On @TimesRadio, @nadhimzahawi just told @tnewtondunn that if the Tories lose the North Shropshire by-election on Thursday, it would be because it was
"a protest vote" to "send a message" to the Govt.
"Protest away, voters!" "Want to send us a message about No10 parties? Vote against us in North Shropshire!"
Must admit it's a novel approach for a Cabinet minister to deploy the "this is a protest vote" line *before* a by-election, rather than after it.
Full @nadhimzahawi quote on #NorthShropshire:
"By-elections have been historically used as a protest vote, because people know it’s not going to change the outcome of which party is going to govern the country. But actually they want to send a message for whatever reason".
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Problem for broadcasters who are expected to run the @BorisJohnson statement at 8pm, on boosters programme: there is no opportunity for live Q&A, so feels like PM running scared of scrutiny.
We don't have state run TV in UK, so will they have to give @Keir_Starmer equal airtime?
I understand @Keir_Starmer will be given right of reply. Unclear if it's straight after or later.
.@Keir_Starmer will be doing his own address to the nation at 7pm tonight on @BBCOne
Remainder of Labour reshuffle due to be announced soon.
Am told @elliereeves is no2 in the justice team, recognising her work on VAWG and also her political leadership on the Bexley campaign..plus...
.@HollyLynch5 gets shadow securities minister. She’s impressed Starmer, (and don't forget she ran the Batley byelxn that turned round his fortunes)...plus..
.@mtpennycook gets shadow housing - big role, recognising impact he had on climate change brief...plus...
Packed with behind-the-scenes detail and informed by multiple sources.
Most were impressed by the new front bench.
But one disgruntled shadow minister (who remains loyal) had a weary gallows humour: "Keir’s laid down his friends for his life."
And one new recruit to the Shad Cab gave the game away last wk when staff held a "pre-appointment" celebration, having been tipped off about their imminent promotion.
Govt gets its social care amendment through by 272 to 246. Majority slashed but Tory abstainers will be worth counting.
Maybe not the best look for the Govt that before the vote that could hit Northern homeowners hardest, the Tory Party in London was flogging off ministerial time to raise cash from donors.
You know something political has got poss cut through when AntnDec feature it on #ImACeleb
Tonight Dec did a @BorisJohnson impression as he riffled through his script: "Forgive me...forgive me..."