Philip Hammond will not be a hard-hat chancellor

Since Theresa May succeeded David Cameron as Prime Minister, she has wasted no time in putting distance between herself and many of Cameron’s flagship policies. As well as putting the brakes on Hinkley Point, May has hinted that she will take a fresh approach to the Northern Powerhouse and grammar schools. Now Mr S understands that another aspect of the Cameron and Osborne premiership is facing the axe.

During Cameron’s time in government, both he and Osborne became known for their penchant for hard-hats and high-vis jackets. In fact, Osborne wore the items for so many industrial visits that he even became known as the ‘hard-hat chancellor’.

However, while the duo no doubt thought that the kit gave them the look of blokes who knew how to make things, word reaches Steerpike that times are a’changing. In May’s government, there will be no such flashy displays. Mr S hears Philip Hammond has made it clear that he will be ditching the hard-hat image, only wearing the items when essential.