Cable stays, but now we know where the red line is…

By Mark Ferguson / @markfergusonuk

So despite describing the coalition as a “war”, threatening to bring down the government as a “nuclear option” and crowing over perceived victories, Vince Cable has been allowed to stay on in the cabinet – albeit weakened, reduced further in stature and marginalised (in many ways the perfect result for Cameron and Clegg). The last shred of Cable’s credibility is gone. Whether or not he pleaded for a reprieve, he’s taken a demotion so that he can stay at (or at least near) the top table. As a major player, he looks finished.

It’s remarkable though that what brought about this demotion wasn’t his open criticism of the coalition, it was criticism of Rupert Murdoch.

Now we know what David Cameron’s red line is – criticism of his favourite media partner. You can attack the very core of the coalition, but leave Rupert Murdoch alone. Once the circus around Vince Cable has died down, that will be the lasting legacy of today’s events. And that suggests a government that’s either weak, or beholden to special interests.

Now can someone remind me who Andy Coulson used to work for…?