One week on and Andrew Mitchell still cannot give a straight and simple answer on whether he said the word “pleb”:

“On Wednesday night I tried to leave Downing Street by the main gate, something I have done many times before.I was told that I was not allowed to leave that way. During the subsequent altercation, although I did not use the specific words that have been suggested, I do accept that I did not treat the police with the respect they deserve.

“It’s been extremely difficult both for me and my family. I have apologised and said that I am extremely sorry. I think most people who know me know I would not use words like pleb or moron in describing anyone. I would gently point out that I did not say the words that have been ascribed to me.”

Why won’t he just say “I did not call the officer a pleb”? As he should have last Friday. Nice to see him hiding behind his children there too. Very Huhne…