But just as the genetic material of the virus dictates the next wave of infections, so our own genetic make-up can influence our susceptibility to these.

BBC: Winter bugs: A yearly battle for dominance

They fear that switching elections to the party sphere would both import the virus of party politics into backbench business, and strengthen the power of the party machines to influence the make-up of the committee.

BBC: The end of the 'Westminster Spring'?