You know very well that this is not a row "over nothing," Nigel. Only someone who has had his fingers in his ears shouting "la la la" for three months would think that.

As for the report being evidence that might prejudice court cases, etc., let's find the bottom line here. The public interest in all this is not going to be served by the satisfaction of knowing that a bunch of wealthy Tories have been whacked with hundred quid fixed penalties. It will be served by our getting the whole and unvarnished truth about what has happened apropos of the parties. That's what Sue Gray is supposed to be delivering, that's what the public will judge the prime minister on and that's what will provoke Tory MPs into deciding whether he stays or goes. I don't give a damn about court cases and piffling fines, frankly. I want to know what went on. The whole story.

I'll say what the Beeb and the papers daren't say for fear of their being sued. A couple of days ago, the Met said that they had no issue with the publication of the report. Today, yes they suddenly do have an issue. The most damaging accusations, and presumably the most damaging findings, are to be kept from us. Maybe for weeks if the Met gets its way. How ideal for Johnson. Let it all fade from the headlines and the public perception. Then, down the line, we get told that there isn't enough evidence to secure convictions. Bingo. This all happened today when the report was on the cusp of being delivered. It's a stitch-up. Cressida Dick is a big mate of Johnson's, and almost certainly wouldn't be in post but for him. You can bet your ass that they've been in touch during the last 48 hours to fix a whitewash. There, I've said it, and I'm not scared of being sued. Because it's all just my opinion, guv. ;-)