IT was Britain’s first female Prime Minister who commented that: “In politics, if you want anything said, ask a man. If you want anything done, ask a woman”. Our second female PM is once again proving the truth of that statement. Her speech this week showed that she is absolutely committed to 'doing Brexit' in the best way possible for the country using a clear, consistent, logical and sensible plan.

Many had feared an ideological Brexit stance, led by the divisive and corrosive agitators who have dogged the debate for many years (and who in my view would be much better propping up a bar than being politicians). But instead we had a thoughtful set of objectives that make the path much clearer.

We now know we cannot be part of the single market and control immigration in the way we want, but we can propose with confidence a free trade agreement with the EU and a form of customs agreement that (like the one enjoyed by Turkey) gives certain British industrial sectors tariff-free trade access across Europe.

Being out of the single market of course means that there is no contribution to the EU budget – but there are areas – science and technology projects say, or in security co-operation, where we would expect to collaborate fully with EU colleagues in a way that benefits us all. We want to guarantee the rights of resident EU nationals as soon as other countries can agree to do the same.

But it was the tone, as much as the content, of the speech that has caused so much comment, combining conciliation, and determination as well as a clear understanding of the concerns of both sides in the referendum vote.

Her desire to do nothing that will damage the prospect of our neighbours was clear – as was the unequivocal statement that the Government will walk away with no deal rather than a bad deal for Britain.

Prime Minister May understood well the political climate in Europe that is driving much of the language coming out of Europe, but warned political leaders that to propose a punitive deal that punishes Britain for the referendum result would be an act of “calamitous self-harm” – and one that would force us to act to preserve our own economic interests.

So, we have a 12-point plan that is congruent and coherent, fair but firm; a timetable for the process; clarity on the involvement of Parliament and a Government that is united behind the Prime Minister. I’m glad we asked a woman to do this momentous job.