SW1A

BORIS JOHNSON has never been one to clear up a mess. The Londoner hears the hay bales from his wedding are still strewn across the Downing Street garden. Receptions at Number 10 now appear to have a summer of festivals vibe. With most actual festivals cancelled, even prime ministers have to get their kicks somehow.

MOST Policy Exchange events are cerebral, but the Defending Democracy discussion with Cabinet Office minister Chloe Smith saw fur fly. Quizzed by Labour MP Jon Spellar on possible election fraud in 2019, she asked host Dean Godson: “Do you want me to have an ongoing conversation here?” before replying “a number of crimes … are observed at any election.” Hmm.