Weekly Digest: Your Recess look at the political week ahead

Evening all,

Here's your recess look ahead to the week in politics. There's very little happening, but what IS happening is below.

Tuesday

The former Tory Peer Lord Taylor of Warwick is sentenced for fiddling his Parliamentary Expenses. He was Convicted of Six Counts of Theft s17, Theft by False Accounting and he will appear at Southwark Crown Court, and the case number is T20100765.

The Ofcom Consultation closes today for the auctioning off of the 4G spectrum. Mobile phone operators will ultimately pay big bucks to facilitate the next step in mobile communications technology.

Today is also the submission date for workplace pension reforms (Department for Work and Pensions).

Wednesday

Happy 15th anniversary to the Prime Minister and his wife Samantha.

Lending to individual stats are out at 9:30am. MRSA statistics are out separately also.

Immigration Minister Damian Green opens the Morton Hall Removal Centre.

Thursday

EXPENSES - IPSA publishes MP's Expense claims, which were processed in January 2011.

Boris Johnson holds his own PM Direct style event entitled "Talk London". If you're a London Resident, you can grill the Mayor on everything from Boris bikes to London busses. This ties in with the Annual Survey of Londoners opinions.

The Centre for Public Scrutiny holds it's annual conference today looking at the non-executive role in service accountability.

Friday

The Home Affairs Select Committee, Chaired by Keith Vaz publishes it's report on the work of the UK Border Agency. This should be a good read.

The only other event to mention right now (scraping the bottom as they say), the Government Art Collection Exhibition takes place today at Whitechapel.

President Obama's Speech

I have spent the day being restricted in movement by US Security arrangements - but actually, I'm cheerfully ok about that notwithstanding the implication that I may otherwise kill the President - of course I would not... but security staff were on top of their game.

The feeling in the House is that Obama stormed Westminster Hall and expressed very real warmth for the UK - blaming journalists in the Lobby and in the White House for suggesting that the Special Relationship had become some how like the kind of relationship one might have with their neighbour when both share the one drive.

Many thanks to Mr Deputy Speaker Nigel Evans who called me over to chat with Tom Hanks... and what a nice chap he is too... not like your usual cliche Hollywood star. But he, Sir John Major, Michael Gove, David Willetts and every other MP we spoke with gave the President the thumbs up.

The message from the President on whether we can continue with the Special Relationship was "Yes, we can" (Sorry!)


- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:House of Commons, Reporters Library

John Hemming and Super Injunction Fun

There are a lot of people cheering John Hemming on from the side-lines - but I suspect Mr Speaker Bercow may not be one of them.

It's quite amazing. Everyone knows the ID of the super-injunction holder, and no one can report it - no journalist at least, despite many thousands of tweeters publishing names that may or may not be right.

The Speaker slammed John Hemming for breaking the Rules of the House in naming a person in the Chamber today who Mr Hemming suggested was a super-injunction holder.

I am a mainstream journalist, so I am unable to confirm the identification given today - but this will surely just fuel speculation!

The weekly look ahead

Will appear tomorrow. Research takes a few hours, which due to last minute, and most enjoyable BBC paper review, I did not have time to invest.

Monday's PM speech on the Big Society / back to basics as Mr Major put it. Stability and marriage will feature highly.

Morning all.

Police reaction to Morley jailing: PLUS remind yourself of the charges

Elliot Morley has today (Friday 20 May) been jailed for 16 months after admitting to two counts of false accounting under Section 17 of the Theft Act 1968.


Morley was sentenced at Southwark Crown Court having pleaded guilty to the offences at an earlier hearing on 7 April.

The MPS welcomes today's result which follow a thorough and detailed investigation of Elliot Morley's parliamentary claims while MP for Scunthorpe.

Given the number of outstanding trials and investigations relating to other MPs and Lords expenses, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.

Elliot Morley, 58, of West Street, Winterton, pleaded guilty to the following counts:

Count 1

STATEMENT OF OFFENCE

False accounting, contrary to section 17(1)(b) of the Theft Act 1968.

PARTICULARS OF OFFENCE

ELLIOT MORLEY, between 2 May 2004 and 15 May 2006, dishonestly, with a view to gain for himself or with intent to cause loss to another, in furnishing information for the purpose of making allowance claims produced or made use of documents required for an accounting purpose, namely 19 Form ACA2 claim forms, which to his knowledge were or may have been misleading, false or deceptive in a material particular, in that they stated he was paying £800 per month in mortgage interest, when in fact he was paying a lesser amount.

+ Sentenced to 16 months imprisonment.

Count 2

STATEMENT OF OFFENCE

False accounting, contrary to section 17(1)(b) of the Theft Act 1968.

PARTICULARS OF OFFENCE

ELLIOT MORLEY, between 13 May 2006 and 28 November 2007, dishonestly, with a view to gain for himself or with intent to cause loss to another, in furnishing information for the purpose of making allowance claims produced or made use of documents required for an accounting purpose, namely 21 Form ACA2 claim forms, which to his knowledge were or may have been misleading, false or deceptive in a material particular, in that they stated he was paying £800 per month in mortgage interest, when in fact the mortgage had been redeemed, and he was therefore paying no mortgage interest.

+ Sentenced to 16 months imprisonment.

Both sentences to run concurrent.

Hague welcomes Gaddafi's Arrest Warrant

Speaking following Prosecutor Luis Moreno Ocampo’s announcement that he will apply for arrest warrants for Colonel Muammar Qadhafi, Saif al Islam al Qadhafi and Abdullah Senussi, as part of the International Criminal Court’s (ICC) ongoing investigation into Libya, Foreign Secretary William Hague said:


“I welcome this announcement. The human rights situation in Western Libya and the behaviour of the Qadhafi regime remains of grave concern and the UK was at the forefront of efforts in the UN to adopt resolution 1970 which referred the situation in Libya to the ICC. The request for these warrants is a reminder to all in Qadhafi’s regime that crimes will not go unpunished and the reach of international justice will be long.”

“Those responsible for attacks on civilians must be held to account. The international community must fully support the ICC in thoroughly investigating all allegations. I call on all UN Member States, whether parties to the Rome Statute or not, to offer their full co-operation”.

Your VERY packed digest: A look at the political week ahead.

Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen,

It's going to be a landmark week ahead with pressure growing on Chris Huhne over claims he illegally passed speeding points on to “someone close to him”. It's always important to consider someone completely innocent until proven guilty, but the tape transcript in the Mail on Sunday and Sunday Times cast the Energy and Climate Secretary in a very bad light indeed. If this continues to snowball, we could very well see a Cabinet reshuffle some time soon.

Anyway, if this is your first read of my political look ahead, I'll give the usual health-warning that I've included key events that I am currently aware of, and events that embargo or security considerations don't prevent them being trailed.

Monday

Liam Fox is in the Commons for Defence Questions (expect the big military announcement) . Then the House will be asked to rubber-stamp the suspension of former Chief Secretary David Laws after the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards concluded that the Yeovil MP broke a number of rules in relations to his expenses. The House will then debate the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan. The lovely Therese Coffey has an Adjournment Debate on the effects of a potential drought on farming. In the Lords, the turkeys are being asked to debate the merits of Christmas – in other words, the packed upper chamber will be debating reform, and whether we should change to an elected upper-chamber. The Lords will also discuss whether to increase the UK's net contribution to the EU budget. The Fixed Term Parliament enters Day 2 of it's Report stage... and then the House will sit in Committee for Day 5 of the European union Bill.

Home Secretary Theresa May and Coalition Colleague Vince Cable, the Business Secretary are at an event on “Modern Workplaces” where they'll launch a Consultation on a new era of family friendly and flexible employment practices.

Later, Theresa May is up before the Lords Committee on the Draft Detention of Terrorist Suspects.

Lord Hutton, Chair of the Independent Public Pensions Commission will speak on transforming ageing economies.

London Mayor Bojo, and Lord Coe will be at a school in North London launching a scheme that will 1 in 50,000 school children in the UK, and 1 in 8 in London receiving free donated Olympic Tickets.

Foresight News and the Times report that the PM will make a speech on reforming the NHS. Please note that I am not confirming this, but reporting what is reported elsewhere.

The Energy and Climate Change Committee releases an important report (in green terms) on the Coalitions stance on nuclear energy.

The DFT Consultation closes on High Speed Rail today.

The Work and Pensions Committee are hearing Evidence today on changing child maintenance arrangements. There's no particularly glorious evidence expected, but since my MP readers are bombarded with CSA mail, they may wish to get their RA's across this.

Tuesday

*** PRIME MINISTER AT Liaison Committee ***

Continuing in the footsteps of Gordon Brown and Tony Blair, David Cameron will be quizzed on various matters by the Chairmen and women of Parliament's Select Committees. These are usually worth a watch, and the PM handled himself rather well on the last occasion, which it has to be said, turned in to more of a party-political grilling than a genuine liaison.

The Queen will become the first Monarch since George V to visit the Republic of Ireland.

Ken Clarke takes the Box for Justice Questions in the Commons – then Karl Turner introduces his Ten Minute Rule Bill on dangerous driving. For the rest of the day, the House will be working on the remaining stages of the Localism Bill before rapping up with Grahame Morris' Adjournment Debate on Public Health Observations. In the Lords, the Postal Services Bill is on Day 2 of the Report Stage, and the Lords sit in Committee on the European Union Bill (Day 6)..

The Home Affairs Select Committee Reports today on forced marriages... also in Select Committees, Bojo is giving Evidence to the excellent and most efficient Culture, Media and Sport Committee on the 2012 Olympics and Paralympics. This Committee has done excellent work lately – and it is they who took Evidence from Lord Triesman in the week suggesting that FIFA may want to investigate themselves. Later, the Home Affairs Select Committee hears from the head of the UK Boarder Agency Sir John Vine

The Public Accounts Committee Report on Points based immigration.

The Queen visits the Republic of Ireland today, making her the first Monarch since George V in 1911 to do so.

Also, the Political and Constitutional Reform Committee make their Report.

Work and Pensions Minister Chris Grayling will be furthering his rehabilitation in the eyes of the Tory Leadership with a speech on employment and the Government's Work Programme.

The Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport is up before the Lords Communications Committee, now in charge of media regulation thanks to Vince, he'll be giving Evidence on the Governance and Regulation of the BBC.... also, the most rare of sights, Sir David Attenborough will have his say too!

Francis Maude, the Minister for the Cabinet Office will speak today on efficiency and Reform of the Public Sector.

George Osborne is expected to be in Belgium to meet with EU Finance Ministers. Interestingly, the IMF bail-out of Portugal is expected to be discussed. Thinking the IMF boss may be elsewhere detained.

The Education Select Committee hears from Sarah Teather on the Special Educational Needs Green Paper.

The Joint Committee on Human Rights Report today on the Armed Forces Bill. It's a BIG committee day today.

Happy birthday Alan Johnson. The former Shadow Chancellor turns 61 today, by his own calculations... so happy 21^st I guess.

Wednesday

Unemployment and Claimant Count Stats are out at 9:30.

It's PMQ's day of course. Hoping that we get more than one issue in the Leader Of the Opposition's Questioning. Owen Paterson is up for Northern Ireland Questions. Sir Alan Beith has a Ten Minute Rule Bill on Road Safety and the Localism Bill enters day 2 of it's remaining stages. The Lords will be looking at the proportion of higher education institutions charging the maximum £9,000 tuition fees.. then it's Day 2 of the Police Reform and Social Reform Bill – Committee of the entire House (BIG ONE.

Boris will be at Mayor's QT if anyone's interested.

David Cameron is visiting the Irish PM in the Republic of Ireland.

*** NICK CLEGG *** is up before the Lords Constitutional Committee talking, well Constitutional stuff.

*** HOME SECRETARY AT POLICE FEDERATION CONFERENCE ***

It's something that all Home Secretary's fear... the slow-clap from cathartic coppers... but Police Federation sources tell me they have an extra special welcome in store... will they even slow clap? Some say no... but I think probably YES.

Health Secretary Andrew Lansley attends the Launch of the Commission on Leadership and Management in the NHS.

The Work and Pensions Select Committee sit today on migration from incapacity benefits to employment and support allowance.

The Hansard Society have a debate on “Explaining Cameron's Coalition”. Interesting that this is headed Cameron's Coalition.

Thursday

Now interestingly, Chris Huhne is supposed to be in the Chamber for Climate and Energy Questions. We'll have to see how 'Gatsogate' plays out. Sir George Young makes his usual Business Statement, and Richard Otterway has a debate on the BBC World Service. The Lords will be discussing the European Convention on Human Rights and Social Security.

Defence Secretary Liam Fox is speaking at Chatham House (Members Only event) .

Retail Sales Stats are out at 9:30am... another indication on how the economy is sorting itself out. In other Stat news, referral times from GP's to specialist treatment is also out.

The hard-hitting Public Accounts Committee Reports today on NHS Procurement. Expect this to make news depending on how the Queen is getting on in Ireland, and “events dear boy”.

Today is the deadline to submit your thoughts to the Public Bill Committee on London Olympic Games and Paralympics Games Bill. Go on... you know you're tempted!

Friday

Elliott Moreley, the former Scunny MP is sentenced today for claiming £30,000 of mortgage payments that he wasn't entitled to claim for.

Public Sector Finances are published at 9:30 by the Treasury and Office for National Statistics.

The Queen spends her last day in the Republic of Ireland before heading back to the mainland.

We'll mention Saturday briefly here. Ed Miliband is speaking in the afternoon at the Progress Conference.

That's finally all folks. Good evening 'all.

Why a Law Maker can’t be a ‘Laws’ Breaker: A quick

David Laws is undoubtedly a decent, hard-working and honourable man who works tirelessly for his Constituents, and would no doubt work tirelessly in the national interest if he ever does return to Government.


David Cameron was asked at a lunch for journalists a couple of months ago whether he would like to see David Laws return to Government, and if so when. The PM told us, “YES, and soon”. Two nights ago, Downing Street changed tact slightly and said they hope he will return “one day”, but after Sir John Lyon’s damming report today, any future return has a large question mark hanging over it, with Laura Koonsberg, Chief Political Correspondent for the BBC on the one hand saying that he may have cooked his goose on this one (I paraphrase) and on the other, Joey Jones, Deputy Political Editor reporting that his Lib Dem sources didn’t regard today’s report, and David Laws’ one week suspension, which simply will be rubber-stamped by MP’s, as an impossible hurdle for Mr Laws to jump. Joey suggests that we could see David Laws back in Government by the autumn.

Mark Pack, Co-Editor of the Lib Dem Voice rightly draws attention to comments by Sir John Lyon that Mr Laws would undoubtedly have made more money from the public purse had he been upfront about his personal circumstances… And it should be noted that every penny in technically wrongly claimed expenses has been easily repaid by the financial genius that is David Laws.

But notwithstanding David Laws excellent character, and the respect I personally have for him, he himself correctly points out that he should have been more transparent. I hear of one convicted MP who has been screaming blue murder accusing the authorities of double standards… but that’s the problem with a convicted MP, their word is nothing more than the word of a criminal. David Laws on the other hand is respected and has a lot to contribute to government in future.

Do take a look at my Sky News appearance with Tony Grew from ePolitix. The VT is nearly a year old, but sets out why I still hold the view that David Laws was wrong, and will go some way to explain why I think the punishment (One week’s suspension from the Service of the House) is right, and I’m sure David Laws would agree.

Returning charging decisions to cops & Charging by letter

I am sure that most Police Officers will warmly welcome the return of charging decisions in some, but not all cases to the Custody Sergeant rather than a flashy CPS Lawyer.

This is the way it was pre 2006 - and pre the early 80's, Police actually used to prosecute cases too. This latter measure is perhaps one that does not need to return, but it seems silly to spend time and resources submitting forms to the CPS in an open and shut case.

Example, Charlie Chav is arrested at 14:30 and interviewed at 17:00. He was seen by three people putting a DVD in his pocket, and he admits doing this in interview and under caution. WHY would this need to go to the CPS?

... But other reformations are perhaps more open to question. Charging people by post may sound like an attractive idea, but how will "reply to charge" work? I guess also by post - but how many crims will fail to appear at the Magistrates Court because they claim not to have seen a letter charging them with an offence? How many charges will physically go missing?

Over to the cops for an opinion.

Your VERY BUSY look at the political week ahead: The weekly digest

Good evening,

Here's your weekly look ahead – one year on from the formation of the Coalition... Well that's on the 11^th, but this is the week that was in 2010.

Monday kicks off with Home Office Questions in the Commons. Home Secretary Theresa May takes MP's Questions at 2:30pm before the BIG opposition Day Motion on the NHS. In the Lords, the Public Bodies Bill gets it's Third Reading, and the Lords sit in Committee on the European Union Bill.

A Committee of Lords will be reviewing the draft defamation Bill.

Statistician Jil Matherson releases her Home Office commissioned review of the way in which crime stats are recorded. Theresa May said she wants to improve public confidence in official stats, so we'll see if this does the job.

Policy Exchange report on Public Sector Pay, which they say is rising faster than private sector pay.

The Welsh Assembly returns today.

Chief Secretary Danny Alexander is at an IPPR Event speaking on growth and shared prosperity. Look out here for any coded digs at the tory half of the coalition – though I find Danny Alexander quite straight-talking, so don't be surprised if he doesn't join Chris Huhne and Vince Cable in the disaffected left.

Pilot Justin Adams, the pilot who was at the controls of Nigel Farage's aircraft in Buckingham is sentenced today for making threats to kill to the UKIP MEP (now leader) and an air investigator. It should be noted that this is entirely unconnected with any blame for the crash. He has been cleared over this.

Tuesday

George Osborne is in the Commons at 2:30 for Treasury Questions. Ian Lavery has a ten Minute Rule Bill on lip-reading.... In the Lords, it's time to talk Fixed Term Parliament Bill bits and bobs. It's Day 1 of the Report Stage.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Danny Alexander is making a speech to the Centre Forum.

The Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee hears Evidence today from former FA Chairman Lord Triesman in connection with England's failed 2018 Bid. The Committee will also look at the 2022 bid.

It's a media regulator Tuesday. Ed Richards, the Chief Executive of Ofcom, Colette Brown, Ofcom's Chair and newly of the BBC Trust, Chair Lord Pattern. All will be discussing the Governance and Regulation of the BBC.

The Speakers Committee for Independent Parliamentary Standards Authority hears Evidence from Sir Ian Kennedy, Chair of IPSA,the Acting Chief Executive Scott Woolveridge, and Finance Director Bob Evans.

The Joint Committee on the Draft Detention of Terror Suspects will hear from the Me'ts Assistant Commissioner John Yates, and the Association of Chief Police Officer's President, Chief Constable Sir Hugh Orde.

Universities and Science Minister David Willetts is making an interesting speech on Liberal Conservatism in Central London for the John Ramsdon Memorial Lecture.

NICE, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence holds it's annual conference today. I'll be watching with interest. I am by no means a health journalist, but I have gone to battle with these guys following approaches from a number of MP's, including a senior government Minister. They have always refused to participate in packages and programmes, so I'm particularly interested to hear what they say when they want to speak.

This is quite a geeky Westminster story (which I like) and sure you'll be able to get all the details from my friend Tony Grew's employers at ePolitix.com but the House of Commons Administration Committee releases their Report in to catering in the Commons. I hope we have final word on the future of Moncrieff's Press Bar too as a side note.

Sir Hugh Orde from ACPO is up before the Home Affairs Select Committee discussing the landscape of policing in the UK.

Chief of the Defence Staff General Sir David Richards is at the Defence Select Committee giving Evidnce on UK Operations in Afghanistan.

Wednesday

Ed Miliband and David Cameron clash in PMQ's for the first time since Labour's success in England, their failure in Scotland and the Lib Dems failure more or less everywhere other than in Chris Huhne's Constituency. **** AND IT's EXACTLY 12 MONTHS SINCE DAVID CAMERON BECAME PM & THE COALITION FORMED *** he Commons is focused on the closing stages of the Education Bill today.

Justice Secretary Ken Clarke is at a Bow Group Event discussing crime and punishment alongside Peter Oborne

In the Lords, Members sit in Committee on the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill.

So to re-sum-up Gordon Brown resigned one year ago today and David Cameron & Nick Clegg joined together to form the Coalition and to “work together in the national interest”.

Chancellor George Osborne will address the Institute of Directors Annual Convention as does Ed Balls. This is an important event where senior Business Leaders come together. Brendan Barber is also scheduled to speak.

Shadow Leader of the Commons Hillary Benn is at a Hansard Society Event speaking on how to make Parliament work for people.

Thursday

Defra Questions quicks off the day in the Commons – Sir George Young will make his usual Business Statement, then Members will debate IPSA. Looking forward to that one.

*** NICK CLEGG *** and Constitutional Reform Minister Mark Harper are both giving Evidence to the Political and Constitutional Reform Committee following last Thursday's No vote to AV.

*** Elliot Moreley is Sentenced at Southwark Crown Court *** The former Labour MP for Scunny is about to get scummy.

Stats are out today on average income in the UK for 2009 – 10.

One year ago today, Nick Clegg and David Cameron stood up in the Rose Garden and spoke of their duty to the Country. Journalists were handed the coalition agreement document (preliminary doc of course) which I THINK was 7 pages from memory.

The Transport Select Committee reports today on how we coped with the snow and winter weather and the effect on our transport network.

Stats on average income in the UK for 2009 – 10 are out today.

The Foreign Affairs Select Committee also reports today – and their report is on the role of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in UK Government.

Friday the THIRTEENTH

The IFS release a briefing today on inequality in the UK, and gaps between rich and poor following yesterday's stats on average incomes.

It's a sitting Friday in the Commons when backbenchers get the chance to make law themselves – though believe me, they don't hold their breaths. It's also a sitting Friday in the Lords.

Michael Gove is making a key speech today at a College explaining how the government can make accadamies and partnerships work.

Stats are out today detailing the number of people in prison, or other criminal custody for the month of April 2011.

Excellent insight by Matt Chorley in the IoS: The inside track on the coalition

Matt Chorley and friends have a good piece in the Indi on Sunday on tensions within the Coalition.

Some would have you believe that every Lib Dem, and every Tory are ready to fight to the death. It's not true.

Sure there are real tensions and worries on both sides - but the key figures to watch are Vince Cable, Chris Huhne and George Osborne. This is your triangle of fury.

It's remotely possible that Huhne or Cable will go - but it seems unlikely that they will give up their Cabinet positions of choice - despite Westminster gossip that Huhne and Cable are TRYING to get themselves sacked. Nonsense... why would they do this rather than resigning?

... But even if individuals within the coalition don't survive the course - it seems likely that the coalition itself will exist for a while to come.

Check out Matt's piece in today's Indi on Sunday. It's a good read.

Always look on the bright side of life Lib Dems

The Lib Dem have taken a hell of a beating in the past 24 hours, but guys (and gals) I'll say to you what I've said to everyone else... it's politics baby! You will survive.

Really.. that's all I wanted to say. I've spoken with lots of upset Lib Dems, and this is my message to all.

In a hundred days, none of this will matter eh!

The Lib Dems think it's all over!

Good morning,

I am writing this post on my train home after a long night reporting on the many elections held yesterday.

It has been my absolute pleasure to stay across the morning's breaking news and to report it and offer professional Judgement through the night.

Early indications are of course early indications, but at this stage, it's looking like the SNP are going to reach the magic 65 seats needed for a majority Executive in Hollyrood.

Labour are looking good to top the vote in Wales, and both Labour and the Conservatives can be pleased with their performances in the English Council Elections.

The Liberal Democrats will of course be feeling pretty raw right now - and even senior Cabinet Ministers cannot find it within themselves to offer their leader a ringing endorsement. Chris Huhne has said only that now is not the time to change leader… Unfortunate comments, and comments that make it less likely that Mr Huhne could himself successfully challenge Nick Clegg to wear the crown. Simon Hughes had already said that policies not included in the coalition agreement will no longer "be tolerated", and Lib Dem campaigners have been sending me some choice texts today.

It was always going to be difficult for a party who's core supporters support them for ideological reasons and perhaps because until last year, they never thought the Lib Dems would be in Government. But the fact is, the Lib Dems are in Government, and it's naturally the case that because they are not Conservatives, there will be disagreements… sometimes aired in public.

If the polls are to be believed, it seems that Nick Clegg is due to receive another slap in the face tonight when the AV result is announced - but remember polls can be wrong so we will need to wait and see… but with tuition fees, a lost AV vote, and a poor performance at the Council Elections, there will be grumbling.

Perhaps the bitterest pill for the Lib Dems to swallow is the relative success of the tories at the polls. There are many Council areas yet to be counted, however, indications now suggest that the Tories are looking at a 35% ote share verses Labour's 37%. If the BBC are right that the Lib Dems only poll around 15% of the vote share, it would mean that the Lib Dems would be more unpopular than the senior partner in the coalition.

That would hurt… but even if this turns out to be so… Nick Clegg and the coalition will probably survive until 2015, but what then?

Morning all!

I told you there was a contradiction in the PM's Statement

If you scroll down one story, you'll note that I noticed an apparent contradiction in the PM's Statement to the House yesterday.

I say again that I'm sure the entire Statement was given in good faith - and rather well in all the circumstances, but I raised this point with the PM's Spokesperson after yesterday's Statement and it seems now that the Pakistani Government has confirmed my suspicions that they alerted the US to the terrorist compound last year.

One thing is clear - Pakistan knew!

You heard it here first.

Pakistan contradiction by the PM?

I am sure there is a reasonable answer to this, but was I the only one who noticed an apparent contradiction in the PM's speech earlier?

The Prime Minister was urging colleagues not to vilify Pakistan just yet. He stressed that the Countr knew nothing about Bin Laden's presence, yet also said Pakistani intel led us to Bin Laden.

Did Pakistan know where Bin Laden was or not?

"......... Yes, I agree!

The PM & Pakistan: Do they deserve the West's support?

The Prime Minister gave a convincing performance in the Commons earlier when he told MP's that it is in Britain's National Interest to work with the democratic politicians in Pakistan to tackle terrorism. He said it was important to remember that Pakistan has suffered at the hands of terrorism, and that Bin Laden was the enemy of the Pakistan State.

There is real concern inside the House, and out that the Pakistan Government and Intelligence serrvices, the ISI knew more than they were letting on. The world of intel is of course always a bit shadowy, but it seems incredible that Bin Laden was living it up in luxury just a few hundred yards from the Pakistani Sandhurst - and that no one had a clue.

It is of course (just to speculate), always possible that the Pakistan authorities were actually central to this operation and for whatever reason, they don't want to be seen as having been involved... almost the "invisible hand" concept. But unless this is the case, some serious diplomatic (and possibly more) pressure needs to be put on a state that has had Bin Laden lounging peacefully in the sun for the past six years or more.

For readers who may not be fully up on the history and politics of Pakistan, the West have been stepping on eggs for some time given the worryingly high amount of support for terrorists in the Country. Western leaders have deliberately dragged Pakistan in from the cold in the hope that the government there would kindly join us inside the tent.

So the situation in Pakistan is far from clear and simple. The PM gave Pakistan a ringing endorsement earlier. I hope (and doubt) they deserve it.

Ed Miliband and Harriet Harman's Pre-election Press Conference

The memories of 12 months ago came flooding back as Ed Miliband and Harriet Harman held a pre-election press conference at Labour HQ today. Oh, the laughs, the arguments and the heated exchanges we had just 350 odd days ago.

... But Labour Leader Ed Miliband, and his Deputy Harriet Harman took to the stage to rally support ahead of Thursday's Local Elections. You'll remember how badly Labour performed in 2008, dropping to a 24% share of the vote - their worst result in 40 years. In the words of the song, "things can only get better" - and of course, local elections are always an opportunity to give the government of the day a kick-in.

The watch word of the day was "duping". The Duo accused Nick Clegg's Lib Dems of Duping voters, and later, during questioning on AV (by yorus truly), they accused David Cameron of "duping" Nick Clegg in to holding the AV Referendum on the same day as the locals. Hmmm... not quite sure they have that the right way round.

Talk of the Alternative Vote was notably absent in the Leader and Deputy Leaders' presentation - but never ones to dissapoint, we Lobby lot prompted them.

If there were one key message to take away (from Labour's point of view), it would be an accusation that the Coalition have broken entirely with their manifesto pleges, and so have "no mandate to rule".

There was a sharp dig at the Lib Dem Leader, as Ed Miliband urged voters not to see Thursday as a referendum on Nick Clegg, or David Cameron for that matter.

Ed Miliband is getting smoother at hosting press conferences, and each so far has been a marked improvement on the last. It's a bit tricky when he Gordon Brown's it and points journos out by saying "yep", "this gentleman here" and "The person in front of Michael"... it makes it very hard for me to know who the heck he is trying to point out. One other small improvement - I think it sounds clunky and odd to seek out specific organisations and journalists who do not have their hand up, leap-frogging the many who do.

I suspect that today's conference will be lost in the shadow of the Prime Minister's words on Bin Laden, but the message is clear. Is it valid? You decide!

Weekly Digest: Your preview at the packed political week ahead

Good evening,

Here's your bank holiday look ahead.

Tomorrow is going to be Osama Bin Laden based. One of the Party Leaders is giving a Press Conference ahead of the Local Elections – keep an eye on twitter... I should be updated from the scene.

David Cameron is making a Statement to the House of Commons following the US operation in Pakistan, and one might expect a few questions on links with Pakistan. What did they know, when did they know it, and why did they not share it?

The Prime Minister is likely to speak off the back of Foreign Office Questions when William Hague will no doubt take a grilling from across the House. The Beckenham MP, Col Bob Stewart has a Ten Minute Rule Bill on Green Belt Planning, before the House sits in Committee on the Finance Bill.

The head of Ofcom, Ed Richards is in the Commons today giving Evidence to the Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee on the future work of the media Watchdog.

Meanwhile, the Lords will also be in Committee on the European Union Bill. It's a heck of a day for Parliamentary geeks like my friend Tony Grew from ePolitix.com .

In Ireland, Stormont returns from Easter Recess.

William Hague and the Japanese foreign Minister are scheduled to hold a press conference in the afternoon. If the Foreign Office read this (and know the blog is media monitored), I get all your press releases, but never seem to get calling notices for press conferences. Why not? As you can see, I find out about them anyway, but if you sent the calling notices, I would be bound by any operational terms that may exist. THANKS!!!

Transport Secretary Phillip Hammond is giving Evidence to the Transport Select Committee on the cost of running bus services following the Coalitions' cuts.

Eddie Izzard hosts a rally in favour of a Yes Vote at Thursday's referendum.

Finally on Committees of interest for today, Greg Dyke, the former Director General of the BBC, and current head of Editorial Policy and Standards David Jordan are giving Evidence to a Lords Committee after 3.15pm on the future governance and regulation of the BBC.

Wednesday

It's PMQ's of course – right after Michael More takes the box for Scotland Questions on the Eve of the Scottish General Election. Nadine Dorries has a Ten Minute Rule Bill on sex education, and it's day two of the Finance Bill Committee. Meanwhile, those lucky Lords will be working on the Postal Services Bill.

Stats on lending to individuals for the month of March is out today.

The National Institute Economic Review is released at 11am.

Expect plenty of last minute campaigning ahead of the Council / Assembly and Scottish General. Elections, and ahead of the AV Referendum.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu is in the UK to meet David Cameron. Guess what they'll be talking about!! I once had a relatively deep conversation with Mr Netanyahu. Fascinating chap.

Climate and Energy Secretary Chris Huhne is at the Climate and Energy Select Committee giving Evidence on the North Sea Oil ProductionWindfall Tax.

Thursday

Elections take place for English Councils, the Northern Ireland and Welsh Assembly and for the Scottish General Election. It's also Polling Day for the Voting System Referendum. Also, and importantly for broadcasters – it's the Leicester South By-election too.

Broadcasters aren't allowed to discuss politics in as far as they relate to any of the elections today. There's nothing to stop printed media and online journalism – so keep do keep it here and on twitter @seandilley.

The Bank of England is due to make it's monthly interest rate decision today. Not expecting any surprises.

Phillip Hammond is up for Transport Questions in the Commons – then it's Women and Equality (I refer you to my Daily Politics piece on equality – scroll down). And Sir George Young is scheduled to make his usual Thursday Business Statement. In the Lords, Members will be considering the Charities Bill Second Reading.

Foreign Secretary William Hague attends a meeting of the newly formed Libya Contact Group.

Friday

It's ONE YEAR TO THE DAY since the 2010 General Election. Of course the Coalition isn't quite a year old having formed on May 11... but where has the last 12 months gone? Just think – this time last year, Peter Mandelson was somebody. A year is an eternity in politics!

Local Counts start at 4pm to discover whether we're changing our voting system in the UK. Results will be announced at the National Count Centre in London as soon as results are in.. Results for the Scottish Parliamentary Election should be in by mid afternoon.

Tony Blair turns 58 years old today!

Science Minister David Willets attends the opening of the International Space Innovation Centre in Oxfordshire.

So there's your packed weekly look-ahead... same time, same place next week (Sunday evening).

BIN LADEN DEAD!!! Now he's Bin Laden' Sea: Rejoice

Osama Bin Laden is dead!

I'm quite sure that internet domains are being set up now to suggest that it wasn't really him... perhaps Elvis and Diana were involved?

But DNA and photographic evidence has been stored, and I'm sure this evidence will be opened up in due course.

One never takes pleasure in the death of another, however justified, but Americans and the West deserve the closure that Bin Laden's death will bring, and a clear message has been sent to those who would engage in terrorism. This is what happens.

Already, some are complaining that the Americans haven't respected Bin Laden's religion - but as every right thinking Muslim tells me, he was a criminal... and now he's a dead criminal.

Religion has nothing to do with it.

Congratulations to the Military teams involved, and congratulations to President Obama, who has almost certainly snatched victory from the jaws of defeat. Election campaigns don't get any stronger than this, and already, William Hill has slashed his re-election odds. He's now the odds on favourite to win.

The days ahead are the days ahead. Today is for rejoicing.