This is far from over
Boris Johnson this week declared that he considers the Westferry Printworks scandal to be closed. It clearly isn’t.
Documents show the Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick signed off the development by Tory donor Richard Desmond even though his own officials advised against it.
They also show Mr Jenrick hurried along the decision knowing it would save the billionaire from having to pay £40million that would have benefited one of Britain’s poorest areas.
Today the Mirror reveals that one of the other key players behind the development is another Tory donor with close links to the PM.
If Mr Johnson wants to draw a line under the issue he needs to come clean.
Downing Street is refusing to say what communications the Prime Minister or any of his aides had with Mr Desmond.
The more Mr Johnson tries to sweep this under the carpet the more it will seem that his party is willing to do cash for favours.
Save our shops
The collapse of shopping centre giant Intu is another reminder of the tough times facing the retail sector.
Its problems pre-date the virus with online sales surging and loss of rents after stores shut.
Thousands of jobs are now at risk, not just at Intu itself, but at stores in its premises.
Some big name centres should find buyers.
The concern is for Intu’s properties in smaller towns and cities.
Ministers need a comprehensive plan to revive our struggling shops and high streets.
This must look at everything from rents, to urban design, to how we can transform malls through events and pop-ups.
Otherwise we risk being left with ghost towns and empty malls.
Klopp class
Liverpool's success is a tribute to the charismatic leadership of Jurgen Klopp.
They have won the Premier League...but the other winner is the game itself.
