Conference Day 3

I don't know if it was the vast quantities of free alcohol that disappeared down thousands of throats on Tuesday night, but Wednesday appeared much quieter in general, and in the morning in particular. But anyway, highlights of Day 3 include:

I went to an excellent fringe event on the effects of regulation on the banking industry. The speakers debated the level of desired regulation, and two speakers made excellent points for the industry to take over more of a self-regulatory role. It was a very interesting discussion on the effects of bank regulation, and also the rather worrying new role that the G20 has taken on.

Chris Grayling's unfortunate mistake on General Dannatt - Today the Conservatives should be on an even greater high than previous days in the media. General Dannatt, the recently retired British Army Chief, has agreed to be elevated to the House of Lords as a Tory Peer (see how good the appointed Lords is?) and serve as a Defence advisor to a Conservative Government. Unfortunately no-one advised Mr Grayling of this new development, and when he was asked about it by the BBC he (seemingly on the mistaken belief that Labour had offered General Dannatt a job) said that he hoped 'it wasn't a political gimmick'. Cue laughter and eye-rolling of press gallery.

Last night's international office party - I managed to wangle my way into this rather exciting event which is put on for diplomats and observers from foreign centre-right parties. The President of the Maldives was in attendance, as were a number of MP's from other aligned parties (such as the Canadian Conservatives and New Zealand National Party). William Hague (isn't he wonderful?) gave a magnificent speech and the wine and canapés flowed freely late into the night.

This morning is very quiet. The fringe events are over (for the most part), and there are only a few speeches left, of which only two are high profile. William Hague will speak on foreign affairs, and then the big tamale (David Cameron) will speak at about 2pm on the need to end the 'culture of irresponsibility'. And then we all decamp back to London and leave Manchester behind. Next year - Birmingham!