Best when we’re boldest – 8 in the morning, February 2nd

By Alex Smith / @alexsmith1982

* The PM is to give a speech on democratic reform today, including the announcement of a Commons vote next week on legislating for a referendum on voting reform.

* A new poll this morning shows the Tory lead down to 7; 82% of people are unclear about Tory economic policy; 69% say the recession would not have been shorter under a Tory government; and women prefer Labour.

* “I cannot recall a party that has changed its budgetary approach so often”, writes Steve Richards of the Conservatives.

* High earners are dodging the 50p tax rate, the Times reports.

* Claire Short will appear beore the Iraq Inquiry today.

* The manufacturing sector is currently enjoying its fastest growth for 15 years.

* Alan Johnson has criticised as “inadequate and inaccurate” a Home Affairs Select Committee report on terror that accused the government of “institutional inertia”.

* Universities will have their first cuts for a decade, in spite of unprecedented demand for places.