It is reported here that Murdoch withdrew, in addition to his suspect assurances, his demands for immediate acquiescence in the purchase of BSkyB, asking for it to be referred to the Competition Commission, which will take at least six months, more probably twelve.

He thinks that insisting on an answer now will dish the whole deal, and is hoping it will all blow over by the time the CC announces its decision.

This is a measure of the devious nature of the man.

We however have at least six months to impress upon the government, the cost in votes of making the wrong decision now.

That should be enough.

Don T.