Bye Bye Blunkett

8.00.00am GMT Thu 16th Dec 2004

So David Blunkett has finally resigned, it looks as though the media pressure was too much and the probability of improper conduct being uncovered as increased. I had originally thought Blunkett was probably innocent of any major wrongdoing - ie the Visa issues, but it now appears he may have, we shall see over the next few weeks I guess. I suspect what actually tipped the balance was his comments about current and former Cabinet colleagues and losing their support.

I do doubt, however, that Charles Clarke will make a better Home Secretary, but expect him to carry on Blunkett's policies and be no less right-wing or illiberal.