The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
‘Embittered’ Shapps criticised for lacking backing of Tory MPs
One of the ringleaders of the plot to oust Theresa May has been criticised by Conservative MPs, who said he lacks support in the party and is “embittered”.
Former Tory chairman Grant Shapps was revealed as one of those behind the bid to remove the Prime Minister from office but has been blasted by MPs.
Mr Shapps was a minister in David Cameron’s government but an ally of the former premier said he has misjudged the situation.
Nadhim Zahawi tweeted: “Inundated with message of support 4 theresa-may frm members. grantshapps has misjudged the mood of the party&MPs”.
Business Minister Margot James said Mr Shapps does not enjoy wide support in the party after he resigned as chairman following allegations of bullying in the Tories’ youth wing.
She posted: “Since road trip turmoil under his party chairmanship Grant Shapps lacks a base in the party.”
Veteran backbencher Michael Fabricant suggested Mr Shapps held a grudge because he is no longer a minister.
“I wouldn’t buy a used car from one embittered colleague – let alone take advice from him about who should be PM,” he said. “Theresa May should remain.” Nadine Dorries, an ally of Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, who has been the subject of speculation about a potential leadership bid amid his perceived disloyalty over Brexit in recent weeks, claimed Mr Shapps was part of a group of Remain-backing MPs seeking to reverse the decision to quit the EU.
She wrote on Twitter: “The plot is by remain MPs to topple the PM, destroy Boris and put a remain leader in place to delay and possibly destroy Brexit”.