Johnson wants to be Brown's number two.

Big Al Johnson has finally declared his intention to only stand for the Deputy Leadership of the party, instead of going for the top job.

So why the change of heart, after all he was practically given a blessing to do so by Blair. It looks as though Gordon Brown has been busy in buying off possible contenders, with Big Al almost certain for a top job in the cabinet, if he doesn't succeed in the Deputy contest.

Either that or the fact that he is he is still reeling from his horrendous attempts to look powerful, with the faith schools admissions u-turn, and the whole "johnson4leader" internet domain business uncovered by Dizzy back in September.

So does this mean Gordon will get his coronation? It will all depend on whether he can fend of the master of "policy off the cuff", John Reid.