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Election 2015 live blog: Cameron and Osborne won't rule out cut to top rate of tax Election 2015 live blog: Cameron and Osborne won't rule out cut to top rate of tax
(35 minutes later)
4.15pm BST16:15
In case one picture of David Cameron and a lamb wasn’t enough, he’s now tweeted a montage:
A break from campaigning on Easter Sunday to try my hand at feeding a newborn lamb at Dean Lane Farm, Oxfordshire. pic.twitter.com/wxeXv2bT6t
4.01pm BST16:014.01pm BST16:01
Odds on home secretary Theresa May becoming the next Tory leader have been lengthened following a story that appeared in the Independent on Sunday, according to William Hill.Odds on home secretary Theresa May becoming the next Tory leader have been lengthened following a story that appeared in the Independent on Sunday, according to William Hill.
The story says:The story says:
Theresa May is embroiled in an embarrassing controversy over how a convicted criminal obtained a £500,000 government-backed loan for a business in her Berkshire constituency that has now gone bust, amid suspicions of financial misconduct.Theresa May is embroiled in an embarrassing controversy over how a convicted criminal obtained a £500,000 government-backed loan for a business in her Berkshire constituency that has now gone bust, amid suspicions of financial misconduct.
The Home Secretary has admitted that she lobbied various bodies on behalf of Charles Henry Mogford, a Land Rover dealer in Maidenhead. Mogford, 52, wanted a substantial bank loan for his business, Auto Ex Limited, after it was relocated to make way for a high-speed rail link. The salesman had achieved some fame locally from supplying specially modified Land Rovers for the 2012 James Bond film Skyfall.The Home Secretary has admitted that she lobbied various bodies on behalf of Charles Henry Mogford, a Land Rover dealer in Maidenhead. Mogford, 52, wanted a substantial bank loan for his business, Auto Ex Limited, after it was relocated to make way for a high-speed rail link. The salesman had achieved some fame locally from supplying specially modified Land Rovers for the 2012 James Bond film Skyfall.
May denies giving him any assistance to Mogford in helping him obtain a loan but admits raising concerns, where appropriate, as she would do for any constituent or local business.May denies giving him any assistance to Mogford in helping him obtain a loan but admits raising concerns, where appropriate, as she would do for any constituent or local business.
However, Labour have jumped on the tale, with Yvette Cooper, shadow home secretary, saying:However, Labour have jumped on the tale, with Yvette Cooper, shadow home secretary, saying:
I’m afraid its not good enough for Theresa May to refuse to answer questions or provide any details about her lobbying activities on behalf of Charles Henry Mogford.I’m afraid its not good enough for Theresa May to refuse to answer questions or provide any details about her lobbying activities on behalf of Charles Henry Mogford.
The position of home secretary demands full public confidence and she should provide details of who and what organisations she lobbied to obtain loans from the government for her constituent and whether any checks were done before she did so.The position of home secretary demands full public confidence and she should provide details of who and what organisations she lobbied to obtain loans from the government for her constituent and whether any checks were done before she did so.
William Hill said the odds on May succeeding Cameron have now lengthened from 9/2 to 11/2. The bookermaker has Boris Johnson as 9/4 favourite.William Hill said the odds on May succeeding Cameron have now lengthened from 9/2 to 11/2. The bookermaker has Boris Johnson as 9/4 favourite.
3.33pm BST15:333.33pm BST15:33
An unexpected City voice sticking up for Labour this afternoon is Guy Hands, the private equity boss. He told the FT (£):An unexpected City voice sticking up for Labour this afternoon is Guy Hands, the private equity boss. He told the FT (£):
There’s no question that for the renewable business as a whole, an SNP-Labour party majority would be far better than the Conservatives based on what the Conservatives currently say, which is a policy I don’t understand.There’s no question that for the renewable business as a whole, an SNP-Labour party majority would be far better than the Conservatives based on what the Conservatives currently say, which is a policy I don’t understand.
Hands runs Terra Firma, which has major investments in wind energy. The Conservatives want a moratorium on further onshore wind development in a promise that looked designed to placate the Tory right and win back voters from Ukip.Hands runs Terra Firma, which has major investments in wind energy. The Conservatives want a moratorium on further onshore wind development in a promise that looked designed to placate the Tory right and win back voters from Ukip.
3.25pm BST15:253.25pm BST15:25
We’ve covered another story from the Sunday papers about Miliband’s relationship with business. Jennifer Rankin writes that a poll of 35 chairman of the UK’s biggest companies found that 90% thought David Cameron would be the best prime minister for corporate Britain, while 70% of the chairmen polled said that the Labour leader would be a“catastrophe”.We’ve covered another story from the Sunday papers about Miliband’s relationship with business. Jennifer Rankin writes that a poll of 35 chairman of the UK’s biggest companies found that 90% thought David Cameron would be the best prime minister for corporate Britain, while 70% of the chairmen polled said that the Labour leader would be a“catastrophe”.
The Labour high command does not believe this kind of story - like the letter to the Telegraph from 103 company leaders - is necessarily bad for them because they want to portray Miliband on the side of workers and Tories as the party of big business.The Labour high command does not believe this kind of story - like the letter to the Telegraph from 103 company leaders - is necessarily bad for them because they want to portray Miliband on the side of workers and Tories as the party of big business.
But Chuka Umunna, the shadow business secretary, also argued in response that a Labour government would be good news for business because it is not risking the UK’s membership of the European Union.But Chuka Umunna, the shadow business secretary, also argued in response that a Labour government would be good news for business because it is not risking the UK’s membership of the European Union.
2.58pm BST14:582.58pm BST14:58
I’ve just got round to watching this video interview with Ed Miliband in the Sunday People. It’s a little on the awkward side, maybe because it seems to be conducted in a bare office, but the Labour leader is quite good at challenging things he doesn’t agree with, like banning all benefits for immigrants and introducing charges for drunks in A&E. He also has some pretty strong words on the bedroom tax.I’ve just got round to watching this video interview with Ed Miliband in the Sunday People. It’s a little on the awkward side, maybe because it seems to be conducted in a bare office, but the Labour leader is quite good at challenging things he doesn’t agree with, like banning all benefits for immigrants and introducing charges for drunks in A&E. He also has some pretty strong words on the bedroom tax.
This is the cruellest, most iniquitious, most unfair, most appalling, most disgraceful thing this government has done. And I must say, I don’t know how David Cameron can look in the mirror, as he gas done, and justify this tax because it is hitting some of the poorest people in our society and some of the most deserving people in our society.”This is the cruellest, most iniquitious, most unfair, most appalling, most disgraceful thing this government has done. And I must say, I don’t know how David Cameron can look in the mirror, as he gas done, and justify this tax because it is hitting some of the poorest people in our society and some of the most deserving people in our society.”
Updated at 2.58pm BSTUpdated at 2.58pm BST
2.33pm BST14:332.33pm BST14:33
If you’re into Milibandology (as I am), this is a good read from Mark Ferguson on Labour List about the leaked notes: a cry of anguish about the fact they were left around and then five interesting things we learned from them:If you’re into Milibandology (as I am), this is a good read from Mark Ferguson on Labour List about the leaked notes: a cry of anguish about the fact they were left around and then five interesting things we learned from them:
1) The answers were as scripted as we thought they had been1) The answers were as scripted as we thought they had been
2) There is a Miliband doctrine (of sorts) on foreign policy2) There is a Miliband doctrine (of sorts) on foreign policy
3) He had lines to attack Sturgeon (and Farage) with – but he didn’t use them3) He had lines to attack Sturgeon (and Farage) with – but he didn’t use them
4) Miliband was willing to defend Labour’s economic record in robust terms4) Miliband was willing to defend Labour’s economic record in robust terms
5) His handwriting is a nightmare5) His handwriting is a nightmare
2.18pm BST14:182.18pm BST14:18
My colleague, Patrick Wintour, the political editor, has written a story about Cameron and Osborne’s stance on the 45p income tax rate. This is what he says about the chancellor’s motivation for refusing to rule out a cut:My colleague, Patrick Wintour, the political editor, has written a story about Cameron and Osborne’s stance on the 45p income tax rate. This is what he says about the chancellor’s motivation for refusing to rule out a cut:
It was not immediately clear if Osborne was trying to hide backstop plans to cut the top rate of tax, or merely trying to keep his options open. He has firmly ruled out increases in the basic rate of income tax, national insurance and, after some hesitation, increases in VAT.It was not immediately clear if Osborne was trying to hide backstop plans to cut the top rate of tax, or merely trying to keep his options open. He has firmly ruled out increases in the basic rate of income tax, national insurance and, after some hesitation, increases in VAT.
2.11pm BST14:112.11pm BST14:11
A quick bit of Ukip news: Diane James, one of the party’s MEPs who nearly took Eastleigh from the Lib Dems in a byelection, has said there are plenty of people “waiting” to succeed Nigel Farage if he doesn’t win South Thanet (see the poll from earlier putting him behind the Tories).A quick bit of Ukip news: Diane James, one of the party’s MEPs who nearly took Eastleigh from the Lib Dems in a byelection, has said there are plenty of people “waiting” to succeed Nigel Farage if he doesn’t win South Thanet (see the poll from earlier putting him behind the Tories).
She told BBC Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s Politics:She told BBC Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s Politics:
We have a very high calibre of individuals within Ukip. They are frequently on the BBC and other media outlets: Suzanne Evans, Patrick O’Flynn, Paul Nuttall. There are people there waiting.We have a very high calibre of individuals within Ukip. They are frequently on the BBC and other media outlets: Suzanne Evans, Patrick O’Flynn, Paul Nuttall. There are people there waiting.
When the leadership race is announced, I’m sure individuals will put their hats into the ring.When the leadership race is announced, I’m sure individuals will put their hats into the ring.
James herself may be a leading candidate as successor to Farage, but she withdrew from the race to be an MP because of family matters. However, none of the people she has named - Evans, O’Flynn and Nuttall - are likely to win the seats they are standing in.James herself may be a leading candidate as successor to Farage, but she withdrew from the race to be an MP because of family matters. However, none of the people she has named - Evans, O’Flynn and Nuttall - are likely to win the seats they are standing in.
It presents Ukip with a bit of a problem as Farage has said he would stand down if he doesn’t win South Thanet because he could not lead the party from outside the Commons.It presents Ukip with a bit of a problem as Farage has said he would stand down if he doesn’t win South Thanet because he could not lead the party from outside the Commons.
Douglas Carswell and Mark Reckless, the two former Tory Ukip MPs, have both ruled themselves out of the running. Among the people who have a chance of being Ukip MPs come May 8, party insiders are talking up Jamie Huntman, the candidate in Castle Point, with Evans potentially as a caretaker leader.Douglas Carswell and Mark Reckless, the two former Tory Ukip MPs, have both ruled themselves out of the running. Among the people who have a chance of being Ukip MPs come May 8, party insiders are talking up Jamie Huntman, the candidate in Castle Point, with Evans potentially as a caretaker leader.
1.40pm BST13:401.40pm BST13:40
Here’s quite a clever spot from Labour. In November 2011, this was what Osborne had to say about cutting the top rate of income tax, which was then 50p in the pound for all those who earn more than £150,000 a year.Here’s quite a clever spot from Labour. In November 2011, this was what Osborne had to say about cutting the top rate of income tax, which was then 50p in the pound for all those who earn more than £150,000 a year.
Well this autumn we’re not looking at the 50p tax rate, that’s, the priority this autumn is to get the housing market going, the priority this autumn is to get infrastructure underway and, of course, we’re absolutely committed to increasing the personal allowance for many millions of people in this country who have a tough time at the moment.Well this autumn we’re not looking at the 50p tax rate, that’s, the priority this autumn is to get the housing market going, the priority this autumn is to get infrastructure underway and, of course, we’re absolutely committed to increasing the personal allowance for many millions of people in this country who have a tough time at the moment.
In the March Budget of the next year, he cut it to 45p in the pound.In the March Budget of the next year, he cut it to 45p in the pound.
Today, Osborne used similar language to his words in November 2011, saying seven times that it was not his “priority” to cut the top rate further.Today, Osborne used similar language to his words in November 2011, saying seven times that it was not his “priority” to cut the top rate further.
Labour has said it would raise the top rate to 50p again for all those who earn more than £150,000 a year.Labour has said it would raise the top rate to 50p again for all those who earn more than £150,000 a year.
1.31pm BST13:311.31pm BST13:31
Plaid Cymru’s Leanne Wood has just been asked what must be now known as the “French Ambassador Question” - would she prefer Ed Miliband or David Cameron to be prime minister? She refuses to answer but claims to be doing everything she can to make the current Conservative government fall.Plaid Cymru’s Leanne Wood has just been asked what must be now known as the “French Ambassador Question” - would she prefer Ed Miliband or David Cameron to be prime minister? She refuses to answer but claims to be doing everything she can to make the current Conservative government fall.
Also speaking on the BBC’s World This Weekend, Wood said she would push Miliband to the left in any coalition negotiations. Plaid Cymru currently has three MPs.Also speaking on the BBC’s World This Weekend, Wood said she would push Miliband to the left in any coalition negotiations. Plaid Cymru currently has three MPs.
1.24pm BST13:241.24pm BST13:24
Labour former cabinet minister Peter Hain has been on the World This Weekend warning about the dangers of the SNP letting in a Tory government. He says their position is illogical because it amounts to:Labour former cabinet minister Peter Hain has been on the World This Weekend warning about the dangers of the SNP letting in a Tory government. He says their position is illogical because it amounts to:
Vote anything except Labour to get a Labour government. That doesn’t make sense at all. If you don’t vote Labour, the Tories are more likely to be the biggest party. If they are the biggest party, then they will form a government. [The SNP] would prefer to have a Tory government that would suit their independent separatist agenda.Vote anything except Labour to get a Labour government. That doesn’t make sense at all. If you don’t vote Labour, the Tories are more likely to be the biggest party. If they are the biggest party, then they will form a government. [The SNP] would prefer to have a Tory government that would suit their independent separatist agenda.
1.20pm BST13:201.20pm BST13:20
Adding to all the image-softening pictures of Cameron going to church with Samantha, his daughter sitting in his red box, and his wife giving an interview in their kitchen, we now have this of clip him cuddling a lamb:Adding to all the image-softening pictures of Cameron going to church with Samantha, his daughter sitting in his red box, and his wife giving an interview in their kitchen, we now have this of clip him cuddling a lamb:
Have to say, the pics of David Cameron feeding a lamb are pretty cute... pic.twitter.com/yLKhV9UKT9Have to say, the pics of David Cameron feeding a lamb are pretty cute... pic.twitter.com/yLKhV9UKT9
Updated at 1.21pm BSTUpdated at 1.21pm BST
1.12pm BST13:121.12pm BST13:12
These are the full quotes from Cameron when he was asked about lowering the 45p top rate of income tax earlier by Sky News in Witney, Oxfordshire.These are the full quotes from Cameron when he was asked about lowering the 45p top rate of income tax earlier by Sky News in Witney, Oxfordshire.
It’s not our policy, it’s not our plan. Our plan is to raise to £12,500 the basic rate threshold so we take another million people out of income tax altogether and cut tax for 30 million people. That’s the plan. We’re also going to raise the 40p threshold to £50,000 because too many middle-income families are being pulled into that tax rate. Those are our plans and they are the ones we’ll pursue.It’s not our policy, it’s not our plan. Our plan is to raise to £12,500 the basic rate threshold so we take another million people out of income tax altogether and cut tax for 30 million people. That’s the plan. We’re also going to raise the 40p threshold to £50,000 because too many middle-income families are being pulled into that tax rate. Those are our plans and they are the ones we’ll pursue.
12.47pm BST12:4712.47pm BST12:47
It looks like the New York Post has got a bit excited about the suggestion that Michael Bloomberg could run for London mayor. David Cameron’s former campaign guru Steve Hilton, who is now in the US, appears to be backing it, which does not add a lot of credibility to the idea. Our Washington correspondent Paul Lewis tweets:It looks like the New York Post has got a bit excited about the suggestion that Michael Bloomberg could run for London mayor. David Cameron’s former campaign guru Steve Hilton, who is now in the US, appears to be backing it, which does not add a lot of credibility to the idea. Our Washington correspondent Paul Lewis tweets:
New York Post a bit confused about what Michael Bloomberg will actually be doing if he's made London Mayor. pic.twitter.com/6vjVsMhcBGNew York Post a bit confused about what Michael Bloomberg will actually be doing if he's made London Mayor. pic.twitter.com/6vjVsMhcBG
12.37pm BST12:3712.37pm BST12:37
David Cameron also refuses to rule out cut in top rate of taxDavid Cameron also refuses to rule out cut in top rate of tax
Speaking in Witney, Cameron echoed the chancellor, saying:Speaking in Witney, Cameron echoed the chancellor, saying:
It’s not our policy, it’s not our plan.It’s not our policy, it’s not our plan.
He said increasing the personal allowance and cutting the 40p threshold are his priorities.He said increasing the personal allowance and cutting the 40p threshold are his priorities.
12.36pm BST12:3612.36pm BST12:36
A quick update on what is really the most significant story of the election so far: Scotland. To recap:A quick update on what is really the most significant story of the election so far: Scotland. To recap:
12.22pm BST12:2212.22pm BST12:22
George Osborne confirms he was indeed being interviewed live from a garden centre. This is obviously how ordinary hardworking people spend their Sundays.George Osborne confirms he was indeed being interviewed live from a garden centre. This is obviously how ordinary hardworking people spend their Sundays.
Lovely Easter morning in garden centre @wyevaleGC discussing #pensionfreedomsday with local residents pic.twitter.com/1SbP1GJuTGLovely Easter morning in garden centre @wyevaleGC discussing #pensionfreedomsday with local residents pic.twitter.com/1SbP1GJuTG
David Cameron has been snapped on his way to church with his wife Samantha.David Cameron has been snapped on his way to church with his wife Samantha.
Ed Miliband has been keeping a low profile today but was yesterday out campaigning in Doncaster with his wife Justine and Labour frontbencher Caroline Flint.Ed Miliband has been keeping a low profile today but was yesterday out campaigning in Doncaster with his wife Justine and Labour frontbencher Caroline Flint.
I’m told Nigel Farage is having a day off spending Easter with his family after a full-on day of campaigning on Saturday.I’m told Nigel Farage is having a day off spending Easter with his family after a full-on day of campaigning on Saturday.
12.12pm BST12:1212.12pm BST12:12
Let’s just have a quick look at the leaked Miliband briefing notes from his appearance at the leaders’ TV debates.Let’s just have a quick look at the leaked Miliband briefing notes from his appearance at the leaders’ TV debates.
It’s a great scoop for the Sun on Sunday, after the documents were apparently left in the make-up room. But despite its attempts to spin the notes as “bizarre” and a plot to make him look less robotic, actually the briefings are pretty standard stuff.It’s a great scoop for the Sun on Sunday, after the documents were apparently left in the make-up room. But despite its attempts to spin the notes as “bizarre” and a plot to make him look less robotic, actually the briefings are pretty standard stuff.
Even the note about being a “happy warrior” is easily explicable. It’s the subject of a Wordsworth poem that is common currency in US politics, conveying the idea of a noble and moral fighter.Even the note about being a “happy warrior” is easily explicable. It’s the subject of a Wordsworth poem that is common currency in US politics, conveying the idea of a noble and moral fighter.
All in all, it doesn’t look very damaging, apart from creating an impression that his minders have once again not been doing their job properly (like the times he was allowed to be pictured with a copy of the Sun and eating a bacon sandwich not very gracefully).All in all, it doesn’t look very damaging, apart from creating an impression that his minders have once again not been doing their job properly (like the times he was allowed to be pictured with a copy of the Sun and eating a bacon sandwich not very gracefully).
Here are some extracts:Here are some extracts:
Updated at 12.13pm BSTUpdated at 12.13pm BST
12.00pm BST12:0012.00pm BST12:00
Labour responds to Osborne on the top rate of taxLabour responds to Osborne on the top rate of tax
Chris Leslie, Labour’s shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, said:Chris Leslie, Labour’s shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, said:
The Conservative Party’s secret plan has now been exposed.The Conservative Party’s secret plan has now been exposed.
Asked four times, George Osborne repeatedly refused to rule out another top-rate tax cut for millionaires.Asked four times, George Osborne repeatedly refused to rule out another top-rate tax cut for millionaires.
The Tories have raised taxes for millions but cut them for millionaires. And it’s now clear that if they win the election they’ll do the same again.The Tories have raised taxes for millions but cut them for millionaires. And it’s now clear that if they win the election they’ll do the same again.
While Labour’s better and fairer plan will back tax cuts for working people, these same old Tories always stand up for the few.While Labour’s better and fairer plan will back tax cuts for working people, these same old Tories always stand up for the few.
11.43am BST11:4311.43am BST11:43
The Easter messagesThe Easter messages
Most of the party leaders have released Easter message or spoken a bit about their faith (or lack of) today. Here are some extracts.Most of the party leaders have released Easter message or spoken a bit about their faith (or lack of) today. Here are some extracts.
David Cameron:David Cameron:
The Church is not just a collection of beautiful old buildings, it’s a living, active force, doing great works right across our country.The Church is not just a collection of beautiful old buildings, it’s a living, active force, doing great works right across our country.
Yes we’re a nation that embraces, welcomes and accepts all faiths and none, but we’re still a Christian country.Yes we’re a nation that embraces, welcomes and accepts all faiths and none, but we’re still a Christian country.
Ed Miliband:Ed Miliband:
In the midst of the Easter celebrations our hearts goes out to those who face difficult times both overseas and closer to home. My thoughts are particularly with Christians in Syria, Iraq and other countries where the church suffers terrible persecution...In the midst of the Easter celebrations our hearts goes out to those who face difficult times both overseas and closer to home. My thoughts are particularly with Christians in Syria, Iraq and other countries where the church suffers terrible persecution...
We must all do everything we can to speak out against this evil and work to alleviate the suffering of those who are persecuted simply for their creed...We must all do everything we can to speak out against this evil and work to alleviate the suffering of those who are persecuted simply for their creed...
But we don’t need to travel far to find families facing fear and uncertainty. Over two million children are now living in poverty in the UK. I have admiration for those church members and Christian charities that provide support and hope to those in need.But we don’t need to travel far to find families facing fear and uncertainty. Over two million children are now living in poverty in the UK. I have admiration for those church members and Christian charities that provide support and hope to those in need.
Nick Clegg:Nick Clegg:
Easter is a time that many people spend with their families, relaxing and enjoying the break in their different ways.Easter is a time that many people spend with their families, relaxing and enjoying the break in their different ways.
Nigel Farage:Nigel Farage:
Happy Easter to all. I hope you have a restful and enjoyable day.Happy Easter to all. I hope you have a restful and enjoyable day.
11.33am BST11:3311.33am BST11:33
Sorry to post about something so trivial as clothing but in the context of a general election campaign, image matters.Sorry to post about something so trivial as clothing but in the context of a general election campaign, image matters.
Buzzfeed has noticed that all the leaders seem to be dressing in a very similar way (although Nick Clegg is boldly going for collar tucked out). If nothing else, this will give more fuel for Ukip/SNP leaflets claiming the main Westminster parties are all the same:Buzzfeed has noticed that all the leaders seem to be dressing in a very similar way (although Nick Clegg is boldly going for collar tucked out). If nothing else, this will give more fuel for Ukip/SNP leaflets claiming the main Westminster parties are all the same:
The leaders of the three main parties are dressing the same http://t.co/sH699ZnTi3 pic.twitter.com/n8PP7Id3dXThe leaders of the three main parties are dressing the same http://t.co/sH699ZnTi3 pic.twitter.com/n8PP7Id3dX
Our data editor, Alberto Nardelli, has a further observation:Our data editor, Alberto Nardelli, has a further observation:
One thing that is now worryingly clear in this general election: male politicians have very boring wardrobes with no variety whatsoever.One thing that is now worryingly clear in this general election: male politicians have very boring wardrobes with no variety whatsoever.
11.29am BST11:2911.29am BST11:29
Analysis: Osborne's top rate of tax refusalAnalysis: Osborne's top rate of tax refusal
Back to the story of the morning, Osborne’s refusal to rule out cutting the top rate of tax again will provide ammunition for Labour.Back to the story of the morning, Osborne’s refusal to rule out cutting the top rate of tax again will provide ammunition for Labour.
One of the most successful attacks of Ed Miliband and Ed Balls over the last few years has been the fact that the coalition chose to cut the top rate from 50p to 45p in the pound instead of a break for lower earners.One of the most successful attacks of Ed Miliband and Ed Balls over the last few years has been the fact that the coalition chose to cut the top rate from 50p to 45p in the pound instead of a break for lower earners.
The highest rate may have been 40p for most of the last Labour government, with Gordon Brown bringing in a 50p rate as one of the last acts of his government.The highest rate may have been 40p for most of the last Labour government, with Gordon Brown bringing in a 50p rate as one of the last acts of his government.
But when Osborne chose to cut this to 45p in 2012, Labour said it spoke volumes about his priorities at a time of austerity that he would hand a cut worth an average of £85,000 to millionaires rather than working families.But when Osborne chose to cut this to 45p in 2012, Labour said it spoke volumes about his priorities at a time of austerity that he would hand a cut worth an average of £85,000 to millionaires rather than working families.
The Tories claim they were not raising any more money with the rate at 50p, as people found ways round it. But Labour’s argument about the “millionaires tax cut” line has had real resonance at a time when the Conservatives are widely seen as the party of the rich.The Tories claim they were not raising any more money with the rate at 50p, as people found ways round it. But Labour’s argument about the “millionaires tax cut” line has had real resonance at a time when the Conservatives are widely seen as the party of the rich.
Balls will now legitimately be able to claim that Osborne may be secretary plotting another cut to 40p. Expect some attack ads along these lines in the coming days.Balls will now legitimately be able to claim that Osborne may be secretary plotting another cut to 40p. Expect some attack ads along these lines in the coming days.
Updated at 11.43am BSTUpdated at 11.43am BST
11.08am BST11:0811.08am BST11:08
Tim Farron, former Lib Dem president and favourite to succeed Nick Clegg, is next up on Murnaghan.Tim Farron, former Lib Dem president and favourite to succeed Nick Clegg, is next up on Murnaghan.
He optimistically says “the polls are beginning to go in an upward direction” for the party.He optimistically says “the polls are beginning to go in an upward direction” for the party.
(Err not in today’s YouGov - down one to 7% - or Opinium - also 7%).(Err not in today’s YouGov - down one to 7% - or Opinium - also 7%).
He says of course there has been electoral damage but people are seeing the coalition has been in the national interest. It will be in the national interest again to have the Liberal Democrats in government, Farron adds.He says of course there has been electoral damage but people are seeing the coalition has been in the national interest. It will be in the national interest again to have the Liberal Democrats in government, Farron adds.
Like Laws, he rejects the idea of retreating to opposition.Like Laws, he rejects the idea of retreating to opposition.
Going into opposition to recuperate never works... You should want to be in power and there is nothing grubby about being in power.Going into opposition to recuperate never works... You should want to be in power and there is nothing grubby about being in power.
Murnaghan ribs him gently over his commen ts that the Lib Dems were like cockroaches, saying Farron may be one of the only senior cockroaches left after the election with a seat. Asked if he would want to be leader, Farron says:Murnaghan ribs him gently over his commen ts that the Lib Dems were like cockroaches, saying Farron may be one of the only senior cockroaches left after the election with a seat. Asked if he would want to be leader, Farron says:
The election we’re facing is the biggest one for this country and the hardest for the Liberal Democrats.The election we’re facing is the biggest one for this country and the hardest for the Liberal Democrats.
If I give any headspace to what happens afterwards that would be foolish and disloyal.If I give any headspace to what happens afterwards that would be foolish and disloyal.
Speculation about Farron’s leadership ambitions has grown after he said he would give the party 2/10 for handling the coalition.Speculation about Farron’s leadership ambitions has grown after he said he would give the party 2/10 for handling the coalition.
Murnaghan then makes him squirm by replaying him a clip of former leader Lord Ashdown slapping him down with a withering remark that “judgement is not his strong suit”. Farron responds:Murnaghan then makes him squirm by replaying him a clip of former leader Lord Ashdown slapping him down with a withering remark that “judgement is not his strong suit”. Farron responds:
I hold my hands up being quoted out of context. We’re not getting distracted by that. Paddy is a mate of mine.I hold my hands up being quoted out of context. We’re not getting distracted by that. Paddy is a mate of mine.
Updated at 11.16am BSTUpdated at 11.16am BST
10.49am BST10:4910.49am BST10:49
Osborne will not rule out lowering the top rate of taxOsborne will not rule out lowering the top rate of tax
Here is the killer question: would the Conservatives further cut the top rate of tax to from 45p to 40p?Here is the killer question: would the Conservatives further cut the top rate of tax to from 45p to 40p?
“It’s not our plan, it’s not our priority,” says Osborne.“It’s not our plan, it’s not our priority,” says Osborne.
Three times, he refuses to rule it out. Or was it four?Three times, he refuses to rule it out. Or was it four?
Ed Balls, the shadow chancellor, today wrote an article in the Sunday Mirror warning about this:Ed Balls, the shadow chancellor, today wrote an article in the Sunday Mirror warning about this:
Millions are worse off but George Osborne again refuses to rule out another tax cut for millionaires - http://t.co/8rGOdDv1fH"Millions are worse off but George Osborne again refuses to rule out another tax cut for millionaires - http://t.co/8rGOdDv1fH"
Speaking on Murnaghan, Chris Leslie, the shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, said the question had “flushed out” the chancellor’s true intentions.Speaking on Murnaghan, Chris Leslie, the shadow chief secretary to the Treasury, said the question had “flushed out” the chancellor’s true intentions.
These type of stories, where a politician “won’t rule out” doing something have become even more legitimate since David Cameron was pushed into categorically promising not to raise VAT and Ed Balls said he would not increase National Insurance.These type of stories, where a politician “won’t rule out” doing something have become even more legitimate since David Cameron was pushed into categorically promising not to raise VAT and Ed Balls said he would not increase National Insurance.
Updated at 11.05am BSTUpdated at 11.05am BST
10.48am BST10:4810.48am BST10:48
Osborne won't say whether he'd like to be Tory leaderOsborne won't say whether he'd like to be Tory leader
Asked whether he’d like to take over from Cameron, the answer isn’t no.Asked whether he’d like to take over from Cameron, the answer isn’t no.
“I want to be the chancellor of the exchequer after the election... David Cameron is standing to be the prime minister for the next five years....“I want to be the chancellor of the exchequer after the election... David Cameron is standing to be the prime minister for the next five years....
“The leadership I’m interested in is the leadership of David Cameron.”“The leadership I’m interested in is the leadership of David Cameron.”
10.33am BST10:3310.33am BST10:33
George Osborne’s interview on MurnaghanGeorge Osborne’s interview on Murnaghan
The chancellor is speaking from what looks like a garden centre in Brentford, West London, looking casual in a shirt and sweater.The chancellor is speaking from what looks like a garden centre in Brentford, West London, looking casual in a shirt and sweater.
He starts off talking about first time buyers, promising that his housing revolution would really take off in the next parliament under the Conservatives.He starts off talking about first time buyers, promising that his housing revolution would really take off in the next parliament under the Conservatives.
We do need to build more homes in this country. I’m a great believer in a home-owning democracy. The number of first time buyers has fallen and I want to reverse that.We do need to build more homes in this country. I’m a great believer in a home-owning democracy. The number of first time buyers has fallen and I want to reverse that.
Asked about whether he is in danger of creating a bubble, he said the Bank of England is monitoring the system.Asked about whether he is in danger of creating a bubble, he said the Bank of England is monitoring the system.
Now on pensions, he says Monday is pensions freedom day and wants people to look at new rules that mean they can take money out of their pots at an earlier age.Now on pensions, he says Monday is pensions freedom day and wants people to look at new rules that mean they can take money out of their pots at an earlier age.
I would urge people to make use of the free guidance service and see how they can benefit from our reforms.... It is one of the biggest change to pensions in 100 years. It is based on the Conservative belief that you trust people with their own money.I would urge people to make use of the free guidance service and see how they can benefit from our reforms.... It is one of the biggest change to pensions in 100 years. It is based on the Conservative belief that you trust people with their own money.
Murnaghan asks whether it could turn into PPI and worse all over again with dodgy advisers giving poor advice about such large amounts of money.Murnaghan asks whether it could turn into PPI and worse all over again with dodgy advisers giving poor advice about such large amounts of money.
Osborne points people towards free government advice and Citizens Advice Bureau, as well as arguing the industry is properly regulated.Osborne points people towards free government advice and Citizens Advice Bureau, as well as arguing the industry is properly regulated.
Next up, the chancellor is tackled on Scotland, asked if he is “in cahoots” with the SNP against Labour.Next up, the chancellor is tackled on Scotland, asked if he is “in cahoots” with the SNP against Labour.
He says no - the “unholy alliance” is between Labour and the SNP and between the people who want to bankrupt the country and the people who want to break up the country.He says no - the “unholy alliance” is between Labour and the SNP and between the people who want to bankrupt the country and the people who want to break up the country.
Miliband would be weak and Sturgeon would be strong, he says.Miliband would be weak and Sturgeon would be strong, he says.
Osborne says the issue of the referendum has been settled for a generation.Osborne says the issue of the referendum has been settled for a generation.
Updated at 10.49am BSTUpdated at 10.49am BST
10.26am BST10:2610.26am BST10:26
Ukip’s economics spokesman Patrick O’Flynn is on Sky now saying the chancellor’s schedule for reducing the deficit is “reasonable”.Ukip’s economics spokesman Patrick O’Flynn is on Sky now saying the chancellor’s schedule for reducing the deficit is “reasonable”.
He said he wants to cast Ukip as the party of greater fiscal responsibility than the Tories.He said he wants to cast Ukip as the party of greater fiscal responsibility than the Tories.
Pressed on Farage’s controversial comments about excluding foreigners with HIV from entering the country, O’Flynn said the party wouldn’t apply it retrospectively.Pressed on Farage’s controversial comments about excluding foreigners with HIV from entering the country, O’Flynn said the party wouldn’t apply it retrospectively.
“It’s being generous with other people’s money,” he said, at a time when NHS resources are under pressure.“It’s being generous with other people’s money,” he said, at a time when NHS resources are under pressure.
We’re likely to see more of him and other Ukip spokesmen and women over the next few weeks as it has been designated a major party by Ofcom, giving it more airtime on the broadcasters.We’re likely to see more of him and other Ukip spokesmen and women over the next few weeks as it has been designated a major party by Ofcom, giving it more airtime on the broadcasters.
As an aside, does anyone remember when Ed Balls ambushed George Osborne with a challenge to a TV debate live on the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show? That now appears to be in doubt over a row about whether O’Flynn will be allowed to join them and Lib Dem finance spokesman Danny Alexander. Both Labour and the Tories are trying to blame each other over who is blocking the debate.As an aside, does anyone remember when Ed Balls ambushed George Osborne with a challenge to a TV debate live on the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show? That now appears to be in doubt over a row about whether O’Flynn will be allowed to join them and Lib Dem finance spokesman Danny Alexander. Both Labour and the Tories are trying to blame each other over who is blocking the debate.
10.14am BST10:1410.14am BST10:14
The big political interview of the morning is George Osborne on Murnaghan at about 10.30am.The big political interview of the morning is George Osborne on Murnaghan at about 10.30am.
But before then, we’ve got senior Lib Dem politician David Laws rejecting the idea that his party needs some time out of coalition to recharge its batteries - a suggestion made by former Liberal leader Lord Steel.But before then, we’ve got senior Lib Dem politician David Laws rejecting the idea that his party needs some time out of coalition to recharge its batteries - a suggestion made by former Liberal leader Lord Steel.
He told the BBC Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s Politics: “The party wants to be a serious player in national politics.”He told the BBC Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s Politics: “The party wants to be a serious player in national politics.”
Laws also said the Conservatives have shown “unbelievable cheek” in taking credit for rises in the personal tax allowance: “There hasn’t been a single budget or Autumn Statement in this parliament where the prime minister or the chancellor have ever made this a Conservative ask.”Laws also said the Conservatives have shown “unbelievable cheek” in taking credit for rises in the personal tax allowance: “There hasn’t been a single budget or Autumn Statement in this parliament where the prime minister or the chancellor have ever made this a Conservative ask.”
He added the Liberal Democrats would “go far faster than the existing trajectory for increasing the personal tax allowance” and would ensure that when the personal tax allowance rises, “upper rate taxpayers gain as well”.He added the Liberal Democrats would “go far faster than the existing trajectory for increasing the personal tax allowance” and would ensure that when the personal tax allowance rises, “upper rate taxpayers gain as well”.
10.05am BST10:0510.05am BST10:05
Meanwhile, the two national polls published today do not seem to take us anywhere very new.Meanwhile, the two national polls published today do not seem to take us anywhere very new.
YouGov for the Sunday Times showed the Conservatives overtaking Labour to move into a one point lead by 34% to 33%.YouGov for the Sunday Times showed the Conservatives overtaking Labour to move into a one point lead by 34% to 33%.
But the latest Opinium/Observer poll put both Labour and the Conservatives on 33%.But the latest Opinium/Observer poll put both Labour and the Conservatives on 33%.
Will anything break the stalemate now?Will anything break the stalemate now?
10.00am BST10:0010.00am BST10:00
The mysterious case of the South Thanet ComRes poll is really very interesting.The mysterious case of the South Thanet ComRes poll is really very interesting.
It is reported in the Mail on Sunday that it was commissioned by Ukip donor Arron Banks and shows the Tories one point ahead of Labour on 31%, Ukip on 30%, and Labour on 29%.It is reported in the Mail on Sunday that it was commissioned by Ukip donor Arron Banks and shows the Tories one point ahead of Labour on 31%, Ukip on 30%, and Labour on 29%.
This is significantly different from the Survation poll in February paid for by Alan Bown, which showed Farage 11 points ahead on 38.6%, Labour on 27.6%, and the Conservatives on 26.6%.This is significantly different from the Survation poll in February paid for by Alan Bown, which showed Farage 11 points ahead on 38.6%, Labour on 27.6%, and the Conservatives on 26.6%.
A previous poll by Lord Ashcroft from November is more in line with the ComRes one. This had the Tories on 33%, Ukip on 32% and Labour on 26%.A previous poll by Lord Ashcroft from November is more in line with the ComRes one. This had the Tories on 33%, Ukip on 32% and Labour on 26%.
All of this matters because Farage’s political career - and potentially the future of Ukip - rests on whether he wins South Thanet after multiple previous attempts to become an MP. He has said he will resign if he fails.All of this matters because Farage’s political career - and potentially the future of Ukip - rests on whether he wins South Thanet after multiple previous attempts to become an MP. He has said he will resign if he fails.
Ukip is quietly confident he will win the seat. But they are also keen to confuse potential tactical voters about who is in second place in the seat. Most seat-watchers think the Tories are doing better than Labour, but the Survation poll called this assumption into question. This makes it tricky for those who are voting to stop Farage to know where to put their anti-Ukip vote.Ukip is quietly confident he will win the seat. But they are also keen to confuse potential tactical voters about who is in second place in the seat. Most seat-watchers think the Tories are doing better than Labour, but the Survation poll called this assumption into question. This makes it tricky for those who are voting to stop Farage to know where to put their anti-Ukip vote.
The party is strongly denying Farage tried to suppress the poll, as claimed by the Mail on Sunday. They are also arguing the interpretation of the numbers is wrong, and Farage is seven points ahead, as they have been weighted according to past vote share.The party is strongly denying Farage tried to suppress the poll, as claimed by the Mail on Sunday. They are also arguing the interpretation of the numbers is wrong, and Farage is seven points ahead, as they have been weighted according to past vote share.
But if Farage was happy for it to be made public, it is difficult to explain how the numbers made their way into a Sunday newspaper rather than being released in the normal way.But if Farage was happy for it to be made public, it is difficult to explain how the numbers made their way into a Sunday newspaper rather than being released in the normal way.
It may also tell us something interesting about relations between Farage and Banks, who pledged to give £1m to the campaign last October but has given most of his support in “consultancy” rather than hard cash.It may also tell us something interesting about relations between Farage and Banks, who pledged to give £1m to the campaign last October but has given most of his support in “consultancy” rather than hard cash.
Updated at 10.02am BSTUpdated at 10.02am BST
9.28am BST09:289.28am BST09:28
There’s also a few comment pieces that are worth a look before the Sunday broadcast shows begin with Sky’s Murnaghan at 10am.There’s also a few comment pieces that are worth a look before the Sunday broadcast shows begin with Sky’s Murnaghan at 10am.
Gordon Brown’s former spinner Damian McBride, who resigned over a plot to smear Tories, writes in the Sunday Times about how Cameron is making empty promises.Gordon Brown’s former spinner Damian McBride, who resigned over a plot to smear Tories, writes in the Sunday Times about how Cameron is making empty promises.
It dawned on me that we are witnessing something very strange at this election: a total reversal in the roles of incumbent versus challenger.Usually, it is the opposition that promises the unaffordable, unachievable or plain impossible, hoping it will be enough to get them elected, after which they can declare that – due to the wretched mess or ill-considered notes they have discovered on taking office – those promises may be rather difficult to deliver.Incumbent governments do not have that luxury. They cannot blame the same mess twice; not if they’ve had one full term in office to work out what can realistically be achieved in the next. So their pledges tend to be more careful, costed and credible, unlike the charlatans on the other side.Now we come to 2015, where we might expect an incumbent Tory Prime Minister chastened by missed targets and broken promises to become responsible and realistic in what he pledges to do next time round. Not a bit of it.This is no manifesto we are promised by David Cameron; it is a latter-day Book of Miracles: the ‘tens of thousands’ migration target will be met after all; the deficit will be erased within four years.It dawned on me that we are witnessing something very strange at this election: a total reversal in the roles of incumbent versus challenger.Usually, it is the opposition that promises the unaffordable, unachievable or plain impossible, hoping it will be enough to get them elected, after which they can declare that – due to the wretched mess or ill-considered notes they have discovered on taking office – those promises may be rather difficult to deliver.Incumbent governments do not have that luxury. They cannot blame the same mess twice; not if they’ve had one full term in office to work out what can realistically be achieved in the next. So their pledges tend to be more careful, costed and credible, unlike the charlatans on the other side.Now we come to 2015, where we might expect an incumbent Tory Prime Minister chastened by missed targets and broken promises to become responsible and realistic in what he pledges to do next time round. Not a bit of it.This is no manifesto we are promised by David Cameron; it is a latter-day Book of Miracles: the ‘tens of thousands’ migration target will be met after all; the deficit will be erased within four years.
Andrew Rawnsley in the Observer is also sharp about how David Cameron and Ed Miliband are not passing the voters’ “smell test”.Andrew Rawnsley in the Observer is also sharp about how David Cameron and Ed Miliband are not passing the voters’ “smell test”.
As they stood on the stage on Thursday night, I looked at Mr Cameron and Mr Miliband as these leaders of the former giants of British politics were forced to compete with the smaller parties. I wondered if either asked himself: how did it come to this? What am I doing scrapping for airtime with a Welsh nationalist and a Green who aren’t even MPs and a Ukip leader and a Scottish Nationalist who have never won election to Westminster either? The answer to the question comes in many parts, but central to it is that neither of the big two have overcomes their negatives. Neither passes the impressionistic voter’s smell test.As they stood on the stage on Thursday night, I looked at Mr Cameron and Mr Miliband as these leaders of the former giants of British politics were forced to compete with the smaller parties. I wondered if either asked himself: how did it come to this? What am I doing scrapping for airtime with a Welsh nationalist and a Green who aren’t even MPs and a Ukip leader and a Scottish Nationalist who have never won election to Westminster either? The answer to the question comes in many parts, but central to it is that neither of the big two have overcomes their negatives. Neither passes the impressionistic voter’s smell test.
9.21am BST09:219.21am BST09:21
Morning briefingMorning briefing
Good morning and welcome to the Easter Sunday edition of the Guardian’s live election campaign blogs.Good morning and welcome to the Easter Sunday edition of the Guardian’s live election campaign blogs.
Every day until the UK goes to the polls on 7 May, are live blogging to bring you the latest updates on the campaign.Every day until the UK goes to the polls on 7 May, are live blogging to bring you the latest updates on the campaign.
I’m Rowena Mason, a political correspondent, taking you through the best news of the day. Email me at rowena.mason@guardian.co.uk, tweet me @rowenamason, or do please leave a comment below the line.I’m Rowena Mason, a political correspondent, taking you through the best news of the day. Email me at rowena.mason@guardian.co.uk, tweet me @rowenamason, or do please leave a comment below the line.
The big pictureThe big picture
It’s only just over a month to go now until the election but the polls are still deadlocked, with the Tories and Labour pretty much neck-and-neck on about 33 or 34. It seems neither side has had an electoral breakthough from the leaders’ TV debate.It’s only just over a month to go now until the election but the polls are still deadlocked, with the Tories and Labour pretty much neck-and-neck on about 33 or 34. It seems neither side has had an electoral breakthough from the leaders’ TV debate.
Instead it is SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon dominating the headlines, after her strong performance in the debate and the leaked Whitehall memo suggesting she would prefer Cameron as PM.Instead it is SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon dominating the headlines, after her strong performance in the debate and the leaked Whitehall memo suggesting she would prefer Cameron as PM.
She has written in the Observer denying the memo is true in the strongest terms and saying she is ready to work with Labour on an anti-austerity pact.She has written in the Observer denying the memo is true in the strongest terms and saying she is ready to work with Labour on an anti-austerity pact.
There is also now a leak inquiry under way ordered by Britain’s most senior civil servant Sir Jeremy Heywood about how the memo got into the public domain.There is also now a leak inquiry under way ordered by Britain’s most senior civil servant Sir Jeremy Heywood about how the memo got into the public domain.
You should also knowYou should also know
Miliband is still coming under heavy fire from the right-wing newspapers, with the Sun on Sunday splashing on leaked notes from his television debate appearance in which he characterised himself as a “happy warrior”. His defenders say there is nothing too embarrassing in there and surely all the leaders are allowed to prepare.Miliband is still coming under heavy fire from the right-wing newspapers, with the Sun on Sunday splashing on leaked notes from his television debate appearance in which he characterised himself as a “happy warrior”. His defenders say there is nothing too embarrassing in there and surely all the leaders are allowed to prepare.
The Conservatives meanwhile get an easy ride in the press, with the Sunday Telegraph splashing on George Osborne’s plans for a “housing revolution” in which he sets an ambition to have 2.4m first time buyers in the next parliament.The Conservatives meanwhile get an easy ride in the press, with the Sunday Telegraph splashing on George Osborne’s plans for a “housing revolution” in which he sets an ambition to have 2.4m first time buyers in the next parliament.
The Sunday Times splashes on a claim that the Conservatives are now the “party of the workers” after a YouGov poll showed people think the Conservatives are best for employees of big firms but not small ones.The Sunday Times splashes on a claim that the Conservatives are now the “party of the workers” after a YouGov poll showed people think the Conservatives are best for employees of big firms but not small ones.
Farage is under pressure in his battle to win South Thanet and remain leader of Ukip, as well as seeing the party’s vote share being squeezed nationally. He is now also facing claims in the Mail on Sunday that Ukip suppressed a poll of South Thanet commmissioned by donor Arron Banks that shows him trailing the Tories by a point. Ukip claim the numbers actually show Farage ahead when he is named as a candidate and take issue with the weighting of the poll on past vote share.Farage is under pressure in his battle to win South Thanet and remain leader of Ukip, as well as seeing the party’s vote share being squeezed nationally. He is now also facing claims in the Mail on Sunday that Ukip suppressed a poll of South Thanet commmissioned by donor Arron Banks that shows him trailing the Tories by a point. Ukip claim the numbers actually show Farage ahead when he is named as a candidate and take issue with the weighting of the poll on past vote share.
DiaryDiary
Two of the big political shows - the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show and the Daily Politics - are off air for Easter. But Sky News’s Murnaghan and Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s Politics are marching on regardless with a packed schedule:Two of the big political shows - the BBC’s Andrew Marr Show and the Daily Politics - are off air for Easter. But Sky News’s Murnaghan and Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s Politics are marching on regardless with a packed schedule:
10am George Osborne, Chris Leslie, Tim Farron and Patrick O’Flynn on Sky’s Murnaghan10am George Osborne, Chris Leslie, Tim Farron and Patrick O’Flynn on Sky’s Murnaghan
10am Chuka Umunna and David Laws on BBC Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s PoliticsAlso expect some politicians to “do God” with Easter messages for the country.10am Chuka Umunna and David Laws on BBC Radio Five Live’s Pienaar’s PoliticsAlso expect some politicians to “do God” with Easter messages for the country.
Read theseRead these
The politicians appear to be frantically displaying their human sides in this weekend’s papers. You need to read:The politicians appear to be frantically displaying their human sides in this weekend’s papers. You need to read:
Samantha Cameron in the Mail on Sunday, who is pictured on the front page next to a picture of her daughter Florence sitting in the prime minister’s red box. She says the strain of looking after their disabled son Ivan, who died aged six in 2009, brought them to breaking point.Samantha Cameron in the Mail on Sunday, who is pictured on the front page next to a picture of her daughter Florence sitting in the prime minister’s red box. She says the strain of looking after their disabled son Ivan, who died aged six in 2009, brought them to breaking point.
David Cameron being interviewed by his second cousin Harry Mount in the Sunday Times, in which he refuses to discuss the Bullingdon Club.David Cameron being interviewed by his second cousin Harry Mount in the Sunday Times, in which he refuses to discuss the Bullingdon Club.
George Osborne on the campaign trail in Nottinghamshire and Essex in the Sunday Telegraph, complete with pics of him looking quizzically at a kettle as he makes a cup of tea. He talks about David Cameron being his best friend and how he will allow himself to break his very strict diet to have one Easter egg.George Osborne on the campaign trail in Nottinghamshire and Essex in the Sunday Telegraph, complete with pics of him looking quizzically at a kettle as he makes a cup of tea. He talks about David Cameron being his best friend and how he will allow himself to break his very strict diet to have one Easter egg.
Ed Miliband talks about abolishing the bedroom tax and doing an Easter egg hunt for his sons in the Sunday People, which also has an amusing sidebar “empty-chairing” Cameron over his refusal to give them an interview.Ed Miliband talks about abolishing the bedroom tax and doing an Easter egg hunt for his sons in the Sunday People, which also has an amusing sidebar “empty-chairing” Cameron over his refusal to give them an interview.
Nigel Farage claims in the Sunday Times over a curry and bottle of merlot that up to six Tories would defect to Ukip if Cameron entered another coalition with the Liberal DemocratsNigel Farage claims in the Sunday Times over a curry and bottle of merlot that up to six Tories would defect to Ukip if Cameron entered another coalition with the Liberal Democrats
Nicola Sturgeon writes in the Observer that she will work with Labour, dismissing the leaked Whitehall memo that said she would rather Cameron was prime minister.Nicola Sturgeon writes in the Observer that she will work with Labour, dismissing the leaked Whitehall memo that said she would rather Cameron was prime minister.
The day in a tweetThe day in a tweet
Twitter dies of cute /vomit* *delete as applicable, depending on your perspective #Florence #RedBox #PhotoOp pic.twitter.com/jJ478lxyuyTwitter dies of cute /vomit* *delete as applicable, depending on your perspective #Florence #RedBox #PhotoOp pic.twitter.com/jJ478lxyuy
If today were a poem, it would be…If today were a poem, it would be…
The Character of the Happy Warrior by William Wordsworth. Ed Miliband was using a literary phrase that is well-worn in US politics...The Character of the Happy Warrior by William Wordsworth. Ed Miliband was using a literary phrase that is well-worn in US politics...
The key story you’re missing when you’re election-obsessedThe key story you’re missing when you’re election-obsessed
President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya has vowed to respond in the severest terms to the al-Shabab attack on a university that has left 148 people dead. A student has been found hiding in a cupboard two days after the attack.President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya has vowed to respond in the severest terms to the al-Shabab attack on a university that has left 148 people dead. A student has been found hiding in a cupboard two days after the attack.
Updated at 9.36am BSTUpdated at 9.36am BST