Mandelson’s statement scarcely endorses Brown

Peter Mandelson’s much-awaited statement does not seem particularly full-throated in its support of the Prime Minister.

‘No one should over-react to this initiative. It is not led by members of the government. No one has resigned from the government. The prime minister continues to have the support of his colleagues and we should carry on government business as usual.’

There is no praise for Brown and it almost reads as if someone did resign we would be into a totally different ball game.