Ashcroft returns fire but the ‘scandal’ rolls on

Lord Ashcroft looks like a man not to cross and he will do anything to protect his privacy. He faces down criticism with complete silence, patient before turning on his detractors. According to the Sunday Times, Ashcroft has attacked Labour over its ‘smears’ about his tax status. His tone is derisive but his intention is clear: back off.

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He has obtained documents held by the Labour party, detailing its strategy to expose Ashcroft. One activist wrote: ‘Think the Guardian most likely to go for it.’ Smart chaps these Labour wonks. Sure enough, the front page of the Observer trails an interview with Eric Pickles, who is ‘frustrated’ by his deputy’s obfuscation.  Reading Pickles’ comments, the alleged frustration is elusive. Pickles does not know Lord Ashcroft’s status and believes that Ashcroft has a right to privacy. No change there then and none from Ashcroft, who reiterated his promise to pay full UK tax if the law changes, which suggests that Sir George Young did not “misspeak” under the pressure of Emily Maitliss’ delightful interview technique.