BRIDGE

Commons win

Andrew Robson

AN ARGUMENT that used to be put for- ward (by the Commons) for the abolish- ment of hereditary peers — that the Lords would cease to win the annual Lords-Com- mons bridge match with such regularity — has recently lost its efficacy. The Commons have won the last two matches and current- ly have so many competent bridge players in their midst that there is apparently stiff competition to gain a place in the team.

The best played hand award in the 1998 match was given to Tony McWalter, Labour MP for Hemel Hempstead, in part- nership with Evan Harris, Lib-Dem. MP for Oxford West and Abingdon.

Dealer East North-South Vulnerable

The Bidding

South West North East

3+

Double

pass 4+ pass

4V

5+ pass pass

5*

pass 5V pass

6V

pass pass pass

West would have done better to support +s immediately. By passing his partner's preemptive 3+ opener, he handed over the initiative to North-South, giving North, Evan Harris, a chance to make the beauti- ful bid of 4+, showing a good hand and asking partner to choose a suit. 'But the ensuing 6V contract was no laydown.

West's +A lead was trumped by declar- er, Tony McWalter. He drew trumps in three rounds, then played •K, •A and led a third 4, taken by East's *J. East found himself endplayed — unwilling to lead a 4 into dummy's 4KJ, he chose to lead a +.Tony discarded his third 4 and trumped in dummy. He could now cash 4K, cross to 4A, and enjoy his two established •s. It was a delicately played hand and full value for the award.