SEATS TO GO IF THEY BATTLE BREXIT PARTY
Remainer Tory MP has told the Sunday Express that there have been discussions for letters to be sent to the 1922 committee to arrange a vote of confidence in Mr Johnson’s leadership.
This would be an internal Tory vote relating to the party leader, rather than the Government.
The MP said: “This is being considered by a number of colleagues.
“We might still be able to stop this situation getting worse – however, it relies upon enough colleagues being courageous and principled.”
It is thought that former ministers led by ex-chancellor Philip Hammond, David Gauke and Rory Stewart could now boost the numbers of the rebels aiming to destabilise Mr Johnson.
However, in a sign that the turmoil gripping the Tories is far from over, there is also anger among some of the Brexiteers because Mr Johnson gave key ministerial posts to Remainers.
From the so-called group of 28 “Spartans” who refused to back
‘Only in foothills of the project’
Theresa May’s deal, only three were given ministerial jobs. The Prime Minister is appealing for patience with one MP who asked him why he had been overlooked, being told: “We are only in the foothills of the project.”
It is understood some former Cabinet ministers – such as Owen Paterson – were frozen out because Mr Johnson was frustrated they “played hardball” in his talks with the European Research Group of MPS to get their support.
This forced him to commit to leave the EU by October 31.
Another Brexiteer who was overlooked said: “We are happy with the direction of the Government at the moment and the rhetoric.
“But if there is an attempt to bring back the Withdrawal Agreement or move the leave date beyond 31 October then he [the Prime Minister] will not have our support. In fact, it will be over for the party.”
Meanwhile, millions of 50p coins celebrating Brexit are being minted to be rolled out on the EU departure date of October 31.
The coins had originally been designed for a March 29 departure but were held back after Brexit was delayed.