The new Prime Minister will inherit the worst political legacy in living memory – with the very barest of working majorities.
The NHS, the environment, childcare: the creative energies of Team Johnson must be poured into new policies for these.
How could Johnson plausibly seek a mandate for a no-deal exit whilst allowing MPs explicitly opposed to that programme to be Conservative candidates?
If the campaign management were outsourced, as recently, who would take it on? And if it weren’t, could CCHQ really cope?
Margot James resigned as a minister following her rebellion. Meanwhile, the Chancellor joined Gauke and Clark in failing to support the Government.
The Justice Secretary said he “can’t support a policy of being prepared to leave the EU without a deal.”
Claims about an organised, hostile takeover of the Party have reared their heads again. Is there any truth to them?
Our future Conservative Party leadership needs to address quickly and effectively the problems which have led to the latter’s rise.
He is not wide of the election manifesto on which he stood, and should not be no-confidenced this evening. But there is a sting in the tail.
Plus: How I was booed in Birmingham. On to Nottingham…via Exeter. And: who would I vote for, if I had a vote?
Gove, Stewart and perhaps others too could see their standing and prospects damaged this afternoon.
So no more dropouts after Sam Gyimah’s departure earlier this afternoon. The first ballot will be held on Thursday.
If Boris Johnson wants to pursue a No Deal exit, then he will have a fight on his hands with MPs.