Londoner's Diary: A C Grayling considers challenging namesake Chris

Two Graylings, quite unalike... The Londoner was at the Wellcome Collection in Euston last night for its trust’s annual prize. Guests included A C Grayling, pictured, who toasted the nominees but also told us that he was contemplating a political career in Epsom.

“I considered standing in Chris Grayling’s constituency,” the philosopher said. “He’s no relation of mine — he’s a very ardent Brexiter — but just having another Grayling on the ballot paper might reduce his votes — it’s not too late.” So what’s stopping him? “I would be so appalled to win,” he said. “There are 650 MPs and most of them are just lobby fodder. To be an MP must be the most ghastly occupation ever: the only way you can get ahead in politics is to have your nose firmly clasped on the buttocks of the person on the greasy pole above you.”

The prize, rewarding books about health and medicine, was won by French author Maylis de Kerangal, for her novel Mend the Living. With Gauls on the brain, what would Grayling suggest if Le Pen wins? “I’d bring back the Maquis,” he said.

For all of today's Diary click here.

Follow The Londoner on Twitter and Facebook here