No O level, lots of nous

Lifelong learning minister Malcolm Wicks was in confessional mood at Natfhe's annual conference last week, admitting that he had reached his elevated government post in spite of failing an O level in the British constitution.

But whatever his constitutional failings, there is clearly nothing wrong with his political nous. By presenting a resume of his speech beforehand, suggesting delegates choose the best point at which to stage any proposed walk out, he skilfully managed to keep his conference audience intact for the duration.