Mitchell ‘was a rude companion’

Politics: Former Tory chief whip Andrew Mitchell makes for a rude travel companion, a police officer told the High Court yesterday.

Inspector Duncan Johnson accompanied the Sutton Coldfield MP on two official trips in 2011.

In a hearing of the libel case launched by Mr Mitchell against News Group Newspapers, Mr Johnson said: “He was unpleasant until he got what he wanted.”

Schools forced to ban extremists

Freedom Of Speech: Schools and universities will be made to ban potential extremists under new anti-terror Bill, Home Secretary Theresa May announced yesterday.

The new measures include a duty placed on named organisations to help stop radicalisation.

Ministers will be able to issue them with enforcement orders if they don’t comply.

Jolie sees aide take Lords seat

Parliament: Hollywood star and humanitarian Angelina Jolie came to Parliament to see a former special adviser take her seat in the House of Lords.

Bosnian-born aide Arminka Helic is credited with securing former foreign secretary William Hague’s commitment to end sexual violence in war zones.