That all he needs to get over the line are a few trifling concessions he can sell to voters as serious reform.

In normal circumstances the reforms outlined in the speech of prisons, planning and universities alone would constitute a serious reform agenda.

With every passing month, memories are fading, bank lobbyists are getting stronger and the odds on serious reform are lengthening.

Without serious reform, the winter crisis will morph into an emergency that will last through the spring, summer and autumn too.

Stamp duty needs serious reform, not a temporary holiday.