Answer the question, PM .. custard cream or bourbons?

Byline: BOB ROBERTS

GORDON Brown was accused of dunking the question yesterday - after refusing to name his favourite biscuit.

In an hour-long internet chat with mums, the PM was happy to chat about the NHS and education but would not tackle the crunch issue.

A woman on the Mumsnet site calling herself MadameDefarge said sarcastically: "Maybe he needs to go and consult with his advisers on what would be the most votewinning biscuit to admit to liking?"

Another called FlamingoBingo said: "He's lost my vote for good."

And cleanandclothed said: "He was doing OK until then, that was pure crapola and very patronising."

After 45 minutes of complaints a user named Sarah Brown posted an answer: "Shortbread, actually." At first Downing Street refused to confirm if it was the PM's wife, a big fan of Mumsnet, who would have followed her husband's appearance.

No 10 later confirmed it was NOT The PM's wife.

Despite the embarrassing web episode, which echoed Mr Brown's infamous smiling appearance on YouTube, officials said the PM would continue to use the web to get his message across.

WHAT COULD HIS FAVE BE?

Jammie Dodger

To remind him of Tony Blair, who got out of power before the crash.

Kit Kat

Perfect for the Prime Minister, after all, he's badly in need of a break.

Tuc

Tribute to the brothers in the trade unions who will back him to the end.

Rich Tea

Reminder of the good times - before the credit crunch spoiled things.

Nice

Way to do it when he meets voters come election time... and now smile.

CAPTION(S):

CRUMB OFF IT PM with Jack Straw before the opening of the new Supreme Court yesterday