The Indianapolis motor-racing circuit in the American Mid-West was constructed in the early 20th century originally ‘brick by brick’. In fact, for that reason, the finish line today remains of brick construction. Yesterday, Britain’s Lewis Hamilton crossed that line first, thereby securing the second F1 victory of his career. A remarkable achievement for a man so young.

The meteoric rise of the young Englishman is the summer story of British sport. All informed sports commentators are in awe of his driving skill, wondering how he has climbed to first place in the World Championship so soon. The answer appears to be in the McClaren team’s driver-development programme. The team’s supremo, Ron Dennis, planned for Hamilton’s success many years ago. With his driver’s talent and the team’s hardwork, patience and dedication, Mr Dennis has now delivered the finished article. Laying a firm foundation a few years ago appears to have now provided ample returns for the McClaren team.

Conservative commentators could easily draw a parallel between Hamilton’s burgeoning career and David Cameron’s bid for Number 10. Today, I was fortunate enough to be at the Shadow Leader’s keynote speech in Tooting, South London. It had been billed, somewhat sensationally, as a ‘make or break’ speech for Mr Cameron. If it was, then I believe it succeeded in solidifying the foundations the Cameron team have been laying over the last 18 months.

David Cameron’s message was simple: “The British people have a clear choice. A choice between two different approaches to running the country”. By saying this, he has clearly drawn the battle lines for the next General Election. On one side stands the dour Scot, the old politician, the ‘top-down’ centralist. On the other side stands the new politician, the young man who trusts people’s decisions about their own lives and understands the limitations of government, the leader who is a true localist. Mr Brown trumpets state control whilst Mr Cameron advocates social responsibility.

By applying Conservative principles to the challenges of this new century, David Cameron has proved that his Party understands and is ready to lead this country. By emphasising security and opportunity for all he has successfully moved his Party firmly into the political centre ground. For he knows that it is there that the next General Election will be won or lost.

The Conservative leader, like the McClaren boss, has carefully built a new reputation ‘brick by brick’. Consequently, that reputation has got firm foundations. Today, those of us who were lucky enough to be present, witnessed the product of that dedicated and patient preparation. Ample returns at the ballot box should deservedly follow.