Challenge to PM moves closer as more MPs quit

TWO more Conservative MPs resigned from the Government last night.

Both parliamentary private secretaries, they said they were stepping down because of their concern over the direction of Brexit negotiations.

Chris Green, PPS to Transport Secretary Chris Grayling, announced his departure from the position following last night’s 19 Committee meeting with the Prime Minister.

Conor Burns, who was Boris Johnson’s PPS at the Foreign Office, also announced his resignation.

Mr Green’s constituency Bolton West voted 55.6 per cent Leave in the

016 referendum and Mr Burns’ constituency Bournemouth West voted 57.7 per cent Leave.

Although the role of a PPS is often described as a ministerial ‘bag carrier’, it shows the growing discontent within the Conservative Party and heightens speculation of a challenge to Theresa May’s leadership.

An official contest can be triggered if 15 per cent of Conservative MPs write to the party’s backbench 19 Committee saying they have lost confidence in the Prime Minister, which equates to 48 MPs.

They would have to notify committee chairman Graham Brady, who would hold a no-confidence vote. Should the Prime Minister lose, he would announce the start of a leadership contest and invite nominations.

If there is just one candidate, they automatically become leader. If there is more than two, Tory MPs would whittle down the candidates to two who would face a vote among the membership of the whole party.