Will fists fly at the Tories’ summer bash?

WHEN the dust settles on the EU referendum, the Tory party’s wounds may take months, even years, to heal. Longstanding friendships between the likes of David Cameron and Justice Secretary Michael Gove are already under huge strain. So which bright spark thought it was a good idea to stage the party’s annual summer ball only six days after the votes have been counted?

And it’s not as if the warring parties will be able to cry off with a headache: every Cabinet minister has been instructed to attend.

The PM will make the keynote speech, while Boris Johnson is also attending the gala at the swish Hurlingham Club in Fulham, South-West London. All this makes the seating plan a nightmare. ‘We will have to put the Remain and Leave supporters at opposite ends of the room,’ sighs my Tory mole.

Mike Chattey, head of fundraising at Tory HQ, says in a letter to donors: ‘ Taking place at one of London’s most spectacular summer venues and only six days after the referendum — it will be a memorable and important occasion for the party’s closest supporters.’

It could certainly be memorable if drink is taken and insults start to fly — whether they’re aimed at the gloating victors or seething losers.

Prices for this ill-timed beano are certainly eye-watering. Tickets range from £5,000 for a standard table of ten to £15,000 for a Premium Plus table. So which table will Gove and Johnson be put on if the Brexit side wins? Oh, to be a fly on the wall.

It’s just a shame they couldn’t hold the bash at the old In & Out Club in Piccadilly.