It's amazing what a "temporary acting editor" can do with a newspaper, is it not?
John Witherow, the man labouring under that title, today introduces changes to The Times, acting for all the world as if he is "the editor." Which, of course, he is.
Though the paper's independent directors have failed to approve Rupert Murdoch's decision to appoint Witherow after dismissing his predecessor, James Harding, the situation shows the weakness of their position and the nonsense of their "independence."
They have no power to prevent News Corp's boss doing just as he wishes. Witherow is neither temporary nor acting. Murdoch has proved that the independent directorships are a fig leaf.
That said, let's consider what Witherow has done. First off, he has moved the leading articles back to their more natural position towards the centre of the paper (a move I heartily endorse).
Witherow, in a letter to readers explaining his reasoning, writes: "I've decided to move the leaders back in the paper because readers have been finding it perplexing to read editorials on current affairs before they've read the underlying news story". Precisely. They are back where they belong.
He has also refreshed the opinion pages by promising to give regular slots to several of the paper's staff, such as Roger Boyes, Gaby Hinsliff, Oliver Kamm and Matt Ridley.
And a new face is arriving to make occasional contributions - Justin Webb, one of the presenters of Radio 4's Today programme. He will write about the United States.
Some writers get more slots, such as David Aaronovitch, Danny Finkelstein and Janice Turner.
Aside from the editorial page change, these moves are superficial rather than structural. But they are symbolic of the editor putting down a marker - he is in charge.
In conclusion to his readers' letter, Witherow writes: "I'm confident that the overall mix will ensure The Times remains the leading platform for comment in any British newspaper."
Well, he would say that, wouldn't he. But there was one major change he failed to mention: the Monday sports supplement, The Game, was absent.
I am told it has not been dropped. It usually takes a summer break when the football season ends but it is published during big sporting events (so expect it to return for the Ashes).
