As the SDP enters a - reportedly rather rushed - leadership election, it feels appropriate to reflect on the moments leading up to this. The first knowledge we had on this came from a discussion with the office of Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change HK, releasing this statement;

> I have spoken to the party Deputy Leader, who has not heard from Saunders since the allegations arose. I have made clear that if Saunders makes no statement by 10pm UK time then I will be tabling a motion of no confidence in his leadership.

> His actions and behaviour over the last weeks have been troubling to say the least. While it has been his intention to resign the leadership once a budget has passed, I cannot sit by and allow him to continue his behaviour in this position for any longer.

> I am saddened that it has come to this. Saunders is a trusted friend of mine, but he lacks the skills necessary to be the leader that this Party needs.

Prior to the Vote of No Confidence, DF44 managed to obtain an interview with HK. Discussions started on the matter of the VoNC itself;

DF44: Would I be reasonable to say that the reason for the VoNC is the comment of "retard" then? Or generalised behaviour?

HK: Generalised behaviour, yes. But "retard" is the catalyst - he has a... track record, shall we say.

DF44: You mentioned that you want a statement by 10 PM. What specific committments are you looking for from Saunders?

HK: An apology for his remarks, an admission that he has bought the Party into disrepute because of his remarks, and a clear timetable for his exit as leader.

With these rather firm remarks clearing any doubt, the topic of the interview turned towards the broader political picture, and the future of Sunrise at large.

DF44: Obviously by calling a VoNC, do you worry in any way that you're weakening the Sunrise cabinet, which has recently been plagued with resignations?

HK: It is my view that Saunders is the main source of contention within the cabinet. Removing him would remove the weak link. I think it should be the aim of whoever succeeds Saunders as leader to renegotiate the position of the Social Democrats in the cabinet. That should include relinquishing the Treasury.

DF44: What role do you think the SDP should take in exchange for treasury? Or is that one for further down the line?

HK: Education, perhaps. Samuel J. Booker has a deep and extensive knowledge of the sorts of reform we need to our Education system.

Conversation here swung towards current events, including the more public response that was being prepared against Saunders, as well as the future for HK and the party at large...

DF44: An interesting trade, presumably exchanging the Treasury to the Liberal Democrats. Now, you might not be aware, but I do believe an urgent questions session has been tabled on the matter of the Chancellor's behaviour. From today's comments, would I be able to assume you would speak out against Saunders, should such a debate occur?

HK: I'm not the type to discuss internal party matters in the House.

DF44: A noble position, that I imagine many party leaders would wish for in their party MPs! Now, it is of course quite possible - assuming a fair bit here - that a VoNC would not be successful in Saunders. May I ask, where would that leave you politically?

HK: I think you underestimate the level of frustration felt by our party membership.

DF44: Your confidence is noted! Do you think that there's any chance that Saunders would serve in cabinet under a new leader?

HK: Depends on whether the new leader renegotiates our position in the coalition, and whether Saunders wants to serve at all.

DF44: If Saunders was to serve in cabinet, would you continue to do so? Your work in ECC has been noted for - and it is a change - being fairly active.

HK: Yes, my position as Secretary of State for Energy & Climate Change isn't driven by political ambition or motivation against the leader. Environment and energy policy has been my focus ever since I was an environmental lawyer. I'm not going to stop the good work of this government in that area over an internal party dispute.

With a final defense of the Government, I bid HK adieu. As per tradition, I had a train to catch!