On Tuesday, in an interview with the BBC Sir Keir dismissed the idea of a deal with the Lib Dems, calling it a "hypothetical question". So, did our two knights of the opposition manage a “meaningful conversation” as the trumpets blared and Sir Antonio Pappano took the brilliant Coronation orchestra through its paces? It would be astonishing if they hadn’t, even if it was only to arrange another chat at some point to discuss tactics ahead of the general election. In one episode of Yes, Prime Minister, Jim Hacker explains the rationale of a “working funeral” to his wife: “It is a heaven sent opportunity to have some meaningful conversations … You can have some very useful discussions when the organ is playing but have to shut up during prayers.” State funerals, in particular, are always greatly anticipated since they bring together presidents, prime ministers and diplomats from around the world. One benefit of such a grand Royal occasion is that it is possible to carry out political business in the full glare of the television cameras without recourse to clandestine liaisons that invariably get rumbled. What could they possibly have been discussing just two days after the parties they lead had performed so well in the local elections in England? It was fascinating to see Sir Keir Starmer and Sir Ed Davey in their best bib and tucker at the Coronation on Saturday, chatting away amiably.
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