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Listen: Labour adviser damns Corbyn with faint praise

If Theresa May’s deal collapses today, the country could well be heading for another general election (sorry Brenda). So it will no doubt reassure readers that there is a competent opposition ready to take over if she goes. Or maybe not.

The former head of the civil service Lord Kerslake, who has been advising Labour and Jeremy Corbyn in preparation for them taking power, was on 5 live this morning, and was rather damning in his faint praise of the leader.

Asked if Jeremy Corbyn was ready to be Prime Minister, the former civil servant replied:

‘They’re on their way, they’re not there, and they would say the same, in terms of, there’s more work to be done.’

Isn’t that a bit worrying, 5 Live’s Emma Barnett asked?

‘Well it would be surprising if he was completely there, I think they’re very well advanced in their preparations.’

The response was a little surprising to Mr S, since Labour have been saying all year how ready they are for a general election and power.

Steerpike
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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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