All Bets Are Off: Lib Dem Lords 3 Commons Sense 1 Cllr John Leech MP: Votes Against Manchester

Incredible. Tessa Jowell gets all her casino ducks lined up in the Commons facing down all but 18 rebels. In the Lords however a Lib Dem amendment nixxing the deal completely is carried 123-120.

Notable that far less Peers voted on this one than on retaining 100% privilege.

Notable too that Simple Simon Ashley's bullish case for Manchester was completely ignored by his party who have been let down over and over again - like the people of Manchester - by his false promises and negativity.

Cllr Leech MP - the one with the chimp on his shoulder - voted AGAINST. Not sure whether the Speaker of the House called him for a rip-roaring speech slamming the Council in Manchester for making innovative plans and winning fair and square.

Labour Whips in the Lords meanwhile should be taken outside and shot. (Joke).