Back in business

His vast political experience means he operates with several labels attached – failed leadership candidate, former Chancellor and shadow Business Secretary – but it may be another that helps him in marginal seats. The Big Beast is betting that his 40 years as an MP, including 18 years in Government, is proof enough that he has the answers to Britain's long list of economic problems. Much has changed since Mr Clarke last had a red box in his hands, however, and he has gone some way to showing that he isn't stuck in the past. Commitments to hi-tech manufacturing, carbon capture technology and an interest in off-shore wind farms show that Mr Clarke has moved on as the economic mix has shifted.

What hasn't been talked about is Mr Clarke's europhilia. He will have to tackle questions on this.

If, however, he can answer them sufficiently, then those old brown Hush Puppies could be walking back into Whitehall.