Incidentally, as Ukip grows in power it does seem to struggle with jokes about itself. Despite calling their opponents all manner of names they are affronted when it is dished out in return, even in jest. It also seems to be the case that any defectors have to hand in their sense of humour when they join the party. This was apparent on Thursday, when Douglas Carswell received an award at the Spectator Parliamentarian of the Year awards and gave an acceptance speech. I know Douglas to be amusing and thoughtful, but the joke he tried – something about Ukip being the true heirs to Gladstonian liberalism – got no laughs at all. Funny that.