Society

Coffee House apologises unreservedly for keeping readers in suspense for two days about Andrew Lansley’s mysterious international role in public service. Yesterday, Number 10 did tell us that discussions were ‘ongoing’, which could suggest advisers are still discussing what on earth they could give to the ex-minister. His valedictory letter may have been the first that Downing Street had heard about this international role in public service. But today William Hague gave us a further glimmer of hope when he paid tribute to his predecessor as Leader of the House. He said: ‘I would also like to thank my predecessor as leader of the House, my right honourable friend the

Are all of Britain’s fasting Muslims about to die because of the heatwave? This is what’s worrying me as I sit in my darkened room — curtains drawn and lights down low, according to the official government advice. Dr Paul Cosford of something called ‘Public Health England’ said: ‘Many members of the Muslim community may be fasting during the current period of Ramadan. During hot weather it’s important to balance food and fluid intake between fasts and especially to drink enough water.’ One can only hope and pray that as most of England’s Muslims come from Bangladesh, India and Pakistan, where the temperature exceeds on a daily basis what we’re

In this week’s Spectator, Melissa Kite argues that David Cameron’s reshuffle has been soured by misogyny. The PM doesn’t want the new women in his cabinet to do anything but look nice, she says. Louise Mensch begs to differ. She argues that talented women are rising to the top because they are impressive, and it’s offensive to suggest otherwise. Martha Gill discusses this with her on this week’s podcast. The reshuffle wasn’t all about women though. In his column this week, Charles Moore argues that Cameron has punished the ministers who were brave and active, and target-bombed his party’s natural supporters. He discusses this with Fraser Nelson in the podcast.