The last couple of weeks have seen an explosion in Labour infighting - with attacks coming from the back benches and the cabinet.  Today though saw the biggest attack yet; a letter from Charles Clarke in the times.  The letter is significant on a number of levels, not least because it signals the beginning of a potential challenge to Brown’s leadership if May 1st turns out as badly for Labour as many expect. 

It’s important to bear in mind that Clarke’s criticism, like that of the others, is a direct result of Brown’s approach to personal relationships; namely that they exist in black or white, enemy or friend.  The simple truth of life under Brown is that if you aren’t a ‘friend’ you have absolutely nothing to lose by attacking him, and indeed in the current climate have everything to gain. 

The not so good ship Brown is sinking and the rats are looking for an escape route.  By positioning himself as he has Clarke may very well be the life-raft the marginal back-benchers are looking for, and the bridge from Brown to the next leader. 

Clarke has found himself in a very fortunate position, but only because Brown sees relationships like a computer sees data: as ones and zeros…