I know my place

There's a backlash at Westminster over plans to allow MPs to jump the queue in Commons coffee shops.

Parliamentary staff have been reminded that MPs have priority access to facilities such as lifts, refreshment facilities and photocopiers.

I'm pleased to report that the Liberal Democrats have started a revolt. They've tabled an early day motion - parliamentary graffiti - to make their views known.

The motion's been signed by, among others, Lembit Opik and Charles Kennedy:

"PRIORITY ACCESS TO FACILITIES 9:10:07

That this House notes with astonishment the announcement made on Tuesday 9th October that hon. Members should have priority access to services throughout the Commons part of the Parliamentary Estate; further notes that such an approach is expedient in certain areas at certain times, such as during a division, but not everywhere all the time; believes that this announcement serves to create a rigid two-tier system which is counter to an enlightened image of Parliament; further believes that there is merit in a general presumption of equality on the Parliamentary Estate; and urges the Administration Committee to reconsider."

It looks like Messrs Opik and Kennedy won't pull rank if you find yourself at the front of the queue for a large capuccino and a blueberry muffin - but I'll try to put their egalitarianism to the test asap.