Mordaunt says she is getting on with her job

Penny Mordaunt insisted she was “getting on with my job” amid speculation she is being lined up as a replacement for Rishi Sunak.

The Commons Leader was questioned about her loyalty to the Prime Minister following reports she could replace him if Mr Sunak faced a no confidence vote before the general election.

Chancellor Jeremy Hunt hinted the Prime Minister could go to the country in October, but Tory plotters may seek to oust him before then if the party’s fortunes do not improve.

Mr Sunak will face Prime Minister’s Questions and then a behind-closed-doors appearance in front of the Conservative backbench 1922 Committee today.

Ms Mordaunt is reportedly being considered as a unity candidate who could be acceptable to both the Tory right and moderates if there is a last-ditch change in leaders before the election.

Asked if she supported the Prime Minister, she told reporters: “I’m getting on with my job and I recommend it.”

Mr Sunak expects to hold an election in the second half of 2024 and Mr Hunt appeared to indicate that October was the most likely month as he gave evidence to a House of Lords committee.

Speaking about departmental funding he said: “This particular spending review has to be complete before next April, when the next financial year starts.

“And of course if the general election is in October that will mean it’s very very tight and that is why we are thinking in advance about the most important element of that spending review.”

Meanwhile, a former Cabinet minister suggested the Tories’ current polling woes could not solely be blamed on the Prime Minister.

Sir Jacob Rees-mogg said the party had to stick with Mr Sunak until the election.