When reform falters - New Labour's programme of reform and modernisation brought it to power triumphantly but has proved a double-edged sword in government, with devolution and the House of Lords for starters. But it cannot afford to lose interest now

Born Under a bad sign - Elected mayors could give local government the higher public profile it needs. But a lack of political momentum, and government tinkering with the referendum process, may stifle the idea at birth

Leaman, Alan, (2000)

Party time - The Conservative Party's unpopularity continues to hit the headlines but the wider story remains less reported: political parties throughout the West are in the doldrums, and sharp action is needed to return them to the people

Leaman, Alan, (2000)

Nightmare at no 10 - It's New Year's Eve 2001 at Downing Street. Cherie is watching that night at the Dome video from last year and Tony ponders extreme action over the euro

Leaman, Alan, (2000)