• So we won’t be getting ID cards then…
• But it has already changed our lives in a small way. I understand that Wetherspoons in their City pubs have relaxed their no-smoking policy somewhat.
• Ken Livingstone kept it real when he said terrorists were targeting the ‘working class’. Not sure he is up to Rudi Gulianni standards, but he has suspended the congestion charge – as if you would want to or could even drive into central London.
• If it was Al Qaeda why did they attack the Edgware Road tube in London’s Arab district?
• Hmm, the French have motive, do you think it possible the DGSE meant to do it yesterday before the IOC voted or just did it today out of pique? They do have previous in New Zealand with Rainbow Warrior…

So Blair will no doubt spin that he swung it for Britain, but Seb Coe, it has to be said, put together a great package.

The thought occurs that Coe could now run for Tory leader – why not everyone else is?

Guido is in France currently and thinks it will be wise to remind his neighbours that he is Irish.

Copyright 2005 NEWS GROUP NEWSPAPERS LTD The Sun, June 8

I HADN’T heard of Lee Scott before, but the new Tory MP for Ilford North might well be a miracle worker with hidden powers. He boasted in his maiden speech of the support he had, when campaigning, from Andrew Rosindell, Romford MP, and his dog Spike. Poor Spike, he died on St George’s Day in 2002.

Lord Ashcroft appears to be making a takeover bid for the Tory Party;

I have occasionally been a passive investor in businesses, but not so occasionally that I am unable to say with certainty that it is not for me. I much prefer to be involved – to make sure that my investment is wisely placed and, where I can, to help. Similar rules apply in respect to the charities to which I give. I like to be involved. My financial contributions to the Conservative Party could be classified similarly, especially in recent years.

What began as admiration at a distance for the work of Margaret Thatcher has grown over a twenty-year relationship with the Party to a much closer association. During William Hague’s time as leader, I was Treasurer of the Party, and I have recently rejoined the Board. I have learned a great deal and believe I can contribute more effectively.

I am known to be a donor to the Party, and I am proud of that fact. But I would not wish anyone to imagine that my financial support comes, de facto, with strings attached.