Hopes of normality returning were dashed today as Boris Johnson hit the brakes on lockdown being eased.
Everyone understands that the Government needs to make difficult decisions in this fast-changing situation.
But that makes the need for clear and concise messaging all the more important.
Instead, we saw new restrictions imposed in the North at very short notice.
The Prime Minister then spread further confusion by postponing the relaxation of some lockdown measures – but not others.
People will rightly want to know why ministers think it is safe for vulnerable people to stop shielding but not safe to go bowling.
They will want to know why they can still visit a pub in the North of England but not meet a friend in their garden.
These new restrictions will cause huge disruption at a time when people are celebrating Eid or planning a family celebration.
What everyone wants is clarity and competence. At the moment the Government is failing to deliver either.
Lords must go
This paper has long argued for the House of Lords to be axed and replaced by an elected second chamber.
Boris Johnson’s appointment of a string of new peers tonight only strengthens our case.
The bloated Lords has long been a dumping ground for cronies and has-beens.
It allows Prime Ministers to dish out favours to supporters, donors, hangers-on and, in Johnson’s case, even his own brother.
No self-respecting country should allow people to play a role in shaping our laws just because they are rich or a pal of a party leader.
We should be ashamed this is still tolerated in 21st Century Britain.
It’s snow joke
Money experts say now is the best time to start your Christmas shopping.
Apparently, yule be really sorry if you leave it any later…
