Back in September (GPW Hotly Tipped for Post-Coulson Downing Street) Guido put a few names forward as potential successors to Andy Coulson. The same names are in the frame again. Former Indy deputy editor Ian Birrell seems to be Steve Hilton’s preferred choice, he is apparently liked and trusted by Cameron. George Pascoe Watson, the former Sun man now spinning at Portland, is mentioned, however  replacing one former Murdoch man with another could be problematic.

Ben Brogan, despite much speculation, insists he is not in the running.  Another name mentioned is Guto Harri, currently spinning for Boris, he is known to fancy going to Downing Street. The BBC’s James Landale shouldn’t be ruled out – he is an Old Etonian after all – don’t be surprised if you next see him in No. 10 rather than reporting from outside it. Modesty forbids Guido suggesting another combative tabloid-tuned, right-winger who likes taking the fight to Labour…