Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 5:28 pm on 2 February 2005.
No.
Frankly, this settlement has as much long-term viability as the Deputy Prime Minister's desire to build uninsured houses on flood plains. It stands about as much chance as the possibility of seeing a popular regional assembly in the north-east. While it might try to repair the damage of eight years of Labour, it will store up massive increases for the future. Thankfully, however, it will be the last one before the people deliver their verdict.