All the parties have been at it. Which, in itself, may be a poor reflection of modern British democracy. But that won’t stop our esteemed politicians having a good squabble over the revelations about Lord Ashcroft.

The questions over Lord Ashcroft’s tax status have been exciting politicians for years and, if anyone was still in doubt, he revealed yesterday that he was non-domiciled for tax purposes. In a twist, Ashcroft revealed that he struck a private deal with government officials ten years ago to save himself tax on his overseas income (that’s when you know you’re  player). He also released details of a letter he sent to former Tory leader William Hague pledging to take up “permanent residence” and he explained in his statement this meant he would be “a long term resident”. It made no mention of his tax status.

Which leaves David Cameron with some difficult explaining to do.

Meanwhile, Peter Mandelson wrote to the House of Lords Appointments Commission last night, asking it to investigate whether Lord Ashcroft was breaking the terms of his agreement with honours officials when he was finally awarded his peerage in 2000 after promising to become a permanent UK resident. The Commission has turned down the request leading to a full 10 minutes of Mandy staring down journos outside No. 10…