Boris Johnson escapes wrath of his own backbenchers as he moves forward with social distancing gamble

For all the criticism of the PM’s handling of the crisis, he is managing this part quite well, writes John Rentoul

The Tory leader faces MPs in the Commons yesterday (PA)

Boris Johnson stood to speak in the House of Commons, less worried about his opponent in front of him than about the row of fitfully active volcanoes on the benches behind him.

He seemed to have the parliamentary balancing act about right. He was helped by Keir Starmer, who reverted rather abruptly to the “constructive” bit of constructive opposition when it came to the easing of lockdown. He wanted to study the details and he had some questions, but, “overall, I welcome this statement”, said the Labour leader.

This is interesting, because the opinion polls suggest the public is still fearful about reducing the two-metre guideline. But public opinion may be shifting towards saving jobs, as the redundancy notices start to go out, and Starmer may want to avoid being left on the wrong side of the voters. Later, Chris Whitty, the chief medical officer, struck a cautionary tone during the last of the daily briefings – which was taken by the prime minister. But he spoke of the “balance of risks” and did not undermine Johnson’s message.