Is this the end?

TB had a lie in this morning so missed the initial flurry over the fact the Sun obtained a transcript of Gordon's phone call to Jacqui Janes. Despite the underhand tactics, finally this story has moved onto proper attacks. Mrs Janes slammed the Prime Minister for the lack of equipment provided for troops on the front, suggesting her son would still be alive if it were not for the Treasury.

The story has now dominated the news agenda for over 24 hours. Downing St will be desperate to shut this down so expect a big announcement on something or other this afternoon. If this drags on for another news cycle is could be a "complete and utter clusterfuck", to quote Tucker, for Brown. The issue is dominating Brown's press conference and there is an air about the questioning that this could be the end. Eyelids were barely batted when hacks asked why Gordon has ignored a petition calling for his resignation. Brown has been forced to do what he hates doing more than anything - talking personally about himself. You know then that he is desperate. How long can this go on?

So Mr Milband didn't go to Europe, TB thought it could have been the making of him. Let the Labour Party destroy itself for five years and then come back, a mature international statesman and give Cameron a run for his money in 2015. Can we read anything into this?

Iain Dale

says no,

Political Betting

says ummm maybe. Miliband didn't want to be the one to make the first move but the way this week is going, the straw is piling up on the donkey's back.

Could it all come tumbling down?