The signing season

Well it's that time of the year. Yes, my loyal readers, it's time for MPs to sign their Christmas cards.

This is one of the true marathons of the year for MPs.

With hundreds to sign, they risk paper cuts, and ridicule at home, should they miss an important constituent. Members can be seen in the House madly signing away from now until the Commons breaks for holidays.

I saw the first signers on Monday as I sat in the Press Gallery, watching Question Period. Looking straight down I saw two Conservative MPs, Ray Boughen and Kelly Block signing away.

Block has chosen a standard picture of the Centre Block lit by Christmas lights. Boughen had chosen a picture of the Centre Block through some trees. Unfortunately I hadn't brought my opera glasses, so that's the best description I can give.
 
Now a source in an MP's office tells me in September they are sent six or so standard designs. Anything more original will be charged to the member's operating budget. When you are sending out a couple of thousand cards, the costs can add up. So we'll soon be able to tell which MPs are the frugal ones.
 
For those lucky enough to get a Christmas card, you can tell how close to the sender you are. I'm told of the 2,000 or so sent from one office, only 100-500 are signed by the sender.
 
Now, I am going to make it my mission to bring you the best of this year's Christmas Card
Collection. Please watch this space.