Gordon Brown will be spinning at PMQs later today that the reversal of a planned £20 million cut to the Territorial Army training budget is a result of him personally intervening with the Chancellor.  In reality it is more likely he just could not face another onslaught at PMQs on the issue.

Cameron raised the issue during a previous PMQs.  Former Defence Secretary John Reid – no fan of Gordon’s – also raised the issue this week.  Reid was gloating last night about forcing the U-turn by a visibly weakened PM:  “Gordon Brown and Bob Ainsworth have always said that those who are taking the risks and making sacrifices would receive the back-up that they needed and I am delighted that they have confirmed that by their willingness to intervene in this.” Somewhat belatedly.

Stories are circulating that Mandelson has given up on Brown and is mulling his Miliband options…