THE House on the Hill may be down for the summer, and, yes, I've been out - and about with my colleagues, canvassing, of course, having hundreds of conversations, literally, with hundreds of voters.

This is what the threat of an election can do, Mr. Editor.

However, it now appears as though the brakes have been applied - along with any thought of an early General Election - at least for now. The welcome break got me to thinking about a View From Off The Hill - for a change of pace. Think of it as my contribution to the long holiday weekend, the last of the summer, when we are encouraged to enjoy the fruits of our labour - and those of others. So enjoy.

PS If you're wondering: it's another two months before Parliament re-opens and, as they say, a lot can happen in 24 hours in politics. Imagine two months. Or not.