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Politics live blog + PMQs: Unemployment falls Politics live blog: PMQs and unemployment figures update
(1 day later)
8.00am: PMQs is back today and, in Ed Miliband's office this morning, they are going to have a real problem: what budget disaster should they raise, given that there have been quite so many? As the Guardian says today in its editorial, "the budget is the gift that keeps giving – to the coalition's enemies." Even the Daily Telegraph agrees. "Rarely has a budget speech spent quite so long unravelling; rarely has the political impact been so negative," it says in its editorial today.8.00am: PMQs is back today and, in Ed Miliband's office this morning, they are going to have a real problem: what budget disaster should they raise, given that there have been quite so many? As the Guardian says today in its editorial, "the budget is the gift that keeps giving – to the coalition's enemies." Even the Daily Telegraph agrees. "Rarely has a budget speech spent quite so long unravelling; rarely has the political impact been so negative," it says in its editorial today.
But first we've got Nick Clegg, who is being interviewed on the Today programme in 10 minutes. In the light of a poll this week showing that, on the basis of their current performance, the Lib Dems could lose 50 of their 57 parliamentary seats, it could be good.But first we've got Nick Clegg, who is being interviewed on the Today programme in 10 minutes. In the light of a poll this week showing that, on the basis of their current performance, the Lib Dems could lose 50 of their 57 parliamentary seats, it could be good.
Here's the agenda for the day.Here's the agenda for the day.
9.30am: Unemployment figures are published.9.30am: Unemployment figures are published.
10.30am: The Crown Prosecution Service publishes guidelines on how journalists can use public interest as a defence against prosecution.

12pm: David Cameron and Ed Miliband clash at PMQs.,		10.30am: The Crown Prosecution Service publishes guidelines on how journalists can use public interest as a defence against prosecution.

12pm: David Cameron and Ed Miliband clash at PMQs.,
1.15pm: Tory MPs Jesse Norman and Dominic Raab and Michael Pinto-Duschinsky, a former member of the Commission on the Bill of Rights, speak at a Policy Exchange conference on human rights reform.1.15pm: Tory MPs Jesse Norman and Dominic Raab and Michael Pinto-Duschinsky, a former member of the Commission on the Bill of Rights, speak at a Policy Exchange conference on human rights reform.
2pm: Alistair Burt, the Foreign Office minister, gives evidence to the Commons foreign affairs committee on the Arab Spring.2pm: Alistair Burt, the Foreign Office minister, gives evidence to the Commons foreign affairs committee on the Arab Spring.
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 after PMQs 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 after PMQs 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.
8.10am: Jim Naughtie is doing the interview. He is starting now.8.10am: Jim Naughtie is doing the interview. He is starting now.
Times are tough for the Lib Dems, Naughtie says.Times are tough for the Lib Dems, Naughtie says.
Q: You have to defend coalition decisions. Are you going to claim credit for a budget that you describe as fair?Q: You have to defend coalition decisions. Are you going to claim credit for a budget that you describe as fair?
Clegg says he attaches great importance to the lifting of the personal tax allowance in the budget. It will take 2m people out of tax altogether. You can have small changes in budgets, and you can have big changes. Clegg says this is "one of the biggest, boldest and most radical changes in the personal tax system for a very long time".

Q: Budgets are packages. The stuff that is unravelling is stuff that comes from the Lib Dems. Charities are "livid" about the changes coming from your tycoon tax idea.		Clegg says he attaches great importance to the lifting of the personal tax allowance in the budget. It will take 2m people out of tax altogether. You can have small changes in budgets, and you can have big changes. Clegg says this is "one of the biggest, boldest and most radical changes in the personal tax system for a very long time".

Q: Budgets are packages. The stuff that is unravelling is stuff that comes from the Lib Dems. Charities are "livid" about the changes coming from your tycoon tax idea.
Clegg says everyone should pay their fair share of tax.Clegg says everyone should pay their fair share of tax.
Q: Are you saying that people who contribute to charity are evading tax?Q: Are you saying that people who contribute to charity are evading tax?
No, says Clegg. But it is normal in other countries to cap tax relief.No, says Clegg. But it is normal in other countries to cap tax relief.
The government will look at this in detail. It will look at this "in the round" with an open mind and "very sympathetically", he says.The government will look at this in detail. It will look at this "in the round" with an open mind and "very sympathetically", he says.
8.14am: They are still on tax.8.14am: They are still on tax.
Q: Your answer shows how much the government has moved. You are saying you will change what was in the budget. You are constantly on the defensive, aren't you?Q: Your answer shows how much the government has moved. You are saying you will change what was in the budget. You are constantly on the defensive, aren't you?
Clegg says he is not in the slightest bit defensive about the fact that he has launched the Youth Contract, increased pensions, raised the tax allowance and increased the pupil premium.Clegg says he is not in the slightest bit defensive about the fact that he has launched the Youth Contract, increased pensions, raised the tax allowance and increased the pupil premium.
He needs to "tell the other side of the story", he says.He needs to "tell the other side of the story", he says.
There has been an a "massive expansion" in pre-school support for children.There has been an a "massive expansion" in pre-school support for children.
The governmnent is doing necessary things to rescue the economy, and good things that will last.The governmnent is doing necessary things to rescue the economy, and good things that will last.
Q: But the budget appears to be incompetent: pasties, granny tax, charities.Q: But the budget appears to be incompetent: pasties, granny tax, charities.
Clegg says the "bigger picture" on the budget is that the government has stuck to its deficit reduction programme. Other governments have had to re-invent budgets. The government has made the economy safer. It has also introduced reforms worth £3.5bn that will make the tax system fairer. That will be "the legacy of this budget".Clegg says the "bigger picture" on the budget is that the government has stuck to its deficit reduction programme. Other governments have had to re-invent budgets. The government has made the economy safer. It has also introduced reforms worth £3.5bn that will make the tax system fairer. That will be "the legacy of this budget".
8.17am: Still going on the budget.

Q: You talked about fairness. But people are saying what you are doing is not fair. Is that why you are lagging in the polls?		8.17am: Still going on the budget.

Q: You talked about fairness. But people are saying what you are doing is not fair. Is that why you are lagging in the polls?
Clegg says the government is taking big, controversial decisions. The economy suffered a heart attack. The aftershocks will last for years.Clegg says the government is taking big, controversial decisions. The economy suffered a heart attack. The aftershocks will last for years.
Lib Dem councils have all either frozen or cut council tax. Labour and the Conservatives cannot say that. Lib Dem councils are also more likely to help employees on low pay, he says.Lib Dem councils have all either frozen or cut council tax. Labour and the Conservatives cannot say that. Lib Dem councils are also more likely to help employees on low pay, he says.
Q: People remember you breaking a promise on tuition fees. People think that, if they cannot believe you on that, they cannot believe you on anything.Q: People remember you breaking a promise on tuition fees. People think that, if they cannot believe you on that, they cannot believe you on anything.
Clegg says he did not win the election. He only has 8% of MPs in the Commons. He has to deal with the world as it is. He would love to have a Lib Dem government. But he doesn't.Clegg says he did not win the election. He only has 8% of MPs in the Commons. He has to deal with the world as it is. He would love to have a Lib Dem government. But he doesn't.
The Lib Dems are delivering on all their four main promises, he says.The Lib Dems are delivering on all their four main promises, he says.
Also, as Liam Byrne said, "there is no money". Two years ago it would have been easy to "retreat" to his tribal corner and throw bricks at the other parties. But he decided to sort out the mess left by Labour. That requires resilience and courage.

Q: So you are enjoying it?		Also, as Liam Byrne said, "there is no money". Two years ago it would have been easy to "retreat" to his tribal corner and throw bricks at the other parties. But he decided to sort out the mess left by Labour. That requires resilience and courage.

Q: So you are enjoying it?
Yes, says Clegg. He is proud of the fact that the Lib Dems are playing a courageous role in government.Yes, says Clegg. He is proud of the fact that the Lib Dems are playing a courageous role in government.
8.23am: That wasn't particularly revealing. Nick Clegg went further than any minister has gone already, I think, in signalling that there will be concessions to charities, and his last answer might cause him problems, because it could lay him open to the charge that he enjoys being part of a government cutting spending. (Politicians aren't supposed to say things like this, according to certain daft media conventions, although of course we all know they enjoy politics - that's why they do it.) I'll post a full summary in a moment.8.23am: That wasn't particularly revealing. Nick Clegg went further than any minister has gone already, I think, in signalling that there will be concessions to charities, and his last answer might cause him problems, because it could lay him open to the charge that he enjoys being part of a government cutting spending. (Politicians aren't supposed to say things like this, according to certain daft media conventions, although of course we all know they enjoy politics - that's why they do it.) I'll post a full summary in a moment.
8.31am: Lib Dem poll ratings may be dismal, but that did not stop Nick Clegg sounding on combative form in his Today interview.8.31am: Lib Dem poll ratings may be dismal, but that did not stop Nick Clegg sounding on combative form in his Today interview.
Here are the key points.Here are the key points.
• Clegg appeared to concede that there would be concessions to charities worried about the impact of the tax relief cap imposed in the budget. Ministers have already said that there will be a consultation before the plans are implemented, but Clegg hinted very strongly this would lead to changes.• Clegg appeared to concede that there would be concessions to charities worried about the impact of the tax relief cap imposed in the budget. Ministers have already said that there will be a consultation before the plans are implemented, but Clegg hinted very strongly this would lead to changes.

Of course, as we said at the budget, we will look at this in detail. We have got time to get the details right. We will look at this in the round and we will do so with an open mind and very sympathetically, because we don't want to damage charities. We don't want to inhibit philanthropy. But ... the principle of saying that there should be some limit to what are taxpayer-funded allowances in the tax system as a whole is something which is sensible.
Of course, as we said at the budget, we will look at this in detail. We have got time to get the details right. We will look at this in the round and we will do so with an open mind and very sympathetically, because we don't want to damage charities. We don't want to inhibit philanthropy. But ... the principle of saying that there should be some limit to what are taxpayer-funded allowances in the tax system as a whole is something which is sensible.
He also said that the UK was almost unique among developed countries in allowing people to claim unlimited tax relief of this kind (as they can until the cap announced by George Osborne comes into force). Only Australia has unlimited tax relief, he said. Nick Robinson reads this as a hint that the government will impose a cap worth 50% of income, as applies in America, instead of 25%, as proposed in the budget.

• Clegg claimed that no future government would try to reverse the increase in the basic tax allowance. The Lib Dems have made raising the tax allowance to £10,000 their key coalition demand and in the budget it was raised to £9,205. This would be the "legacy of this budget", he said.		He also said that the UK was almost unique among developed countries in allowing people to claim unlimited tax relief of this kind (as they can until the cap announced by George Osborne comes into force). Only Australia has unlimited tax relief, he said. Nick Robinson reads this as a hint that the government will impose a cap worth 50% of income, as applies in America, instead of 25%, as proposed in the budget.

• Clegg claimed that no future government would try to reverse the increase in the basic tax allowance. The Lib Dems have made raising the tax allowance to £10,000 their key coalition demand and in the budget it was raised to £9,205. This would be the "legacy of this budget", he said.
You have small changes in budgets which can be controversial or not. Then you have big changes in budgets which, in my view, can be judged whether they are significant or whether we believe that future governments are going to change them or not. My feeling is that what we are doing on the allowance is one of the biggest, boldest and most radical changes in the personal tax system for a very long time.You have small changes in budgets which can be controversial or not. Then you have big changes in budgets which, in my view, can be judged whether they are significant or whether we believe that future governments are going to change them or not. My feeling is that what we are doing on the allowance is one of the biggest, boldest and most radical changes in the personal tax system for a very long time.
• He said that he enjoyed being in government. Asked if he was enjoying being in government, he replied: "Yes. It's a great privilege. Of course it's tough but it's a great privilege. I feel genuinely lucky that I am playing a role, as other people are, in making sure this country is strong, prosperous and safe in the future."• He said that he enjoyed being in government. Asked if he was enjoying being in government, he replied: "Yes. It's a great privilege. Of course it's tough but it's a great privilege. I feel genuinely lucky that I am playing a role, as other people are, in making sure this country is strong, prosperous and safe in the future."
• He cited the fact that the Lib Dems did not win the election as the reason why they broke their promise not to vote for an increase in tuition fees. When Jim Naughtie challenged him on this, he said that he had only 8% of the MPs in the Commons. (On this, Clegg is actually missing the point. Breaking the tuition fee promise has been toxic for the Lib because it was not a promise about what they would do if they formed a government. It was a promise about how they would act as MPs - regardless of whether they were in power or not.)• He cited the fact that the Lib Dems did not win the election as the reason why they broke their promise not to vote for an increase in tuition fees. When Jim Naughtie challenged him on this, he said that he had only 8% of the MPs in the Commons. (On this, Clegg is actually missing the point. Breaking the tuition fee promise has been toxic for the Lib because it was not a promise about what they would do if they formed a government. It was a promise about how they would act as MPs - regardless of whether they were in power or not.)
9.08am: For the record, here are the YouGov GB polling figures from last night.9.08am: For the record, here are the YouGov GB polling figures from last night.
Labour: 41% (down 2 points since Monday night)
Conservatives: 32% (no change)
Ukip: 9% (no change)
Lib Dems: 8% (no change)		Labour: 41% (down 2 points since Monday night)
Conservatives: 32% (no change)
Ukip: 9% (no change)
Lib Dems: 8% (no change)
Labour lead: 9 pointsLabour lead: 9 points
Government approval: -37Government approval: -37
9.31am: Here are the headline unemployment figures.9.31am: Here are the headline unemployment figures.
• Unemployment fell by 35,000 between December and February to 2.65m.• Unemployment fell by 35,000 between December and February to 2.65m.
• The number of people claiming jobseeker's allowance last month increased by 3,600 to 1.61m.• The number of people claiming jobseeker's allowance last month increased by 3,600 to 1.61m.
Here is the news release from the Office for National Statistics. And here is the statistical bulletin, with the full details (pdf).Here is the news release from the Office for National Statistics. And here is the statistical bulletin, with the full details (pdf).
9.39am: Here is more on the unemployment figures. These are extracts from the ONS bulletin.9.39am: Here is more on the unemployment figures. These are extracts from the ONS bulletin.
Unemployment rateUnemployment rate

The unemployment rate for the three months to February 2012 was 8.3 per cent of the economically active population, down 0.1 on the quarter. The total number of unemployed people fell by 35,000 over the quarter to reach 2.65 million. These are the first quarterly falls in the unemployment level and rate since March-May 2011. The number of unemployed men fell by 43,000 to reach 1.51 million but the number of unemployed women increased by 8,000 to reach 1.14 million, the highest figure since the three months to November 1987. The number of people unemployed for up to twelve months fell by 61,000 on the quarter to reach 1.77 million, but the number of people unemployed for over 12 months increased by 26,000 to reach 883,000, the highest figure since the three months to September 1996.
The unemployment rate for the three months to February 2012 was 8.3 per cent of the economically active population, down 0.1 on the quarter. The total number of unemployed people fell by 35,000 over the quarter to reach 2.65 million. These are the first quarterly falls in the unemployment level and rate since March-May 2011. The number of unemployed men fell by 43,000 to reach 1.51 million but the number of unemployed women increased by 8,000 to reach 1.14 million, the highest figure since the three months to November 1987. The number of people unemployed for up to twelve months fell by 61,000 on the quarter to reach 1.77 million, but the number of people unemployed for over 12 months increased by 26,000 to reach 883,000, the highest figure since the three months to September 1996.


Claimaint count

Claimaint count
There were 1.61 million people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) in March 2012, up 3,600 on February. The number of people claiming JSA for up to six months fell by 13,100 on the month to reach 893,800. This series has now fallen for nine consecutive months and it has decreased by 81,600 since March 2011.There were 1.61 million people claiming Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA) in March 2012, up 3,600 on February. The number of people claiming JSA for up to six months fell by 13,100 on the month to reach 893,800. This series has now fallen for nine consecutive months and it has decreased by 81,600 since March 2011.
9.42am: And here's the top of the Press Assocation story on the unemployment figures.9.42am: And here's the top of the Press Assocation story on the unemployment figures.
Unemployment has fallen for the first time in almost a year, leaving 2.65 million people out of work, new figures showed today.
The total dipped by 35,000 in the quarter to February, giving a jobless rate of 8.3%.
The number of people claiming jobseeker's allowance increased for the 17th month in a row in March, up by 3,600 to 1.61 million, the smallest monthly rise since last December.
But other figures from the Office for National Statistics revealed that the number of unemployed women increased by 8,000 in the latest quarter to 1.14 million, the highest figure for almost 25 years.
The number of people out of work for over a year jumped by 26,000 to 883,000, the worst total since 1996.
The figures also showed an 89,000 rise in the number of people working part-time because they could not find full-time jobs, to a total of 1.4 million, the highest figure since records began in 1992.
There was a 53,000 increase in the number of people in employment to 29 million, although the figure is 57,000 down on a year ago.
The fall in unemployment was the first since the quarter to May last year, with the number of jobless men 43,000 down to 1.5 million.
There were 1.03 million unemployed 16-to-24-year-olds, down by 9,000 from the three months to November and the lowest total since last autumn.
The number of people classed as economically inactive, including those on long-term sick leave, students, those looking after a relative or who have given up looking for work, fell by 25,000 to 9.27 million, a rate of 23%.
Average earnings increased by 1.1% in the year to February, down by 0.2 percentage points from the previous month to the lowest since the summer of 2010.
Average weekly pay in private firms is £459, compared with £477 in the public sector.
There were 1.4 million working days lost through strikes in the year to February, the highest total since 2002, largely as a result of last November's walkout by public sector workers in the row over pensions.		Unemployment has fallen for the first time in almost a year, leaving 2.65 million people out of work, new figures showed today.
The total dipped by 35,000 in the quarter to February, giving a jobless rate of 8.3%.
The number of people claiming jobseeker's allowance increased for the 17th month in a row in March, up by 3,600 to 1.61 million, the smallest monthly rise since last December.
But other figures from the Office for National Statistics revealed that the number of unemployed women increased by 8,000 in the latest quarter to 1.14 million, the highest figure for almost 25 years.
The number of people out of work for over a year jumped by 26,000 to 883,000, the worst total since 1996.
The figures also showed an 89,000 rise in the number of people working part-time because they could not find full-time jobs, to a total of 1.4 million, the highest figure since records began in 1992.
There was a 53,000 increase in the number of people in employment to 29 million, although the figure is 57,000 down on a year ago.
The fall in unemployment was the first since the quarter to May last year, with the number of jobless men 43,000 down to 1.5 million.
There were 1.03 million unemployed 16-to-24-year-olds, down by 9,000 from the three months to November and the lowest total since last autumn.
The number of people classed as economically inactive, including those on long-term sick leave, students, those looking after a relative or who have given up looking for work, fell by 25,000 to 9.27 million, a rate of 23%.
Average earnings increased by 1.1% in the year to February, down by 0.2 percentage points from the previous month to the lowest since the summer of 2010.
Average weekly pay in private firms is £459, compared with £477 in the public sector.
There were 1.4 million working days lost through strikes in the year to February, the highest total since 2002, largely as a result of last November's walkout by public sector workers in the row over pensions.
10.05am: Here are the regional unemployment figures.10.05am: Here are the regional unemployment figures.
Region - unemployment from December to February - change from previous quarter - unemployment rateRegion - unemployment from December to February - change from previous quarter - unemployment rate
North East - 144,000 - minus 9,000 - 11.2%
North West - 325,000 - plus 18,000 - 9.6%
Yorkshire/Humber - 248,000 - minus 21,000 - 9.3%
East Midlands - 189,000 - minus 1,000 - 8.2%
West Midlands - 239,000 - minus 3,000 - 9.0%
East - 203,000 - minus 17,000 - 6.6%
London - 431,000 - plus 7,000 - 10.1%
South East - 282,000 - minus 2,000 - 6.3%
South West - 179,000 - plus 4,000 - 6.7%
Wales - 131,000 - plus 1,000 - 8.9%
Scotland - 219,000 - minus 12,000 - 8.1%
N Ireland - 58,000 - no change - 6.8%		North East - 144,000 - minus 9,000 - 11.2%
North West - 325,000 - plus 18,000 - 9.6%
Yorkshire/Humber - 248,000 - minus 21,000 - 9.3%
East Midlands - 189,000 - minus 1,000 - 8.2%
West Midlands - 239,000 - minus 3,000 - 9.0%
East - 203,000 - minus 17,000 - 6.6%
London - 431,000 - plus 7,000 - 10.1%
South East - 282,000 - minus 2,000 - 6.3%
South West - 179,000 - plus 4,000 - 6.7%
Wales - 131,000 - plus 1,000 - 8.9%
Scotland - 219,000 - minus 12,000 - 8.1%
N Ireland - 58,000 - no change - 6.8%
10.10am: Aung San Suu Kyi is going to visit the UK in June, Reuters are reporting.10.10am: Aung San Suu Kyi is going to visit the UK in June, Reuters are reporting.
10.15am: The Department for Work and Pensions says today's unemployment figures show "real signs of stabilisation" in the labour market. Here's an extract from their news release.10.15am: The Department for Work and Pensions says today's unemployment figures show "real signs of stabilisation" in the labour market. Here's an extract from their news release.

New figures published by the Office for National Statistics today show another rise in employment, up 53,000 to 29.172m (ILO measure). This is coupled with a fall in unemployment of 35,000 on the quarter, to 2.65 million. This is despite the fact there are more people in the labour market, with a fall in inactivity of 25,000.
New figures published by the Office for National Statistics today show another rise in employment, up 53,000 to 29.172m (ILO measure). This is coupled with a fall in unemployment of 35,000 on the quarter, to 2.65 million. This is despite the fact there are more people in the labour market, with a fall in inactivity of 25,000.
Today's figures also show a better picture on youth unemployment. The number of 16 to 24-year-olds who have left full-time education and are seeking work is 719,000, down 11,000 on the quarter, while the number of full-time students looking for a job is 315,000.Today's figures also show a better picture on youth unemployment. The number of 16 to 24-year-olds who have left full-time education and are seeking work is 719,000, down 11,000 on the quarter, while the number of full-time students looking for a job is 315,000.
Jobseeker's Allowance is up 3,600 this month to 1.61 million. However, as this includes the effect of welfare reforms that are moving more people onto JSA from other benefits, the underlying trend remains broadly flat.Jobseeker's Allowance is up 3,600 this month to 1.61 million. However, as this includes the effect of welfare reforms that are moving more people onto JSA from other benefits, the underlying trend remains broadly flat.
And here's a comment from Chris Grayling (pictured), the employment minister.And here's a comment from Chris Grayling (pictured), the employment minister.
Today's figures are a step in the right direction but we still have a long way to go. We are pushing ahead with our strategy to promote investment and new jobs in the private sector and support people currently without work to take up those jobs. I am particularly encouraged that overall employment is now growing despite reductions in the public sector.Today's figures are a step in the right direction but we still have a long way to go. We are pushing ahead with our strategy to promote investment and new jobs in the private sector and support people currently without work to take up those jobs. I am particularly encouraged that overall employment is now growing despite reductions in the public sector.
10.20am: Brendan Barber, the general secretary of the TUC, will retire at the end of the year, the TUC has announced.10.20am: Brendan Barber, the general secretary of the TUC, will retire at the end of the year, the TUC has announced.
Barber has put out this statement.Barber has put out this statement.

I have decided that this is the right time to make a change in my life. I have been enormously privileged to work at the TUC since 1975, and the end of the year will mark the 10-year point since my election as general secretary.
I have decided that this is the right time to make a change in my life. I have been enormously privileged to work at the TUC since 1975, and the end of the year will mark the 10-year point since my election as general secretary.
The TUC has always been a powerful voice for the millions of ordinary people who depend on trade unions to better their lives and there is so much of our work over the years in which I take great pride. But I have every confidence that under new leadership the TUC can go from strength to strength.The TUC has always been a powerful voice for the millions of ordinary people who depend on trade unions to better their lives and there is so much of our work over the years in which I take great pride. But I have every confidence that under new leadership the TUC can go from strength to strength.
10.34am: Here's some more reaction to the unemployment figures.10.34am: Here's some more reaction to the unemployment figures.
From Liam Byrne (pictured), the shadow work and pensions secretaryFrom Liam Byrne (pictured), the shadow work and pensions secretary
We've had two years of excuses and now we've got the evidence – this government has utterly failed to tackle Britain's jobs emergency, and we are limping along in crisis.We've had two years of excuses and now we've got the evidence – this government has utterly failed to tackle Britain's jobs emergency, and we are limping along in crisis.
The number of people signing on is going up, we still have more than a million young people out of work, more women unemployed than since 1987 and a benefits bill that is spiralling by the dayThe number of people signing on is going up, we still have more than a million young people out of work, more women unemployed than since 1987 and a benefits bill that is spiralling by the day
Last month's budget should have taken big and bold action to get Britain back to work. Instead we got a hand-out for millionaires, and a slap down for anyone on tax credits.Last month's budget should have taken big and bold action to get Britain back to work. Instead we got a hand-out for millionaires, and a slap down for anyone on tax credits.
From Brendan Barber, the TUC general secretaryFrom Brendan Barber, the TUC general secretary
This long-overdue fall in unemployment will bring relief to the 2.6m people desperately looking for work. While any rise in the number of jobs is welcome, the fact is that full-time employment is still falling and a record 1.4m are now stuck in involuntary part-time work. There's also a sting in the tail for those in work, with wages falling even faster than feared due to low pay growth and stubbornly high inflation.This long-overdue fall in unemployment will bring relief to the 2.6m people desperately looking for work. While any rise in the number of jobs is welcome, the fact is that full-time employment is still falling and a record 1.4m are now stuck in involuntary part-time work. There's also a sting in the tail for those in work, with wages falling even faster than feared due to low pay growth and stubbornly high inflation.
From Dave Prentis, the Unison general secretaryFrom Dave Prentis, the Unison general secretary
The government is digging itself and the country into a deeper hole with its swingeing cuts to public services and jobs ... The government is failing to tackle the growing problem of long-term unemployment which is bringing misery to so many families. In addition, the record number of people forced into part-time working is masking the sheer scale of unemployment, and women are again bearing the brunt of job cuts.The government is digging itself and the country into a deeper hole with its swingeing cuts to public services and jobs ... The government is failing to tackle the growing problem of long-term unemployment which is bringing misery to so many families. In addition, the record number of people forced into part-time working is masking the sheer scale of unemployment, and women are again bearing the brunt of job cuts.
From Andrew Sissons, a researcher at the Work FoundationFrom Andrew Sissons, a researcher at the Work Foundation
The slight drop in unemployment is an encouraging sign after many months of turmoil in the labour market. However, these figures make it clear that the improvement is being driven by an increasingly part-time recovery. The economy actually shed full-time jobs over the last three months. There are now 1.4m people in part-time work who would prefer a full-time job, which is the highest level since records began.The slight drop in unemployment is an encouraging sign after many months of turmoil in the labour market. However, these figures make it clear that the improvement is being driven by an increasingly part-time recovery. The economy actually shed full-time jobs over the last three months. There are now 1.4m people in part-time work who would prefer a full-time job, which is the highest level since records began.
There are some good signs about the underlying health of the labour market: there has been a shift away from self-employment, and there has been a recovery in hours worked, which suggests some workers may be finding more work and greater job security. However, men have seen most of the benefits from job creation, with women struggling in the last three months. The fall in youth unemployment should offer little encouragement – employment amongst young people has continued to fall, and the small fall in unemployment is down to a rise in inactivity.There are some good signs about the underlying health of the labour market: there has been a shift away from self-employment, and there has been a recovery in hours worked, which suggests some workers may be finding more work and greater job security. However, men have seen most of the benefits from job creation, with women struggling in the last three months. The fall in youth unemployment should offer little encouragement – employment amongst young people has continued to fall, and the small fall in unemployment is down to a rise in inactivity.
10.55am: 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.10.55am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
As for the rest of the papers, here are three stories that are particularly interesting.As for the rest of the papers, here are three stories that are particularly interesting.
• The Financial Times (subscription) says a Canadian has been informally approached about taking over as governor of the Bank of England when Sir Mervyn King retires.• The Financial Times (subscription) says a Canadian has been informally approached about taking over as governor of the Bank of England when Sir Mervyn King retires.
Mark Carney, the governor of Canada's central bank, has been informally approached as a potential candidate to replace Sir Mervyn King as head of the Bank of England in June next year.Mark Carney, the governor of Canada's central bank, has been informally approached as a potential candidate to replace Sir Mervyn King as head of the Bank of England in June next year.
One of the world's most respected central bankers, Mr Carney, 47, now heads the Financial Stability Board, which oversees global financial regulation. He was approached recently by a member of the BoE's court, the largely non-executive body that oversees its activities, according to three people involved in the process.One of the world's most respected central bankers, Mr Carney, 47, now heads the Financial Stability Board, which oversees global financial regulation. He was approached recently by a member of the BoE's court, the largely non-executive body that oversees its activities, according to three people involved in the process.


• Jim Pickard and Andrew Bounds in the Financial Times (subscription) says that most citities voting on whether to have an elected mayor next month are expected to vote no.

• Jim Pickard and Andrew Bounds in the Financial Times (subscription) says that most citities voting on whether to have an elected mayor next month are expected to vote no.
Plans for elected mayors could be a damp squib, with as few as three cities voting in favour in next month's referendums, Conservative strategists have privately warned.Plans for elected mayors could be a damp squib, with as few as three cities voting in favour in next month's referendums, Conservative strategists have privately warned.
Greg Clark, cities minister, has predicted the votes will "usher in a new era of people power", with elections set for November.Greg Clark, cities minister, has predicted the votes will "usher in a new era of people power", with elections set for November.
But ahead of the historic referendums across 10 of Britain's biggest cities on May 3, ministers anticipate only three will say yes – Birmingham and maybe Leeds and Bristol.But ahead of the historic referendums across 10 of Britain's biggest cities on May 3, ministers anticipate only three will say yes – Birmingham and maybe Leeds and Bristol.
"At the start of the year we thought if we got one major city to say yes it would be a success, anything beyond that is a bonus," said one minister."At the start of the year we thought if we got one major city to say yes it would be a success, anything beyond that is a bonus," said one minister.


• The Daily Mail says a report suggests minimum prices for alcohol could save 1,000 lives a year.

• The Daily Mail says a report suggests minimum prices for alcohol could save 1,000 lives a year.
Plans to introduce minimum alcohol pricing would save more than 1,000 lives each year, a report claimed today.Plans to introduce minimum alcohol pricing would save more than 1,000 lives each year, a report claimed today.
The Government announced last month that it was planning to set a minimum price of 40p per unit of alcohol for England and Wales.The Government announced last month that it was planning to set a minimum price of 40p per unit of alcohol for England and Wales.
An article published on bmj.com today said the proposal would have significant impacts on alcohol-related deaths, hospital admissions and consumption.An article published on bmj.com today said the proposal would have significant impacts on alcohol-related deaths, hospital admissions and consumption.
The report's author, John Appleby, chief economist at the King's Fund, added that a minimum price of 50p would more than double the effects.The report's author, John Appleby, chief economist at the King's Fund, added that a minimum price of 50p would more than double the effects.
11.07am: Scotland Yard detectives investigating the phone hacking affair have sent files relating to 11 suspects, including four journalists, to prosecutors, it was revealed today.11.07am: Scotland Yard detectives investigating the phone hacking affair have sent files relating to 11 suspects, including four journalists, to prosecutors, it was revealed today.
The Press Assocation have filed this.The Press Assocation have filed this.
Eleven suspects have been referred to prosecutors by Scotland Yard's phone-hacking squad.
The cases of four journalists, one police officer and six other individuals are being considered, director of public prosecutions Keir Starmer QC said.
Offences under consideration include misconduct in a public office, data protection act breaches, perverting the course of justice, witness intimidation and breaches of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa).
Starmer refused to give a timescale for a charging decision but said: "We are now entering a period where we are likely to make a decision one way or another."		Eleven suspects have been referred to prosecutors by Scotland Yard's phone-hacking squad.
The cases of four journalists, one police officer and six other individuals are being considered, director of public prosecutions Keir Starmer QC said.
Offences under consideration include misconduct in a public office, data protection act breaches, perverting the course of justice, witness intimidation and breaches of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (Ripa).
Starmer refused to give a timescale for a charging decision but said: "We are now entering a period where we are likely to make a decision one way or another."
11.15am: Here's some more reaction to the unemployment figures.11.15am: Here's some more reaction to the unemployment figures.
From Graeme Leach, chief economist at the Institute of DirectorsFrom Graeme Leach, chief economist at the Institute of Directors
In tough times the private sector is leading the economic recovery, despite high taxes and costly regulation. Private sector employment is up 45,000 whilst public sector employment is down 37,000 in the latest quarter. Surprisingly, given the spending review, public sector pay continues to exceed that in the private sector. Public sector pay, excluding financial companies, stands at £467 per week compared with £459 per week in the private sector. If average public sector pay can be reduced then fewer jobs will need to be lost from the spending review.In tough times the private sector is leading the economic recovery, despite high taxes and costly regulation. Private sector employment is up 45,000 whilst public sector employment is down 37,000 in the latest quarter. Surprisingly, given the spending review, public sector pay continues to exceed that in the private sector. Public sector pay, excluding financial companies, stands at £467 per week compared with £459 per week in the private sector. If average public sector pay can be reduced then fewer jobs will need to be lost from the spending review.
From Graeme Cooke, associate director at the IPPR thinktankFrom Graeme Cooke, associate director at the IPPR thinktank
There remain worrying trends underneath today's positive headlines. The fall in the overall jobless count masks a continuing rise in female unemployment, now higher than at any point since 1987.There remain worrying trends underneath today's positive headlines. The fall in the overall jobless count masks a continuing rise in female unemployment, now higher than at any point since 1987.
Long term unemployment continues to rise, reaching its highest level since 1996. There is a real risk that these people will struggle to take advantage of any upturn in the economy.Long term unemployment continues to rise, reaching its highest level since 1996. There is a real risk that these people will struggle to take advantage of any upturn in the economy.
From John Philpott, chief economic adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and DevelopmentFrom John Philpott, chief economic adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development
With the number of women in work at best flat-lining, and many men and women unable to find full-time jobs, it would be unwise to get too excited by a welcome fall in unemployment. A properly recovering jobs market is not characterised by a growing army of underemployed part-timers and pay rises still falling well short of price inflation.With the number of women in work at best flat-lining, and many men and women unable to find full-time jobs, it would be unwise to get too excited by a welcome fall in unemployment. A properly recovering jobs market is not characterised by a growing army of underemployed part-timers and pay rises still falling well short of price inflation.
From Philip Booth from the Institute of Economic AffairsFrom Philip Booth from the Institute of Economic Affairs
The fall in unemployment is good news. However, the government is still facing a huge and intractable youth unemployment problem. Its policy of increasing labour market regulation and imposing more burdens on employers is extremely unhelpful - and is still continuing despite all the rhetoric from Downing Street. Just this month, we have had the imposition of the EU agency workers directive, which the government decided to implement immediately, and new pensions obligations will be imposed on employers later in the year. These are poor policies to be pursuing in the depths of a recession.The fall in unemployment is good news. However, the government is still facing a huge and intractable youth unemployment problem. Its policy of increasing labour market regulation and imposing more burdens on employers is extremely unhelpful - and is still continuing despite all the rhetoric from Downing Street. Just this month, we have had the imposition of the EU agency workers directive, which the government decided to implement immediately, and new pensions obligations will be imposed on employers later in the year. These are poor policies to be pursuing in the depths of a recession.
11.30am: When George Osborne gave evidence to the Commons Treasury committee about the budget, he said that the existence of the coalition and the fact that the figures had to be cleared in advance with the Office for Budget Responsibility helped to explain why so much of it leaked in advance. In its report today, the committee say "coalition government is not a justification for budget leaks".11.30am: When George Osborne gave evidence to the Commons Treasury committee about the budget, he said that the existence of the coalition and the fact that the figures had to be cleared in advance with the Office for Budget Responsibility helped to explain why so much of it leaked in advance. In its report today, the committee say "coalition government is not a justification for budget leaks".
But, on his Daily Mail blog, James Chapman suggests that the problem with the budget was that it was not discussed widely enough within government in advance. He says government sources are saying this is why it has been such a disaster.But, on his Daily Mail blog, James Chapman suggests that the problem with the budget was that it was not discussed widely enough within government in advance. He says government sources are saying this is why it has been such a disaster.
As the post mortem on the Budget continues, Government sources suggest Mr Osborne drew up the final version of the package in unhealthy secrecy because of a series of leaks blamed on the Lib Dems. In the days ahead of the Chancellor's statement, details of two of his key announcements that might have been expected to be the main Budget day story (the 50p cut and the income tax allowance increase) were briefed, meaning the 'granny tax' garnered all the headlines. Two figures close to David Cameron suggest that as a result of the pre-Budget leaks, an increasingly paranoid Treasury shut down cross-Whitehall talks. As a result only the coalition 'quad' – Mr Cameron, Mr Osborne, Nick Clegg and Danny Alexander – discussed the finer details.As the post mortem on the Budget continues, Government sources suggest Mr Osborne drew up the final version of the package in unhealthy secrecy because of a series of leaks blamed on the Lib Dems. In the days ahead of the Chancellor's statement, details of two of his key announcements that might have been expected to be the main Budget day story (the 50p cut and the income tax allowance increase) were briefed, meaning the 'granny tax' garnered all the headlines. Two figures close to David Cameron suggest that as a result of the pre-Budget leaks, an increasingly paranoid Treasury shut down cross-Whitehall talks. As a result only the coalition 'quad' – Mr Cameron, Mr Osborne, Nick Clegg and Danny Alexander – discussed the finer details.
Though much of the blame has been laid at the door of the Government's communications team, I am told that no spin doctors in Number Ten actually saw the complete Budget package in advance. 'It was all closed down to the quad because so much of it was being leaked out. People that should have seen the Budget didn't see it, and the usual mine-sweeping didn't happen,' said one Government source. Another said: 'There is no problem between David Cameron and George Osborne. But there is a recognition that a Budget can't ever be done in this way again.'Though much of the blame has been laid at the door of the Government's communications team, I am told that no spin doctors in Number Ten actually saw the complete Budget package in advance. 'It was all closed down to the quad because so much of it was being leaked out. People that should have seen the Budget didn't see it, and the usual mine-sweeping didn't happen,' said one Government source. Another said: 'There is no problem between David Cameron and George Osborne. But there is a recognition that a Budget can't ever be done in this way again.'
11.47am: Diane Abbott, the shadow health minister, has been using written questions to find out how Department of Health has been spending its money. She has put out a news release with lots of examples. Here's an extract.11.47am: Diane Abbott, the shadow health minister, has been using written questions to find out how Department of Health has been spending its money. She has put out a news release with lots of examples. Here's an extract.
• £29,331 has been spent on 'away days' in the last 12 months – many to the Radisson Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel in South Kensington, although the department does not keep records of all of its away days.• £29,331 has been spent on 'away days' in the last 12 months – many to the Radisson Edwardian Vanderbilt Hotel in South Kensington, although the department does not keep records of all of its away days.
• £18,128 has been spent on ministerial office refurbishments in the last two years.• £18,128 has been spent on ministerial office refurbishments in the last two years.
• £2,002.00 has been spent on plasma TVs in the last two years• £2,002.00 has been spent on plasma TVs in the last two years
• An eye-watering £109,017 has been spent on tea and biscuits in just three months.• An eye-watering £109,017 has been spent on tea and biscuits in just three months.
And here's what she' saying about it.And here's what she' saying about it.
The overall picture is one of a totally dysfunctional department, and I think Andrew Lansley has got to take responsibility for that. The department doesn't seem to be living in the real world. What's emerging is a culture of waste, murky lobbying links, and lavish gifts and receptions.The overall picture is one of a totally dysfunctional department, and I think Andrew Lansley has got to take responsibility for that. The department doesn't seem to be living in the real world. What's emerging is a culture of waste, murky lobbying links, and lavish gifts and receptions.
11.51am: PMQs is coming up and my colleagues are in a betting mood.11.51am: PMQs is coming up and my colleagues are in a betting mood.
Here's the BBC's Nick Robinson on Twitter.Here's the BBC's Nick Robinson on Twitter.
Preparing for PMQ bingo. How many times will Labour MPs say out of touch, unfair, incompetent? I can't watch live so please count for me!Preparing for PMQ bingo. How many times will Labour MPs say out of touch, unfair, incompetent? I can't watch live so please count for me!
— Nick Robinson (@bbcnickrobinson) April 18, 2012— Nick Robinson (@bbcnickrobinson) April 18, 2012
And here's PoliticsHome's Paul Waugh.And here's PoliticsHome's Paul Waugh.
Q: How long into #PMQs will it take Cam to point out that Unite/PCS have strikes due the day after Queens Speech?Q: How long into #PMQs will it take Cam to point out that Unite/PCS have strikes due the day after Queens Speech?
— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) April 18, 2012— Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) April 18, 2012
11.59am: Here's Sky's Jon Craig on Twitter.11.59am: Here's Sky's Jon Craig on Twitter.
George Osborne looks pale & chastened alongside Cameron ahead of PMQs. So he should! Budget will get a battering. Theresa May looks smug!George Osborne looks pale & chastened alongside Cameron ahead of PMQs. So he should! Budget will get a battering. Theresa May looks smug!
12.00pm: David Cameron starts with a tribute to the four soldiers killed in Afghanistan, or as a result of injuries sustained there, since the last PMQs.12.00pm: David Cameron starts with a tribute to the four soldiers killed in Afghanistan, or as a result of injuries sustained there, since the last PMQs.
12.01pm: Naomi Long, an Alliance MP from Northern Ireland, asks if Cameron will bring the rules about party donations in Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK.12.01pm: Naomi Long, an Alliance MP from Northern Ireland, asks if Cameron will bring the rules about party donations in Northern Ireland into line with the rest of the UK.
Cameron says there were reasons for the different rules in Northern Ireland.Cameron says there were reasons for the different rules in Northern Ireland.
12.03pm: Cameron welcomes today's announcement about foreign doctors having to speak good English.12.03pm: Cameron welcomes today's announcement about foreign doctors having to speak good English.
12.03pm: Ed Miliband also pays tribute to the dead soliders.12.03pm: Ed Miliband also pays tribute to the dead soliders.
Then he asks Cameron to confirm that cutting the 50p top rate of tax will save millionaires £40,000 each.Then he asks Cameron to confirm that cutting the 50p top rate of tax will save millionaires £40,000 each.
Cameron says he is surprised Miliband has not mentioned unemployment. Will Mililband welcome the fall in unemployment.Cameron says he is surprised Miliband has not mentioned unemployment. Will Mililband welcome the fall in unemployment.
Miliband says long-term unemployment is too high. He notes that Cameron did not deny the £40,000 figures. He asks Cameron to confirm that freezing the age-related allowance will cost 4.4m pensioners up to £320 a year.Miliband says long-term unemployment is too high. He notes that Cameron did not deny the £40,000 figures. He asks Cameron to confirm that freezing the age-related allowance will cost 4.4m pensioners up to £320 a year.
Cameron says the pension has gone up. If Miliband is concerned about the 45p top rate of tax, can he explain why Labour's amendment to the finance bill would get rid of the 45p rate and leave a 40p rate. Miliband is "incompetent".Cameron says the pension has gone up. If Miliband is concerned about the 45p top rate of tax, can he explain why Labour's amendment to the finance bill would get rid of the 45p rate and leave a 40p rate. Miliband is "incompetent".
12.06pm: Miliband says Cameron is talking "rubbish". And Cameron is trying to "con" pensioners. Will Cameron confirm the IFS figures saying families with children will lose more than £500 a year.12.06pm: Miliband says Cameron is talking "rubbish". And Cameron is trying to "con" pensioners. Will Cameron confirm the IFS figures saying families with children will lose more than £500 a year.
Cameron says if Miliband's amendment gets through, Britain will have a 40p top rate of tax. Miliband cannot persuade his mayoral candidate to pay his taxes. Will Milband condemn him?Cameron says if Miliband's amendment gets through, Britain will have a 40p top rate of tax. Miliband cannot persuade his mayoral candidate to pay his taxes. Will Milband condemn him?
Miliband says it's prime minister's questions. "I ask the questions, and he's supposed to answer them." What about charities? Cameron's big idea was the big society. Why is Cameron taking advice from "the part-time chancellor". The government has insulted people who give to charities, and has insulted charities themselves by implying they are bogus. Did Cameron know the budget would cost charities £500m.Miliband says it's prime minister's questions. "I ask the questions, and he's supposed to answer them." What about charities? Cameron's big idea was the big society. Why is Cameron taking advice from "the part-time chancellor". The government has insulted people who give to charities, and has insulted charities themselves by implying they are bogus. Did Cameron know the budget would cost charities £500m.
Cameron says Miliband has offered "no defence of Ken Livingstone". The government's plan is about ensuring that people pay their taxes. Livingstone is paying less tax than the person who cleans his office. Why won't Miliband condemn it?Cameron says Miliband has offered "no defence of Ken Livingstone". The government's plan is about ensuring that people pay their taxes. Livingstone is paying less tax than the person who cleans his office. Why won't Miliband condemn it?
12.10pm: Miliband says Cameron cannot even defend his own budget. Livingstone will cut fares. He lists various budget shambles. Why does Cameron think even people in Downing Street are calling it an "omnishambles budget"?12.10pm: Miliband says Cameron cannot even defend his own budget. Livingstone will cut fares. He lists various budget shambles. Why does Cameron think even people in Downing Street are calling it an "omnishambles budget"?
Cameron says he has a mayoral candidate who pays his taxes. The budget will cut taxes for 24m people. Miliband has lost the Bradford byelection in the last four months. He has shown "complete weakness" over Unite. Miliband is "completely useless".Cameron says he has a mayoral candidate who pays his taxes. The budget will cut taxes for 24m people. Miliband has lost the Bradford byelection in the last four months. He has shown "complete weakness" over Unite. Miliband is "completely useless".
Miliband says he is not going to take any lectures from a government that caused fuel panic. Will Cameron apologise for that? This budget "comprehensively fails the test of fairness and spectularly fails the test of competence".Miliband says he is not going to take any lectures from a government that caused fuel panic. Will Cameron apologise for that? This budget "comprehensively fails the test of fairness and spectularly fails the test of competence".
Cameron says Miliband will not take lectures on the fuel strike "because he's in the pockets of the people who called the fuel strike". Miliband is "not good enough to run the opposition and not good enough to run the country".Cameron says Miliband will not take lectures on the fuel strike "because he's in the pockets of the people who called the fuel strike". Miliband is "not good enough to run the opposition and not good enough to run the country".
12.15pm: PMQs Snap Verdict: Miliband scored a wipeout - which was no less impressive for being rather predicatable. More later ...12.15pm: PMQs Snap Verdict: Miliband scored a wipeout - which was no less impressive for being rather predicatable. More later ...
I'm afraid I'm having technical problems, but I think I'm okay now.I'm afraid I'm having technical problems, but I think I'm okay now.
12.20pm: Cameron is still banging on about Ken Livingstone. Why the deafening silence from Labour, he asks.12.20pm: Cameron is still banging on about Ken Livingstone. Why the deafening silence from Labour, he asks.
12.21pm: Labour's David Blunkett asks David Cameron to condemn the Northern Ireland attorney general for using an "outdated law" to prosecute Peter Hain for criticising a judge in his memoirs.12.21pm: Labour's David Blunkett asks David Cameron to condemn the Northern Ireland attorney general for using an "outdated law" to prosecute Peter Hain for criticising a judge in his memoirs.
Cameron says he has a great deal of sympathy for this point. Judges sometimes criticise politicians. And politicians sometimes criticise judges. These things should, as far as possible, be kept out of the courtroom, he says.Cameron says he has a great deal of sympathy for this point. Judges sometimes criticise politicians. And politicians sometimes criticise judges. These things should, as far as possible, be kept out of the courtroom, he says.
12.23pm: Labour's Ian Murray asks how much the cabinet will gain collectively from the abolition of the top rate of tax.12.23pm: Labour's Ian Murray asks how much the cabinet will gain collectively from the abolition of the top rate of tax.
Cameron says Labour had 13 years to introduced a 50p top rate of years. They introduced it a month before a general election they were going to lose. The 45p rate is higher than Labour's top rate for 12 of their 13 years.Cameron says Labour had 13 years to introduced a 50p top rate of years. They introduced it a month before a general election they were going to lose. The 45p rate is higher than Labour's top rate for 12 of their 13 years.
12.24pm: Paul Uppal, a Conservative, asks the government to review postal voting. He cites an article by Mary Ann Sieghart in the Independent highlighting the way this is being abused.12.24pm: Paul Uppal, a Conservative, asks the government to review postal voting. He cites an article by Mary Ann Sieghart in the Independent highlighting the way this is being abused.
Cameron says he will look into this.Cameron says he will look into this.
12.25pm: Labour's Kelvin Hopkins asks if George Osborne was right to portray the freezing of age-related allowances as simplication. Cameron cites the positive things the government is doing for pensioners.12.25pm: Labour's Kelvin Hopkins asks if George Osborne was right to portray the freezing of age-related allowances as simplication. Cameron cites the positive things the government is doing for pensioners.
12.26pm: Cameron agrees to look into a missing child case raised by Caroline Dinenage, a Conservative.12.26pm: Cameron agrees to look into a missing child case raised by Caroline Dinenage, a Conservative.
12.27pm: Labour's Gordon Marsden asks about the decision to impose VAT on church repairs. Cameron says the government will put money aside to help churches affected by the change.12.27pm: Labour's Gordon Marsden asks about the decision to impose VAT on church repairs. Cameron says the government will put money aside to help churches affected by the change.
12.28pm: Douglas Carswell, a Conservative, asks why Cameron said Yes Minister was true to life on his trip to Malaysia last week when, in the past, he said the opposite.12.28pm: Douglas Carswell, a Conservative, asks why Cameron said Yes Minister was true to life on his trip to Malaysia last week when, in the past, he said the opposite.
Cameron says sometimes Carswell needs a sense of humour.Cameron says sometimes Carswell needs a sense of humour.
12.29pm: James Clappison, a Conservative, asks if Cameron agrees that universities should be free to select students on merit. Cameron says he does agree.12.29pm: James Clappison, a Conservative, asks if Cameron agrees that universities should be free to select students on merit. Cameron says he does agree.
12.30pm: Labour's Anas Sarwar says Nick Clegg is Cameron's broken arrow: he does not work, and he can't be fired.12.30pm: Labour's Anas Sarwar says Nick Clegg is Cameron's broken arrow: he does not work, and he can't be fired.
Cameron says Sarwar did not ask about employment. Figures out today show the work experience programme is 20 times as cost effective as the Future Jobs Fund.Cameron says Sarwar did not ask about employment. Figures out today show the work experience programme is 20 times as cost effective as the Future Jobs Fund.
12.31pm: Cameron agrees to look at a report on how internet service providers can be encourage to block pornography.12.31pm: Cameron agrees to look at a report on how internet service providers can be encourage to block pornography.
12.33pm: Labour's Kate Green asks about the abolition of child benefit for the higher rate taxpayers. Cameron says Labour will be voting to keep a benefit that Labour MPs enjoy.12.33pm: Labour's Kate Green asks about the abolition of child benefit for the higher rate taxpayers. Cameron says Labour will be voting to keep a benefit that Labour MPs enjoy.
12.33pm: George Galloway, the new Respect MP, says there's an "iron-clad consensus" amongst the fronbenchers about the war in Afghanistan. In the wake of the Bradford West byelection, will Cameron consider the "bloody maw" of Afghanistan.12.33pm: George Galloway, the new Respect MP, says there's an "iron-clad consensus" amongst the fronbenchers about the war in Afghanistan. In the wake of the Bradford West byelection, will Cameron consider the "bloody maw" of Afghanistan.
Cameron congratulates Galloway on his win. But he says he disagrees with him on this. Britain is in Afghanistan enforcing a UN resolution. He says he would urge Galloway "not to play to the gallery.Cameron congratulates Galloway on his win. But he says he disagrees with him on this. Britain is in Afghanistan enforcing a UN resolution. He says he would urge Galloway "not to play to the gallery.
12.36pm: Ed Balls, the shadow chancellor, rises to make a point of order. He says Cameron was wrong to say the 50p rate did not raise any money. He invites Cameron to correct the record before he leaves the chamber.12.36pm: Ed Balls, the shadow chancellor, rises to make a point of order. He says Cameron was wrong to say the 50p rate did not raise any money. He invites Cameron to correct the record before he leaves the chamber.
Cameron ignores him and walks out.Cameron ignores him and walks out.
John Bercow suggests this is a contrived point of order.John Bercow suggests this is a contrived point of order.
12.39pm: To mark the appearance of "omnishambles" at PMQs (see 12.10pm), which means that the word is going to make it into Hansard, here's the clip from The Thick of It where it first appeared.12.39pm: To mark the appearance of "omnishambles" at PMQs (see 12.10pm), which means that the word is going to make it into Hansard, here's the clip from The Thick of It where it first appeared.
The full quote is, of course, "fucking omnishambles", but Ed Miliband spared us the f-word.The full quote is, of course, "fucking omnishambles", but Ed Miliband spared us the f-word.
12.47pm: PMQs Verdict: Ed Miliband hasn't had a wider open goal since he became Labour leader and, to his credit, he slotted the balls into the back of the net perfectly. For once, I think David Cameron has been shown up by Nick Clegg. When Clegg was grilled about the budget on the Today programme, he tried to make an argument about the big picture in the budget - the increase in the tax allowance. Cameron's constant references to Ken Livingstone smacked of desperation. He was more effective when he went on the offensive over child benefit, attacking Labour MPs for voting to protect a benefit from which wealthy people like MPs benefit. (The new £60,000 cut-off, at which point a high earner will lose all child benefit, is only about £5,000 below the salary for an MP.) But this came towards the end of PMQs, not during the exchanges with Miliband.12.47pm: PMQs Verdict: Ed Miliband hasn't had a wider open goal since he became Labour leader and, to his credit, he slotted the balls into the back of the net perfectly. For once, I think David Cameron has been shown up by Nick Clegg. When Clegg was grilled about the budget on the Today programme, he tried to make an argument about the big picture in the budget - the increase in the tax allowance. Cameron's constant references to Ken Livingstone smacked of desperation. He was more effective when he went on the offensive over child benefit, attacking Labour MPs for voting to protect a benefit from which wealthy people like MPs benefit. (The new £60,000 cut-off, at which point a high earner will lose all child benefit, is only about £5,000 below the salary for an MP.) But this came towards the end of PMQs, not during the exchanges with Miliband.
That said, although the Livingstone comments did not help Cameron much during PMQs, the session amounted to a 30-minute advert for the Boris Johnson campaign. Miliband did defend Livingstone, but not on the tax issue, and it is hard to avoid the conclusion that this controversy is clobbering Livingstone's chances in the mayoral campaign.That said, although the Livingstone comments did not help Cameron much during PMQs, the session amounted to a 30-minute advert for the Boris Johnson campaign. Miliband did defend Livingstone, but not on the tax issue, and it is hard to avoid the conclusion that this controversy is clobbering Livingstone's chances in the mayoral campaign.
One other point is worth mentioning. Tim Montgomerie, the editor of ConservativeHome, thinks Cameron's most important answer was one to a Conservative MP.One other point is worth mentioning. Tim Montgomerie, the editor of ConservativeHome, thinks Cameron's most important answer was one to a Conservative MP.
Most important moment of #PMQs was DC's putdown of @DouglasCarswell. No10 must get out of bunker and build bridges with Tory MPs, not fencesMost important moment of #PMQs was DC's putdown of @DouglasCarswell. No10 must get out of bunker and build bridges with Tory MPs, not fences
— Tim Montgomerie (@TimMontgomerie) April 18, 2012— Tim Montgomerie (@TimMontgomerie) April 18, 2012
2.00pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.2.00pm: Here's a lunchtime summary.
• Ed Miliband has branded the budget an "omnishambles" in a confident performance at PMQs that saw David Cameron having to defend last month's budget measures on multiple fronts. Miliband started by saying that the abolition of the 50p top rate of tax would be worth "at least £40,000 a year to Britain's millionaires". But then he broadened his attack out.• Ed Miliband has branded the budget an "omnishambles" in a confident performance at PMQs that saw David Cameron having to defend last month's budget measures on multiple fronts. Miliband started by saying that the abolition of the 50p top rate of tax would be worth "at least £40,000 a year to Britain's millionaires". But then he broadened his attack out.
Over the last month we have seen the charity tax shambles, the churches tax shambles, the caravan tax shambles and the pasty tax shambles. We are all keen to hear the prime minister's view as to why, four weeks on from the Budget, even people within Downing Street are calling it an omnishambles budget.Over the last month we have seen the charity tax shambles, the churches tax shambles, the caravan tax shambles and the pasty tax shambles. We are all keen to hear the prime minister's view as to why, four weeks on from the Budget, even people within Downing Street are calling it an omnishambles budget.
Cameron said the budget would cut taxes for 24m people. Earlier Nick Clegg made the same point in an interview for the Today programme in which he also gave the broadest hint yet that the coalition will rethink the level of a planned cap on tax relief for charitable donations.Cameron said the budget would cut taxes for 24m people. Earlier Nick Clegg made the same point in an interview for the Today programme in which he also gave the broadest hint yet that the coalition will rethink the level of a planned cap on tax relief for charitable donations.
• David Cameron has implicitly criticised Northern Ireland's attorney general for trying to prosecute Peter Hain for making derogatory comments about a judge. Hain, the former Northern Ireland secretary, made the comment in his recently published autobiography. John Larkin, the NI attorney, has been granted leave to prosecute Hain and Biteback Publishing on the grounds that the book "undermines the administration of justice". In the Commons David Blunkett, the former Labour home secretary, raised the issued and complained that Hain was being prosecuted under an "outdated law". Cameron replied.• David Cameron has implicitly criticised Northern Ireland's attorney general for trying to prosecute Peter Hain for making derogatory comments about a judge. Hain, the former Northern Ireland secretary, made the comment in his recently published autobiography. John Larkin, the NI attorney, has been granted leave to prosecute Hain and Biteback Publishing on the grounds that the book "undermines the administration of justice". In the Commons David Blunkett, the former Labour home secretary, raised the issued and complained that Hain was being prosecuted under an "outdated law". Cameron replied.
Parliamentary privilege obviously quite rightly allows [MPs] to express their views in parliament. In terms of what is said outside Parliament, let me just say this: there are occasions we all know when judges make critical remarks about politicians and there are occasionally [times] when politicians make critical remarks about judges. To me, this is part of life in a modern democracy and I think we should try to keep these things as far as possible out of the courts.Parliamentary privilege obviously quite rightly allows [MPs] to express their views in parliament. In terms of what is said outside Parliament, let me just say this: there are occasions we all know when judges make critical remarks about politicians and there are occasionally [times] when politicians make critical remarks about judges. To me, this is part of life in a modern democracy and I think we should try to keep these things as far as possible out of the courts.
• Cameron has urged George Galloway not to exploit the issue of Afghanistan for political purposes. Galloway, who took his seat yesterday as the new Respect MP for Bradford West, used a question at PMQs to urge Cameron to withdraw from the "bloody maw" of the Afghan war. Cameron said British troops were there "at the invitation of an Islamic government and under a United Nations resolution".• Cameron has urged George Galloway not to exploit the issue of Afghanistan for political purposes. Galloway, who took his seat yesterday as the new Respect MP for Bradford West, used a question at PMQs to urge Cameron to withdraw from the "bloody maw" of the Afghan war. Cameron said British troops were there "at the invitation of an Islamic government and under a United Nations resolution".
You know the dangers in the past of walking away from Afghanistan and leaving that country to become the terrorist-supporting haven it did under the Taliban. We mustn't make that mistake again and I would urge you not play to the gallery on this issue but to speak up for the work our forces are doing to make Afghanistan a safer country.You know the dangers in the past of walking away from Afghanistan and leaving that country to become the terrorist-supporting haven it did under the Taliban. We mustn't make that mistake again and I would urge you not play to the gallery on this issue but to speak up for the work our forces are doing to make Afghanistan a safer country.
• Cameron has defended the pasty tax. This is what he said when asked about it at PMQs.• Cameron has defended the pasty tax. This is what he said when asked about it at PMQs.
What I think is unfair is that products sold in a fish and chip shop which are subject to VAT, those same products can be sold in supermarkets not subject to VAT. I don't think that's fair and that's why it's right we redraw the boundaries.What I think is unfair is that products sold in a fish and chip shop which are subject to VAT, those same products can be sold in supermarkets not subject to VAT. I don't think that's fair and that's why it's right we redraw the boundaries.
• Cameron has defended the "caravan tax".• Cameron has defended the "caravan tax".
I don't think it's fair that a mobile caravan pays VAT but a stationery caravan does not. No one is talking about putting VAT on park homes that are permanent homes, but this is about a fair drawing of the boundaries.I don't think it's fair that a mobile caravan pays VAT but a stationery caravan does not. No one is talking about putting VAT on park homes that are permanent homes, but this is about a fair drawing of the boundaries.
• Cameron has implied that Labour are voting to preserve child benefit for high earners out of self interest. When a Labour MP raised the issue, Cameron said that keeping child benefit for those earning more than £60,000 would benefit Labour MPs.• Cameron has implied that Labour are voting to preserve child benefit for high earners out of self interest. When a Labour MP raised the issue, Cameron said that keeping child benefit for those earning more than £60,000 would benefit Labour MPs.

We have to make difficult decisions and I think it's not defensible to ask people who earn £20,000, £30,000 to pay their taxes so that people sitting in this house can get child benefit. I know that member opposite will walk through the lobby tomorrow for something they will financially benefit from, but I think it's profoundly wrong.
We have to make difficult decisions and I think it's not defensible to ask people who earn £20,000, £30,000 to pay their taxes so that people sitting in this house can get child benefit. I know that member opposite will walk through the lobby tomorrow for something they will financially benefit from, but I think it's profoundly wrong.
• Cameron has defended the decision to impose VAT on repairs to listed buildings. This is what he said when a Labour MP said the new tax would hit churches.• Cameron has defended the decision to impose VAT on repairs to listed buildings. This is what he said when a Labour MP said the new tax would hit churches.
Repairs to churches are already subject to VAT, alterations to listed buildings are not, so that means that, whereas a repair to a church you pay VAT, if you put a great big swimming pool in a Tudor house you don't pay VAT.Repairs to churches are already subject to VAT, alterations to listed buildings are not, so that means that, whereas a repair to a church you pay VAT, if you put a great big swimming pool in a Tudor house you don't pay VAT.


• Cameron has attacked Ken Livingstone for not paying his taxes in full. He raised the topic repeatedly during PMQs.

• Cameron has attacked Ken Livingstone for not paying his taxes in full. He raised the topic repeatedly during PMQs.

I don't think that's good enough and we've got a Labour candidate for Mayor of London who is paying less tax on his earnings than the person who cleans his office. I think that's disgraceful.
I don't think that's good enough and we've got a Labour candidate for Mayor of London who is paying less tax on his earnings than the person who cleans his office. I think that's disgraceful.
Miliband defended Livingstone, although not over his tax arrangements. This is what he told Cameron.Miliband defended Livingstone, although not over his tax arrangements. This is what he told Cameron.

We've got a candidate for mayor of London who will cut Tube fares, who will make rents fairer, who will bring back the education maintenance allowance. What have you got? A candidate for mayor of London who is out of touch and was arguing for the cut in the 50p tax rate.
We've got a candidate for mayor of London who will cut Tube fares, who will make rents fairer, who will bring back the education maintenance allowance. What have you got? A candidate for mayor of London who is out of touch and was arguing for the cut in the 50p tax rate.
• Unemployment has fallen for the first time in almost a year, raising hopes of a spring bounce in the UK's fragile economy. Cameron welcomed this at PMQs.

• Chris Grayling, the employment minister, has said that firms should offer jobs to "the surly young man in a hoodie" and not just to East Europeans. He made the comment in a speech which he will deliver later this afternoon but which he has circulated in advance.		• Unemployment has fallen for the first time in almost a year, raising hopes of a spring bounce in the UK's fragile economy. Cameron welcomed this at PMQs.

• Chris Grayling, the employment minister, has said that firms should offer jobs to "the surly young man in a hoodie" and not just to East Europeans. He made the comment in a speech which he will deliver later this afternoon but which he has circulated in advance.
It's easy to hire someone from Eastern Europe with five years' experience and who has had the get-up-and-go to cross a continent in search for work.It's easy to hire someone from Eastern Europe with five years' experience and who has had the get-up-and-go to cross a continent in search for work.
But those who look closer to home find gems too. Very often the surly young man in a hoodie who turns up looking unwilling to work can turn into an excited and motivated employee.But those who look closer to home find gems too. Very often the surly young man in a hoodie who turns up looking unwilling to work can turn into an excited and motivated employee.
It's all about the expectations that they have and the place they come from. And employers who give them that chance find it enormously rewarding.It's all about the expectations that they have and the place they come from. And employers who give them that chance find it enormously rewarding.
• George Osborne, a chancellor, has welcomed a move by HSBC to raise money in London on the Chinese currency. It will be the first bank to issue renminbi bonds outside China.• George Osborne, a chancellor, has welcomed a move by HSBC to raise money in London on the Chinese currency. It will be the first bank to issue renminbi bonds outside China.
• Brendan Barber, the TUC general secretary, has announced that he will retire at the end of the year.

• Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese opposition leader, has announced that she will visit Britain in June. At PMQs Cameron said most other leading EU countries now supported Britain's call for sanctions against Burma to be suspended.		• Brendan Barber, the TUC general secretary, has announced that he will retire at the end of the year.

• Aung San Suu Kyi, the Burmese opposition leader, has announced that she will visit Britain in June. At PMQs Cameron said most other leading EU countries now supported Britain's call for sanctions against Burma to be suspended.
• Boris Johnson, the London mayor, has said that he will cut the mayor's share of council tax by 10% over four years if re-elected.• Boris Johnson, the London mayor, has said that he will cut the mayor's share of council tax by 10% over four years if re-elected.
• A Conservative council in Essex has been running a so-called "conservatory tax" for five years without complaint, the Guardian has learned.• A Conservative council in Essex has been running a so-called "conservatory tax" for five years without complaint, the Guardian has learned.
Some of the quotes have come from PoliticsHome.Some of the quotes have come from PoliticsHome.
2.48pm: Keir Starmer, the director of public prosecutions, was on the World at One talking about phone hacking. He said things were "moving on". I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.2.48pm: Keir Starmer, the director of public prosecutions, was on the World at One talking about phone hacking. He said things were "moving on". I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.
Until recently, we have not considered any great number of cases involving journalists for many years. We now have a situation where 43 suspects are on bail and four files have been passed to us, so four cases have reached the stage where the police are asking for specific advice in relation to named individuals. Things have moved on considerablyUntil recently, we have not considered any great number of cases involving journalists for many years. We now have a situation where 43 suspects are on bail and four files have been passed to us, so four cases have reached the stage where the police are asking for specific advice in relation to named individuals. Things have moved on considerably
This is a very wide-ranging investigation and there is a huge amount of material to go through. We have now reached this stage with four cases. The point of the guidelines [published by the Crown Prosecution Service today] is to indicate the approach we intend to take in those cases, so everybody understands how we are going to approach them, because they are going to be difficult and will be sensitive. We haven't in the past had such a number to deal with at one time.This is a very wide-ranging investigation and there is a huge amount of material to go through. We have now reached this stage with four cases. The point of the guidelines [published by the Crown Prosecution Service today] is to indicate the approach we intend to take in those cases, so everybody understands how we are going to approach them, because they are going to be difficult and will be sensitive. We haven't in the past had such a number to deal with at one time.
There are more details about the new guidelines on the CPS website. The guidelines themselves are here (pdf).There are more details about the new guidelines on the CPS website. The guidelines themselves are here (pdf).
3.00pm: Here's an afternoon summary.3.00pm: Here's an afternoon summary.
• Abu Qatada has lodged an appeal with Europe's human rights judges which effectively blocks the government's attempts to deport him to Jordan, officials have said. As the Press Association reports, Qatada's legal team claim that judges at the European court of human rights were wrong three months ago when they ruled that he would not be at risk of torture if returned to Jordan, a court spokeswoman said. The court's grand chamber will decide whether to hear his appeal, but the radical cleric, once described by a judge as Osama bin Laden's right hand man in Europe, cannot be deported until the court has reached a decision.• Abu Qatada has lodged an appeal with Europe's human rights judges which effectively blocks the government's attempts to deport him to Jordan, officials have said. As the Press Association reports, Qatada's legal team claim that judges at the European court of human rights were wrong three months ago when they ruled that he would not be at risk of torture if returned to Jordan, a court spokeswoman said. The court's grand chamber will decide whether to hear his appeal, but the radical cleric, once described by a judge as Osama bin Laden's right hand man in Europe, cannot be deported until the court has reached a decision.
• Labour have accused David Cameron of misleading the British public after the prime minister said Ed Miliband was seeking to cut the top rate of income tax to 40p. At PMQs Cameron claimed that a Labour amendment to the finance bill would, if passed, remove the 45p top rate of tax and leave the top rate at 40p. Labour released advice from the Commons clerks' office which said that, if passed, the amendment would leave the top rate of income tax for 2013/14 "undecided" rather than reducing it to 40p.• Labour have accused David Cameron of misleading the British public after the prime minister said Ed Miliband was seeking to cut the top rate of income tax to 40p. At PMQs Cameron claimed that a Labour amendment to the finance bill would, if passed, remove the 45p top rate of tax and leave the top rate at 40p. Labour released advice from the Commons clerks' office which said that, if passed, the amendment would leave the top rate of income tax for 2013/14 "undecided" rather than reducing it to 40p.
• Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, has claimed that the government's decision to drop the national flu campaign in 2010 led to huge falls in vaccination levels in some areas.• Andy Burnham, the shadow health secretary, has claimed that the government's decision to drop the national flu campaign in 2010 led to huge falls in vaccination levels in some areas.
• Dominic Grieve, the attorney general, has told the Commons culture commtitee to be "cautious in its language" in its report on phone hacking to ensure potential criminal trials do not collapse, the Guardian has learnt.• Dominic Grieve, the attorney general, has told the Commons culture commtitee to be "cautious in its language" in its report on phone hacking to ensure potential criminal trials do not collapse, the Guardian has learnt.
That's it from me for today. Thanks for the comments.That's it from me for today. Thanks for the comments.