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David Cameron's statement on Jeremy Hunt: Politics live blog David Cameron's statement on Jeremy Hunt: Politics live blog
(40 minutes later)
4.07pm: Julian Brazier, a Conservative, says a company that automatically sacked a director because one of his subordinates got something wrong would never survive. Cameron agrees.
4.05pm: Labour's Paul Flynn says that Hunt's defence relies upon the "fiction" that ministers only communicated with their advisers by email. Cameron should remember the lesson of the David Mellor scandal, he says: Resignation delayed equals disgrace multiplied.
4.04pm: Labour's Dennis Skinner asks why Hunt has got better employment rights than other workers in Britain.
Cameron says Skinner should retire and take his pension.
4.02pm: Labour's Chris Bryant asks Cameron to accept that Hunt's adviser gave News Corporation advance information about market-sensitive announcements before they were made in parliament.
Cameron says that Bryant himself used confidential information which he had obtained as a participant to the Leveson inquiry to make false allegations about Cameron in the Commons last week. If Bryant had any honour, he would apologise, he says.
4.00pm: Labour's Tom Watson asks Cameron if he will offer to provide Leveson with copies of the text messages sent by Treasury special advisers to News Corporation's lobbyists.
Cameron says Leveson can request whatever evidence he wants.
4.00pm: David Davies, a Conservative, asks if Cameron has ever phone a newspaper proprietor to offer his services as a godparent, or to offer to hold a pyjama party. Cameron says Davies puts that well.
3.57pm: Julian Lewis, a Conservative, asks if Cameron can assure people we are getting value for money from the independent adviser on ministerial interests in these "cash-strapped times". (Sir Alex Allan is paid £30,000 a year, and has not carried out any inquiries.)
Yes, says Cameron, he can give that assurance.
3.56pm: Peter Bone, a Conservative, says he checked with his constituency office (Mrs Bone) to see if any voters were complaining about the culture department. There have been hundreds of complaints, he says, but only about Harry Redknapp not becoming England manager.
3.55pm: Cameron says that it would be easy to say "off you go" every time a minister got in trouble. But it is important to get the facts, and to allow natural justice to take its course. That should happen more often, he says.
3.54pm: Ben Bradshaw, the Labour former culture secretary, says Hunt did not always follow the advice of Ofcom, because Ofcom said the BSkyB bid should be referred to the Competition Commission.
Cameron says that if Hunt had not indicated his willingess to accept undertakings in lieu as an alternative, he would have been liable to judicial review.
3.52pm: Peter Lilley, a Conservative, says it would be sensible to allow Leveson to establish the facts.
Cameron says he agrees. If he asked the independent adviser to carry out an inquiry now, that would duplicate the work being carried out by Leveson. The independent adviser and Leveson would be looking at the same set of papers.
3.51pm: Cameron says he consulted Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, about the right process to follow in this case.
3.49pm: John Whittingdale, the Conservative chairman of the culture committee, asks Cameron to confirm that he will have a proper inquiry if there are any questions about Hunt's conduct left unanswered after he has given evidence to Leveson.
Cameron says that of course he will give that assurance. The questioning at Leveson is more rigorous than it would be under a civil service inquiry. And if evidence come forward suggesing that Hunt did break the ministerial code, he will order an inquiry, he says. But at the moment no such evidence exits.
3.47pm: Labour's Margaret Hodge said Hunt told MPs on Wednesday that his permanent secretary had "authorised" Adam Smith to play the role he did.
On Thursday the permanent secretary refused to confirm this when giving evidence to her committee.
But on Friday the permanent secertary wrote to Hodge saying he was just "content" with the arrangement.
Cameron says he saw the permanent secretary giving evidence. Hodge is wrong, he says.
3.42pm: Cameron says Miliband is "weak and wrong".
Labour still has not apologise for 15 years of pyjama parties, he says.
On Hunt misleading MPs, he says Hunt gave a full answer in September 2011.
On the role of the special adviser, Cameron says Adam Smith, the adviser, has said that his contacts went beyond what was authorised.
And on Hunt taking responsibility for his special adviser, he asks who took responsibility for advisers like Charlie Whelan when Labour was in power.
He also says that Harriet Harman called for Hunt's resignation only 23 minutes after the Leveson evidence was published, even though she had not read it.
Today we have learned something about Miliband, he says. "Bad judgment, rotten politics, plain wrong." That is something Miliband will regret, he says.
3.38pm: Ed Miliband says Hunt was in clear breach of the ministerial code.
This matters because we need a government that stands up for ordinary people, he says.
Lord Justice Leveson said he was not the judge of the ministerial code. Leveson is doing his job. It is time Cameorn did his, Miliband says.
Miliband identifies the three alleged breaches of the ministerial code.
First, Hunt told MPs he was revealing all his department's exchanges with News Corporation. But he left out the Adam Smith contacts, he says.
Second, News Corporation was given confidential information before it was disclosed to the Commons about the BSkyB takeover.
Thirdly, Hunt is claiming his special adviser was "on a freelance mission". But is Cameron really reduced to the News of the Word defence - one rogue person, acting alone. If Hunt is that clueless, he should be sacked anyway.
The special adviser had to go to protect Hunt. And Hunt has to stay to protect Cameron, he says.
Cameron is "too close to a powerful few, out of touch with everybody else".
3.31pm: Cameron says he answered questions on this last week. But he will set out the position again.
He set up the Leveson inquiry. No other government has set up such a wide-ranging media inquiry, he says.
On Hunt's conduct, he says Hunt followed the advice of independent regulators. He took four decisions that went against the wishes of News Corporation. Cameron says he has seen no evidence that Hunt broke the ministerial code.
He says the permanent secretary at the Department for Culture approved of Adam Smith, Hunt's adviser, working as a link with News Corp. It is normal to have contact between the department and a company in these cases. But Smith's dealings with News Corp went too far.
On the call for an inquiry, Cameron says he does not want a new inquiry to cut across the Leveson inquiry. Under Leveson, people are being cross-examined on televesion. A Whitehall inquiry would not be as thorough, he says.
Cameron says he accepts that Leveson will not examine whether Hunt broke the ministerial code. But he does not want a Whitehall inquiry to "cut across" what Leveson is doing. He says that Leveson's statement on Wednesday (in which Leveson said he wanted his inquiry to be allowed to run its course) indicated that he thought the same.
On links with the media, he says the press and politicians have been too close for years. He does meet journalists to try to get them to support what he is doing. But there was no "grand bargain" with News Corp, he says. If there had been, he would not have made Vince Cable business secretary. The Murdochs have denied that there was a deal, and he will do the same when he gives evidence to Leveson.
He says Labour are trying to use the Leveson inquiry for party political purposes. Instead, they should be honest about the mess they left the country, he says.
3.30pm: Ed Miliband asks his urgent question. Will David Cameron refer the Jeremy Hunt case to the independent adviser on ministerial interests?
3.20pm: The Tory MP Anna Soubry told BBC News that she thought John Bercow's decision to grant an urgent question on the Hunt affair was "very odd". An urgent question should relate to something urgent, she said. She went on:3.20pm: The Tory MP Anna Soubry told BBC News that she thought John Bercow's decision to grant an urgent question on the Hunt affair was "very odd". An urgent question should relate to something urgent, she said. She went on:
I don't know what there is that is new that has led to this to happen. What new information is there? Hunt last week spent well over an hour answering questions until there were no more questions left to be asked.I don't know what there is that is new that has led to this to happen. What new information is there? Hunt last week spent well over an hour answering questions until there were no more questions left to be asked.
She did not accuse Bercow of bias. But she suggested that he was leaving himself open to this charge.She did not accuse Bercow of bias. But she suggested that he was leaving himself open to this charge.
The Speaker has to be careful, to be truthful, because [the media] commentate, look at things and observe, and say 'What is this all about?' He has to be very careful that whatever he does is not open to any form of misinterpretation, especially in the run up to very important elections on Thursday, not just here in London but right across the country. It is important he is seen to be absolutely fair.The Speaker has to be careful, to be truthful, because [the media] commentate, look at things and observe, and say 'What is this all about?' He has to be very careful that whatever he does is not open to any form of misinterpretation, especially in the run up to very important elections on Thursday, not just here in London but right across the country. It is important he is seen to be absolutely fair.
I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.I've taken the quotes from PoliticsHome.
3.00pm: David Cameron will be answering the urgent question about Jeremy Hunt at 3.30pm. Before he starts, here's some background reading about the Hunt/News Corportation controversy.

• The ministerial code (pdf)

• All the emails and texts between Jeremy Hunt's special adviser, Adam Smith, and News Corporation, set out in a Guardian timeline.

• The Guardian story about the revelations.

• Hunt's statement in the Commons on Wednesday about the controversy.		3.00pm: David Cameron will be answering the urgent question about Jeremy Hunt at 3.30pm. Before he starts, here's some background reading about the Hunt/News Corportation controversy.

• The ministerial code (pdf)

• All the emails and texts between Jeremy Hunt's special adviser, Adam Smith, and News Corporation, set out in a Guardian timeline.

• The Guardian story about the revelations.

• Hunt's statement in the Commons on Wednesday about the controversy.
• The Labour press release claiming Hunt broke the ministerial code three times.• The Labour press release claiming Hunt broke the ministerial code three times.
• The BBC video of Andrew Marr's interview with Cameron yesterday, much of which was devoted to the Hunt affair.

• The BBC story about what Cameron said in the interview.		• The BBC video of Andrew Marr's interview with Cameron yesterday, much of which was devoted to the Hunt affair.

• The BBC story about what Cameron said in the interview.
2.48pm: Here is some reaction from the web to John Bercow's decision to force David Cameron to answer an urgent question about Jeremy Hunt.2.48pm: Here is some reaction from the web to John Bercow's decision to force David Cameron to answer an urgent question about Jeremy Hunt.
• Gary Gibbon on his Channel 4 News blog says he's surprised John Bercow granted the urgent question.• Gary Gibbon on his Channel 4 News blog says he's surprised John Bercow granted the urgent question.
I must admit I didn't think Speaker Bercow would dare. It's pre-election, campaigning going on everywhere. Even summoning the PM will be seen as an implied rebuke for the PM's understanding of the rules on ministerial responsibility. Tory MPs are livid.I must admit I didn't think Speaker Bercow would dare. It's pre-election, campaigning going on everywhere. Even summoning the PM will be seen as an implied rebuke for the PM's understanding of the rules on ministerial responsibility. Tory MPs are livid.
What will have weighed with the speaker is the fact that parliament is about to rise so there is no prime minister's questions for two weeks (a recess around the Queen's speech). The support of two ex Cabinet secretaries over the weekend for the view that Alex Allen should be looking into Jeremy Hunt will have helped the speaker weigh in on Ed Miliband's side, as will the call from the Tory public administration committee chair, Bernard Jenkin, for an Alex Allan inquiry.What will have weighed with the speaker is the fact that parliament is about to rise so there is no prime minister's questions for two weeks (a recess around the Queen's speech). The support of two ex Cabinet secretaries over the weekend for the view that Alex Allen should be looking into Jeremy Hunt will have helped the speaker weigh in on Ed Miliband's side, as will the call from the Tory public administration committee chair, Bernard Jenkin, for an Alex Allan inquiry.
• Robert Colvile at the Telegraph says Bercow is the most irritating man in British politics.• Robert Colvile at the Telegraph says Bercow is the most irritating man in British politics.

This is the Great Bercow Paradox. What he's done as Speaker has, by and large, been a good thing. He hasn't kept his promise to be a new broom on expenses – indeed, he's kowtowed shamelessly to MPs – but his handling of the parliamentary timetable, and willingness to grant emergency questions, has gone a long way towards making the House of Commons (as it should be) the cockpit of national affairs.
This is the Great Bercow Paradox. What he's done as Speaker has, by and large, been a good thing. He hasn't kept his promise to be a new broom on expenses – indeed, he's kowtowed shamelessly to MPs – but his handling of the parliamentary timetable, and willingness to grant emergency questions, has gone a long way towards making the House of Commons (as it should be) the cockpit of national affairs.
But here comes the "but". It's impossible to avoid the suspicion that John Bercow has done this not to reinvigorate democracy, but to glorify John Bercow. Put simply, the Speaker's overweening vanity and irresistible impulse towards self-publicity make him the most irritating man in British politics (edging out Ed Balls by a nose, if only due to the contribution of wife Sally).But here comes the "but". It's impossible to avoid the suspicion that John Bercow has done this not to reinvigorate democracy, but to glorify John Bercow. Put simply, the Speaker's overweening vanity and irresistible impulse towards self-publicity make him the most irritating man in British politics (edging out Ed Balls by a nose, if only due to the contribution of wife Sally).
2.46pm: Is this afternoon's statement good or bad for Jeremy Hunt? Here's a theory from Sky's Joey Jones.2.46pm: Is this afternoon's statement good or bad for Jeremy Hunt? Here's a theory from Sky's Joey Jones.
maybe UQ paradoxically not bad thing for j hunt - expect pm will be less circumspect in support than yesterday because of labour pressure.maybe UQ paradoxically not bad thing for j hunt - expect pm will be less circumspect in support than yesterday because of labour pressure.
— joeyjones (@joeyjonessky) April 30, 2012— joeyjones (@joeyjonessky) April 30, 2012
2.08pm: Labour claim that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code in three respects. For the record, here's the news release from Harriet Harman, the Labour deputy leader and shadow culture secretary, setting out what she thinks those three breaches are.2.08pm: Labour claim that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code in three respects. For the record, here's the news release from Harriet Harman, the Labour deputy leader and shadow culture secretary, setting out what she thinks those three breaches are.
Yesterday the Independent on Sunday ran a beefed up version of this story, containing more information about how Hunt may have broken the rule about not misleading parliament.Yesterday the Independent on Sunday ran a beefed up version of this story, containing more information about how Hunt may have broken the rule about not misleading parliament.
2.06pm: And here's the BBC's Ben Wright on the Bercow backlash.2.06pm: And here's the BBC's Ben Wright on the Bercow backlash.
A Tory close to Jeremy Hunt says 'the Speaker is rotten with bias. He should not be Speaker".A Tory close to Jeremy Hunt says 'the Speaker is rotten with bias. He should not be Speaker".
— Ben Wright (@BBCBenWright) April 30, 2012— Ben Wright (@BBCBenWright) April 30, 2012
1.54pm: On the World at One Martha Kearney tried her hardest to get Lady Warsi (pictured), the Conservative co-chairman, to take a pop at John Bercow over his decision to allow the Hunt UQ. Warsi wouldn't bite. But she did criticise Labour for raising the issue.1.54pm: On the World at One Martha Kearney tried her hardest to get Lady Warsi (pictured), the Conservative co-chairman, to take a pop at John Bercow over his decision to allow the Hunt UQ. Warsi wouldn't bite. But she did criticise Labour for raising the issue.
If you go out and speak to ordinary people, this is not what they are obsessing about. When people look in Westminster Village and see us obsessing about these kinds of issues, and see us playing party politics, using systems and processes to score points against each other in this way, they say 'a plague on all their houses'. What people care about is their schools, their future, and that is what they want us to be talking about.If you go out and speak to ordinary people, this is not what they are obsessing about. When people look in Westminster Village and see us obsessing about these kinds of issues, and see us playing party politics, using systems and processes to score points against each other in this way, they say 'a plague on all their houses'. What people care about is their schools, their future, and that is what they want us to be talking about.
But Warsi also made it clear that she thought the UQ was unnecessary. Jeremy Hunt gave a statement on the issue last week, and David Cameron addressed the issued in his Andrew Marr interview yesterday, she said.But Warsi also made it clear that she thought the UQ was unnecessary. Jeremy Hunt gave a statement on the issue last week, and David Cameron addressed the issued in his Andrew Marr interview yesterday, she said.
I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.I've taken the quote from PoliticsHome.
1.53pm: More on the Bercow backlash. This is from ConservativeHome's Tim Montgomerie.1.53pm: More on the Bercow backlash. This is from ConservativeHome's Tim Montgomerie.
Furious Downing Street source: If John Bercow has any opportunity to be self-important or the centre of attention he'll take it.Furious Downing Street source: If John Bercow has any opportunity to be self-important or the centre of attention he'll take it.
— Tim Montgomerie (@TimMontgomerie) April 30, 2012— Tim Montgomerie (@TimMontgomerie) April 30, 2012
1.51pm: According to Labour, this is the first time that a prime minister has been summoned to answer an urgent question in the Commons since urgent questions were introduced a decade ago.1.51pm: According to Labour, this is the first time that a prime minister has been summoned to answer an urgent question in the Commons since urgent questions were introduced a decade ago.
1.23pm: Ed Miliband should get hold of a read-out from the Number 10 lobby briefing before he asks his UQ on Jeremy Hunt. The exchanges illustrated some of the questions which David Cameron could find it hard to answer. Here are more details.1.23pm: Ed Miliband should get hold of a read-out from the Number 10 lobby briefing before he asks his UQ on Jeremy Hunt. The exchanges illustrated some of the questions which David Cameron could find it hard to answer. Here are more details.
• Will Cameron definitely order an inquiry into allegations that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code? Cameron has said that he wants Hunt to be allowed to give evidence to the Leveson inquiry and his spokesman repeated this line this morning. "We should let the process run its course, let the inquiry establish the facts," the spokesman said. But Leveson has said that it is not his job to investigate breaches of the ministerial code, and the prime minister's spokesman was unwilling to say categorically that Cameron would refer this matter to his independent adviser on ministerial interests, Sir Alex Allan, if Leveson did not address it. All he would say was: "The prime minister has been very clear that he would not duck his responsibilities on the ministerial code." That's a hint that Cameron will order an investigation in due course, but not a confirmation. Cameron may have to firm that up this afternoon.• Will Cameron definitely order an inquiry into allegations that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code? Cameron has said that he wants Hunt to be allowed to give evidence to the Leveson inquiry and his spokesman repeated this line this morning. "We should let the process run its course, let the inquiry establish the facts," the spokesman said. But Leveson has said that it is not his job to investigate breaches of the ministerial code, and the prime minister's spokesman was unwilling to say categorically that Cameron would refer this matter to his independent adviser on ministerial interests, Sir Alex Allan, if Leveson did not address it. All he would say was: "The prime minister has been very clear that he would not duck his responsibilities on the ministerial code." That's a hint that Cameron will order an investigation in due course, but not a confirmation. Cameron may have to firm that up this afternoon.
• Why does Cameron think Hunt has not breached the ministerial code when people like Lord Butler think he did? Asked about the remarks from Butler the spokesman just said that Cameron "has said that he has seen no evidence that the code has been broken".• Why does Cameron think Hunt has not breached the ministerial code when people like Lord Butler think he did? Asked about the remarks from Butler the spokesman just said that Cameron "has said that he has seen no evidence that the code has been broken".
• Has Cameron asked Hunt directly what he knew about what his special adviser, Adam Smith, was saying to News Corporation about the BSkyB takeover? Asked about this, the spokesman said that this would be covered by the evidence given to Leveson. He also said that Leveson has given a ruling asking people not to disclose their evidence before it is heard by the inquiry.• Has Cameron asked Hunt directly what he knew about what his special adviser, Adam Smith, was saying to News Corporation about the BSkyB takeover? Asked about this, the spokesman said that this would be covered by the evidence given to Leveson. He also said that Leveson has given a ruling asking people not to disclose their evidence before it is heard by the inquiry.
• Why did Hunt tell MPs that he had published all details of his department's exchanges with News Corporation when he hadn't? In March last year Hunt told MPs: "We are publishing all the documents relating to all the meetings – all the consultation documents, all the submissions we received, all the exchanges between my department and News Corporation." But he did not release details of the exchanges between his special adviser and the News Corporation lobbyist, Fred Michel. This information only emerged in a 163-page dossier released by the Leveson inquiry last week. Asked about this, the prime minister's spokesman said that Hunt addressed this point in his statement last week. When journalists said that Hunt did not actually answer this question last week, the spokesman replied: "I have nothing further to add to what the secretary of state said.• Why did Hunt tell MPs that he had published all details of his department's exchanges with News Corporation when he hadn't? In March last year Hunt told MPs: "We are publishing all the documents relating to all the meetings – all the consultation documents, all the submissions we received, all the exchanges between my department and News Corporation." But he did not release details of the exchanges between his special adviser and the News Corporation lobbyist, Fred Michel. This information only emerged in a 163-page dossier released by the Leveson inquiry last week. Asked about this, the prime minister's spokesman said that Hunt addressed this point in his statement last week. When journalists said that Hunt did not actually answer this question last week, the spokesman replied: "I have nothing further to add to what the secretary of state said.
• Why did Hunt tell the Commons that he always accepted the advice of independent regulators when he did not follow Ofcom's advice and refer the BSkyB bid to the Competition Commission? Asked about this, the spokesman insisted that Hunt said he was minded to refer the bid to the Competition Commission. (David Leigh went into this in more detail in a Guardian article last week.)• Why did Hunt tell the Commons that he always accepted the advice of independent regulators when he did not follow Ofcom's advice and refer the BSkyB bid to the Competition Commission? Asked about this, the spokesman insisted that Hunt said he was minded to refer the bid to the Competition Commission. (David Leigh went into this in more detail in a Guardian article last week.)
• Will Cameron reveal all his text messages and emails with Rebekah Brooks? Do the text messages still exist? And, if they are disclosed, will they be redacted? All the spokesman would say on this was that Cameron would provide the Leveson inquiry with "whatever he is asked to provide".• Will Cameron reveal all his text messages and emails with Rebekah Brooks? Do the text messages still exist? And, if they are disclosed, will they be redacted? All the spokesman would say on this was that Cameron would provide the Leveson inquiry with "whatever he is asked to provide".
• What contact have government officials had with Lord Justice Leveson about his inquiry? Last week it was revealed that Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, spoke to Leveson about the Hunt affair. Today the prime minister's spokesman said: "I am sure that there have been contacts between senior officials and the Leveson team." Some journalists found this potentially suspicious, particularly when the spokesman declined to elaborate what those contacts were, but the spokesman said contacts of this kind were to be expected given the fact that several ministers are giving evidence to Leveson. The spokesman also insisted that the inquiry was "entirely independent".• What contact have government officials had with Lord Justice Leveson about his inquiry? Last week it was revealed that Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, spoke to Leveson about the Hunt affair. Today the prime minister's spokesman said: "I am sure that there have been contacts between senior officials and the Leveson team." Some journalists found this potentially suspicious, particularly when the spokesman declined to elaborate what those contacts were, but the spokesman said contacts of this kind were to be expected given the fact that several ministers are giving evidence to Leveson. The spokesman also insisted that the inquiry was "entirely independent".
1.19pm: Here's what Ed Miliband said this morning about the Jeremy Hunt affair. He was he was asking an urgent question about it because it "goes to the character of the government".1.19pm: Here's what Ed Miliband said this morning about the Jeremy Hunt affair. He was he was asking an urgent question about it because it "goes to the character of the government".

People need to know, particularly in these times, that they have a Government that stands up for them, not the rich and powerful. People need to know that there is the utmost probity and integrity in the way that government is run. I am afraid the events of the last week suggest that something other than that has been going on.
People need to know, particularly in these times, that they have a Government that stands up for them, not the rich and powerful. People need to know that there is the utmost probity and integrity in the way that government is run. I am afraid the events of the last week suggest that something other than that has been going on.
It is a pattern with this prime minister, particularly around News International. He resists the calls for change. He resists the calls to do the right thing. Exactly as he did in phone hacking last summer, exactly as he did with Rebekah Brooks, exactly as he did with Andy Coulson. He is doing the same now when everyone can see that the obvious thing for him to do is make this referral to Alex Allan. That is what he should get on and do rather than seeking to use Jeremy Hunt as a firewall.It is a pattern with this prime minister, particularly around News International. He resists the calls for change. He resists the calls to do the right thing. Exactly as he did in phone hacking last summer, exactly as he did with Rebekah Brooks, exactly as he did with Andy Coulson. He is doing the same now when everyone can see that the obvious thing for him to do is make this referral to Alex Allan. That is what he should get on and do rather than seeking to use Jeremy Hunt as a firewall.
12.50pm: At the 11am briefing the prime minister's spokesman made it pretty clear that Cameron felt he had better things to do this afternoon than attend the Commons to answer an urgent question about Jeremy Hunt. This is what the spokesman said when asked if Cameron would be answering an urgent question (UQ) on the matter.12.50pm: At the 11am briefing the prime minister's spokesman made it pretty clear that Cameron felt he had better things to do this afternoon than attend the Commons to answer an urgent question about Jeremy Hunt. This is what the spokesman said when asked if Cameron would be answering an urgent question (UQ) on the matter.

That's a matter for the Speaker. [Cameron] answered questions at PMQS last week and [Hunt] made a statement answering questions himself.
That's a matter for the Speaker. [Cameron] answered questions at PMQS last week and [Hunt] made a statement answering questions himself.
12.45pm: John Bercow's decision to grant the Jeremy Hunt UQ was unexpected. In the Conservative party, he's already a bête noire. After this, they're going to hate him even more ...12.45pm: John Bercow's decision to grant the Jeremy Hunt UQ was unexpected. In the Conservative party, he's already a bête noire. After this, they're going to hate him even more ...
12.42pm: Number 10 says David Cameron will be responding to Ed Milband's UQ on Jeremy Hunt. Cameron has cancelled a visit to Milton Keynes so that he can do it.12.42pm: Number 10 says David Cameron will be responding to Ed Milband's UQ on Jeremy Hunt. Cameron has cancelled a visit to Milton Keynes so that he can do it.
12.38pm: It's not clear yet who will be responding to the urgent question Jeremy Hunt. The Speaker's office do not know. Labour want David Cameron to appear, but he could delegate it to someone like Sir George Young, the leader of the Commons.12.38pm: It's not clear yet who will be responding to the urgent question Jeremy Hunt. The Speaker's office do not know. Labour want David Cameron to appear, but he could delegate it to someone like Sir George Young, the leader of the Commons.
At the lobby briefing Number 10 made it clear that Cameron felt there was no need for him to answer questions on this today. He answered questions on it at PMQs last week, the spokesman said, and Jeremy Hunt made his own statement last week.At the lobby briefing Number 10 made it clear that Cameron felt there was no need for him to answer questions on this today. He answered questions on it at PMQs last week, the spokesman said, and Jeremy Hunt made his own statement last week.
12.36pm: The BBC's Nick Sutton has posted this on Twitter.12.36pm: The BBC's Nick Sutton has posted this on Twitter.
Speaker grants Labour's request for PM to be called to the Commons to answer why Jeremy Hunt is not being investigated by Sir Alex AllenSpeaker grants Labour's request for PM to be called to the Commons to answer why Jeremy Hunt is not being investigated by Sir Alex Allen
— Nick Sutton (@suttonnick) April 30, 2012— Nick Sutton (@suttonnick) April 30, 2012
11.59am: I'm just back from the lobby briefing. It lasted almost an hour, and was largely devoted to some heroic stonewalling from the prime minister's spokesman on the subject of Jeremy Hunt and, to a lesser extent, on the border delays at Heathrow. I'll post a summary shortly.11.59am: I'm just back from the lobby briefing. It lasted almost an hour, and was largely devoted to some heroic stonewalling from the prime minister's spokesman on the subject of Jeremy Hunt and, to a lesser extent, on the border delays at Heathrow. I'll post a summary shortly.
10.51am: 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.10.51am: You can read all today's Guardian politics stories here. And all the politics stories filed yesterday, including some in today's paper, are here.
As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.As for the rest of the papers, here are some stories and articles that are particularly interesting.
• David Millward in the Daily Telegraph says the Home Office tried to stop Heathrow circulating a leaflet encouraging people to complain to the government about delays at passport control.• David Millward in the Daily Telegraph says the Home Office tried to stop Heathrow circulating a leaflet encouraging people to complain to the government about delays at passport control.
On Saturday BAA, the owner of Heathrow, tried to defuse tensions with a leaflet apologising to passengers for the "very long delays" and saying people entering the country "deserved a warmer welcome".On Saturday BAA, the owner of Heathrow, tried to defuse tensions with a leaflet apologising to passengers for the "very long delays" and saying people entering the country "deserved a warmer welcome".
The leaflet suggested that passengers should complain to the Home Office.The leaflet suggested that passengers should complain to the Home Office.
However, Marc Owen, the director of UK Border Agency operations at Heathrow, told BAA the leaflet was "inappropriate".However, Marc Owen, the director of UK Border Agency operations at Heathrow, told BAA the leaflet was "inappropriate".
He threatened to "escalate" the matter with ministers who were likely to take a "very dim view".He threatened to "escalate" the matter with ministers who were likely to take a "very dim view".
• Oliver Wright in the Independent says a report from Policy Exchange claims that it is too simplistic to say that the Tories do not do well in the north.• Oliver Wright in the Independent says a report from Policy Exchange claims that it is too simplistic to say that the Tories do not do well in the north.
Neil O'Brien, director of Policy Exchange, said it was too neat to talk about a political north-south divide and that the real variations were between urban and rural areas.Neil O'Brien, director of Policy Exchange, said it was too neat to talk about a political north-south divide and that the real variations were between urban and rural areas.
"It's certainly true that the Conservatives do better in the south and Labour in the north, but within these regions there are huge differences," he said. "If you took the TransPennine Express from Liverpool to Newcastle you would find that 13 of the stops are in Conservative-held seats and 19 in Labour. It is in the northern cities specifically that the Conservatives do badly rather than the North as a whole.""It's certainly true that the Conservatives do better in the south and Labour in the north, but within these regions there are huge differences," he said. "If you took the TransPennine Express from Liverpool to Newcastle you would find that 13 of the stops are in Conservative-held seats and 19 in Labour. It is in the northern cities specifically that the Conservatives do badly rather than the North as a whole."
He added: "The results of our research show that political parties need to focus on addressing cost-of-living issues such as reducing energy bills and the price of petrol rather than broader issues affecting the state of the nation. The evidence also suggests that neither Labour nor the Conservatives have succeeded in appealing to ordinary working people."He added: "The results of our research show that political parties need to focus on addressing cost-of-living issues such as reducing energy bills and the price of petrol rather than broader issues affecting the state of the nation. The evidence also suggests that neither Labour nor the Conservatives have succeeded in appealing to ordinary working people."
You can read the full Policy Exchange report here (pdf).You can read the full Policy Exchange report here (pdf).
• Jim Pickard in the Financial Times (subscription) says MPs on the Commons culture committee are split over the report they are publishing tomorrow on phone hacking.• Jim Pickard in the Financial Times (subscription) says MPs on the Commons culture committee are split over the report they are publishing tomorrow on phone hacking.
Tory and Labour members of the culture select committee are at odds over how far to criticise the Murdoch family just days before publishing a report on phone hacking and News International.Tory and Labour members of the culture select committee are at odds over how far to criticise the Murdoch family just days before publishing a report on phone hacking and News International.
The 11 members of the committee are set to vote on several of the most disputed issues at a meeting on Monday in an attempt to forge some sort of consensus ahead of publication the following day.The 11 members of the committee are set to vote on several of the most disputed issues at a meeting on Monday in an attempt to forge some sort of consensus ahead of publication the following day.
But the group has been deeply divided in discussions, with Labour MPs such as party vice-chairman Tom Watson keen for a more scathing judgment on James Murdoch, in particular. Mr Murdoch was called in front of the committee on July 19 and recalled on November 10.But the group has been deeply divided in discussions, with Labour MPs such as party vice-chairman Tom Watson keen for a more scathing judgment on James Murdoch, in particular. Mr Murdoch was called in front of the committee on July 19 and recalled on November 10.
• Sarah Neville and George Parker in the Financial Times (subscription) say that reform of social care is at least 18 months away.• Sarah Neville and George Parker in the Financial Times (subscription) say that reform of social care is at least 18 months away.
While the Queen's Speech, due on May 9, will highlight the importance the government attaches to social care reform, no bill will be brought forward in the coming session of parliament.While the Queen's Speech, due on May 9, will highlight the importance the government attaches to social care reform, no bill will be brought forward in the coming session of parliament.
Instead, ministers will be given "drafting authority" to prepare legislation, which will not be formally introduced until the following parliamentary session and is unlikely to become law any earlier than late next year.Instead, ministers will be given "drafting authority" to prepare legislation, which will not be formally introduced until the following parliamentary session and is unlikely to become law any earlier than late next year.
The coalition's white paper on health reform, published almost two years ago, had promised "legislation in the second session of this parliament to establish a sustainable legal and financial framework for adult social care".The coalition's white paper on health reform, published almost two years ago, had promised "legislation in the second session of this parliament to establish a sustainable legal and financial framework for adult social care".
But the timetable has slipped, amid growing tensions within government over how to fund proposals drawn up by a government-commissioned review led by the economist Andrew Dilnot. Mr Dilnot called for a cap of about £35,000 on the costs of care that must be shouldered by elderly and disabled people, with the state paying anything above that figure.But the timetable has slipped, amid growing tensions within government over how to fund proposals drawn up by a government-commissioned review led by the economist Andrew Dilnot. Mr Dilnot called for a cap of about £35,000 on the costs of care that must be shouldered by elderly and disabled people, with the state paying anything above that figure.
• Rhoda Buchanan in the Times (paywall) say cleaners have left a letter on Iain Duncan Smith's desk asking for them to be paid the living wage.• Rhoda Buchanan in the Times (paywall) say cleaners have left a letter on Iain Duncan Smith's desk asking for them to be paid the living wage.
Whitehall cleaners are calling on Iain Duncan Smith to increase their pay in line with the "living wage", which is paid to staff working in Parliament and Downing Street and has been publicly endorsed by David Cameron and Boris Johnson.Whitehall cleaners are calling on Iain Duncan Smith to increase their pay in line with the "living wage", which is paid to staff working in Parliament and Downing Street and has been publicly endorsed by David Cameron and Boris Johnson.
The letter, directly addressed to the Secretary of State and left in his office over the weekend, points out that payment for cleaning staff varies across government departments.The letter, directly addressed to the Secretary of State and left in his office over the weekend, points out that payment for cleaning staff varies across government departments.
Cleaners for the DWP and most other Whitehall departments are currently employed via agencies and paid £6.08 to £6.50 an hour, in line with the national minimum wage. But since 2009, cleaners at the Department for Education have been paid a higher rate of £7.60 an hour, while no one working in Parliament, No 10 Downing Street or City Hall earns less than the "living wage" — calculated at £8.30 an hour in London and £7.20 elsewhere.Cleaners for the DWP and most other Whitehall departments are currently employed via agencies and paid £6.08 to £6.50 an hour, in line with the national minimum wage. But since 2009, cleaners at the Department for Education have been paid a higher rate of £7.60 an hour, while no one working in Parliament, No 10 Downing Street or City Hall earns less than the "living wage" — calculated at £8.30 an hour in London and £7.20 elsewhere.
• James Lyons in the Mirror says a poll for the paper shows that 78% of people do not believe David Cameron's claim that "we're all in this together".• James Lyons in the Mirror says a poll for the paper shows that 78% of people do not believe David Cameron's claim that "we're all in this together".
• Vernon Bogdanor in the Times (paywall) says Ukip are the nearest thing we have to an English nationalist party.• Vernon Bogdanor in the Times (paywall) says Ukip are the nearest thing we have to an English nationalist party.
The European project emphasises the transcending of national sovereignty. In Scotland, the SNP welcomes this, as it sees the EU as an enabler of independence. In England, by contrast, it is seen as a threat to national independence. Yet no big party represents England. The Conservatives, the most obvious candidates, role, are disqualified since, as a Unionist party, they seek to represent the whole of the United Kingdom. As a result there is a disconnection in England between Parliament and the people on Europe.The European project emphasises the transcending of national sovereignty. In Scotland, the SNP welcomes this, as it sees the EU as an enabler of independence. In England, by contrast, it is seen as a threat to national independence. Yet no big party represents England. The Conservatives, the most obvious candidates, role, are disqualified since, as a Unionist party, they seek to represent the whole of the United Kingdom. As a result there is a disconnection in England between Parliament and the people on Europe.
Into this breach steps UKIP, which favours an English parliament and is the nearest thing we have to an English nationalist party. In the 2009 euro elections, it came second, winning 12 of the 58 English seats at Strasbourg, more than Labour or the Liberal Democrats. The Conservatives were in opposition that year and claimed to be eurosceptic, promising a referendum on the Lisbon treaty. With the Conservatives in government, UKIP must believe that it has a strong chance of winning the 2014 euro elections.Into this breach steps UKIP, which favours an English parliament and is the nearest thing we have to an English nationalist party. In the 2009 euro elections, it came second, winning 12 of the 58 English seats at Strasbourg, more than Labour or the Liberal Democrats. The Conservatives were in opposition that year and claimed to be eurosceptic, promising a referendum on the Lisbon treaty. With the Conservatives in government, UKIP must believe that it has a strong chance of winning the 2014 euro elections.
• Paul Goodman in the Financial Times says David Cameron should respond to the rise of Ukip by tackling immigration.• Paul Goodman in the Financial Times says David Cameron should respond to the rise of Ukip by tackling immigration.

This is the key to Ukip: its supporters are not so much eurosceptic voters as anti-politics. They have more in common with George Galloway's Respect party than either would care to admit ...
This is the key to Ukip: its supporters are not so much eurosceptic voters as anti-politics. They have more in common with George Galloway's Respect party than either would care to admit ...
Could Ukip do a Respect, or burst through to hold the balance of power at the next election? To date, it has a poor by-election record and lacks a charismatic Galloway equivalent. It controls one town council. Its total number of councillors has yet to reach three figures. First past the post voting frustrates the party's quest for a breakthrough. Even the defection of a Conservative MP or two wouldn't lower the electoral fence for Ukip. Its best means of breaking through is to press for a binary in-out referendum on the EU, which has the potential to split the Tories to Ukip's gain.Could Ukip do a Respect, or burst through to hold the balance of power at the next election? To date, it has a poor by-election record and lacks a charismatic Galloway equivalent. It controls one town council. Its total number of councillors has yet to reach three figures. First past the post voting frustrates the party's quest for a breakthrough. Even the defection of a Conservative MP or two wouldn't lower the electoral fence for Ukip. Its best means of breaking through is to press for a binary in-out referendum on the EU, which has the potential to split the Tories to Ukip's gain.
Despite this risk, there is a tactical case for Mr Cameron to concede such a referendum when he comes to campaign for re-election. Removing the referendum as an attack issue for Ukip would make it possible that the party could fold altogether, removing the threat it poses in constituencies where its vote was bigger than the Tory majority.Despite this risk, there is a tactical case for Mr Cameron to concede such a referendum when he comes to campaign for re-election. Removing the referendum as an attack issue for Ukip would make it possible that the party could fold altogether, removing the threat it poses in constituencies where its vote was bigger than the Tory majority.
But these are speculations. What is clear is that Mr Cameron's best means of stopping Ukip have less to do with Europe than with keeping the promises he signed up to in the coalition agreement all those months ago. In particular, he should concentrate on getting immigration from outside the EU down to tens of thousands of people.But these are speculations. What is clear is that Mr Cameron's best means of stopping Ukip have less to do with Europe than with keeping the promises he signed up to in the coalition agreement all those months ago. In particular, he should concentrate on getting immigration from outside the EU down to tens of thousands of people.
I'm off to the Number 10 lobby briefing now. I'll post again after 11.30am.I'm off to the Number 10 lobby briefing now. I'll post again after 11.30am.
10.14am: Lord Ashdown (pictured), the former Lib Dem leader, has criticised David Cameron for saying yesterday that the euro crisis could go on for years. This is what Ashdown told the Times (paywall).
10.14am: Lord Ashdown (pictured), the former Lib Dem leader, has criticised David Cameron for saying yesterday that the euro crisis could go on for years. This is what Ashdown told the Times (paywall).
I don't think one's neighbours would regard as [a] friendly act where, as their house was on fire, you throw on cans of petrol.I don't think one's neighbours would regard as [a] friendly act where, as their house was on fire, you throw on cans of petrol.
As the Times says, this is the strongest criticism that has come from the Lib Dems so far of Cameron's comments on the Andrew Marr show.As the Times says, this is the strongest criticism that has come from the Lib Dems so far of Cameron's comments on the Andrew Marr show.
10.02am: The Queen's Speech is next week. That's when the government will set out its legislative programme for the next session of parliament.10.02am: The Queen's Speech is next week. That's when the government will set out its legislative programme for the next session of parliament.
Today Ed Miliband is announcing what it would say if he were writing it. Or at least he's announcing five priorities, in a speech at the beginning of his Q&A with Ed Balls. Here's an extract.Today Ed Miliband is announcing what it would say if he were writing it. Or at least he's announcing five priorities, in a speech at the beginning of his Q&A with Ed Balls. Here's an extract.
I want to talk briefly today about five of the Bills we would introduce if Labour was in government now and writing this year's Queen's Speech.I want to talk briefly today about five of the Bills we would introduce if Labour was in government now and writing this year's Queen's Speech.
These measures offer practical ways to help people right now and get our economy moving again ...These measures offer practical ways to help people right now and get our economy moving again ...
• A Fair Deal on tax. Alongside implementing Labour's five point plan for jobs and growth, Labour's finance bill would reverse tax cuts for people earning over £150,000 a year. We would use that money to help pensioners on fixed incomes hit by the "granny tax" and we would restore cuts in tax credits which have hit families.• A Fair Deal on tax. Alongside implementing Labour's five point plan for jobs and growth, Labour's finance bill would reverse tax cuts for people earning over £150,000 a year. We would use that money to help pensioners on fixed incomes hit by the "granny tax" and we would restore cuts in tax credits which have hit families.
• A Fair Deal on Energy. Labour's energy bill would break up the dominance of the Big Six power companies and require them by law to offer 4 million elderly people the lowest rate available.• A Fair Deal on Energy. Labour's energy bill would break up the dominance of the Big Six power companies and require them by law to offer 4 million elderly people the lowest rate available.
• A Fair Deal on Transport. Labour's transport bill would stop train operators raising fares by more than one per cent above inflation, stop them exploiting commuters with unadvertised rates and give local authorities more control over bus firms.• A Fair Deal on Transport. Labour's transport bill would stop train operators raising fares by more than one per cent above inflation, stop them exploiting commuters with unadvertised rates and give local authorities more control over bus firms.
• A Fair Deal for Consumers. Labour's consumer bill would give new powers to the Financial Conduct Authority and Competition and Markets Authority to stop rip-off surcharges by banks, low-cost airlines and pension firms.• A Fair Deal for Consumers. Labour's consumer bill would give new powers to the Financial Conduct Authority and Competition and Markets Authority to stop rip-off surcharges by banks, low-cost airlines and pension firms.
• A Fair Deal on Jobs. Labour's jobs bill would ensure some of the money raised from a tax on bank bonuses is used to provide real jobs, with real wages and responsibilities, to more than 100,000 young people aged 18-24.• A Fair Deal on Jobs. Labour's jobs bill would ensure some of the money raised from a tax on bank bonuses is used to provide real jobs, with real wages and responsibilities, to more than 100,000 young people aged 18-24.
9.45am: The Ken Livingstone campaign have issued this statement on the Evening Standard poll. (See 9.13am.)9.45am: The Ken Livingstone campaign have issued this statement on the Evening Standard poll. (See 9.13am.)
The election is neck and neck and going all the way to the final vote cast on Thursday. With soaring fares, police cuts and double-dip recession Londoners have the opportunity this week to ensure the Tories don't get away it. The Tory Mayor has stood by and made things worse in difficult times, and Londoners will be better off with a Labour mayor.The election is neck and neck and going all the way to the final vote cast on Thursday. With soaring fares, police cuts and double-dip recession Londoners have the opportunity this week to ensure the Tories don't get away it. The Tory Mayor has stood by and made things worse in difficult times, and Londoners will be better off with a Labour mayor.
9.30am: I think there may have been a problem with the comments earlier. Sorry about. They should be working normally now.9.30am: I think there may have been a problem with the comments earlier. Sorry about. They should be working normally now.
9.19am: The Lib Dem MP John Pugh wants David Cameron to make Vince Cable chancellor. He's explained why in an article for PoliticsHome.9.19am: The Lib Dem MP John Pugh wants David Cameron to make Vince Cable chancellor. He's explained why in an article for PoliticsHome.
There are at least three reasons why it would benefit the coalition in current circumstances to have Vince Cable as chancellor. He recognises the coalition needs a clear industrial and financial strategy, he identifies the need to take a more aggressive approach with the banks and he is acutely sensitive to the downside risks of deficit reduction. He was also of course right about Murdoch. There is too a widespread,unmatched faith and confidence amongst the general public and in commercial circles in his ability in matters economic. He would be the people's choice even if not first on the No10 dinner party list.There are at least three reasons why it would benefit the coalition in current circumstances to have Vince Cable as chancellor. He recognises the coalition needs a clear industrial and financial strategy, he identifies the need to take a more aggressive approach with the banks and he is acutely sensitive to the downside risks of deficit reduction. He was also of course right about Murdoch. There is too a widespread,unmatched faith and confidence amongst the general public and in commercial circles in his ability in matters economic. He would be the people's choice even if not first on the No10 dinner party list.
Pugh also says that the overall number of Lib Dem ministers should be cut to compensate for Cable having the second most important job in government.Pugh also says that the overall number of Lib Dem ministers should be cut to compensate for Cable having the second most important job in government.
Of course, George Osborne will not be worrying about Cable nabbing his office. It's not going to happen. But he might be mildly concerned about the fact that at the weekend the Daily Mail was speculating about him being sent to the Foreign Office, with William Hague taking his job in a reshuffle.Of course, George Osborne will not be worrying about Cable nabbing his office. It's not going to happen. But he might be mildly concerned about the fact that at the weekend the Daily Mail was speculating about him being sent to the Foreign Office, with William Hague taking his job in a reshuffle.
9.13am: Boris Johnson is increasing his lead over Ken Livingstone, according to a YouGov poll in today's Evening Standard. It says that, when second preferences are taken into account, Johnson is leading Livingstone by four points - 52% to 48%.9.13am: Boris Johnson is increasing his lead over Ken Livingstone, according to a YouGov poll in today's Evening Standard. It says that, when second preferences are taken into account, Johnson is leading Livingstone by four points - 52% to 48%.
9.01am: Labour's Emily Thornberry (pictured), the shadow attorney general, has said that David Cameron should "man up" and sack Jeremy Hunt. According to PoliticsHome, this is what she told ITV's Daybreak.9.01am: Labour's Emily Thornberry (pictured), the shadow attorney general, has said that David Cameron should "man up" and sack Jeremy Hunt. According to PoliticsHome, this is what she told ITV's Daybreak.
We're accusing the prime minister of not doing his job properly. We think that he is responsible for the behaviour of his ministers, that's what it says in the ministerial code. He needs to man up a bit and do his job ... He should get rid of this minister [Hunt], he should move on.We're accusing the prime minister of not doing his job properly. We think that he is responsible for the behaviour of his ministers, that's what it says in the ministerial code. He needs to man up a bit and do his job ... He should get rid of this minister [Hunt], he should move on.
8.45am: Labour want David Cameron to come to the Commons today to explain why he has not ordered an immediate inquiry into claims that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code. Patrick Wintour has the details in a frontpage story in today's paper.8.45am: Labour want David Cameron to come to the Commons today to explain why he has not ordered an immediate inquiry into claims that Jeremy Hunt broke the ministerial code. Patrick Wintour has the details in a frontpage story in today's paper.
In a lengthy interview with the BBC's Andrew Marr programme, Cameron admitted he had got too close to the Murdoch empire, but said there had been "no grand deal" in return for the support of News International at the last election.In a lengthy interview with the BBC's Andrew Marr programme, Cameron admitted he had got too close to the Murdoch empire, but said there had been "no grand deal" in return for the support of News International at the last election.
He vowed to make the same denial under oath to the Leveson inquiry.He vowed to make the same denial under oath to the Leveson inquiry.
But Labour, facing a dilemma over whether to focus on the economy or Murdoch in the three days running into local election polling day, will press Cameron to come to parliament. They want him personally to explain why he is perverting the original purpose of the Leveson inquiry when he has a custom-built method of examining Hunt – the independent adviser on the ministerial code, Sir Alex Allan.But Labour, facing a dilemma over whether to focus on the economy or Murdoch in the three days running into local election polling day, will press Cameron to come to parliament. They want him personally to explain why he is perverting the original purpose of the Leveson inquiry when he has a custom-built method of examining Hunt – the independent adviser on the ministerial code, Sir Alex Allan.
A Labour source said: "Cameron is trying to hide behind the Leveson inquiry. With parliament breaking up on Tuesday, Cameron must come to the Commons and explain to the British people why he is ducking his responsibilities to enforce the ministerial code."A Labour source said: "Cameron is trying to hide behind the Leveson inquiry. With parliament breaking up on Tuesday, Cameron must come to the Commons and explain to the British people why he is ducking his responsibilities to enforce the ministerial code."
Cameron could decide to give a statement voluntarily, but this seems unlikely. If he doesn't, it will be up to the Speaker, John Bercow, to decide whether or not to grant an urgent question (UQ) on the subject. Normally the Speaker doesn't like granting UQs to MPs who publicise their intention to call for one in advance, and Hunt himself has already given his own Commons statement on this, and so I would guess that Bercow is likely to say no. But, equally, you should never underestimate his willingess to stir things up. We'll find out for sure what's happening before lunch.Cameron could decide to give a statement voluntarily, but this seems unlikely. If he doesn't, it will be up to the Speaker, John Bercow, to decide whether or not to grant an urgent question (UQ) on the subject. Normally the Speaker doesn't like granting UQs to MPs who publicise their intention to call for one in advance, and Hunt himself has already given his own Commons statement on this, and so I would guess that Bercow is likely to say no. But, equally, you should never underestimate his willingess to stir things up. We'll find out for sure what's happening before lunch.
Otherwise, it's relatively quiet. Here's the agenda.Otherwise, it's relatively quiet. Here's the agenda.
10am: Ed Miliband and Ed Balls host a Q&A in London. They intend to talk mostly about the economy and living standards.10am: Ed Miliband and Ed Balls host a Q&A in London. They intend to talk mostly about the economy and living standards.
12.30pm: Frank Field gives a speech to Policy Exchange on child poverty targets12.30pm: Frank Field gives a speech to Policy Exchange on child poverty targets
Around 3pm: Peers begin a debate on Lords reform.Around 3pm: Peers begin a debate on Lords reform.
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.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.
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.