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Politics live blog: Theresa May's Abu Qatada statement Politics live blog: Theresa May's Abu Qatada statement
(40 minutes later)
3.05pm: Thanks to everyone who responded to my query about the worst budget ever. I haven't had time to do some proper research, and so the considered thesis on this is going to have to wait, but the comments have been interesting. Here are some thoughts.
1. Most respondents, here and on Twitter, think that Gordon Brown's budget abolishing the 10p rate of tax was worse. I agree. The 10p decision was a timebomb in Brown's final budget (in 2007) and it did not explode until 2008, when Brown finally accepted that his move was going to penalise the low paid and Alistair Darling had to spend £2.7bn in an emergency budget repairing the mess. Arguably Brown's reputation never fully recovered. There are similarities. The 10p budget undermined Brown's claim to be on the side of the poor. The 2012 budget has undermined George Osborne's claim that "we're all in it together". But he won't be able to spend £2.7bn trying to repair the damage.
2. If you want to impress your friends, you can tell them that this budget (or the 10p budget - see above) is the worst budget since Sir Francis Dashwood's cider tax in 1763. According to Professor Wikipedia, it provoked riots. (Like Osborne, Dashwood made the mistake of offending voters in the West Country.)
3. Some budgets are deemed bad because they contain measures that are unpopular. And some are deeemed bad because they unravel. In the comments, Opimian has an interesting take on this.
@Andrew, I'm sure there have been budgets that have been more unpopular on the day. My main memory of 50 years of budgets is of 24 hours of fury over increases in alcohol and cigarette duty. Attitudes to both smoking and drinking were different in the past and duty increases were considered to be an outrageous attack on the innocent pleasures of the working man and woman. Today, because of health concerns, most people just shrug and overlook the fact that these are regressive taxes and have little deterrent effect on the rich.
4. That said, this budget does seem to contain a large number of features that are unpopular and unravelling. We've already had arguments about the abolition of the 50p rate, the pasty tax, the granny tax, VAT on church repairs, the impact of the tax relief cap on charities and caravans. Personally, my theory is that the new rules about the abolition of child benefit for high earners - involving a fiendishly complicated sliding scale - could turn out to be even more problematic for Osborne.
5. Political impact does not always correlate to economic impact. In this budget Osborne was shuffling around relatively small sums of money. (He is spending about £3.5bn raising the personal tax allowance, and funding that through a variety of relatively minor tax increases.) There are many other budgets (and spending reviews) that have had a far greater impact on personal finances. In the comments, in what I presume is a reference to pension indexation, akamalaccas says the 2010 budget cost him or her 30% of future income. Yet the 2010 budget did not damage Osborne's standing as much as this one has done.
3.01pm: Health workers are going to go on strike next month. The Press Association have filed this.

Tens of thousands of NHS workers will take industrial action and other forms of protest next month in the continuing bitter row over pensions.
Unite said its 100,000 health service members will walk out on May 10, a day after the Queen's Speech, which is expected to include a Parliamentary Bill on the Government's controversial reforms.
Other workers are expected to join the strike and there could be further industrial action in June.
Unite said its NHS members, including health visitors, pharmacists and paramedics, face paying an average of £30 a month more for their pensions.
The dispute has been raging for well over a year and sparked a strike by more than 1.5m public sector workers last November.
2.15pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.2.15pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.
• The radical Islamist preacher Abu Qatada has been arrested at his London address and told that a fresh attempt is to be made to deport him. Theresa May, the home secretary, is expected to give more details when she makes a statement to MPs at 3.30pm. I'll be covering her statement in detail.• The radical Islamist preacher Abu Qatada has been arrested at his London address and told that a fresh attempt is to be made to deport him. Theresa May, the home secretary, is expected to give more details when she makes a statement to MPs at 3.30pm. I'll be covering her statement in detail.
• Downing Street has said that ministers are "quietly confident" of securing reforms to the European court of human rights at a conference later this week. A spokesman for the prime minister told journalists: "The position we have now is that robust negotiations are ongoing and they have been very productive. We are quietly confident of a good outcome at the conference. Getting 47 countries to agree anything isn't straightforward, but there has been a real momentum for change. The justice secretary said [at cabinet this morning] that there are encouraging signs that we have made significant progress towards a substantial package of reform to the ECHR, which will hopefully realise the ambitions set out by the prime minister in Strasbourg in January."

• Lady Warsi, the Conservative co-chairman, has admitted the coalition has descended into incoherence due to a lack of common principles at the heart of government.

• Tim Farron, the Lib Dem president, has said that the revelations about a Tory peer lobbying on behalf of a tax haven (see 11.48am) reflects badly on the party as a whole.		• Downing Street has said that ministers are "quietly confident" of securing reforms to the European court of human rights at a conference later this week. A spokesman for the prime minister told journalists: "The position we have now is that robust negotiations are ongoing and they have been very productive. We are quietly confident of a good outcome at the conference. Getting 47 countries to agree anything isn't straightforward, but there has been a real momentum for change. The justice secretary said [at cabinet this morning] that there are encouraging signs that we have made significant progress towards a substantial package of reform to the ECHR, which will hopefully realise the ambitions set out by the prime minister in Strasbourg in January."

• Lady Warsi, the Conservative co-chairman, has admitted the coalition has descended into incoherence due to a lack of common principles at the heart of government.

• Tim Farron, the Lib Dem president, has said that the revelations about a Tory peer lobbying on behalf of a tax haven (see 11.48am) reflects badly on the party as a whole.
With all the controversy surrounding lobbying and tax at the moment, it's astonishing that a Tory peer is now the lead advocate in Britain for one of the world's biggest tax havens.With all the controversy surrounding lobbying and tax at the moment, it's astonishing that a Tory peer is now the lead advocate in Britain for one of the world's biggest tax havens.
While the Coalition is trying to make the rich pay their fair share, this exposes an element of the Conservative Party which wants to keep helping their wealthy friends hide their money from the taxman.While the Coalition is trying to make the rich pay their fair share, this exposes an element of the Conservative Party which wants to keep helping their wealthy friends hide their money from the taxman.
• Farron and other Lib Dem MPs have signed an amendmen to the legal aid bill opposing legal aid cuts for people on benefits. Paul Waugh has more on his PoliticsHome blog.• Farron and other Lib Dem MPs have signed an amendmen to the legal aid bill opposing legal aid cuts for people on benefits. Paul Waugh has more on his PoliticsHome blog.
• Bernard Hogan-Howe, the commissioner of the Metropolitan police, has told the Commons home affairs committee that he was shocked and surprised by the latest revelations involving alleged racism in the Met. He was giving evidence shortly after the Crown Prosecution Service announced that an officer who was recorded on a mobile phone allegedly racially abusing a black suspect inside a van has been charged. Asked about the language involved, Hogan-Howe said he was "shocked, and sickened" when he heard it. When pressed, he also said he was surprised about what was alleged to have happened.

• Labour has achieved its largest lead in a YouGov poll since October 2007. The same poll also shows Ukip ahead of the Lib Dems. (See 8.55am.)		• Bernard Hogan-Howe, the commissioner of the Metropolitan police, has told the Commons home affairs committee that he was shocked and surprised by the latest revelations involving alleged racism in the Met. He was giving evidence shortly after the Crown Prosecution Service announced that an officer who was recorded on a mobile phone allegedly racially abusing a black suspect inside a van has been charged. Asked about the language involved, Hogan-Howe said he was "shocked, and sickened" when he heard it. When pressed, he also said he was surprised about what was alleged to have happened.

• Labour has achieved its largest lead in a YouGov poll since October 2007. The same poll also shows Ukip ahead of the Lib Dems. (See 8.55am.)
• Lord Heseltine, the Conservative former deputy prime minister, has said that it would be wrong to describe the Eurozone as a failure. He made the comments in an interview with the Daily Politics. Here's the quote, from PoliticsHome.• Lord Heseltine, the Conservative former deputy prime minister, has said that it would be wrong to describe the Eurozone as a failure. He made the comments in an interview with the Daily Politics. Here's the quote, from PoliticsHome.
The people who are putting the money in in the main don't regard it as a failed project ... But the moment anything goes wrong, all the headlines here scream euro crisis, euro collapse, euro over, but they're not the same headlines on the continent.The people who are putting the money in in the main don't regard it as a failed project ... But the moment anything goes wrong, all the headlines here scream euro crisis, euro collapse, euro over, but they're not the same headlines on the continent.
Heseltine also predicted that eventually Britain would join the euro.Heseltine also predicted that eventually Britain would join the euro.

I think we will [join the euro]. If it survives and my guess is it will survive, my guess is that in the future, and it won't be this week or next week or this year, we will do so because the whole process of Europeanisation we have resisted and we have failed at every turn.
I think we will [join the euro]. If it survives and my guess is it will survive, my guess is that in the future, and it won't be this week or next week or this year, we will do so because the whole process of Europeanisation we have resisted and we have failed at every turn.
• An increase in the price of food and clothing compared to a year ago pushed up inflation to 3.5% in March on the consumer price index (CPI) measure. • An increase in the price of food and clothing compared to a year ago pushed up inflation to 3.5% in March on the consumer price index (CPI) measure.
• Hospitals in England have been told to end the "obviously unacceptable" practice of sending elderly or vulnerable patients home in the middle of the night.• Hospitals in England have been told to end the "obviously unacceptable" practice of sending elderly or vulnerable patients home in the middle of the night.
• William Hague, the foreign secretary, has called for a full investigation into the death of Neil Heywood in China. He made the appeal in a written statement to MPs.
• William Hague, the foreign secretary, has called for a full investigation into the death of Neil Heywood in China. He made the appeal in a written statement to MPs.
I welcome the fact that the Chinese authorities have now committed themselves to undertake the investigation into Mr Heywood's death that we sought. We now wish to see the conclusion of a full investigation that observes due process, is free from political interference, exposes the truth behind this tragic case, and ensures that justice is done.I welcome the fact that the Chinese authorities have now committed themselves to undertake the investigation into Mr Heywood's death that we sought. We now wish to see the conclusion of a full investigation that observes due process, is free from political interference, exposes the truth behind this tragic case, and ensures that justice is done.
Hague issued his statement before David Cameron's meeting at Number 10 with Li Changchun, a senior member of the Chinese Communist party.Hague issued his statement before David Cameron's meeting at Number 10 with Li Changchun, a senior member of the Chinese Communist party.
1.25pm: Vaz goes next.1.25pm: Vaz goes next.
Q: Do you support the minimum price for alcohol?Q: Do you support the minimum price for alcohol?
Yes, says Hogan-Howe.Yes, says Hogan-Howe.
He also says he would support the re-introduction of the old "needs test" used to assess whether an area needs a new off-licence.He also says he would support the re-introduction of the old "needs test" used to assess whether an area needs a new off-licence.
Instead, health tests can be used to perform the same function.

Q: Are you happy about senior officers taking up jobs in the private sector? Should there be a "pause" before officers take new jobs?		Instead, health tests can be used to perform the same function.

Q: Are you happy about senior officers taking up jobs in the private sector? Should there be a "pause" before officers take new jobs?
Hogan-Howe says that people need employment. But for some posts there should be a "cooling off" period, he says. For example, involving jobs with firms with contracts with the Met.Hogan-Howe says that people need employment. But for some posts there should be a "cooling off" period, he says. For example, involving jobs with firms with contracts with the Met.
Q: And did you take the decision to get rid of the commissioner's flat?Q: And did you take the decision to get rid of the commissioner's flat?
Yes, says Hogan-Howe. He thought the money could be better spent in other ways. The decision was taken six months ago. It was in the papers yesterday. But he did not announce the decision himself.Yes, says Hogan-Howe. He thought the money could be better spent in other ways. The decision was taken six months ago. It was in the papers yesterday. But he did not announce the decision himself.
That's it. The hearing is over. I'll post a lunchtime summary soon.That's it. The hearing is over. I'll post a lunchtime summary soon.
1.19pm: Labour's Alun Michael goes next. He says he is seeking selection as the Labour candidate for police commissioner in South Wales.1.19pm: Labour's Alun Michael goes next. He says he is seeking selection as the Labour candidate for police commissioner in South Wales.
Q: How are you handling the management challenge of running the Met?Q: How are you handling the management challenge of running the Met?
Hogan-Howe says he has spent his first few months in office reshaping his top team.Hogan-Howe says he has spent his first few months in office reshaping his top team.
He says he wants all 50,000 officers in the Met to work as a team.He says he wants all 50,000 officers in the Met to work as a team.
Every four weeks he has a meeting, either with Londoners or with officers from the Met.Every four weeks he has a meeting, either with Londoners or with officers from the Met.
On Fridays he is available to chat to officers in the canteen over breakfast. Sometimes up to 20 officers come to speak to him.On Fridays he is available to chat to officers in the canteen over breakfast. Sometimes up to 20 officers come to speak to him.
He also says he reads his emails. He cannot reply to them all. But often they produce good ideas.He also says he reads his emails. He cannot reply to them all. But often they produce good ideas.
He says he would hope people would say that he has shown a willingness to be held to account.He says he would hope people would say that he has shown a willingness to be held to account.
1.15pm: Michael Ellis, a Conservative, asks about Olympics security.1.15pm: Michael Ellis, a Conservative, asks about Olympics security.
Q: In the light of the Boat Race incident, do you think Olympic security needs to be reviewed? And are sentences appropriate? The Boat Race protester has only been charged with a public order offence. The penalties for these offences are very light, and do not involve jail.Q: In the light of the Boat Race incident, do you think Olympic security needs to be reviewed? And are sentences appropriate? The Boat Race protester has only been charged with a public order offence. The penalties for these offences are very light, and do not involve jail.
Hogan-Howe says the CPS is reviewing the charge in the Boat Race case to see if a more serious charge can be brought.Hogan-Howe says the CPS is reviewing the charge in the Boat Race case to see if a more serious charge can be brought.
Security is under review, he says. There are various "pragmatic things" that the police are looking at to try to ensure that there are no more swimming protests, he says. But he cannot guarantee that no incident will take place.Security is under review, he says. There are various "pragmatic things" that the police are looking at to try to ensure that there are no more swimming protests, he says. But he cannot guarantee that no incident will take place.
1.14pm: David Winnick goes next.1.14pm: David Winnick goes next.
Q: Do you accept that contact with the media went too far?Q: Do you accept that contact with the media went too far?
Yes, says Hogan-Howe. As he told the Leveson inquiry, he was surprised that contacts with the media were as extensive as they were.Yes, says Hogan-Howe. As he told the Leveson inquiry, he was surprised that contacts with the media were as extensive as they were.
1.13pm: Labour's Lorraine Fullbrook is asking the questions now. She asks about leaks.1.13pm: Labour's Lorraine Fullbrook is asking the questions now. She asks about leaks.
Hogan-Howe says the police would go mad trying to investigate every leak.Hogan-Howe says the police would go mad trying to investigate every leak.
1.10pm: Vaz asks about the South Yorkshire proposal to extend the role of community support officers.
1.10pm: Vaz asks about the South Yorkshire proposal to extend the role of community support officers.
Hogan-Howe says that he does not want to comment on the South Yorkshire plan, because he has heard three different versions of what it involves. But he says he would be opposed to community support officers having extra powers, and he would be opposed to them replacing police officers.Hogan-Howe says that he does not want to comment on the South Yorkshire plan, because he has heard three different versions of what it involves. But he says he would be opposed to community support officers having extra powers, and he would be opposed to them replacing police officers.
1.08pm: Hogan-Howe says within the next few weeks the Met will be announcing changes to the stop-and-search regime. There will be more training for officers, he says.1.08pm: Hogan-Howe says within the next few weeks the Met will be announcing changes to the stop-and-search regime. There will be more training for officers, he says.
He also says there has been a 17% reduction in the number of searches taking place under the Section 60 procedure, involving a senior offficer applying stop-and-search over a wide area.He also says there has been a 17% reduction in the number of searches taking place under the Section 60 procedure, involving a senior offficer applying stop-and-search over a wide area.
1.04pm: Mark Reckless goes again.1.04pm: Mark Reckless goes again.
Q: Are you happy with the circumsances that led to Peter Tickner, the Met's former director of internal audit, leaving?Q: Are you happy with the circumsances that led to Peter Tickner, the Met's former director of internal audit, leaving?
Hogan-Howe says this happened before he took over. He does not know the full circumstances around Tickner's departure.Hogan-Howe says this happened before he took over. He does not know the full circumstances around Tickner's departure.
1.02pm: Vaz intervenes. Do you agree officers need fitness tests?1.02pm: Vaz intervenes. Do you agree officers need fitness tests?
Hogan-Howe says he last took one himself three or four years ago. He is "no superman", he says. But the standard is not that high. Members of his management board have said they wil take the fitness test.Hogan-Howe says he last took one himself three or four years ago. He is "no superman", he says. But the standard is not that high. Members of his management board have said they wil take the fitness test.
There are a lot of recommendations to absorb, he says.There are a lot of recommendations to absorb, he says.
12.57pm: They are now turning to the Tom Winsor review. Julian Huppert, a Lib Dem MP, is asking the questions.12.57pm: They are now turning to the Tom Winsor review. Julian Huppert, a Lib Dem MP, is asking the questions.
Q: What do you make of it?Q: What do you make of it?
Hogan-Howe says he quite likes it. He is not going to endorse every recommendation. But he supports lateral entry. He supports officers being fit. And he supports officers being paid for their skills.Hogan-Howe says he quite likes it. He is not going to endorse every recommendation. But he supports lateral entry. He supports officers being fit. And he supports officers being paid for their skills.
That does not mean his staff would agree with it, he says. Officers do not want to see redundancies. They are crown servants. But if compulsory redundancy is allowed, they will start to look like employees.That does not mean his staff would agree with it, he says. Officers do not want to see redundancies. They are crown servants. But if compulsory redundancy is allowed, they will start to look like employees.
Q: Which bits will be hardes to implement in the Met?Q: Which bits will be hardes to implement in the Met?
Hogan-Howe says there is a recommendation that an officer should take an 8% pay cut if they become unfit for certain duties. Fundamentally he agrees with this, he says. But pensions are linked to final salary, and so this measure could generate problems.Hogan-Howe says there is a recommendation that an officer should take an 8% pay cut if they become unfit for certain duties. Fundamentally he agrees with this, he says. But pensions are linked to final salary, and so this measure could generate problems.
12.54pm: Nicola Blackwood, a Conservative, is asking the questions now.12.54pm: Nicola Blackwood, a Conservative, is asking the questions now.
Q: Do you think there is public confidence in the IPCC or the Equality and Human Rights Commission?Q: Do you think there is public confidence in the IPCC or the Equality and Human Rights Commission?
Hogan-Howe says this is a difficult question for him to answer. When pressed, he says he has heard criticism of the IPPC. But he has heard criticism of the IPCC too.Hogan-Howe says this is a difficult question for him to answer. When pressed, he says he has heard criticism of the IPPC. But he has heard criticism of the IPCC too.
He would not argue for a new body, he says.He would not argue for a new body, he says.
Vaz intervenes.Vaz intervenes.
Q: Do you think the CPS should have decided to prosecute PC Alex MacFarlane originally?Q: Do you think the CPS should have decided to prosecute PC Alex MacFarlane originally?
Hogan-Howe says he will not criticise them. He does not know what evidence they saw.Hogan-Howe says he will not criticise them. He does not know what evidence they saw.
12.51pm: Back to the committee, Mark Reckless, a Conservative, has been asking Hogan-Howe if he would approve of the police being able to recruit officers from abroad.12.51pm: Back to the committee, Mark Reckless, a Conservative, has been asking Hogan-Howe if he would approve of the police being able to recruit officers from abroad.
Hogan-Howe says it would be difficult to open jobs up to American officers without having to let people from the European Union apply too.Hogan-Howe says it would be difficult to open jobs up to American officers without having to let people from the European Union apply too.
12.48pm: Turning away from the committee, for a moment, the BBC is reporting that Abu Qatada has been arrested and told that he will be deported.12.48pm: Turning away from the committee, for a moment, the BBC is reporting that Abu Qatada has been arrested and told that he will be deported.
12.42pm: Labour's David Winnick is asking the questions now.12.42pm: Labour's David Winnick is asking the questions now.
Q: Were you surprised when you heard the tape of PC Alex MacFarlane?Q: Were you surprised when you heard the tape of PC Alex MacFarlane?
Hogan-Howe says he was shocked and sickened.Hogan-Howe says he was shocked and sickened.
Q: But were you surprised?Q: But were you surprised?
Yes, says Hogan-Howe.Yes, says Hogan-Howe.
Q: The independent police complaints commissioner says incidents of racism are evidence of wider dissatisfaction. Do you agree?Q: The independent police complaints commissioner says incidents of racism are evidence of wider dissatisfaction. Do you agree?
Hogan-Howe says the Met receives 14,000 complaint a year. Only 2.4% of them involve allegations of racism. That amounts to about 320. It is a relatively small number. But he would like it to be zero.Hogan-Howe says the Met receives 14,000 complaint a year. Only 2.4% of them involve allegations of racism. That amounts to about 320. It is a relatively small number. But he would like it to be zero.
Q: How many black officers are there in the Met?Q: How many black officers are there in the Met?
It is just over 10%, Hogan-Howe says. That amounts to 3,200.It is just over 10%, Hogan-Howe says. That amounts to 3,200.
Q: And how many black senior officers have you got? Officers above borough commander level?Q: And how many black senior officers have you got? Officers above borough commander level?
Hogan-Howe says two out of 30. But another is just about to be appointed.Hogan-Howe says two out of 30. But another is just about to be appointed.
12.38pm: Vaz turns to the Stephen Lawrence inquiry.12.38pm: Vaz turns to the Stephen Lawrence inquiry.
Q: Have you responded to the letter from Doreen Lawrence calling for an inquiry into the role played by Sgt John Davidson? [There is more about the allegations about Davidson in this Guardian story.]Q: Have you responded to the letter from Doreen Lawrence calling for an inquiry into the role played by Sgt John Davidson? [There is more about the allegations about Davidson in this Guardian story.]
Hogan-Howe says it has taken a while to recover all the documents relevant to this because it goes back 20 years. He acknowledges the "concern" felt by Doreen Lawrence and is in the process of getting all the material he needs to consider the issue.Hogan-Howe says it has taken a while to recover all the documents relevant to this because it goes back 20 years. He acknowledges the "concern" felt by Doreen Lawrence and is in the process of getting all the material he needs to consider the issue.
12.35pm: Vaz is still asking questions.12.35pm: Vaz is still asking questions.
Q: You could order disciplinary hearings to be held in public. When they are heard in private, no one knows what the outcome is. Too often officers are allowed to retire. How will you reassure the public unless you allow these hearings to be held in public?Q: You could order disciplinary hearings to be held in public. When they are heard in private, no one knows what the outcome is. Too often officers are allowed to retire. How will you reassure the public unless you allow these hearings to be held in public?
Hogan-Howe says he will take this idea away and consider it.Hogan-Howe says he will take this idea away and consider it.
You could also allow complainants to attend hearings, he says. And you could ensure that the findings are reported to the public.You could also allow complainants to attend hearings, he says. And you could ensure that the findings are reported to the public.
Hogan-Howe suggests he will consider both ideas. He tells Vaz he is not "deaf" to his proposals.Hogan-Howe suggests he will consider both ideas. He tells Vaz he is not "deaf" to his proposals.
Q: You accept that words like "nigger" and "Paki" should never be used by police officers?Q: You accept that words like "nigger" and "Paki" should never be used by police officers?
I do, says Hogan-Howe.I do, says Hogan-Howe.
12.28pm: Bernard Hogan-Howe is giving evidence now. Keith Vaz opens the questions.

Q: The CPS has announced that PC Alex MacFarlane has been charged. What is your reaction?		12.28pm: Bernard Hogan-Howe is giving evidence now. Keith Vaz opens the questions.

Q: The CPS has announced that PC Alex MacFarlane has been charged. What is your reaction?
Hogan-Howe says he is pleased the CPS revised their original decision. The evidence will be tested in court. The Met will decide what action it will take itself soon.Hogan-Howe says he is pleased the CPS revised their original decision. The evidence will be tested in court. The Met will decide what action it will take itself soon.
Q: People are puzzled the Met has not acted already. Did you listen to the tape obtained from MacFarlane?Q: People are puzzled the Met has not acted already. Did you listen to the tape obtained from MacFarlane?
Hogan-Howe says the tape he heard was the one everyone else heard.Hogan-Howe says the tape he heard was the one everyone else heard.
He says he will do all he can to drive racists out of the Met.He says he will do all he can to drive racists out of the Met.
Q: But why are these cases being exposed by the media, not the police? This problem seems "embedded" in the Met. Is that a worry to you?Q: But why are these cases being exposed by the media, not the police? This problem seems "embedded" in the Met. Is that a worry to you?
Hogan-Howe says that, of the 11 cases that the Met have referred to the IPC, six of them were uncovered by police colleagues.Hogan-Howe says that, of the 11 cases that the Met have referred to the IPC, six of them were uncovered by police colleagues.
On the main points, Hogan-Howe says he agrees. He wishes the police never had cases like this. But he stresses that the evidence has to be tested in court.On the main points, Hogan-Howe says he agrees. He wishes the police never had cases like this. But he stresses that the evidence has to be tested in court.
Vaz, in his questions, referred to an officer using the word "nigger". Hogan-Howe says he will not use that word. But the fact that an officer can use it does make you worry about what is in his heart, Hogan-Howe says.Vaz, in his questions, referred to an officer using the word "nigger". Hogan-Howe says he will not use that word. But the fact that an officer can use it does make you worry about what is in his heart, Hogan-Howe says.
12.14pm: Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan police commissioner, is about to give evidence to the Commons home affairs committee.12.14pm: Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan police commissioner, is about to give evidence to the Commons home affairs committee.
You can watch the proceedings here.

This is what the committee has said about what the hearing will cover.		You can watch the proceedings here.

This is what the committee has said about what the hearing will cover.

The subject matter of the hearing is likely to include the recent claims being made concerning racism in the organisation; the affect of organisational change, including the loss of several senior officers; the shift of accountability to the Mayor's Office for Police and Crime; the impact of the Winsor recommendations on officer morale; and the allegations of improper relations between the police and the media.
The subject matter of the hearing is likely to include the recent claims being made concerning racism in the organisation; the affect of organisational change, including the loss of several senior officers; the shift of accountability to the Mayor's Office for Police and Crime; the impact of the Winsor recommendations on officer morale; and the allegations of improper relations between the police and the media.
As my colleague Paul Lewis reports, it has just been announced that the police officer who was recorded on a mobile phone allegedly racially abusing a black suspect inside a van has been charged – reversing an earlier decision in which prosecutors decided he should not face charges. It is hard to believe that the timing of the announcement is not related to Hogan-Howe's imminent appearance at the committee.As my colleague Paul Lewis reports, it has just been announced that the police officer who was recorded on a mobile phone allegedly racially abusing a black suspect inside a van has been charged – reversing an earlier decision in which prosecutors decided he should not face charges. It is hard to believe that the timing of the announcement is not related to Hogan-Howe's imminent appearance at the committee.
12.03pm: Later today MPs will be debating the legal aid bill and the amendments made to it when it was in the Lords. Peers defeated the government 11 times on the bill and those defeats are expected to be reversed, although ministers are also expected to offer a minor concession relating to legal aid for welfare cases. Sadiq Khan (pictured), the shadow justice secretary, has put out a statement urging Lib Dem MPs to rebel.12.03pm: Later today MPs will be debating the legal aid bill and the amendments made to it when it was in the Lords. Peers defeated the government 11 times on the bill and those defeats are expected to be reversed, although ministers are also expected to offer a minor concession relating to legal aid for welfare cases. Sadiq Khan (pictured), the shadow justice secretary, has put out a statement urging Lib Dem MPs to rebel.
Our beef is with the nature of the cuts proposed in this bill, which decimates the early stage advice and support delivered through law centres and Citizens Advice Bureau, while expensive criminal cases are only lightly affected. What's so exasperating is that the areas of legal aid under threat actually save money down the line for the taxpayer – something even the Taxpayers Alliance recognise, but this government appear unwilling to accept.Our beef is with the nature of the cuts proposed in this bill, which decimates the early stage advice and support delivered through law centres and Citizens Advice Bureau, while expensive criminal cases are only lightly affected. What's so exasperating is that the areas of legal aid under threat actually save money down the line for the taxpayer – something even the Taxpayers Alliance recognise, but this government appear unwilling to accept.
But all this can change today. It's in the government's gift to take stock, listen to the ferocity of the opposition, and accept all of the revisions made to the Bill by the House of Lords. We are calling on MPs of all political persuasions to work with us to protect our precious tradition of access to justice.But all this can change today. It's in the government's gift to take stock, listen to the ferocity of the opposition, and accept all of the revisions made to the Bill by the House of Lords. We are calling on MPs of all political persuasions to work with us to protect our precious tradition of access to justice.
However, if instead the government and backbench Lib Dem and Tory MP's choose to turn a blind eye, they will go down in history as the regime that abandoned whole swathes of the most vulnerable in society, leaving them to their own devices amidst the complexities of a deeply foreboding legal system.However, if instead the government and backbench Lib Dem and Tory MP's choose to turn a blind eye, they will go down in history as the regime that abandoned whole swathes of the most vulnerable in society, leaving them to their own devices amidst the complexities of a deeply foreboding legal system.

The debate will not start until about 4.30pm and so I'm afraid I won't be covering it here. But we will be reporting what happens.
The debate will not start until about 4.30pm and so I'm afraid I won't be covering it here. But we will be reporting what happens.
11.48am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.11.48am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
As for the rest of the papers, I've already mentioned the Populus poll in the Times (see 8.55am) and the Transport for London emails criticising Ken Livingstone's transport policy (see 10.53am). Here are some other stories and articles that are particularly interesting.As for the rest of the papers, I've already mentioned the Populus poll in the Times (see 8.55am) and the Transport for London emails criticising Ken Livingstone's transport policy (see 10.53am). Here are some other stories and articles that are particularly interesting.
• Melanie Newman and Oliver Wright in the Independent say the Tory peer Lord Blencathra has been lobbying on behalf of a Caribbean tax haven.• Melanie Newman and Oliver Wright in the Independent say the Tory peer Lord Blencathra has been lobbying on behalf of a Caribbean tax haven.

Lord Blencathra, a former MP and Tory chief whip, is being paid by the Cayman Islands government to represent the interests of its financial services industry – despite also being able to vote on legislation affecting the territory.
Lord Blencathra, a former MP and Tory chief whip, is being paid by the Cayman Islands government to represent the interests of its financial services industry – despite also being able to vote on legislation affecting the territory.
Inquiries by The Bureau of Investigative Journalism and The Independent have established that Lord Blencathra has lobbied on behalf of the Caymans while claiming thousands of pounds in House of Lords attendance allowances.Inquiries by The Bureau of Investigative Journalism and The Independent have established that Lord Blencathra has lobbied on behalf of the Caymans while claiming thousands of pounds in House of Lords attendance allowances.
At present there are no clear rules stopping members of the House of Lords effectively acting as paid lobbyists for companies or other governments despite widespread criticisms from transparency campaigners.At present there are no clear rules stopping members of the House of Lords effectively acting as paid lobbyists for companies or other governments despite widespread criticisms from transparency campaigners.
• Rachel Sylvester in the Times says the government's problems with the budget - described as an "omnishambles" and a "clusterfuck" by one government source quoted in the column - highlight a split within the Conservative party.• Rachel Sylvester in the Times says the government's problems with the budget - described as an "omnishambles" and a "clusterfuck" by one government source quoted in the column - highlight a split within the Conservative party.
A split is emerging in the Cabinet and beyond between those who see themselves as insurgents — standing up to civil servants — and incumbents, who prefer to work with the grain of the system. "There is a set of conversations that have never been had," says one Tory strategist. "There are two Conservative traditions — the anti-Establishment radicalism of Thatcher and the deference to established institutions embodied in Macmillan or Heath. The Government hasn't resolved which side it is on."A split is emerging in the Cabinet and beyond between those who see themselves as insurgents — standing up to civil servants — and incumbents, who prefer to work with the grain of the system. "There is a set of conversations that have never been had," says one Tory strategist. "There are two Conservative traditions — the anti-Establishment radicalism of Thatcher and the deference to established institutions embodied in Macmillan or Heath. The Government hasn't resolved which side it is on."
This is partly a Lib Dem-Tory thing, and to some extent a Treasury-No 10 split. But it's also a dilemma that the Prime Minister has yet to resolve within himself. One government adviser quotes Walt Whitman to describe Mr Cameron: "Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself, I am large, I contain multitudes."This is partly a Lib Dem-Tory thing, and to some extent a Treasury-No 10 split. But it's also a dilemma that the Prime Minister has yet to resolve within himself. One government adviser quotes Walt Whitman to describe Mr Cameron: "Do I contradict myself? Very well, then I contradict myself, I am large, I contain multitudes."
There is a curious mixture of tradition and modernity within this Converse-wearing Old Etonian who is as comfortable playing Fruit Ninja as tending his vegetable patch. "The duality exists insides David Cameron's head," says the aide. "Is he an iconoclast or an Establishment figure? For the many or the few? Pro-enterprise or pro-social enterprise? Politically rational or emotionally intuitive? His strength comes from the fact he embodies both traditions. He's a one-man big tent but there are times when that's a weakness."There is a curious mixture of tradition and modernity within this Converse-wearing Old Etonian who is as comfortable playing Fruit Ninja as tending his vegetable patch. "The duality exists insides David Cameron's head," says the aide. "Is he an iconoclast or an Establishment figure? For the many or the few? Pro-enterprise or pro-social enterprise? Politically rational or emotionally intuitive? His strength comes from the fact he embodies both traditions. He's a one-man big tent but there are times when that's a weakness."
• George Parker and Helen Warrell in the Financial Times (subscription) say Tory MPs are muttering that George Osborne has lost his way.• George Parker and Helen Warrell in the Financial Times (subscription) say Tory MPs are muttering that George Osborne has lost his way.
Nadine Dorries, the Tory MP for Mid-Bedfordshire, said: "The person to blame is George Osborne – he's got Gordon Brown-itis and he wouldn't want to hand over the role of managing the Conservative party to anyone else."Nadine Dorries, the Tory MP for Mid-Bedfordshire, said: "The person to blame is George Osborne – he's got Gordon Brown-itis and he wouldn't want to hand over the role of managing the Conservative party to anyone else."
Ms Dorries is an outspoken critic of the party leadership, but her public comments are privately shared by a number of Tory MPs regrouping at Westminster after an Easter period when the government seemed to lose control of the news agenda.Ms Dorries is an outspoken critic of the party leadership, but her public comments are privately shared by a number of Tory MPs regrouping at Westminster after an Easter period when the government seemed to lose control of the news agenda.
A recently elected Conservative MP said: "David Cameron has delegated a lot of this to George Osborne, and neither are forensic enough in their attention to detail."A recently elected Conservative MP said: "David Cameron has delegated a lot of this to George Osborne, and neither are forensic enough in their attention to detail."
A senior Conservative MP noted: "We are being run by a few people at the top who think they can do it all, and they can't. When the reshuffle comes, they need to put in some people who are competent – not sycophants."A senior Conservative MP noted: "We are being run by a few people at the top who think they can do it all, and they can't. When the reshuffle comes, they need to put in some people who are competent – not sycophants."
• Tim Shipman and Kirsty Walker in the Daily Mail say David Cameron thinks the proposed "conservatory tax" is bonkers.• Tim Shipman and Kirsty Walker in the Daily Mail say David Cameron thinks the proposed "conservatory tax" is bonkers.
A source close to Mr Cameron said: 'This is a bonkers proposal and the Prime Minister frankly doesn't understand how it got into the consultation document in the first place.A source close to Mr Cameron said: 'This is a bonkers proposal and the Prime Minister frankly doesn't understand how it got into the consultation document in the first place.
'He is not going to allow a situation where someone who wants to do a bit of home improvement, replace a boiler or even a conservatory, is forced to pay another 10 per cent on top.'He is not going to allow a situation where someone who wants to do a bit of home improvement, replace a boiler or even a conservatory, is forced to pay another 10 per cent on top.
'We're all for going green but this is a ridiculous idea.''We're all for going green but this is a ridiculous idea.'


• Steve Richards in the Independent says voting for anti-politics candidates is a mistake.

• Steve Richards in the Independent says voting for anti-politics candidates is a mistake.
Galloway can do little for the voters of Bradford West because he will not be forming a government at the next election. In the 2001 election, the Wyre Forest constituency elected a non-party MP to campaign against cuts to local health facilities. He made no difference, at least in comparison to the big increases in investment carried out by a party elected to power.Galloway can do little for the voters of Bradford West because he will not be forming a government at the next election. In the 2001 election, the Wyre Forest constituency elected a non-party MP to campaign against cuts to local health facilities. He made no difference, at least in comparison to the big increases in investment carried out by a party elected to power.
I am told that the independent candidate in the London mayoral election, Siobhan Benita, has many attractive qualities, but I read her pitch and am suspicious. She writes on her website: "I am not a party politician and won't waste my time – or yours – fighting tired political battles. I am in touch with Londoners and understand their day-to-day concerns."I am told that the independent candidate in the London mayoral election, Siobhan Benita, has many attractive qualities, but I read her pitch and am suspicious. She writes on her website: "I am not a party politician and won't waste my time – or yours – fighting tired political battles. I am in touch with Londoners and understand their day-to-day concerns."
What does she mean by "tired political battles"? Democratic politics depend on the resolution of differences through political battles rather than the military alternative. It is too easy to claim that they can be transcended with the wave of a charming wand, in the same way that it is a piece of cake for Ukip to pretend from the sidelines that the UK can be independent in an interdependent world.What does she mean by "tired political battles"? Democratic politics depend on the resolution of differences through political battles rather than the military alternative. It is too easy to claim that they can be transcended with the wave of a charming wand, in the same way that it is a piece of cake for Ukip to pretend from the sidelines that the UK can be independent in an interdependent world.
• Jack Doyle in the Daily Mail says David Cameron's plans to reform the European court of human rights are being watered down.• Jack Doyle in the Daily Mail says David Cameron's plans to reform the European court of human rights are being watered down.
Ministers have set out radical plans for discussion at a conference this week to scale back the influence of Strasbourg judges.Ministers have set out radical plans for discussion at a conference this week to scale back the influence of Strasbourg judges.
But a draft agreement appears to show the proposals have been watered down in negotiations with the 46 other member states of the Council of Europe, the court's governing body.But a draft agreement appears to show the proposals have been watered down in negotiations with the 46 other member states of the Council of Europe, the court's governing body.
Key among Britain's proposals is that Strasbourg should rarely consider cases which have already been through the full domestic court process. This has been watered down, according to a draft agreement.Key among Britain's proposals is that Strasbourg should rarely consider cases which have already been through the full domestic court process. This has been watered down, according to a draft agreement.
• Anita Singh in the Daily Telegraph says Ann Widdecombe has said that young women who binge drink should be named and shamed. Here's the Widdecombe quote, from an article in the Radio Times.• Anita Singh in the Daily Telegraph says Ann Widdecombe has said that young women who binge drink should be named and shamed. Here's the Widdecombe quote, from an article in the Radio Times.
If the police carried out the occasional big blitz in the city centres on a Friday night, drafting in extra manpower and pursuing every single person who was drunk in A&E or incapable on the streets, then people going out specifically to get drunk would risk finding themselves in court on the Monday with their names and photographs in the papers. That might be a deterrent to the wilder stages of excess.If the police carried out the occasional big blitz in the city centres on a Friday night, drafting in extra manpower and pursuing every single person who was drunk in A&E or incapable on the streets, then people going out specifically to get drunk would risk finding themselves in court on the Monday with their names and photographs in the papers. That might be a deterrent to the wilder stages of excess.
11.43am: Owen Smith, a shadow Treasury spokesman, has put out a statement about the inflation figures. (See 9.48am.)11.43am: Owen Smith, a shadow Treasury spokesman, has put out a statement about the inflation figures. (See 9.48am.)
Inflation has been stubbornly high now for a year and a half and this disappointing figure ends encouraging recent falls. Household living standards will be falling as a result and it is really tough on pensioners who are facing the Granny tax and families with children facing a £511 a year hit this year as a result of George Osborne's tax rises and spending cuts.Inflation has been stubbornly high now for a year and a half and this disappointing figure ends encouraging recent falls. Household living standards will be falling as a result and it is really tough on pensioners who are facing the Granny tax and families with children facing a £511 a year hit this year as a result of George Osborne's tax rises and spending cuts.
11.09am: Ahead of the Abu Qatada statement this afternoon, Labour MPs have been giving interviews saying that deporting him is taking too long.11.09am: Ahead of the Abu Qatada statement this afternoon, Labour MPs have been giving interviews saying that deporting him is taking too long.
Here's Keith Vaz (pictured), the chairman of the Commons home affairs committee.Here's Keith Vaz (pictured), the chairman of the Commons home affairs committee.
What disappoints me is that all this has taken so long. It is five weeks since the home secretary went to see the King and we're not dealing with a government that does not want Abu Qatada – they are very keen to have him.What disappoints me is that all this has taken so long. It is five weeks since the home secretary went to see the King and we're not dealing with a government that does not want Abu Qatada – they are very keen to have him.
So I think what the home secretary should do today is to publish the response that she has received from Jordan. It isn't a secret response because the whole of parliament and the whole of the country knows about these negotiations. And if necessary, if there is something more that needs to be done, then frankly she needs to get on a plane and go back to Jordan to cross the 't's and dot the 'i's to make sure this happens.So I think what the home secretary should do today is to publish the response that she has received from Jordan. It isn't a secret response because the whole of parliament and the whole of the country knows about these negotiations. And if necessary, if there is something more that needs to be done, then frankly she needs to get on a plane and go back to Jordan to cross the 't's and dot the 'i's to make sure this happens.
And here's Diana Johnson, a shadow Home Office minister.And here's Diana Johnson, a shadow Home Office minister.
I think generally across the political parties there is a view this man should be removed from our country and should be returned to Jordan. I'm just concerned about how long this is taking and the fact that he's now out on bail and those bail conditions, whilst at the moment are very stringent, they actually could be relaxed if the court feels that the government isn't moving as quickly as possible to deport him.I think generally across the political parties there is a view this man should be removed from our country and should be returned to Jordan. I'm just concerned about how long this is taking and the fact that he's now out on bail and those bail conditions, whilst at the moment are very stringent, they actually could be relaxed if the court feels that the government isn't moving as quickly as possible to deport him.

I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
10.53am: The Times has got a story saying that internal Transport for London emails show that officials believe that Ken Livingstone's plan to cut London bus and Tube fares would eventually lead to fare increases (paywall). It's a bit fishy - Boris Johnson runs TfL, and the officials are not named - but here's the key quote.10.53am: The Times has got a story saying that internal Transport for London emails show that officials believe that Ken Livingstone's plan to cut London bus and Tube fares would eventually lead to fare increases (paywall). It's a bit fishy - Boris Johnson runs TfL, and the officials are not named - but here's the key quote.
TfL would run out of cash during 2015," writes one senior official. "To prevent this happening, and to return to the cash levels our business plan assumes by the end of 2015-16 financial year, it would require across bus, Tube and rail, either: RPI plus 38 per cent increase in January 2015, or RPI plus 12.5 per cent increases in both January 2014 and 2015.TfL would run out of cash during 2015," writes one senior official. "To prevent this happening, and to return to the cash levels our business plan assumes by the end of 2015-16 financial year, it would require across bus, Tube and rail, either: RPI plus 38 per cent increase in January 2015, or RPI plus 12.5 per cent increases in both January 2014 and 2015.
Livingstone told the Times the figures did not make sense. But Johnson has put out a statement saying Livingstone's policies "would wreak havoc on London's transport network".Livingstone told the Times the figures did not make sense. But Johnson has put out a statement saying Livingstone's policies "would wreak havoc on London's transport network".
10.45am: David Cameron wants to introduce minimum prices for alcohol. But today the Local Government Association is saying this could lead to more people drinking potentially dangerous illegal booze. This is from Cllr David Rogers, chair of the LGA's community wellbeing board.10.45am: David Cameron wants to introduce minimum prices for alcohol. But today the Local Government Association is saying this could lead to more people drinking potentially dangerous illegal booze. This is from Cllr David Rogers, chair of the LGA's community wellbeing board.
We are concerned that targeting cheap alcohol could push people to the black market and cheaper drinks. When drinking counterfeit brands you can never be sure what you are putting into your body. People who think they are getting a bargain could end up making themselves blind or even drinking themselves to death.We are concerned that targeting cheap alcohol could push people to the black market and cheaper drinks. When drinking counterfeit brands you can never be sure what you are putting into your body. People who think they are getting a bargain could end up making themselves blind or even drinking themselves to death.
We know there is no simple solution to alcohol abuse but tackling cheap drinks is only one part of the problem. Focusing solely on making alcohol less affordable will fail to address the root causes of binge drinking as well as the nuisance, vandalism and risks to health it causes.We know there is no simple solution to alcohol abuse but tackling cheap drinks is only one part of the problem. Focusing solely on making alcohol less affordable will fail to address the root causes of binge drinking as well as the nuisance, vandalism and risks to health it causes.
National gestures like minimum pricing and banning multi-buy discounts will only go so far in deterring binge drinking and don't take into account the varying issues in town and city centres across the country. We need to see councils given the powers and flexibility to tackle problems locally.National gestures like minimum pricing and banning multi-buy discounts will only go so far in deterring binge drinking and don't take into account the varying issues in town and city centres across the country. We need to see councils given the powers and flexibility to tackle problems locally.
We now need a system that allows local authorities to act on the concerns of the people in their area by saying 'no' to a new late night club on a street that is already saturated with them. We also want to see health experts given a say on whether the opening of a corner shop selling cheap booze could contribute to alcohol dependency in a particular area.We now need a system that allows local authorities to act on the concerns of the people in their area by saying 'no' to a new late night club on a street that is already saturated with them. We also want to see health experts given a say on whether the opening of a corner shop selling cheap booze could contribute to alcohol dependency in a particular area.
10.23am: Tube workers are going to go on strike next week. Here's what the Press Association have filed.10.23am: Tube workers are going to go on strike next week. Here's what the Press Association have filed.
Workers who maintain and upgrade Tube lines on London Underground are to strike for 72 hours next week in a dispute over pensions and benefits.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT), which represents around 1,000 staff on the Tube Lines contracts, said its members will walk out at 4pm on Tuesday until the same time on Friday.
The staff work on the Piccadilly, Northern and Jubilee lines and provide a number of services, including emergency repairs, across the entire network.
The row is over union demands for all Tube Lines staff to be allowed to join the Transport for London pension scheme and receive the same travel concessions as those who work for London Underground.
RMT officials said the strike will have a "widespread" impact on Tube services across the network.		Workers who maintain and upgrade Tube lines on London Underground are to strike for 72 hours next week in a dispute over pensions and benefits.
The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT), which represents around 1,000 staff on the Tube Lines contracts, said its members will walk out at 4pm on Tuesday until the same time on Friday.
The staff work on the Piccadilly, Northern and Jubilee lines and provide a number of services, including emergency repairs, across the entire network.
The row is over union demands for all Tube Lines staff to be allowed to join the Transport for London pension scheme and receive the same travel concessions as those who work for London Underground.
RMT officials said the strike will have a "widespread" impact on Tube services across the network.
The two leading candidates in the London mayoral elections, Boris Johnson and Ken Livingstone, are both trying to blame each other.The two leading candidates in the London mayoral elections, Boris Johnson and Ken Livingstone, are both trying to blame each other.
This is from a spokesman for Johnson.This is from a spokesman for Johnson.
It will come as no surprise to Londoners that, a week before the mayoral election, Ken Livingstone's RMT friend Bob Crow is trying to hit hard-working Londoners and businesses.It will come as no surprise to Londoners that, a week before the mayoral election, Ken Livingstone's RMT friend Bob Crow is trying to hit hard-working Londoners and businesses.
And this is from Val Shawcross, Livingstone's deputy mayoral running mate.And this is from Val Shawcross, Livingstone's deputy mayoral running mate.
The failure of Boris Johnson and the RMT to resolve their differences comes at a huge cost to Londoners. Now millions of Tube users are facing the huge inconvenience and disruption that comes with a Tube strike. It has been 1,444 days since Boris Johnson was elected and he has still not bothered to meet representatives of the Tube unions to discuss his manifesto promise to implement a no-strike deal. Boris Johnson's failure to get a grip of the Tube has led to more Tube strikes in the last four years than in the previous eight years.The failure of Boris Johnson and the RMT to resolve their differences comes at a huge cost to Londoners. Now millions of Tube users are facing the huge inconvenience and disruption that comes with a Tube strike. It has been 1,444 days since Boris Johnson was elected and he has still not bothered to meet representatives of the Tube unions to discuss his manifesto promise to implement a no-strike deal. Boris Johnson's failure to get a grip of the Tube has led to more Tube strikes in the last four years than in the previous eight years.
9.48am: And here's an extract from the Press Association story about the inflation figures.9.48am: And here's an extract from the Press Association story about the inflation figures.

A fall in the number of supermarket promotions saw the rate of inflation unexpectedly rise last month, official figures revealed today, piling more pressure on hard-pressed families.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate of inflation rose to 3.5% in March, from 3.4% in February, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said, halting five months of declines.
Food and non-alcoholic drinks fell 0.5% on the month but this compared with a 1.4% fall last year when supermarkets and other retailers offered a wider range of sales and special offers.
The rise in inflation will rattle Bank of England Governor Sir Mervyn King and his colleagues, who previously predicted that CPI would fall swiftly back throughout this year to the Government's 2% target.
Households were squeezed by high prices and sluggish wage growth throughout 2011 and some relief from the high cost of living was expected this year.
The Bank will now be less inclined to pump more money into the economy through its quantitative easing programme if inflation continues to remain above target.
The average cost of petrol and diesel at the pump hit a record high in March, up to £1.38 and £1.46 a litre respectively.
However, the ONS said the rise in fuel and lubricants was similar to last year so had little impact on the rise in inflation.
The biggest upward pressure came from the softer drop in food bills, a smaller fall in recreation and culture costs and higher clothing and footwear prices.
Fruit, bread and cereals and meat saw prices rise in March, compared with falls a year ago, which acted as a drag on the overall food category.
The softer fall in prices follow a fierce price war between the supermarkets, as Tesco introduced its Big Price Drop, Sainsbury's fought back with its Brand Match scheme and Asda offered its Price Guarantee.
But Tesco, which reports annual results tomorrow, admitted its £500 million scheme had been a flop after dismal trade over Christmas continued into the new year.
Clothing and footwear prices were up 2.2%, driven by women's outerwear, while recreation and culture saw resistance from higher charges for toys and recording media.
There was some downward pressure in March as big six energy suppliers Scottish Power and EON introduced cuts to their tariffs.
Housing and household services costs, which includes electricity and gas, subsequently dropped 0.2% on the month.
Elsewhere, transport costs fell on the month as second-hand car prices fell by 0.1%, compared with a 1.5% rise last year.
Alternative measures of inflation did fall, however, with the retail price index dropping to 3.6% in March from 3.7% in February.
A fall in the number of supermarket promotions saw the rate of inflation unexpectedly rise last month, official figures revealed today, piling more pressure on hard-pressed families.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) rate of inflation rose to 3.5% in March, from 3.4% in February, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) said, halting five months of declines.
Food and non-alcoholic drinks fell 0.5% on the month but this compared with a 1.4% fall last year when supermarkets and other retailers offered a wider range of sales and special offers.
The rise in inflation will rattle Bank of England Governor Sir Mervyn King and his colleagues, who previously predicted that CPI would fall swiftly back throughout this year to the Government's 2% target.
Households were squeezed by high prices and sluggish wage growth throughout 2011 and some relief from the high cost of living was expected this year.
The Bank will now be less inclined to pump more money into the economy through its quantitative easing programme if inflation continues to remain above target.
The average cost of petrol and diesel at the pump hit a record high in March, up to £1.38 and £1.46 a litre respectively.
However, the ONS said the rise in fuel and lubricants was similar to last year so had little impact on the rise in inflation.
The biggest upward pressure came from the softer drop in food bills, a smaller fall in recreation and culture costs and higher clothing and footwear prices.
Fruit, bread and cereals and meat saw prices rise in March, compared with falls a year ago, which acted as a drag on the overall food category.
The softer fall in prices follow a fierce price war between the supermarkets, as Tesco introduced its Big Price Drop, Sainsbury's fought back with its Brand Match scheme and Asda offered its Price Guarantee.
But Tesco, which reports annual results tomorrow, admitted its £500 million scheme had been a flop after dismal trade over Christmas continued into the new year.
Clothing and footwear prices were up 2.2%, driven by women's outerwear, while recreation and culture saw resistance from higher charges for toys and recording media.
There was some downward pressure in March as big six energy suppliers Scottish Power and EON introduced cuts to their tariffs.
Housing and household services costs, which includes electricity and gas, subsequently dropped 0.2% on the month.
Elsewhere, transport costs fell on the month as second-hand car prices fell by 0.1%, compared with a 1.5% rise last year.
Alternative measures of inflation did fall, however, with the retail price index dropping to 3.6% in March from 3.7% in February.
9.44am: Here are the headline inflation figures.9.44am: Here are the headline inflation figures.
• The consumer prices index (CPI) measure of inflation rose to 3.5% in March, from 3.4% in February.• The consumer prices index (CPI) measure of inflation rose to 3.5% in March, from 3.4% in February.
• The headline rate of retail prices index (RPI) inflation fell to 3.6% in March, from 3.7% in February.

• The underlying rate of retail prices index (RPI) inflation fell to 3.7% in March, from 3.8% in February.		• The headline rate of retail prices index (RPI) inflation fell to 3.6% in March, from 3.7% in February.

• The underlying rate of retail prices index (RPI) inflation fell to 3.7% in March, from 3.8% in February.
Here's the news release from the Office for National Statistics. And here's the ONS statistical bulletin with the full details (pdf).Here's the news release from the Office for National Statistics. And here's the ONS statistical bulletin with the full details (pdf).
9.34am: The Resolution Foundation has published a report on the minimum wage (pdf). It says the value of the minimum wage has been falling in real terms in recent years and it suggests three reforms that could address this. Here's an extract.9.34am: The Resolution Foundation has published a report on the minimum wage (pdf). It says the value of the minimum wage has been falling in real terms in recent years and it suggests three reforms that could address this. Here's an extract.
The idea of introducing a premium NMW [national minimum wage] for older workers, for example those over 30, has merit. This would have the added benefit of making the minimum wage somewhat better targeted on low-income households. The downside is that older workers do not earn so much more (at the lower percentiles of the distribution) than younger workers, meaning that any adult premium minimum would be not be much higher than the current adult NMW.

The second possibility we have considered is a higher minimum wage forLondon. Earnings in London are much higher than in the rest of the UK so the current NMW has less impact in London than it might. A higher rate in this region could lift the wages of large numbers of workers. Although there would be practical difficulties there is little reason to think they would be insurmountable.

Finally, we have considered what could be learned from the approach of the living wage. As we saw, the method of computing the living wage delivers a number that is far too high to be considered as a national, mandatory minimum wage. A narrative that views a living wage as an alternative to existing support through the welfare system, in particular tax credits, overlooks the fact that an hourly wage for individual workers can never guarantee a minimum standard of living at the household level, where living standards depend on the hours of work and the number of children. That said, these limitations take nothing away from the fact that higher hourly wages would help to raise household income. The living wage campaign
has demonstrated the virtues of a voluntarist approach. There may be a case for doing more to leverage the authority of the LPC to change pay norms. Asking the LPC to take a judgment on non-mandatory 'affordable' minimum wages in different sectors might be one way of raising the pressure on employers who pay unnecessarily low wages, as well as shining a light on sectors of our economy that are dependent on unsustainably low levels of pay.		The idea of introducing a premium NMW [national minimum wage] for older workers, for example those over 30, has merit. This would have the added benefit of making the minimum wage somewhat better targeted on low-income households. The downside is that older workers do not earn so much more (at the lower percentiles of the distribution) than younger workers, meaning that any adult premium minimum would be not be much higher than the current adult NMW.

The second possibility we have considered is a higher minimum wage forLondon. Earnings in London are much higher than in the rest of the UK so the current NMW has less impact in London than it might. A higher rate in this region could lift the wages of large numbers of workers. Although there would be practical difficulties there is little reason to think they would be insurmountable.

Finally, we have considered what could be learned from the approach of the living wage. As we saw, the method of computing the living wage delivers a number that is far too high to be considered as a national, mandatory minimum wage. A narrative that views a living wage as an alternative to existing support through the welfare system, in particular tax credits, overlooks the fact that an hourly wage for individual workers can never guarantee a minimum standard of living at the household level, where living standards depend on the hours of work and the number of children. That said, these limitations take nothing away from the fact that higher hourly wages would help to raise household income. The living wage campaign
has demonstrated the virtues of a voluntarist approach. There may be a case for doing more to leverage the authority of the LPC to change pay norms. Asking the LPC to take a judgment on non-mandatory 'affordable' minimum wages in different sectors might be one way of raising the pressure on employers who pay unnecessarily low wages, as well as shining a light on sectors of our economy that are dependent on unsustainably low levels of pay.
9.09am: As the polls show (see 8.55am), the budget seems to have badly damaged the government's popularity. In her column today, Polly Toynbee describes it as "probably the most bungled budget in history, fiscally neutral yet politically incendiary – mainly for that 50p top tax cut".9.09am: As the polls show (see 8.55am), the budget seems to have badly damaged the government's popularity. In her column today, Polly Toynbee describes it as "probably the most bungled budget in history, fiscally neutral yet politically incendiary – mainly for that 50p top tax cut".
It would be good to be able to put this in context. Can anyone think of any other contenders for the title of worse budget ever? By worst, I mean worst in political terms - because they have damaged the popularity of the governing party, or because they have created problems that require embarrasing U-turns. You could also try to list the worst budgets in economic terms, but that really opens up a different argument.It would be good to be able to put this in context. Can anyone think of any other contenders for the title of worse budget ever? By worst, I mean worst in political terms - because they have damaged the popularity of the governing party, or because they have created problems that require embarrasing U-turns. You could also try to list the worst budgets in economic terms, but that really opens up a different argument.
All thoughts welcome.All thoughts welcome.
8.55am: As promised, here are today's polling figures. There are two sets around this morning.8.55am: As promised, here are today's polling figures. There are two sets around this morning.
YouGov in the SunYouGov in the Sun
Labour: 43% (up 4 points from YouGov in the Sunday Times)
Conservatives: 32% (down 1 point)
Ukip: 9% (up 2)
Lib Dems: 8% (down 2 points		Labour: 43% (up 4 points from YouGov in the Sunday Times)
Conservatives: 32% (down 1 point)
Ukip: 9% (up 2)
Lib Dems: 8% (down 2 points
Labour lead: 11 pointsLabour lead: 11 points
Government approval: -40Government approval: -40
And here's an extract from the YouGov commentary on the figures.
And here's an extract from the YouGov commentary on the figures.
Our latest daily poll for the Sun has topline figures of Conservative 32%, Labour 43%, UKIP 9% and Liberal Democrats 8%. This is a significant jump from the 6 point leads we were showing last week, and the largest Labour lead since before the 'election that never was' in October 2007.Our latest daily poll for the Sun has topline figures of Conservative 32%, Labour 43%, UKIP 9% and Liberal Democrats 8%. This is a significant jump from the 6 point leads we were showing last week, and the largest Labour lead since before the 'election that never was' in October 2007.
It's also the first time that we have shown UKIP overtaking the Liberal Democrats for third place. Previously we've shown them as high as 8 points back in 2009 after the European elections and the expenses scandal, but back them the Liberal Democrats enjoyed far higher support. With the Liberal Democrats in government and in decline, UKIP have the opportunity to benefit from anti-government votes and the increase their support puts them into third place.It's also the first time that we have shown UKIP overtaking the Liberal Democrats for third place. Previously we've shown them as high as 8 points back in 2009 after the European elections and the expenses scandal, but back them the Liberal Democrats enjoyed far higher support. With the Liberal Democrats in government and in decline, UKIP have the opportunity to benefit from anti-government votes and the increase their support puts them into third place.


Populus in the Times (paywall)

Populus in the Times (paywall)
Labour: 42% (up 4 points from Populus in March)
Conservatives: 33% (down 1)
Lib Dems: 11% (no change)		Labour: 42% (up 4 points from Populus in March)
Conservatives: 33% (down 1)
Lib Dems: 11% (no change)
Labour lead: 9 pointsLabour lead: 9 points
And here's an extract from one of the stories in the Times about the poll (paywall).And here's an extract from one of the stories in the Times about the poll (paywall).
A poll at the weekend showed a shift, with 37 per cent now saying the coalition is going "well" against 61 per cent saying "badly"; 24 per cent believe that the coalition is doing "very badly", compared with 15 per cent in September.A poll at the weekend showed a shift, with 37 per cent now saying the coalition is going "well" against 61 per cent saying "badly"; 24 per cent believe that the coalition is doing "very badly", compared with 15 per cent in September.
It found voters increasingly distrustful of the coalition's handling of issues connected to the economy, although confidence in other areas of government policy has held steady.It found voters increasingly distrustful of the coalition's handling of issues connected to the economy, although confidence in other areas of government policy has held steady.
The proportion who say that the coalition is doing well "managing the economy overall" has dipped from 42 per cent in September last year to 34 per cent over the weekend. Those saying that the coalition is doing well "handling public spending cuts" dropped from 36 per cent to 28 per cent, while the proportion who approve of coalition "tax policy" dropped from 41 per cent in September to 33 per cent.The proportion who say that the coalition is doing well "managing the economy overall" has dipped from 42 per cent in September last year to 34 per cent over the weekend. Those saying that the coalition is doing well "handling public spending cuts" dropped from 36 per cent to 28 per cent, while the proportion who approve of coalition "tax policy" dropped from 41 per cent in September to 33 per cent.
8.50am: It's a busy day for the home affairs correspondents. At 12.15pm Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan police commissioner, is giving evidence to the Commons home affairs committee. And at 3.30pm Theresa May, the home secretary, is making a statement to MPs about Abu Qatada. As Alan Travis reports, she will say that the government will not be appealing against the European court of human rights decision blocking his deportation but that the government is making progress in getting Jordan to give the assurances that could lead to the deportation going ahead. I will be covering both events in detail. But there will be more to say about the budget too because the row about the cap on tax relief continues. Ed Balls, the shadow chancellor, was on ITV Daybreak this morning having a whack at the government over this.8.50am: It's a busy day for the home affairs correspondents. At 12.15pm Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan police commissioner, is giving evidence to the Commons home affairs committee. And at 3.30pm Theresa May, the home secretary, is making a statement to MPs about Abu Qatada. As Alan Travis reports, she will say that the government will not be appealing against the European court of human rights decision blocking his deportation but that the government is making progress in getting Jordan to give the assurances that could lead to the deportation going ahead. I will be covering both events in detail. But there will be more to say about the budget too because the row about the cap on tax relief continues. Ed Balls, the shadow chancellor, was on ITV Daybreak this morning having a whack at the government over this.
If you cobble something together at the last minute and you don't think about it, you don't talk to the charities, you don't talk to the Charity Commission, it all falls apart. In this budget, there have been so many things - caravans, pasties, pensioners' tax rise, charities - where the chancellor doesn't seem to have thought it through in advance. Now it is a mess, really.If you cobble something together at the last minute and you don't think about it, you don't talk to the charities, you don't talk to the Charity Commission, it all falls apart. In this budget, there have been so many things - caravans, pasties, pensioners' tax rise, charities - where the chancellor doesn't seem to have thought it through in advance. Now it is a mess, really.
And the polls continue to get worse for the government. I'll post more on those shortly.And the polls continue to get worse for the government. I'll post more on those shortly.
Here's the full agenda for the day.Here's the full agenda for the day.
9.15am: Nick Herbert, the policing minister, gives a speech to the Reform thinktank on reforming the criminal justice system.9.15am: Nick Herbert, the policing minister, gives a speech to the Reform thinktank on reforming the criminal justice system.
9.30am: Inflation figures are released.9.30am: Inflation figures are released.
10.30am: Jack Straw gives evidence to the Commons justice committee about the Freedom of Information Act.10.30am: Jack Straw gives evidence to the Commons justice committee about the Freedom of Information Act.
10.30am: Alcohol experts give evidence to the Commons health committee.10.30am: Alcohol experts give evidence to the Commons health committee.
11am: Executives from the Sun, the Daily Telegraph, the Daily Mail and the BBC give evidence to the Commons home affairs committee about the use of private investigators.11am: Executives from the Sun, the Daily Telegraph, the Daily Mail and the BBC give evidence to the Commons home affairs committee about the use of private investigators.
12.15pm: Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan police commissioner, gives evidence to the Commons home affairs committee.12.15pm: Bernard Hogan-Howe, the Metropolitan police commissioner, gives evidence to the Commons home affairs committee.
1pm: Ken Livingstone addresses a press gallery lunch.1pm: Ken Livingstone addresses a press gallery lunch.
1.30pm: David Cameron meets Li Changchun, a senior member of the Chinese Communist party, at Downing Street.1.30pm: David Cameron meets Li Changchun, a senior member of the Chinese Communist party, at Downing Street.
2.30pm: William Hague, the foreign secretary, takes questions in the Commons.2.30pm: William Hague, the foreign secretary, takes questions in the Commons.
3.30pm: Theresa May, the home secretary, is making a statement to MPs explaining why the government will not be appealing against the European court of human rights ruling blocking the deportation of the radical Islamist cleric Abu Qatada.3.30pm: Theresa May, the home secretary, is making a statement to MPs explaining why the government will not be appealing against the European court of human rights ruling blocking the deportation of the radical Islamist cleric Abu Qatada.
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.
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