Originally posted @ 11:21 pm, Thu 20th Jan 2011
So does anyone remember Nick Clegg not remembering the money value of pensions?
The media pack as one pronounced on Alan Johnson's time as Shadow Chancellor with regard to a comment on National Insurance. And the implied judgment, all done by code.
I blogged at the time that I thought Alan had done well in the debate on Comprehensive Spending Review. I'm really sorry he's leaving Labour's front bench.
I once drove Alan from East Midlands Airport to Hull after he'd spoken to a regional dinner event. My mate Mo and I, anticipating a good old chat during the drive, found he needed light and quiet during the journey so that he could prepare for the BBC's Politics Show the following day, at which he performed at the high level that even opponents acknowledge. Hard working and dedicated.
It is noticeable how dramatic the changes in the Shadow Cabinet has been as a result of Alan moving on, but the Shadow Cabinet is elected by the Parliamentary Labour Party and Ed Miliband had to allocate the places on that basis.
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