Bemused Westminster lobbyists have been wondering where Keith Vaz's
latest PR offensive is leading.
The former Minister for Europe, who left the Government last June, this
week started trying to charm his way back into public affairs
consultants' good books by sending them desk calendars with his cheery
mugshot on them.
Vaz was publicly criticised after being less than frank with standards
commissioner Elizabeth Filkin's inquiry into his business affairs.
SW1 speculation is that he will soon be seeking support from them for
worthy causes. Sources recall clients in the past stumping up for
charitable interests - a diversity conference here, a kids' party in the
House of Commons there.
'Vaz's crass attempts to curry favour in lobbyland have raised more than
a few chuckles,' says Diary's man at Westminster's Strangers bar.
Readers keen to know why they didn't receive a calendar can e-mail Vaz
directly at kvazmp@housecom.demon.co.uk to find out.
