Michael Dyspeptic White

Anthony Barnett (London, OK): I spotted the Guardian's political editor strikingly well dressed in a suit nearly as devoid of colour as his name and radiating disbelief as he looked down on the Commons yesterday while Brown presented his proposals. His comment today broke all cover. Noting that Brown had been praised he reported, "It can't last and it won't." Why is he doing it? It all demands disproportionate energy. He's raising expectations too high, just like Blair in 1997. These may be good points and scepticism is a worthy quality in intelligent reporting. But note the second part of White's briefing. "It won't". This is not just a judgement. It's a declaration of intent.