So who is the man – or woman – who can save theTories...and Britain?

HERCULEAN tasks now face the country and the Conservative Party. We need to end this unbearable cycle of national humiliation, and avert the threat to democracy itself posed by the failure to fulfil the referendum verdict.

There is also a pressing need to find a new leader who can restore common sense, and who can defeat Jeremy Corbyn in the General Election which now seems increasingly unavoidable.

The Mail on Sunday has given its full support to Theresa May, whatever our disagreements. She has worked unselfishly for the national interest, dutifully enduring abuse and public humiliation.

But she has now clearly signalled the end of her premiership. It is reasonable and timely to consider the emerging Tory alternatives.

In terms of straightforward political skill and experience, Jeremy Hunt must be among the main contenders. He has a flexible mind, and is prepared to change it when the facts change. A former Remainer, he became a Brexit realist because he recognised the need to respect the popular verdict. He is a unifier. He has shown considerable competence as a Minister, notably while he was in charge of the NHS, a responsibility which defeats many politicians. But has he the force and fire to beat Jeremy Corbyn?

Sajid Javid has an inspiring backstory, an almost perfect Tory saga of how in a free country a man can rise by talent to the top – made even more compelling by his Pakistani heritage. He epitomises the sort of Britain modern Tories very much wish to encourage. But his critics wonder how genuine his political passions are, and say he is an ‘unlucky general’ for whom things seem to go wrong rather too often – a dangerous quality in an Election.

Matthew Hancock has youth and energy on his side, has succeeded at every ministerial job he has been given and is a safe pair of hands. Liz Truss is similarly energetic and is fast gaining a reputation for being free-thinking and outspoken about the future of the party.

But in both cases, critics wonder if their qualities are enough to carry them through a tough national battle against Corbyn’s Labour Party.

Michael Gove is unique in his intellectual grasp of policy and purpose, and the detailed enthusiasm with which he throws himself into the ministries he heads.

He has immense personal charm. He is also a formidable performer, whose recent attack on Jeremy Corbyn in the Commons – witty, sharp-edged but without personal rancour – was a lesson in effective debate. Labour has much to fear from him.

Finally there is the unavoidable, complex figure of Boris Johnson, whose well-known failings are thoroughly described on the page opposite by his biographer. But Mr Johnson has many strengths as well, especially his success in capturing the mayoralty of London, a part of Britain which Labour claims as its own. He reaches people no other Tory can reach, and is universally recognised.

The vote for Brexit would probably not have happened without his support. Some would argue he is the only person who can fulfil it. Corbynites may mock and belittle him, but they would struggle to fight him.

All these possible candidates – and those who will eventually choose the new leader – face one unavoidable, crucial test.

This is not a political beauty contest in which they can indulge themselves.

This is not about the future of the Tory Party. It is a solemn, far-reaching choice which will decide the future of this country and its people.