There can only be one explanation: that the internal polling is dire. If this event doesn’t move it, resignation inches a step closer.
Assuming no new revelations or his adviser’s resignation, he can either tough it out or order an inquiry.
But there is no simple split between the Left and Right of the Party, and no sense of rebellion, at least yet.
Plus: And a Coronavirus Social Justice Minister. Give thanks for Starmer. And: it’s time for a Virtual Parliament.
Blackman and Latham were elected Joint Secretaries. Further details as and when we have them.
Conservative backbenchers must choose today between two candidates who at first glance at least have much in common.
Both men sit broadly on the centre-right of the Parliamentary Party. That there is no candidate from the centre-left is a sign of internal change.
“We’re on the Hillary Step going strong for the summit but it is shrouded in cloud,” he told the assembled Conservative MPs.
An obscure, unused agreement struck by Cameron and the 1922 Committee back in 2006 is set to come into play.
The result was as expected, and the winner kept his comments tight and spare. But there’s a job at the Brit Awards awaiting Cheryl Gillan.
I just can’t see how parliamentary sovereignty is compatible with a potential Prime Minister being nominated by an extra-parliamentary body.
We also have the result from yesterday evening’s ’92 Group hustings – in which Johnson scooped almost half the vote.
So no more dropouts after Sam Gyimah’s departure earlier this afternoon. The first ballot will be held on Thursday.
Amongst the hopefuls, he fares best on account of his competence, his ability to handle Brexit, manage the economy and unite the country.
Yesterday’s emergency National Convention meeting was a reminder of the influence and power of the grassroots.