The loss of Purnell's talent

Fabulous little story for Guido, the tale of Phil Collins's arrival in the Brown Government in his departure. James Purnell's appointment of Collins demonstrated just how ambitious Purnell is. But also just how ideological a Blairite, because outside Lord Adonis there is no more resolute Blairite in the party than Collins.

It is fascinating that he appears to have been pushed out. They have lost a big talent. But perhaps, since that talent was going to aid Purnell, losing it was the objective.