose someone as head of state that has the characteristics that represent us as a nation. And in my view, while we're looking at issues such as getting rid of the hereditary principle in the House of Lords, we should be saying very clearly that the role of head of state is too important a role to be chosen by an accident of birth.
She made it clear that she was not criticising the Queen personally.She made it clear that she was not criticising the Queen personally.
The programme also broadcast a discussion between Labour MP Tristram Hunt and Tory MP Jesse Norman who were both more appreciative of the Queen.The programme also broadcast a discussion between Labour MP Tristram Hunt and Tory MP Jesse Norman who were both more appreciative of the Queen.
Hunt said monarchy could play an important role (although he admitted the system was "irrational").Hunt said monarchy could play an important role (although he admitted the system was "irrational").

I do think the speech, despite the wording, actually had an important point, which is that the strength of monarchy in a global age, both the post-imperial and the Commonwealth age, is actually that it is above blood and soil – actually there is a point of identity which allows people of many races and ethnicities and religion to feel allegiance to a state and that is why you have such strength of admiration for the Queen from the Caribbean, from other Commonwealth countries, and that's a peculiar benefit.
I do think the speech, despite the wording, actually had an important point, which is that the strength of monarchy in a global age, both the post-imperial and the Commonwealth age, is actually that it is above blood and soil – actually there is a point of identity which allows people of many races and ethnicities and religion to feel allegiance to a state and that is why you have such strength of admiration for the Queen from the Caribbean, from other Commonwealth countries, and that's a peculiar benefit.
And Norman said the speech was magisterial.And Norman said the speech was magisterial.
It was magisterial, it, very quietly but authoritatively put a kind of strong sense of her own dignity into the moment. It was wonderfully done. Her talking about the 12 prime ministers was a lovely slap-down to the preoccupation with the moment that everyone is so beset by now.It was magisterial, it, very quietly but authoritatively put a kind of strong sense of her own dignity into the moment. It was wonderfully done. Her talking about the 12 prime ministers was a lovely slap-down to the preoccupation with the moment that everyone is so beset by now.
I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
1.47pm: Scrap the Tax, the group campaigining for the abolition of the 50p top rate of tax, has sent out a briefing note rebutting some of the arguments used by those defending the 50p rate (pdf).1.47pm: Scrap the Tax, the group campaigining for the abolition of the 50p top rate of tax, has sent out a briefing note rebutting some of the arguments used by those defending the 50p rate (pdf).
1.36pm: Boris Johnson is pulling ahead of Ken Livingstone in the London mayoral election, according to the latest YouGov poll. Anthony Wells has details on his UK Polling Report blog. Here's an extract.1.36pm: Boris Johnson is pulling ahead of Ken Livingstone in the London mayoral election, according to the latest YouGov poll. Anthony Wells has details on his UK Polling Report blog. Here's an extract.
On first preferences Boris is at 49%, Ken at 41%, Brian Paddick 5% and others 4%. When respondents are asked which of the leading two candidates they would prefer in a forced choice, Boris leads Ken by 54% to 46%.On first preferences Boris is at 49%, Ken at 41%, Brian Paddick 5% and others 4%. When respondents are asked which of the leading two candidates they would prefer in a forced choice, Boris leads Ken by 54% to 46%.
The last polls were conducted when Ken was making most of the running with pledges on transport fares, and Boris's campaign could have been kindly described as "masterful inactivity". Since then Boris launched his own slate of pledges and Ken has faced a rather troubled month of accusations about his personal tax affairs, perhaps explaining the apparent shift towards Boris.The last polls were conducted when Ken was making most of the running with pledges on transport fares, and Boris's campaign could have been kindly described as "masterful inactivity". Since then Boris launched his own slate of pledges and Ken has faced a rather troubled month of accusations about his personal tax affairs, perhaps explaining the apparent shift towards Boris.
Looking at the other questions there have been some significant drops in perceptions of Ken Livingstone. The proportion of people who think he sticks to what he believes in has dropped to 34% (down 6 points) and the proportion who see him as in touch with ordinary people is down to 32% (down 5 points).Looking at the other questions there have been some significant drops in perceptions of Ken Livingstone. The proportion of people who think he sticks to what he believes in has dropped to 34% (down 6 points) and the proportion who see him as in touch with ordinary people is down to 32% (down 5 points).
There has also been a shift in how the public perceive the respective records of the two main candidates. Last month 40% of people thought Ken had acheived more than Boris during his time as mayor with 31% thinking Boris had the better record. Boris has now closed that gap, with 36% thinking he has achieved more, compared to Ken's 34%.There has also been a shift in how the public perceive the respective records of the two main candidates. Last month 40% of people thought Ken had acheived more than Boris during his time as mayor with 31% thinking Boris had the better record. Boris has now closed that gap, with 36% thinking he has achieved more, compared to Ken's 34%.
1.15pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.

• The Queen has used a speech to both Houses of Parliament to reaffirm her commitment to serving her country. In a short speech avoiding anything partisan or controversial, she said she had had "the pleasurable duty" of working with 12 prime ministers.		1.15pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.

• The Queen has used a speech to both Houses of Parliament to reaffirm her commitment to serving her country. In a short speech avoiding anything partisan or controversial, she said she had had "the pleasurable duty" of working with 12 prime ministers.

We are reminded here of our past, of the continuity of our national story and the virtues of resilience, ingenuity and tolerance which created it. I have been privileged to witness some of that history and, with the support of my family, rededicate myself to the service of our great country and its people now and in the years to come.
We are reminded here of our past, of the continuity of our national story and the virtues of resilience, ingenuity and tolerance which created it. I have been privileged to witness some of that history and, with the support of my family, rededicate myself to the service of our great country and its people now and in the years to come.
In his speech paying tribute to the Queen, John Bercow, the Commons Speaker, welcomed the way Britain has become more tolerant and diverse during her reign.In his speech paying tribute to the Queen, John Bercow, the Commons Speaker, welcomed the way Britain has become more tolerant and diverse during her reign.
This is a different Britain from 1952 but not one detached from then. We are in so many ways a much bigger, brighter and better United Kingdom. This is a land where men and women today are equal under the law and where Your people are respected, regardless of how they live, how they look or how they love. This is a nation of many races, faiths and customs, now beginning to be reflected in Parliament. All this progress has occurred during Your reign. You have become, to many of us, a kaleidoscope Queen of a kaleidoscope country in a kaleidoscope Commonwealth.This is a different Britain from 1952 but not one detached from then. We are in so many ways a much bigger, brighter and better United Kingdom. This is a land where men and women today are equal under the law and where Your people are respected, regardless of how they live, how they look or how they love. This is a nation of many races, faiths and customs, now beginning to be reflected in Parliament. All this progress has occurred during Your reign. You have become, to many of us, a kaleidoscope Queen of a kaleidoscope country in a kaleidoscope Commonwealth.
Sadly, Her Majesty did not reveal what she felt about being a "kaleidoscope Queen". But she did say she was very grateful for the stained glass window unveiled in Westminster Hall which has been paid for by MPs and peers as a present to mark her Diamond Jubilee.Sadly, Her Majesty did not reveal what she felt about being a "kaleidoscope Queen". But she did say she was very grateful for the stained glass window unveiled in Westminster Hall which has been paid for by MPs and peers as a present to mark her Diamond Jubilee.
• Cabinet ministers have been told that the health bill is on the verge of becoming law. According to the prime minister's spokesman, ministers banged the tabled when they heard the news at cabinet this morning. Apparently there was what Number 10 are calling "cross-party banging".• Cabinet ministers have been told that the health bill is on the verge of becoming law. According to the prime minister's spokesman, ministers banged the tabled when they heard the news at cabinet this morning. Apparently there was what Number 10 are calling "cross-party banging".
• The Office for National Statistics has revealed that inflation continued to fall last month as lower energy bills eased the pressure on UK households. As Katie Allen reports, the headline rate of inflation eased to 3.4% in February from 3.6% in January and retail price inflation dropped from 3.9% to 3.7%. Labour's Owen Smith said: "Despite this small fall in the inflation rate there is little respite for hard-pressed families and pensioners."• The Office for National Statistics has revealed that inflation continued to fall last month as lower energy bills eased the pressure on UK households. As Katie Allen reports, the headline rate of inflation eased to 3.4% in February from 3.6% in January and retail price inflation dropped from 3.9% to 3.7%. Labour's Owen Smith said: "Despite this small fall in the inflation rate there is little respite for hard-pressed families and pensioners."
• An Ipsos MORI poll for the Evening Standard has revealed that 50% of voters think that the budget will benefit the wealthy most. This suggests people do not believe George Osborne's claim that his measures will help those on low and middle incomes most.• An Ipsos MORI poll for the Evening Standard has revealed that 50% of voters think that the budget will benefit the wealthy most. This suggests people do not believe George Osborne's claim that his measures will help those on low and middle incomes most.
• The Treasury has revealed that from 2014 taxpayers will get a statement saying exactly how the money they have paid in tax has been spent.• The Treasury has revealed that from 2014 taxpayers will get a statement saying exactly how the money they have paid in tax has been spent.
• The TUC has said that the introduction of regional pay could take £1.7bn away from poor regions.• The TUC has said that the introduction of regional pay could take £1.7bn away from poor regions.
• Bernard Hogan-Howe, the commissioner of the Metropolitan police, has told the Leveson inquiry that relations between police and the press "may be in the wrong place". He also said the police respect the privacy of celebrities. "I feel strongly that the police are expected to keep secrets," he said. "I don't care whether you are famous or a member of community, you have the same expectations of privacy." There are more details on our Leveson live blog.

• Unions have lost their court appeal against the government's decision to increase pensions in line with the CPI measure of inflation, instead of the more generous RPI measure.

• Jobseekers have been made to do compulsory unpaid work for up to eight weeks after refusing to take part in the voluntary work experience scheme, the Guardian has learnt.		• Bernard Hogan-Howe, the commissioner of the Metropolitan police, has told the Leveson inquiry that relations between police and the press "may be in the wrong place". He also said the police respect the privacy of celebrities. "I feel strongly that the police are expected to keep secrets," he said. "I don't care whether you are famous or a member of community, you have the same expectations of privacy." There are more details on our Leveson live blog.

• Unions have lost their court appeal against the government's decision to increase pensions in line with the CPI measure of inflation, instead of the more generous RPI measure.

• Jobseekers have been made to do compulsory unpaid work for up to eight weeks after refusing to take part in the voluntary work experience scheme, the Guardian has learnt.
• Jonathan Evans, the MI5 director general, has briefed cabinet minsters about terrorist threats facing Britain in the run-up to the Olympics. Downing Street said it was a "routine" update, and not prompted by any new intelligence or change in the assessment of the terrorism threat level which remains "substantial".• Jonathan Evans, the MI5 director general, has briefed cabinet minsters about terrorist threats facing Britain in the run-up to the Olympics. Downing Street said it was a "routine" update, and not prompted by any new intelligence or change in the assessment of the terrorism threat level which remains "substantial".
12.41pm: In the light of the comment I made at 11.01am, I thought it was worth posting this.12.41pm: In the light of the comment I made at 11.01am, I thought it was worth posting this.
Just had a lovely conversation with HM The Queen in the Royal GalleryJust had a lovely conversation with HM The Queen in the Royal Gallery
— Conor Burns MP (@Conor_BurnsMP) March 20, 2012— Conor Burns MP (@Conor_BurnsMP) March 20, 2012
Thankfully she won't be using Twitter to tell us all about the lovely conversation she's just had with Conor Burns.Thankfully she won't be using Twitter to tell us all about the lovely conversation she's just had with Conor Burns.
12.38pm: Do read Michael White's blog about the Queen's Westminster Hall speech, which encompasses a short history of Britain's constitutional monarchy. Here's an extract.12.38pm: Do read Michael White's blog about the Queen's Westminster Hall speech, which encompasses a short history of Britain's constitutional monarchy. Here's an extract.
Two hundred years ago someone said that "the Power of the Crown has increased, is increasing and ought to be diminished" – this was in regard to George III's fightback. You don't have to be a free-market rightwinger to know that the state will expand unless there's a permanent push-back.Two hundred years ago someone said that "the Power of the Crown has increased, is increasing and ought to be diminished" – this was in regard to George III's fightback. You don't have to be a free-market rightwinger to know that the state will expand unless there's a permanent push-back.
In recent decades, the state has been pushed out of many activities by the Thatcherite counter-revolution, but it finds other ways to justify its existence, much of it admirable, some of it petty and pointless. MPs are there to sustain the government in its lawful activities – and to assert itself against being pushed around. It is enjoying a mild upswing at present.In recent decades, the state has been pushed out of many activities by the Thatcherite counter-revolution, but it finds other ways to justify its existence, much of it admirable, some of it petty and pointless. MPs are there to sustain the government in its lawful activities – and to assert itself against being pushed around. It is enjoying a mild upswing at present.
Not that anyone mentioned it today. Let's celebrate that modest development and ignore Speaker Bercow's bid for tomorrow morning's headline with his "kaleidoscope queen" remark. Did I imagine it – or did Her Maj flinch at that one?Not that anyone mentioned it today. Let's celebrate that modest development and ignore Speaker Bercow's bid for tomorrow morning's headline with his "kaleidoscope queen" remark. Did I imagine it – or did Her Maj flinch at that one?
12.29pm: For the record, here are the two sets of polling figures around today.12.29pm: For the record, here are the two sets of polling figures around today.
ICM in the GuardianICM in the Guardian
Conservatives: 39% (up 3 points from ICM last month)
Labour: 36% (down 1)
Lib Dems: 15% (up 1)		Conservatives: 39% (up 3 points from ICM last month)
Labour: 36% (down 1)
Lib Dems: 15% (up 1)
Conservative lead: 3 points

YouGov for the Sun		Conservative lead: 3 points

YouGov for the Sun
Labour: 42% (up 2 points from YouGov in the Sunday Times)
Conservatives: 36% (up 2)
Lib Dems: 9% (no change)		Labour: 42% (up 2 points from YouGov in the Sunday Times)
Conservatives: 36% (up 2)
Lib Dems: 9% (no change)
Labour lead: 6 pointsLabour lead: 6 points
Government approval: -26Government approval: -26
12.25pm: Unions have lost their court appeal against the government's decision to increase pensions in line with the CPI measure of inflation, instead of the more generous RPI measure.12.25pm: Unions have lost their court appeal against the government's decision to increase pensions in line with the CPI measure of inflation, instead of the more generous RPI measure.
12.23pm: Boris Johnson claims he will create 200,000 jobs in London over the next four years if re-elected mayor.12.23pm: Boris Johnson claims he will create 200,000 jobs in London over the next four years if re-elected mayor.
12.04pm: There's no health bill live blog today, but I'm doubling up and looking after the issue. It should be the last day of parliamentary debate before the bill get's Royal Assent.12.04pm: There's no health bill live blog today, but I'm doubling up and looking after the issue. It should be the last day of parliamentary debate before the bill get's Royal Assent.
In the comments michaelsylvain asks:In the comments michaelsylvain asks:
Anyone go to an NHS vigil last night? The whole passage of the Bill has been like a year-long period of preparatory mourning. Today, we get to watch the NHS's corpse get danced on by the very people that poisoned it.Anyone go to an NHS vigil last night? The whole passage of the Bill has been like a year-long period of preparatory mourning. Today, we get to watch the NHS's corpse get danced on by the very people that poisoned it.
I've not felt as angry, as helpless, or as empty of hope in a very long time.I've not felt as angry, as helpless, or as empty of hope in a very long time.
And he's had this reply, from RobertSnozers.And he's had this reply, from RobertSnozers.

I did, at Southampton guildhall square - there's a link to my photos near the top of page 1.
I did, at Southampton guildhall square - there's a link to my photos near the top of page 1.
There was a sort of 'open mic' affair at the vigil I went to where anyone who wanted to could take the conch shell, sorry megaphone and say what was on their mind. There was a lot of anger at the government, and a lot of sadness that we appear to be on the brink of throwing away one of the best things about this country. I found most moving the elderly lady who recalled a time before the NHS when her father was ill so a doctor was called out - the half crown he charged meant that the family had to go without food that day. Another gentleman spoke, whose father had been a doctor who had lobbied vociferously for a national health service, and then when it was founded, devoted his life to making it work.There was a sort of 'open mic' affair at the vigil I went to where anyone who wanted to could take the conch shell, sorry megaphone and say what was on their mind. There was a lot of anger at the government, and a lot of sadness that we appear to be on the brink of throwing away one of the best things about this country. I found most moving the elderly lady who recalled a time before the NHS when her father was ill so a doctor was called out - the half crown he charged meant that the family had to go without food that day. Another gentleman spoke, whose father had been a doctor who had lobbied vociferously for a national health service, and then when it was founded, devoted his life to making it work.
Like you, I feel a total emptiness that our not-quite-elected leaders would be cruel and selfish enough to inflict this on us, and that we let them do it.Like you, I feel a total emptiness that our not-quite-elected leaders would be cruel and selfish enough to inflict this on us, and that we let them do it.
11.56am: That's all over. Now, back to the health bill. This is from PoliticsHome's Paul Waugh.11.56am: That's all over. Now, back to the health bill. This is from PoliticsHome's Paul Waugh.
No.10 reveals there was 'banging of desks' as Cabinet told NHS Bill set to become law. "It was cross party banging".No.10 reveals there was 'banging of desks' as Cabinet told NHS Bill set to become law. "It was cross party banging".
— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) March 20, 2012— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) March 20, 2012
11.41am: Here's the text of Lady D'Souza's speech welcoming the Queen.
11.41am: Here's the text of Lady D'Souza's speech welcoming the Queen.
And here's the text of John Bercow's speech.
And here's the text of John Bercow's speech.
11.33am: Alex Salmond, Scotland's first minister, is on BBC News now talking about the Queen's speech. At the Silver Jubilee she used her speech in Westminster Hall to signal her commitment to the Union, and perhaps Salmond was lined up in case she did the same again today. But her speech was entirely uncontroversial, and Salmond is praising her. He says she will remain "Queen of Scots" if Scotland does get its independence.11.33am: Alex Salmond, Scotland's first minister, is on BBC News now talking about the Queen's speech. At the Silver Jubilee she used her speech in Westminster Hall to signal her commitment to the Union, and perhaps Salmond was lined up in case she did the same again today. But her speech was entirely uncontroversial, and Salmond is praising her. He says she will remain "Queen of Scots" if Scotland does get its independence.
11.29am: If Chris Byrant is right, then MPs and peers mucked up the national anthem.11.29am: If Chris Byrant is right, then MPs and peers mucked up the national anthem.
I think we were meant to sing then weren't we? Not sure what went wrong. Shame.I think we were meant to sing then weren't we? Not sure what went wrong. Shame.
— Chris Bryant (@ChrisBryantMP) March 20, 2012— Chris Bryant (@ChrisBryantMP) March 20, 2012
11.25am: The full text of the Queen's speech is now on the Buckingham Palace website.11.25am: The full text of the Queen's speech is now on the Buckingham Palace website.
The Queen has gone off to a reception in the Houses of Parliament. MPs and peers are filing out of Westminster Hall.The Queen has gone off to a reception in the Houses of Parliament. MPs and peers are filing out of Westminster Hall.
11.23am: According to Huw Edwards on the BBC, the Commons can't sit without the Mace. If Andy Burnham grabs it and does a runner, does that mean he can block the health bill?11.23am: According to Huw Edwards on the BBC, the Commons can't sit without the Mace. If Andy Burnham grabs it and does a runner, does that mean he can block the health bill?
11.20am: Now it's national anthem time. I wonder if she finds it all a bit embarrassing. You can imagine others rather enjoying hearing a song about themselves, but the Queen seems rather above all that.11.20am: Now it's national anthem time. I wonder if she finds it all a bit embarrassing. You can imagine others rather enjoying hearing a song about themselves, but the Queen seems rather above all that.
11.19am: D'Souza and Bercow are going back to the Queen. She is giving them copies of her response to the humble addresses they gave her.11.19am: D'Souza and Bercow are going back to the Queen. She is giving them copies of her response to the humble addresses they gave her.
11.19am: MPs and peers are now giving her a standing ovation.11.19am: MPs and peers are now giving her a standing ovation.
11.16am: The Queen says she hopes the Diamond Jubilee will allow people to come together.11.16am: The Queen says she hopes the Diamond Jubilee will allow people to come together.
She also wants to celebrate those who contribute through voluntary service.She also wants to celebrate those who contribute through voluntary service.
(So the Queen supports the Big Society?)(So the Queen supports the Big Society?)
And she pays tribute to the armed forces. Much has changed over 60 years. But the valour of the armed services "remains undimmed".And she pays tribute to the armed forces. Much has changed over 60 years. But the valour of the armed services "remains undimmed".
She says she has signed more than 3,500 bills into law.She says she has signed more than 3,500 bills into law.
She is very touched by the gift of the stained glass window. If it adds some colour to Westminster Hall, she will be pleased, she says.She is very touched by the gift of the stained glass window. If it adds some colour to Westminster Hall, she will be pleased, she says.
She is reminded of our national story. She is pleased to rededicate herself to her people, now and in the years to come.She is reminded of our national story. She is pleased to rededicate herself to her people, now and in the years to come.
11.13am: The Queen is speaking now.11.13am: The Queen is speaking now.
She says Parliament is a cornerstone of our national life.She says Parliament is a cornerstone of our national life.
She is reassured that she is only the second sovereign to celebrate a diamond jubilee.She is reassured that she is only the second sovereign to celebrate a diamond jubilee.
Many MPs and peers were present 10 years ago, when she addressed Parliament for her Golden Jubilee, and some will remember the Silver one.Many MPs and peers were present 10 years ago, when she addressed Parliament for her Golden Jubilee, and some will remember the Silver one.
She says she has had the privilege of dealing with 12 prime ministers.She says she has had the privilege of dealing with 12 prime ministers.
(This line gets a round of applause.)(This line gets a round of applause.)
Venerable old age can be a mighty guide. But it is not a prerequisite to success in public office, she says. She is pleased to see younger people here.Venerable old age can be a mighty guide. But it is not a prerequisite to success in public office, she says. She is pleased to see younger people here.
Prince Philip is well known for declining compliments, she says. But throught he has been a constant guide to her.Prince Philip is well known for declining compliments, she says. But throught he has been a constant guide to her.
She says her children and grandchildren are touring all the Commonwealth countries this year.She says her children and grandchildren are touring all the Commonwealth countries this year.
11.12am: The window is now being unveiled.11.12am: The window is now being unveiled.
I guess that means we can use the picture.I guess that means we can use the picture.
11.07am: Now it's John Bercow's turn. He says the "faithful Commons" are honoured to be here.11.07am: Now it's John Bercow's turn. He says the "faithful Commons" are honoured to be here.
They are pleased to have contribued to the jubilee window. It will remain in Westminster Hall.They are pleased to have contribued to the jubilee window. It will remain in Westminster Hall.
Time is better preserved in this historic place than human memory, he says.Time is better preserved in this historic place than human memory, he says.
Sixty years ago a new Elizabethan era was awaited with enthusiasm, tinged with uncertainty.Sixty years ago a new Elizabethan era was awaited with enthusiasm, tinged with uncertainty.
Bercow quotes Gandhi. If the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others, then the Queen must have found herself many times.Bercow quotes Gandhi. If the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others, then the Queen must have found herself many times.
The Queen has contributed continuity. Her "unique capacity" has been to hold together that which could have been torn asunder.The Queen has contributed continuity. Her "unique capacity" has been to hold together that which could have been torn asunder.
In many ways Britain is "bigger, brigher and better". People are equal under the law, regardless of how they look, how they live and how they love. (Good to see he's slipped in gay rights.) The Queen is a "Kaleidoscope Queen", he says.In many ways Britain is "bigger, brigher and better". People are equal under the law, regardless of how they look, how they live and how they love. (Good to see he's slipped in gay rights.) The Queen is a "Kaleidoscope Queen", he says.
(Did the Queen realise she was an emblem of gay rights? Not sure. She's still got her inscrutable expression on, so heaven knows what she makes of it.)(Did the Queen realise she was an emblem of gay rights? Not sure. She's still got her inscrutable expression on, so heaven knows what she makes of it.)
Bercow finishes by saying thank you for all the Queen does for the country.Bercow finishes by saying thank you for all the Queen does for the country.
Bercow also presents the Queen with a humble address.Bercow also presents the Queen with a humble address.
11.06am: D'Souza presents a loyal address to the Queen. She accepts it.11.06am: D'Souza presents a loyal address to the Queen. She accepts it.
11.05am: D'Souza turns to the Commonwealth. It is s "tremendous force for good in the world", she says. And it is still growing. She says she knows how important it is to the Queen's.11.05am: D'Souza turns to the Commonwealth. It is s "tremendous force for good in the world", she says. And it is still growing. She says she knows how important it is to the Queen's.
Members of parliament are representing the Queen in all the lands where the Queen is head of state, she says.Members of parliament are representing the Queen in all the lands where the Queen is head of state, she says.
(That's quite a lot of freebies.)(That's quite a lot of freebies.)
11.02am: Lady D'Souza, the Lord Speaker, speaks first.11.02am: Lady D'Souza, the Lord Speaker, speaks first.
She says MPs and peers record the Queen's service "with warmth and dedication".She says MPs and peers record the Queen's service "with warmth and dedication".
We celebrate too her stewardship of high office, she says. The Queen has personified continuity. She is an integral part of our national life.We celebrate too her stewardship of high office, she says. The Queen has personified continuity. She is an integral part of our national life.
D'Souza says we're also celebrating Prince Philip's service.D'Souza says we're also celebrating Prince Philip's service.
Parliament has the honour of being the first institution to honour her jubilee, D'Souza says.Parliament has the honour of being the first institution to honour her jubilee, D'Souza says.
(You've probably got the drift of it by now. I'm not sure I need to go on.)(You've probably got the drift of it by now. I'm not sure I need to go on.)
11.01am: One of the Queen's more endearing features is that she always looks rather bored on these occasions. MPs may be tweeting about her. But she's certainly not going to be tweeting about meeting them.11.01am: One of the Queen's more endearing features is that she always looks rather bored on these occasions. MPs may be tweeting about her. But she's certainly not going to be tweeting about meeting them.
10.59am: She's here. Wearing yellow. Nick Clegg will be pleased.10.59am: She's here. Wearing yellow. Nick Clegg will be pleased.
10.50am: The Queen is on her way to Wesminster. The BBC helicopter is in action.10.50am: The Queen is on her way to Wesminster. The BBC helicopter is in action.
10.47am: MPs and peers have stumped up £85,000 to pay for a stained glass window in Wesminster Hall for the Queen.
10.47am: MPs and peers have stumped up £85,000 to pay for a stained glass window in Wesminster Hall for the Queen.
It's going to be unveiled later. But if the Queen has been reading the guardian.co.uk (as I'm sure she does), she may have already seen it.It's going to be unveiled later. But if the Queen has been reading the guardian.co.uk (as I'm sure she does), she may have already seen it.
10.43am: The ceremony is starting.10.43am: The ceremony is starting.
We're going to get speeches from John Bercow, the Speaker, and Lady D'Souza, his opposite number in the Lords, before the Queen speaks.We're going to get speeches from John Bercow, the Speaker, and Lady D'Souza, his opposite number in the Lords, before the Queen speaks.
10.42am: And here's more from Twitter10.42am: And here's more from Twitter
The stained glass window that Members of both Houses are giving to the queen as a gift is behind that curtain twitpic.com/8yuledThe stained glass window that Members of both Houses are giving to the queen as a gift is behind that curtain twitpic.com/8yuled
— Nadhim Zahawi (@nadhimzahawi) March 20, 2012— Nadhim Zahawi (@nadhimzahawi) March 20, 2012
10.28am: While MPs and peers wait for the Queen in Westminster Hall, some of them have been busy on Twitter. Here's a selection.10.28am: While MPs and peers wait for the Queen in Westminster Hall, some of them have been busy on Twitter. Here's a selection.
From Jeremy Hunt, the culture secretaryFrom Jeremy Hunt, the culture secretary
Looking forwrd to address by HM The Queen after she has unveiled breathtaking window designed by British artist John ReyntiensLooking forwrd to address by HM The Queen after she has unveiled breathtaking window designed by British artist John Reyntiens
From Labour MP Mary CreaghFrom Labour MP Mary Creagh
Off to see the Queen's speech in Westminster Hall. Real buzz about the place.Off to see the Queen's speech in Westminster Hall. Real buzz about the place.
From Conservative MP Claire PerryFrom Conservative MP Claire Perry
Much excitement in Westminster Hall as crowds assemble. Regretting not wearing a hat but many other plumes to admire.Much excitement in Westminster Hall as crowds assemble. Regretting not wearing a hat but many other plumes to admire.
From Conservative MP Conor BurnsFrom Conservative MP Conor Burns
What a beautiful sunny day for the Queen's address to ParliamentWhat a beautiful sunny day for the Queen's address to Parliament
From Labour peer Stewart WoodFrom Labour peer Stewart Wood

Waiting for the Queen in Westminster Hall, listening to the excellent warm-up band, and wondering if they do requests.
Waiting for the Queen in Westminster Hall, listening to the excellent warm-up band, and wondering if they do requests.
From Labour MP Chris BryantFrom Labour MP Chris Bryant
The TV camera looks like it was used on grandstand in the 1970sThe TV camera looks like it was used on grandstand in the 1970s
10.24am: Later this week I'm interviewing Andrew Mitchell, the international development secretary. If you'd like to suggest some questions, please post them on this blog.10.24am: Later this week I'm interviewing Andrew Mitchell, the international development secretary. If you'd like to suggest some questions, please post them on this blog.
10.19am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the Guardian politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.10.19am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the Guardian 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.As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.
• Robert Winnett and James Kirkup in the Daily Telegraph says George Osborne's plan to show people exactly how their tax is spend will reveal how much goes on welfare.• Robert Winnett and James Kirkup in the Daily Telegraph says George Osborne's plan to show people exactly how their tax is spend will reveal how much goes on welfare.
The move, which will come into force in 2014, is expected to help ministers persuade voters of the need for public spending cuts, including welfare payments, the biggest source of government expenditure and which accounts for about a third of all tax revenues.The move, which will come into force in 2014, is expected to help ministers persuade voters of the need for public spending cuts, including welfare payments, the biggest source of government expenditure and which accounts for about a third of all tax revenues.
For example, according to Treasury calculations based on current taxes, someone earning £50,000 would be informed that their taxes will fund £4,727 worth of welfare payments, including £493 of housing benefit annually and £860 in sickness benefits.For example, according to Treasury calculations based on current taxes, someone earning £50,000 would be informed that their taxes will fund £4,727 worth of welfare payments, including £493 of housing benefit annually and £860 in sickness benefits.
Somebody earning £25,000 spends the equivalent of £1,900 on welfare payments — almost four weeks of paid work, the figures show.Somebody earning £25,000 spends the equivalent of £1,900 on welfare payments — almost four weeks of paid work, the figures show.
One government source said: "When people see how much they pay towards welfare, the argument about whether to cap benefits will be brought into sharp relief."One government source said: "When people see how much they pay towards welfare, the argument about whether to cap benefits will be brought into sharp relief."
• Chris Giles in the Financial Times (subscription) says the Office for Budget Responsibility will slightly upgrade its growth forecast for 2012.• Chris Giles in the Financial Times (subscription) says the Office for Budget Responsibility will slightly upgrade its growth forecast for 2012.
Treasury officials have expressed relief that the OBR's forecasts, which were finalised on March 7, are moving in line with private sector forecasts and are therefore optimistic that there are no nasty surprises in the figures which will spook bond markets.Treasury officials have expressed relief that the OBR's forecasts, which were finalised on March 7, are moving in line with private sector forecasts and are therefore optimistic that there are no nasty surprises in the figures which will spook bond markets.
As evidence mounts that the economy hit a trough last October and has since begun to recover, economists are confident the OBR will raise its 0.7 per cent forecast for 2012 a touch to about 0.8 per cent and will not predict a technical recession of two consecutive quarters of negative growth.As evidence mounts that the economy hit a trough last October and has since begun to recover, economists are confident the OBR will raise its 0.7 per cent forecast for 2012 a touch to about 0.8 per cent and will not predict a technical recession of two consecutive quarters of negative growth.
• Mary Riddell in the Daily Telegraph says some Labour MPs are beginning to lose faith in Ed Balls.• Mary Riddell in the Daily Telegraph says some Labour MPs are beginning to lose faith in Ed Balls.
Santa, it seems, has smiled on Mr Balls, who is wondering "what planet" the Coalition is living on. The difficulty is that the 50p gift has been delivered at the precise moment when some Labour luminaries are becoming openly restive about life on Planet Balls. More than one senior figure is said to have met Ed Miliband privately to air concerns about Labour's dwindling credibility on the economy.Santa, it seems, has smiled on Mr Balls, who is wondering "what planet" the Coalition is living on. The difficulty is that the 50p gift has been delivered at the precise moment when some Labour luminaries are becoming openly restive about life on Planet Balls. More than one senior figure is said to have met Ed Miliband privately to air concerns about Labour's dwindling credibility on the economy.
As one doubter puts the Balls conundrum: "The more the Tories have messed up, and the more Ed Balls is vindicated, the further we fall behind." That "very tense" mood is said to have spread to the shadow cabinet, with those who acknowledge Mr Balls's economic brilliance and political bullishness growing anxious about Labour's inability to shift public opinion.As one doubter puts the Balls conundrum: "The more the Tories have messed up, and the more Ed Balls is vindicated, the further we fall behind." That "very tense" mood is said to have spread to the shadow cabinet, with those who acknowledge Mr Balls's economic brilliance and political bullishness growing anxious about Labour's inability to shift public opinion.
Some argue that with this Budget, Labour is about to miss a rare chance to set out just how it would impose fiscal discipline. In the absence of such a plan, sceptics fear that the Opposition cannot win in 2015. Mr Balls, who thinks mainstream party opinion is for more public spending, is not for turning. Despite some concessions on the "politics of pain" that Labour will have to impose, he considers that the party would appear "complete monkeys" if it had embraced Coalition-style austerity.Some argue that with this Budget, Labour is about to miss a rare chance to set out just how it would impose fiscal discipline. In the absence of such a plan, sceptics fear that the Opposition cannot win in 2015. Mr Balls, who thinks mainstream party opinion is for more public spending, is not for turning. Despite some concessions on the "politics of pain" that Labour will have to impose, he considers that the party would appear "complete monkeys" if it had embraced Coalition-style austerity.
• Rachel Sylvester in the Times (paywall) says George Osborne has been reminding colleagues what the average salary actually is.• Rachel Sylvester in the Times (paywall) says George Osborne has been reminding colleagues what the average salary actually is.
The Chancellor, who plays his politics more like chess than poker, understands the risk better than anyone. In interviews at the weekend, he repeatedly emphasised that this would be a "Budget for working people," aimed at "low and middle earners". In meetings at the Treasury and No 10, officials say that he has repeatedly reminded his colleagues that the average salary in Britain is only £26,000, less than a fifth of what a Cabinet minister earns.The Chancellor, who plays his politics more like chess than poker, understands the risk better than anyone. In interviews at the weekend, he repeatedly emphasised that this would be a "Budget for working people," aimed at "low and middle earners". In meetings at the Treasury and No 10, officials say that he has repeatedly reminded his colleagues that the average salary in Britain is only £26,000, less than a fifth of what a Cabinet minister earns.
According to one ally, he puts as much importance on the "empathy" described in Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments as on the free market economics championed in The Wealth of Nations. The search has been on for what officials call "this year's non-dom levy" — the proposal to charge those registered abroad for tax purposes that Mr Osborne announced alongside the inheritance tax cut at the Tory conference in 2007. It wrongfooted Mr Brown, forcing him to abandon plans to call an election, one of the Chancellor's proudest political achievements.According to one ally, he puts as much importance on the "empathy" described in Adam Smith's Theory of Moral Sentiments as on the free market economics championed in The Wealth of Nations. The search has been on for what officials call "this year's non-dom levy" — the proposal to charge those registered abroad for tax purposes that Mr Osborne announced alongside the inheritance tax cut at the Tory conference in 2007. It wrongfooted Mr Brown, forcing him to abandon plans to call an election, one of the Chancellor's proudest political achievements.
It is likely that Mr Osborne will announce a new minimum rate of tax that everyone will pay, irrespective of how they define their income, as part of a range of measures designed to squeeze the super-rich. A version of the "tycoon tax" floated by Mr Clegg, this is said to go beyond closing loopholes and clamping down on stamp duty evasion — "the Office for Budgetary Responsibility is a built-in defence against wishy-washiness," says one insider. Mr Osborne is also expected to make the case that the Budget measures will, overall, redistribute money from rich to poor.It is likely that Mr Osborne will announce a new minimum rate of tax that everyone will pay, irrespective of how they define their income, as part of a range of measures designed to squeeze the super-rich. A version of the "tycoon tax" floated by Mr Clegg, this is said to go beyond closing loopholes and clamping down on stamp duty evasion — "the Office for Budgetary Responsibility is a built-in defence against wishy-washiness," says one insider. Mr Osborne is also expected to make the case that the Budget measures will, overall, redistribute money from rich to poor.
9.49am: Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, was on Radio 5 Live this morning renewing his call for the publication of the NHS's transitional risk register (the one explaining the risk associated with the health bill). He insisted publication would not pose a risk.9.49am: Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, was on Radio 5 Live this morning renewing his call for the publication of the NHS's transitional risk register (the one explaining the risk associated with the health bill). He insisted publication would not pose a risk.
Let's clear this up. The information tribunal dealt very clearly with this issue. It said government shouldn't publish its assessment of on-going risks beyond direct control. They're the most serious risks such as a terrorist attack or a health pandemic. But it said it should publish a specific assessment of ministers' own policies. Let's be clear about this. It's this government that's chosen to reorganise the NHS at this moment of the greatest financial challenge and that policy is putting the NHS at risk and our argument is they should be honest about those risks before they ask Parliament to approve them.Let's clear this up. The information tribunal dealt very clearly with this issue. It said government shouldn't publish its assessment of on-going risks beyond direct control. They're the most serious risks such as a terrorist attack or a health pandemic. But it said it should publish a specific assessment of ministers' own policies. Let's be clear about this. It's this government that's chosen to reorganise the NHS at this moment of the greatest financial challenge and that policy is putting the NHS at risk and our argument is they should be honest about those risks before they ask Parliament to approve them.
And this is what Simon Burns, the health minister, told the same programme about why the government would not publish the risk register.And this is what Simon Burns, the health minister, told the same programme about why the government would not publish the risk register.

As you know the risk register is an internal management document issued by civil servants and ministers to formulate policy, and for those reasons we think it is wrong to put it in the public domain because it means you can't have full and frank discussions between civil servants and ministers which will consider a range of options.
As you know the risk register is an internal management document issued by civil servants and ministers to formulate policy, and for those reasons we think it is wrong to put it in the public domain because it means you can't have full and frank discussions between civil servants and ministers which will consider a range of options.
Having a risk register is one of the ways in which government, and it's across government, not just the Department of Health, formulates and considers policy from all angles. If one had that in the public domain immediately then you can just see people like Andy Burnham jumping on it, taking a worst case scenario and then distorting it and you could not have government functioning.Having a risk register is one of the ways in which government, and it's across government, not just the Department of Health, formulates and considers policy from all angles. If one had that in the public domain immediately then you can just see people like Andy Burnham jumping on it, taking a worst case scenario and then distorting it and you could not have government functioning.
I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
9.44am: Downing Street has released the text of a letter that David Cameron has sent to Nicolas Sakozy about the shootings at the Jewish school in Toulouse yesterday. Here it is.9.44am: Downing Street has released the text of a letter that David Cameron has sent to Nicolas Sakozy about the shootings at the Jewish school in Toulouse yesterday. Here it is.
Dear Nicolas,Dear Nicolas,
I was appalled to learn of the recent shootings that France has suffered, including in Toulouse this morning. People across Britain share the shock and grief that is being felt in France, and my thoughts are with the victims, their friends and their families. I know that France will draw strength and comfort from your resolute leadership at this difficult time. You can count on my every support in confronting these senseless acts of brutality and cowardice.I was appalled to learn of the recent shootings that France has suffered, including in Toulouse this morning. People across Britain share the shock and grief that is being felt in France, and my thoughts are with the victims, their friends and their families. I know that France will draw strength and comfort from your resolute leadership at this difficult time. You can count on my every support in confronting these senseless acts of brutality and cowardice.
Yours,Yours,
David.David.
9.32am: Here are the headline inflation figures.9.32am: Here are the headline inflation figures.
• The consumer prices index rate of inflation fell to 3.4% in February, from 3.6% in January.• The consumer prices index rate of inflation fell to 3.4% in February, from 3.6% in January.
• The headline retail prices index rate of inflation fell to 3.7% in February, from 3.9% in January.• The headline retail prices index rate of inflation fell to 3.7% in February, from 3.9% in January.
• The underlying RPI rate of inflation fell to 3.8% in February, from 4% in January.

Here's the Office for National Statistics bulletin, with the full details (pdf).		• The underlying RPI rate of inflation fell to 3.8% in February, from 4% in January.

Here's the Office for National Statistics bulletin, with the full details (pdf).
8.45am: It's special occasion time at the Houses of Parliament. The entrance to Westminster Hall has been spruced up, the security seems tighter than usual and the broadcasters are camping out on Abingdon Green. All this for the final day of the health and social security bill? No, it's because the Queen is coming to address Parliament. We don't know what she's going to say because, as a BBC correspondent was complaining on the Today programme this morning, Buckingham Palace doesn't go in for advance briefing (unlike the Treasury, which has been pumping out yet more information about tomorrow's budget, including plans for everyone to get a detailed statement about how their taxes are spent and details of its credit-easing scheme). It would be fun if the Queen were to use her speech to urge the government to drop the health bill. But somehow I think that's unlikely.8.45am: It's special occasion time at the Houses of Parliament. The entrance to Westminster Hall has been spruced up, the security seems tighter than usual and the broadcasters are camping out on Abingdon Green. All this for the final day of the health and social security bill? No, it's because the Queen is coming to address Parliament. We don't know what she's going to say because, as a BBC correspondent was complaining on the Today programme this morning, Buckingham Palace doesn't go in for advance briefing (unlike the Treasury, which has been pumping out yet more information about tomorrow's budget, including plans for everyone to get a detailed statement about how their taxes are spent and details of its credit-easing scheme). It would be fun if the Queen were to use her speech to urge the government to drop the health bill. But somehow I think that's unlikely.
MPs will be debating the health bill in the afternoon. The bill cleared the Lords last night and today's debate should be the final stage before the bill gets Royal Assent. My colleague Denis Campbell, the Guardian's health correspondent, will be contributing to the blog.MPs will be debating the health bill in the afternoon. The bill cleared the Lords last night and today's debate should be the final stage before the bill gets Royal Assent. My colleague Denis Campbell, the Guardian's health correspondent, will be contributing to the blog.
Here's the full agenda for the day.Here's the full agenda for the day.
9am: The cabinet meets.9am: The cabinet meets.
9.15am: Sir Michael Wilshaw, the Ofsted chief inspector, gives a speech to the Policy Exchange thinktank.9.15am: Sir Michael Wilshaw, the Ofsted chief inspector, gives a speech to the Policy Exchange thinktank.
9.30am: Inflation figures are published.9.30am: Inflation figures are published.
9.45am: Unions learn whether they have won their Court of Appeal battle against a government decision to change the way public sector pension increases are calculated.9.45am: Unions learn whether they have won their Court of Appeal battle against a government decision to change the way public sector pension increases are calculated.
10am: Bernard Hogan-Howe, the commissioner of the Metropolitan police, gives evidence to the Leveson Inquiry. Other witnesses will include crime correspondents Justin Penrose of the Sunday Mirror and Tom Pettifor of the Daily Mirror, and West Midlands Police chief constable Chris Sims.10am: Bernard Hogan-Howe, the commissioner of the Metropolitan police, gives evidence to the Leveson Inquiry. Other witnesses will include crime correspondents Justin Penrose of the Sunday Mirror and Tom Pettifor of the Daily Mirror, and West Midlands Police chief constable Chris Sims.
10.30am: The Queen addresses MPs and peers in Westminster Hall to mark her Diamond Jubilee.10.30am: The Queen addresses MPs and peers in Westminster Hall to mark her Diamond Jubilee.
1.30pm: Unison hold a protest in Westminster against the health bill.1.30pm: Unison hold a protest in Westminster against the health bill.
2.30pm: Nick Clegg answers deputy prime minister's questions in the Commons.2.30pm: Nick Clegg answers deputy prime minister's questions in the Commons.
3.40pm: MPs debate the emergency motion about whether the health bill should be postponed until the bill's risk register has been published. The debate will last for 90 minutes.3.40pm: MPs debate the emergency motion about whether the health bill should be postponed until the bill's risk register has been published. The debate will last for 90 minutes.
Around 5.30pm: MPs start their final debate on the health bill.Around 5.30pm: MPs start their final debate on the health bill.
At some point today Andrew Mitchell, the international development secretary, is giving a speech to the Africa Investment Summit.At some point today Andrew Mitchell, the international development secretary, is giving a speech to the Africa Investment Summit.
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 in the afternoon.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 in the afternoon.
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.