Michael Gove seems to have provided an object lesson in dealing with the expenses furore. While others have gone to ground, he called an open meeting in his constituency last night.

As one of those present put it:

To call a public meeting whilst public
anger is so apparent was a real political gamble. He submitted himself
to his critics and showed solidity and integrity under fire and emerged
from the evening, if not with his reputation enhanced, then at least
with the allegations addressed and with a demonstration of openness and
self-effacing honesty to which many paid tribute.