Matthew Vickers has resigned as Conservative Deputy Chair to back Robert Jenrick in the heated Tory leadership race, which could affect the outcome of a close race. Here’s the full story.
A Surprisingly Uninteresting Election
The Conservative leadership election has been defined by its profound boredom, which is all the more surprising considering the hot tempers and factional infighting that were endemic in the party in the lead-up to the general election.
A Sole High-Profile Resignation
Apart from Suella Braverman deciding not to run because, she claimed, the party was not interested in listening to her points of view, the race has not seen any major figures come out in support of or against any one candidate—until now.
Vickers Steps Down
Matthew Vickers, the Deputy Chair of the Conservative Party, has resigned from his position to support Robert Jenrick, which may see Jenrick emerge as the frontrunner. Vickers was forced to resign because the Conservative Party Headquarters remained officially neutral in the contest.
Jenrick Gains a Key Endorsement
Though Vickers is not a Conservative heavyweight, he has held the position of Deputy Chair since Boris Johnson appointed him in 2022, and the Jenrick campaign welcomed his endorsement.
Vickers’ Standout Hustings
Vickers endorsed Jenrick following a Conservative hustings, which he hosted and was attended by five of the six leadership contenders. Kemi Badenoch, considered the frontrunner from the party’s right, was notably absent due to a family holiday.
“I’m Backing Jenrick”
Following the hustings, Vickers wrote on X, “I’m backing Jenrick. We need a leader who understands what is needed to take our party forward. While all candidates have fantastic visions for our country, I believe @RobertJenrick is the right person for the job. His passion and credibility will win back the nation’s trust.”
Jenrick’s Grateful Response
Jenrick welcomed Vickers’ endorsement, telling Sky News, “It’s great to have the backing of such a well-respected Conservative campaigner and champion for levelling up in the North East.”
Jenrick’s Mission to Rebuild
He added, “As we rebuild in opposition, we must return to our roots as a truly national party – of and for the entire country – mission-focussed on spreading opportunity to every corner of the UK.”
Challenges Ahead
Jenrick’s campaign has been centred on “rebuilding in opposition” and addressing the many challenges that led to the party’s defeat in the last general election.
Support in the North
Vickers’ endorsement is expected to bolster Jenrick’s standing among Tory members, particularly in the North, where Vickers has been a prominent advocate for the party.
Polling Woes for Jenrick
However, despite Vickers’ support, Jenrick faces an uphill battle for his party’s leadership. Recent polling from Techne UK shows him trailing behind other candidates.
Cleverly Takes the Lead
The poll of 805 Tory Party members placed James Cleverly as the frontrunner with 26% of the vote, followed by Priti Patel with 20%, Kemi Badenoch with 14%, and Tom Tugendhat with 11%.
Jenrick Struggles With 10%
Disappointingly for him and his campaign, Jenrick secured 10% of the vote, placing him ahead of only Mel Stride, who received a measly 4%.
No Clear Favourite Yet
The leadership contest has yet to produce a clear favourite, with several recent polls yielding wildly different results. Cleverly has been heralded as the frontrunner from the party’s centrist wing, with Suella Braverman emerging as a favourite from the party’s right.
The Biggest Threat: Apathy
However, arguably the biggest threat to the Conservatives seeking to replace interim leader Rishi Sunak is apathy.
Public Indifference Grows
A recent Ipsos poll showed that a staggering 62% of the public simply did not care who would become Conservative leader.
Upcoming Votes and “Beauty Contest”
The Conservative leadership contest will proceed with a series of votes among Tory MPs, beginning in early September, which will narrow the field of candidates from six to four.
Conference Showdown
These remaining candidates will participate in what has been dubbed a “beauty contest” at the Conservative Party conference, scheduled to take place between September 29 and October 2.
Final Vote Among Members
Following the conference, MPs will vote again to reduce the field to two finalists. The final decision will then be handed over to the entire Conservative membership, who will cast their votes to determine the next party leader.
A November 2nd Decision
The outcome of the leadership race is set to be announced on November 2. The party will then have a new leader who will face the unenviable tasks of leading the party in opposition, rebuilding the tarnished Conservative brand, and uniting a party that has become riven with factional infighting.
Will Vickers’ Resignation Matter?
With the Conservative leadership election drawing ever closer, it remains to be seen whether Vickers’ endorsement of Jenrick will help or hinder his campaign and whether such a high-profile resignation will finally bring the race to the public’s attention.
Brace for Impact: The Tax Increase Labour Denied Has Arrived, Reeves Delivers a Grim Outlook
Rachel Reeves delivers the gloomy news, and citizens have to accept the inevitable. The tax increase might complicate finances for some households and businesses. Brace for Impact: The Tax Increase Labour Denied Has Arrived, Reeves Delivers a Grim Outlook
Russia Issues Ultimatum to UK Over Ukraine’s Use of British Arms
Russia has threatened to attack British targets if Ukraine uses UK-supplied weapons amid rising tensions and the recent arrest of a British man charged with spying for Russia. Here’s the full story. Russia Issues Ultimatum to UK Over Ukraine’s Use of British Arms
Tommy Robinson Sparks National Outrage With Far-Right ‘We Want Our Country Back’ Protest in London
Police had their work cut out at a recent protest led by Tommy Robinson in London. Full story. Tommy Robinson Sparks National Outrage With Far-Right ‘We Want Our Country Back’ Protest in London
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Fred Duval.
Grant Gallacher is a seasoned writer with expertise in politics and impactful daily news. His work, deeply rooted in addressing issues that resonate with a wide audience, showcases an unwavering commitment to bringing forth the stories that matter. He is also known for satirical writing and stand up comedy.