The pervasive mood of negativity masks that many do have reason to be grateful for the election of this government

As slogans go, it is a tongue-twister. You wouldn’t want to try organising a chant of “Starmer Farmer Harmer” with a group who had been necking bellyfuls of cider. Other jibes against the Labour leader are available, including “Two-Tier Keir”, “Free Gear Keir” and “Gap Year Keir”, the latter a rhyming raspberry about how much of the prime minister’s time is spent at summits abroad.

He is accumulating rude nicknames because he is making enemies. Those approving of his performance as prime minister are currently outnumbered two to one by those expressing disapproval. His party’s most hyperbolic critics are already calling this “the most hated government ever”. That puts King John, Lord North and Liz Truss in their places.