Boris Johnson is a firm believer in destiny – his, chiefly.
As a child he wanted to be “world king”, but so far he has had to settle for UK PM.
Somehow he has blustered, blagged and blundered his way to the top of British politics.
Well now, like the Wizard of Oz, we will find out what – if anything – is behind the curtain.
Finally, someone has called Johnson’s bluff. It took Europe’s most experienced, most widely respected leader to front him up.
By challenging him to come up with these mystical “alternative arrangements” – the vague supposed solution to the Irish backstop riddle – within 30 days, German Chancellor Angela Merkel did us all a favour in Berlin.
Her deft move means he has the opportunity to prove he can do what Theresa May couldn’t – or, like her, become another Tory leader dethroned by Europe.
If he falls flat on his face, it would serve him right for over-promising and under-delivering.
But no-deal consequences hammer us all.
All points North
No commuter will be surprised by another potential rail delay.
But by launching a review of HS2, the Government has the chance to overhaul its controversial, flagship transport project.
Northern passengers want a reliable, reasonably priced train on which they can get a seat and which will get them from A to B quickly.
At least as important as HS2 is HS3 – the Northern Powerhouse Rail project.
For too long the region has been the poor relation. If HS2 is to go ahead, perhaps it should be started from the northern end.
The jobs bonanza would benefit the North more than the cash-soaked South, and begin easing the huge regional unfairness.
It’s hot news
Simmer is back! So dig out the sun cream, tear the cover off the barbecue and stock up on burgers.
And finally enjoy respite from the deluge this Bank Holiday weekend.
