Is Rupert pulling the strings?

Much has been made of a throwaway line in Jackie Ashley's column regarding gorgeous, pouting Rupert Murdoch (pictured) who apparently took tea and cucumber sandwiches at Chequers this weekend.

Ashley speculates that Rupe might have threatened to use Europe against Brown, and this factored into his decision not to hold an autumn election.

Westmonster thinks this is rubbish. No, a far more likely solution is that Murdoch had seen a space in the Big Tent caused by the departure of Patrick Mercer and wanted to get his key advisor on European issues - Nikkala, 19, from Kent - made Minister for Europe.

Well, stranger things have happened.