‘Form a square around the Prittster’

TORY MPS rallied round Priti Patel yesterday after Boris Johnson urged them to “form a square around the Prittster”.

His press secretary Allegra Stratton said Ms Patel needed support on a “testing day”. Health Secretary Matt Hancock added his weight to the blue shield, telling the BBC: “She’s doing an excellent job and delivering on things that matter. In the dealings I’ve had with her she’s been nothing but courteous.” International Trade Secretary Liz Truss said: “I am very proud of the excellent work my friend Priti Patel has done as Home Secretary on our pointsbased immigration system and law and order.

“She is a great person – compassionate, determined, hard working and professional.”

And one-time leadership hopeful Andrea Leadsom joined the chorus, saying: “I have never seen her bully anyone.”