Journalists are digging into the pasts of both Dave and David – the scrutiny of Basher’s childhood is revealing interesting aspects to his back-story. The legend, oft-told by Davis in speech after speech, is that he was brought up by his single-mother on a council estate, triumphing over adversity to become a top businessman, before destiny called him to be premier.

Admirable, but is it true? Gossip suggests not exactly. Well-to-do grandparents played a significant part and looked after his early upbringing. Is he really working class? His family could afford to support him getting a university education. Not exactly three years of hardship, as a student he was a Tory activist (he came runner up when he stood for president of the Student Union, history repeating itself?) Much more middle class than working class methinks.

Its not exactly the Dick Whittington style legend he likes to project, maybe he should get a cat?