Prezza rides to the rescue
Number Ten always hoped that there would come a "tipping point" in the row about schools reform where the worry about offering David Cameron a victory outweighed concerns about school reforms. 
Ironically, defeat in the Commons the other night might have brought that tipping point closer. No-one cares more about not letting the Tories back in than John Prescott. But no-one cares more about not returning to the divisive days of school selection than Prezza. (Always remember that he failed his 11 plus and didn't get the bike on offer for passing it).
Having, uncharacteristically, allowed his private worries about school reforms to become public, it is an important moment when he publicly switches to backing them.
His endorsement won't, in itself, bring around the rebels. They will study hard the idea of giving local authorities "strategic oversight" of all state schools. It is that and not admissions policy which holds the key to this rebellion. It's the simple question of where power lies.
Tony Blair wants to give it to parents and headteachers. Many in the Labour Party fear the anarchy that could produce, and want it in the hands of democratically elected councillors. Nevertheles, today's speech by John Prescott is a milestone.
P.S. Let me know if you see him riding about on a new Raleigh.
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