Leadership in a democracy

David Davis is the Deputy Leader of the Conservative Party. He wil resign his seat in the House of Commons to fight a by-election on the single issue of the government's proposed legislation to increase to 42 days the limit of detention of terrorism suspects without charge. While there can be other views on the specifics, his general points are spot on. Davis is a bigger man than David Cameron who won the leadership election, heavily plugged by the BBC as a 'compasionate conservative' - ie socially liberal. This deed will brand Davis as a leader and may draw a historic line in the sand against state control of justice.

Davis has led a real life in the Army and in business. His type restores one's faith in mainstream politics.