The tumultuous days since the unanticipated General Election result have seen Westminster government at its most dysfunctional. The need for Theresa May to secure a parliamentary majority has meant delays to the parliamentary timetable. And last week's Queen's Speech revealed the Government's programme has been pruned of controversial legislation which might not make it through Parliament. The Conservative manifesto will not be implemented in full.

Meanwhile, European partners are reminding us of the need to get on and start Brexit negotiations, a dauntingly complex task for a government with a large majority, let alone one which depends on good will from another party to govern.