So the London markets battle is back on. Which is surprising to say the least after the apparent downing of arms at the end of the last stage of the judicial review.

It seems that a great deal of unseen pressure is being brought to bear within the corridors of power at the Corporation.

Tenants at Spitalfields certainly felt the judicial process had ended and, despite their calls for a level playing field, had accepted that a solution was probably best negotiated outside of the courtroom. The problems that face-to-face selling of meat and fish would cause for Smithfield and Billingsgate are of course more far-reaching in the immediate term. So it is perhaps understandable that the weight of their argument is stirring the Corporation into action.

I get the distinct impression though, that the Corporation would be more than happy to find another route to eventual settlement with New Covent Garden’s owners.

Perhaps this is a tactic to flush out an answer from the government. If so, it could backfire badly. This administration has rarely shown any inclination to move outside of its own pre-ordained box. And a third defeat for the Corporation would be embarrassing, particularly in light of the comments made about its case in both previous hearings.

• Six weeks and counting until the inaugural Re:fresh Conference and Awards. The interest in this event has been tremendous. We have published details of the speakers and sponsors in the Journal in the last few weeks, and delegate spaces and tables at the Awards gala dinner are selling fast.

I would encourage you to reserve your places now, to avoid disappointment.