Gordon Brown Can't Hide Behind Labour's Rulebook

Gordon Brown's allies have been busy reminding journalists and Labour MPs that, under party rules, they can't get rid of him even by gathering the 75 or 80 signatures they supposedly have lined up.

It remains to be seen whether reports that Labour plotters really do have a long list of MPs ready to stick the knife into Mr Brown after the elections.

They are apparently drafting a letter calling on him to go, for colleagues to sign, but this may be an exaggeration or wishful thinking on their part.

If they can get the numbers, however, Labour rules won't help the Prime Minister.
Tony Blair's friends made the same point about the Labour rulebook when he was clinging on to office.

It didn't save Mr Blair, because the rules aren't the point. If a significant part of your Parliamentary Party wants you gone, then you have to go.