15 JANUARY 1965, Page 7

On a Party in Opposition

By Mr. Alexander Pope

Lo, the poor Tory fronts his trembling foe And deals out flout for flout and blow for blow. Learning with careful conning from the book The modern Image and the new-cut Look. Mindful that Leaders as a general rule Should not henceforth come from a Public School, He, to make clear he's kept the party free, Reserves himself the right to disagree. Against the blows of venomous Fate immuned, Willing to strike but yet afraid to wound. First he makes certain, ere he dare begin, There is no sort of danger he may win. All forms of government yet fools detest. Whatc'er is PEST administered is Pest.

CHRISTOPHER HOLLIS