George Osborne sounds a more confident note than most of his
Tory bandmates in interview with the Standard
today. On top of the obligatory Ready for Government noises, he rattles off a list of London marginals which are winnable for the Tories, and adds that an overall majority is “within our
grasp”. Pretty direct stuff for a politician, given all the uncertainty clogging the air in Westminster.
To my eyes, though, the most significant passage could be this:
There has been some confusion about Tory Crossrail plans since Justine Greening refused to guarantee whether or not the party would scrap it last month. But, now, it seems like Osborne is saying a Tory Government wouldn’t cut Crossrail – but would try to cut its cost.“He gave a commitment to keep London’s £16 billion Crossrail scheme, although he confirmed he will look for savings. ‘I think Londoners would expect me to get good value for their money.'”
Get Britain's best politics newsletters
Register to get The Spectator's insight and opinion straight to your inbox. You can then read two free articles each week.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Comments
Join the debate for just $5 for 3 months
Be part of the conversation with other Spectator readers by getting your first three months for $5.
UNLOCK ACCESS Just $5 for 3 monthsAlready a subscriber? Log in