Serenity is not a word often associated with politics, particularly nationalist politics. But since the Scottish National party won its dramatic victory in the Scottish parliamentary elections five months ago, Scotland has been a serene place. Less fractious, more relaxed.

This mood pervaded the governing party as it gently surveyed the prospect of a general election, now deferred. The SNP is at ease. It knew it could increase its share of the vote (which has averaged about 18 per cent in the past seven general elections) and gain a few seats.