Summer is a good time to reflect on the rather strange way in which our politics has been conducted recently. Although Westminster politics has always been a bit murky, it's hard not to feel that it has taken a distinctly different turn. In the past any talk of undue favouritism to certain companies or individuals would have seen you chased out of the door. Now it seems to be no barrier to anything, be that over planning decisions, the issuing of contracts or how you paid for your curtains.

Once upon a time, the way you lived your personal life could bring you down. The desire for politicians to behave as saints has largely gone, but I doubt we ever thought we would have quite so many stories of affairs, marriage break ups, and inappropriate relations with staff – with all the associated cover ups and stretching of the truth that goes with them – as we do now.