Reverse spin

The Independent is one of a number papers stating that the government's proposals to give families a £150 "fuel rebate" were leaked because a civil servant was overheard discussing them on the train.

The culprit is identified as Brian Pender, Permanent Secretary at the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform. He's probably quite embarrassed. We get so used to this sort of proposal being "leaked" on purpose, it's hard to believe that anyone could do something so careless - and counterproductive.

The Indy also covers the alleged damage to the housing market caused by speculation over stamp duty. The government is right to say that it is not its fault if the media create this type of speculation, but if, as the Indy describes. it was No. 10 that fueled it, it's another own goal.