First, there are those who are true believers in the project, like Laura Sandys and Ken Clarke. They are clear as to their beliefs that Britain is a failing construct, that we cannot and should not ever leave the European Union. Then there are the “usual suspects”, such as Philip Davies and Douglas Carswell, who have for years prosecuted the idea that Britain would be better off out. Between these poles are a third group: those who follow the party line. They talk as if they were sceptical, as David Cameron is wont to do, but believe, with him, that whatever offer they are given by Brussels, in the end we must remain in. The most interesting category, however, about 100-strong, comprises what I would call the “three-pint heroes”. They give the government line, but after a few libations will say, sotto voce: “You know what, Nigel. I agree with you. When the vote comes I’ll be voting for an out.” I cannot remember how many times that I have been told this, though always “strictly between ourselves, old bean”.