The most modest reform, taxing the winter fuel allowance, would save £250 million, which could go directly to the poorest schools.

His critics represented this modest reform as a craven surrender to republicanism.

The modest reform boosted revenues by 25% in the following year, but was still nowhere near enough to cover the gap.

More modest reforms here at home also indicate that choice works.

Some modest reforms have been pushed through to reduce costs, generally affecting new employees.