Will 2024 be ‘peak democracy'? Because this is the year when four billion people get the chance to vote for their government. In practice, of course, democracy is primarily a negative force – the chance to throw out tyrants or just plain incompetents.

The transfer of power in Britain was notable for its speed and grace. There were no theatrics about losing or gaining office. The new Prime Minister spoke outside No10 on taking office, of his intention to lead a government of service that would ‘tread more lightly on the lives' of voters. Although within a few weeks it was clear that, given the challenges facing the nation, treading more lightly would have to wait a while.