London politics latest LIVE: Grant Shapps begs Boris Johnson to choose a more ‘dignified exit’ than being forced out
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps urged Boris Johnson on Wednesday evening to choose a more “dignified exit” than being forced out of No10 by a second confidence vote.
He was one of several Cabinet ministers who spoke to the Prime Minister after a widespread revolt by Tory MPs, with more than 40 resignations of ministers, parliamentary aides and Government envoys within 24 hours.
Mr Shapps told Mr Johnson that he stands “little chance of commanding a majority of the parliamentary party” in a second confidence vote.
He advised the PM that “a more dignified exit would be for him to set his own timetable for an early but orderly departure”.
It comes after one of Mr Johnson’s closest allies, Home Secretary Priti Patel, spoke to him on Wednesday evening and conveyed to him the overwhelming views of the parliamentary party which has moved strongly against him in the last 24 hours. However it is understood he has still refused to resign.
The wave of resignations from the Government began as Sajid Javid resigned as Health Secretary on Tuesday evening minutes before Rishi Sunak dramatically quit as Chancellor. It came after Mr Johnson was forced into a humiliating apology to address the row over ex-deputy chief whip Chris Pincher.
Follow the latest below.
22:52 , Josh Salisbury
Thank you for joining us for a busy evening’s coverage of news in Westminster.
We will be back early tomorrow morning with all the latest developments as they happen.
For a recap of the main events of the night, visit here.
New Cabinet resignation as Wales Secretary quits
22:45 , Josh Salisbury
The Secretary of State for Wales has become the latest Cabinet resignation.
Simon Hart said he wanted to help Boris Johnson “turn the ship around" but "we have passed the point where this is possible”.
The resignation is the latest to rock the Cabinet since both Rishi Sunak and Sajid Javid quit their posts on Tuesday.
The Housing and Levelling Up Secretary, Michael Gove, was also sacked by Boris Johnson, after calling for the PM to resign.
MP compares Johnson ally to propaganda chief
22:31 , Josh Salisbury
Conservative MP Tim Loughton compared Boris Johnson’s PPS James Duddridge to the former Iraqi propaganda chief known as Comical Ali,
The East Worthing and Shoreham MP said the “game is up” for the Prime Minister.
He told Sky News: “To be sent out by No 10 to give Comical Ali a run for his money is pretty poor and defending the indefensible. The game is up”.
He said Mr Johnson “will have to go one way or the other in the next few days” and that he cannot replace the vacancies left by ministers who have resigned “because frankly, I think he’d really struggle to find people that would now want to serve in his Government”.
Mr Duddridge had told media that the PM could survive, and that he would announce new Cabinet positions.
Boris Johnson has ‘called bluff’ of 1922 committee chair - No 10 source
22:17 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson has “called the bluff” of the chairman of the 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs who warned him of the threat of a second confidence vote to force him out, a source close to the PM said on Wednesday, writes Nicholas Cecil, the Standard’s political editor.
He insisted that the Prime Minister has a mandate, from the 2019 general election, of “14m people to get a job done.”
The source added: “If the party wants to stop him they have to take that mandate away. He has called Graham Brady’s (1922 chairman) bluff.
“All Graham could say is that there will be an election on Monday. A new 1922 committee on Tuesday COULD change the rules - but it’s not a given.
“The party COULD then demand a re-run of the no-confidence vote - but not a given. And the party COULD then decide to ditch the PM -but not a given.”
He added: “But the choice is not Boris or no Boris. The choice is a Conservative government with a new Chancellor who will soon outline a new economic programme (of tax cuts, deregulation and the benefits of Brexit)
“Or 3 months of tearing each other apart to elect a leader with no mandate.”
He stressed that this would lead to Opposition calls for a General Election, which if held, he argued the Tories would lose, plunging them out of power for a “long time.”
‘Tories have patriotic duty to end this’, says Ellwood
22:08 , Josh Salisbury
Tobias Ellwood, the Tory chair of Defence Select Committee, has called for Conservatives to remove Mr Johnson from office.
Mr Ellwood said on Twitter, while linking to a news article on Michael Gove’s sacking: “We have a patriotic duty to conclude this.
“It’s not just damaging the Conservative brand and diminishing our own electoral prospects it is also undermining the nation’s standing internationally.
“Britain is better than this.”
We have a patriotic duty to conclude this.
It’s not just damaging the Conservative brand and diminishing our own electoral prospects it is also undermining the nation’s standing internationally.
Britain is better than this. pic.twitter.com/oOWjO0BfM1— Tobias Ellwood MP (@Tobias_Ellwood) July 6, 2022
Boris ‘can move on from this’, claims ally
22:00 , Josh Salisbury
James Duddridge has added he believes that while Boris Johnson “has made some mistakes", he "can move on from this”.
Mr Johnson's parliamentary private secretary told Sky News he believed Mr Johnson was still the right man for the top job.
“I mean, he's got an electoral magic that he showed as mayor of London. I believe he'll deliver Brexit, I believe he's the best person still,” he said.
Describing the afternoon's events at No 10, he said: “A number of cabinet people turned up, they had chats with his team, they had a chat with him. At various points he made it clear that he was fighting on".
He also claimed there were “plenty of people keen, willing and able to serve and will do so under Boris Johnson,” after a sensational 41 resignations from Government since Tuesday evening.
Another vacancy has also been left in the Cabinet after Mr Johnson sensationally sacked Michael Gove, the Housing and Levelling Up Secretary.
Boris ally: PM is ‘up for a fight and will make Cabinet appointments today’
21:50 , Josh Salisbury
James Duddridge, a parliamentary private secretary to the Prime Minister, has said that Boris Johnson is “up for a fight".
Appearing live on Sky News, he said: "He is buoyant, he is up for a fight.
"He knows it is going to be difficult, but he asked me to leave him at Downing Street, come over here, tell members of parliament he has listened, that he is up for a fight, he is going to make some changes, he is going to make some Cabinet appointments today."
Mr Duddridge claimed the newly-appointed Chancellor, Nadhim Zahawi, was “solidly behind" Mr Johnson.
"He is going to announce a new economic strategy, that is going to happen some time next week,” he said.
“But as a tax-cutting Conservative, I am really pleased to say there will definitely be tax cuts in that speech”.
PPS resigns in apparent backlash to Gove sacking
21:45 , Josh Salisbury
Another parliamentary private secretary has resigned, this time in protest at Boris Johnson’s sacking of Michael Gove.
Danny Kruger, MP for Devizes, said: “Very sorry indeed to hear @michaelgove has been fired by the PM. As I told No 10 earlier today it should be the PM leaving office”.
Mr Kruger had been a PPS in Mr Gove’s department. This brings the number of resignations from Government up to 42 since Tuesday evening.
Very sorry indeed to hear @michaelgove has been fired by the PM. As I told No 10 earlier today it should be the PM leaving office. I am resigning as PPS at @Dluhc.
— Danny Kruger (@danny__kruger) July 6, 2022
Dorries remains supportive of Johnson after Gove sacking
21:40 , Josh Salisbury
Johnson loyalist, Nadine Dorries, the Culture Secretary, has made clear her support remains behind the PM, after his dramatic sacking of the Housing Secretary, Michael Gove.
“The PM’s priority is to stabilise the government, set a clear direction for the country and continue to deliver on the promises he made and the British public voted for,” she tweeted.
The PM’s priority is to stabilise the government, set a clear direction for the country and continue to deliver on the promises he made and the British public voted for.
— Nadine Dorries (@NadineDorries) July 6, 2022
Another PPS and trade envoy resign, bringing resignations to 41
21:36 , Josh Salisbury
Another trade envoy and a parliamentary private secretary have quit their roles, with the number of resignations since Tuesday now over 40.
James Daly, MP for Bury North, has quit as PPS at the DWP, saying he did not believe Boris Johnson could lead the Government.
Meanwhile, MP for Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale, David Mundell, quit as UK Trade Envoy to New Zealand after he said he was "disappointed" Boris Johnson had not already stood down.
Their resignations came just minutes after Michael Gove, the Housing and Levelling Up Secretary, was dramatically sacked by Boris Johnson.
Mr Gove had earlier Wednesday advised Mr Johnson to resign, but Mr Johnson has defiantly vowed to stay on.
No 10 source calls Michael Gove a ‘snake'
21:29 , Josh Salisbury
A No 10 source has told the BBC’s political editor, Chris Mason, after Mchael Gove’s sacking: “You cannot have a snake who is not with you on any of the big arguments who then gleefully briefs the press that he has called for the leader to go.
“You cannot operate like that”.
‘You cannot have a snake who is not with you on any of the big arguments who then gleefully briefs the press that he has called for the leader to go. You cannot operate like that,’ a No10 source tells me
— Chris Mason (@ChrisMasonBBC) July 6, 2022
Breaking: Michael Gove has been sacked - reports
21:19 , Josh Salisbury
Michael Gove has been sacked as Housing Secretary, according to reports.
Mr Gove had earlier told Boris Johnson that he should resign after a series of devastating resignations.
Brandon Lewis arrives at No 10
21:17 , Josh Salisbury
Brandon Lewis, the Northern Ireland Secretary, has arrived at No 10.
He said nothing to reporters as he quickly walked through the door.
Mr Lewis is said to be among the Cabinet ministers who have urged Boris Johnson to quit.
However, a defiant Mr Johnson is vowing to stay on.
‘Buoyant’ Boris Johnson PPS tells Sky News he will fight on
20:57 , Barney Davis
Boris Johnson’s PPS James Duddridge tells Sky News: “The PM is in buoyant mood and will fight on. He has a 14 million mandate and so much to do for the county.”
The on the record quotes came after the Prime Minister met ministers in No 10 on Thursday, where he was told he had lost the confidence of the Tory party and could not continue in office.
Home Secretary Priti Patel, Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng, Transport Secretary Grant Shapps, Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis and Welsh Secretary Simon Hart were among the Cabinet ministers telling Mr Johnson to stand down.
The PA news agency understands that Ms Patel spoke to the Prime Minister to convey the “overwhelming view” of the parliamentary party.
Nadhim Zahawi awkwardly ignores reporters as he looks for his car outside No10
20:53 , Barney Davis
Adding to the chaos outside Downing Street Nadhim Zahawi was bombarded by reporters as he looked for a getaway car.ITV News Nathan Lee asked the newly appointed Chancellor if he regretted taking on the role.
Latest reports suggest he will continue on as Chancellor to cut taxes.
The Chancellor, Nadhim Zahawi, refuses to answer questions on whether he still supports the Prime Minister, or whether he told the PM to resign this evening. Also refuses to say whether he’d launch a leadership bid himself. @itvnews @ITVNewsPolitics pic.twitter.com/m2IdaoAydv
— Nathan Lee (@NathanLeeTV) July 6, 2022
Jacob Young MP latest PPS to resign - bringing total to 39
20:46 , Barney Davis
Jacob Young MP for Redcar has resigned as PPS for The Ministry of Housing and Local Government.
He said: “I have agonised throughout today - I have supported the Prime Minister through thick and thin. It’s because of my loyalty to him, that I urge him to now step aside and allow the country to move forward.”
I have agonised throughout today - I have supported the Prime Minister through thick and thin.
It’s because of my loyalty to him, that I urge him to now step aside and allow the country to move forward. pic.twitter.com/3pT7tlopTB— Jacob Young MP (@JacobYoungMP) July 6, 2022
Piers Morgan holds up a micro pig to illustrate ‘greased piglet’ metaphor for Boris Johnson
20:43 , Barney Davis
Piers Morgan held up a baby pig in his bizarre introduction for Piers Morgan Uncensored programme.
He used the baby piglet to illustrate David Cameron’s famous quip calling Boris Johnson a ‘greased piglet’.
He told his viewers: “Boris Johnson must go. The greased piglet of politics has slipped and squirmed through almost three disastrous years of disorder and deceit... Tonight surely nothing can save his bacon.”
#AccidentalPartridge pic.twitter.com/HD1nQTbT2g
— Accidental Partridge (@AccidentalP) July 6, 2022
The label was put on the flailing PM by David Cameron in 2019 at a book launch.
Speaking about the chances of Boris Johnson getting the Brexit deal through he said: “The thing about the greased piglet is that he manages to slip through other people’s hands where mere mortals fail.”
Transport Secretary Grant Shapps told PM to take ‘dignified’ exit according to BBC
20:28 , Barney Davis
Grant Shapps was seen leaving Downing Street and quickly escaping in a car moments ago.
According to the BBC, the Transport Secretary told Boris Johnson in the private meeting he would lose a second no-confidence vote.Nick Eardley reported: “He’s understood to have advised Boris Johnson a more dignified exit would involve him setting his own timetable for an early but orderly departure.”
Tories ‘aghast’ at Boris’ plan to press on as PM
20:24 , Barney Davis
Tory MP’s are reportedly in shock at the Prime Minister’s decision to fight on despite the threat of further resignations.
Tory MPs aghast that Boris Johnson has told his Cabinet he will "fight on". But any observer of the PM knows that he was always going to do exactly that. https://t.co/ujCYmdZAxB
— Pippa Crerar (@PippaCrerar) July 6, 2022
Nadine Dorries claims other Cabinet members still backing Johnson
20:01 , Barney Davis
Nadine Dorries, a Johnson loyalist and Culture Secretary, has said Cabinet ministers are still backing Boris Johnson.
Asked, as she left Downing Street, if she is still supporting the Prime Minister, she said: “Definitely".
Also asked if others are backing him, Ms Dorries replied: “Oh yes".
Energy minister continues to support Boris Johnson
19:56 , Josh Salisbury
Energy minister Greg Hands has defended Boris Johnson, saying he still supports the Prime Minister.
Asked by reporters why, he told them: “Because he is the Prime Minister, there’s no vacancy at the moment”.
Mr Hands also told the PA news agency: "I have got a job to do, to deliver on energy and climate change and that's exactly what I am going to be carrying on doing."
On whether his constituents support this decision, he added: “Well, I think my constituents, they vote for me as their member of Parliament, I hope that they would continue to do so.”
Priti Patel ‘backs those calling for Johnson to go’
19:26 , Josh Salisbury
Priti Patel, one of Mr Johnson’s closest Cabinet allies, has reportedly sided with a group of Cabinet members who are telling Mr Johnson he needs to go.
According to reports, Ms Patel has concluded that the Prime Minister can no longer go on in the role.
A delegation of Cabinet ministers have gone to Boris Johnson to tell him to resign.
EXCLUSIVE:
Priti Patel has sided with the group of Cabinet ministers calling for PM to go
The home secretary - one of Johnson's most loyal supporters - believes there's no way he can continue to govern without the support of his party
She's joined Shapps and Gove NOT Dorries— Matt Dathan (@matt_dathan) July 6, 2022
Grant Shapps swiftly leaves No 10 in car
19:19 , Josh Salisbury
Grant Shapps has just swiftly come out of Number 10, writes the Standard’s political reporter, Rachael Burford.
He got straight into his car and did not comment to reporters.
Rees Mogg says Johnson has his ‘full support'
19:17 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson still has the backing of Jacob Rees-Mogg, he told reporters.
The Brexit Opportunities Minister told reporters as he left the Cabinet Office: “The Prime Minister has my full support”.
Mr Rees-Mogg has been one of Mr Johnson’s staunchest allies in cabinet.
Backbench critic suggests wildcard bid for leadership
19:09 , Josh Salisbury
Steve Baker, a Tory backbencher who has been a critic of both Mr Johnson and his predecessor, Theresa May, has suggested he could consider a wildcard bid for the leadership.
Mr Baker told the Sydney Morning Herald: “I respect that Conservative Home readers consistently put me in the top 10 for next leader.
"So in the event that Boris resigns, I will have to reflect seriously on whether to run."
Policing minister: ‘It’s been a difficult day’
18:48 , Josh Salisbury
A ministerial ally of Boris Johnson has said that it has been a "difficult day".
Leaving Downing Street, Policing Minister Kit Malthouse told reporters: “It has been a difficult day. I am not commenting any further."
Two more resignations bring total to 38
18:35 , Josh Salisbury
Two more members of the Government have resigned their positions, bringing the total to 38.
This is said to be the highest-ever number of resginations from government within 24 hours in history.
James Sunderland, the Tory MP for Bracknell, has resigned from his post as parliamentary private secretary at the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
Meanwhile, Banff and Buchan MP David Duguid has resigned as a trade envoy.
In a statement, he said: "In light of recent events, I believe the Prime Minister's position is now untenable.”
Has Graham Brady been to visit PM?
18:23 , Matt Watts
Sir Graham Brady, chairman of the powerful 1922 committee of backbench Tory MPs, was seen entering the Cabinet Office’s 70 Whitehall offices at around 6pm, sparking speculation that he was on his way to see the Prime Minister by a backdoor route as it connects through to No10.
Graham Brady spotted walking out of parliament by the Red Lion. May only be headed to one place… pic.twitter.com/YHxW0a7gq4
— Aubrey Allegretti (@breeallegretti) July 6, 2022
Boris Johnson ‘to be told not to seek snap election’ because it would force Queen to make ‘controversial decision'
18:18 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson is expected to be told by senior advisers not to seek the dissolution of Parliament and call a snap general election because it would put the Queen in a position where she would have to make a “controversial decision”, according to one senior Conservative source, writes deputy political editor David Bond.
Although Mr Johnson ruled out calling an election before 2024 during his grilling by the Liaison Committee earlier on Wednesday, rumours have been swirling around Westminster that he could take that step if he is told he has to quit as PM.
But the senior Conservative said the Prime Minister’s Private Secretary or the Cabinet Secretary would be likely to advise the Prime Minister not to seek a dissolution.
They said it would be deemed to be inappropriate to put the sovereign in a position where she has to make a very controversial decision and would be discouraged from doing so
Sir Graham Brady ‘set to meet PM soon'
18:14 , Josh Salisbury
Sir Graham Brady, the chair of the backbench 1922 committee, has arrived at the Cabinet Office ahead of a meeting with Boris Johnson, according to reports.
According to Paul Brand, the UK editor of ITV News, Sir Graham is set to offer “wise counsel” after an unprecendented amount of resignations from Government within 24 hours.
He is thought to have entered via the side entrance on Whitehall rather than going through the famous black door of No 10, where media are camping out.
His presence comes following a meeting of the committee in Parliament where Tory MPs made their views known about the Prime Minister's future.
Sir Graham is the keeper of the letters submitted by Conservative MPs calling for the Prime Minister to go.
NEW: I am told that Sir Graham Brady has gone to meet the Prime Minister to offer him "wise counsel". In other words, to tell him time's up.
He'll have to wait in line behind the delegation of cabinet members.— Paul Brand (@PaulBrandITV) July 6, 2022
Nadine heard backing PM as she enters No 10
17:57 , Josh Salisbury
Nadine Dorries could be heard stating her support for Boris Johnson as she entered.
Asked if the Prime Minister should go, she replied: “no”.
When asked if the PM’s position was sustainable, Nadine Dorries told reporters on Downing Street: “It is.”
Nadine Dorries arrives at No 10
17:44 , Josh Salisbury
Nadine Dorries, the Culture Secretary, has arrived at Downing Street, writes political reporter, Rachael Burford.
Asked whether Boris Johnson’s premiership was sustainable, she replied: ‘Yes’ before entering Number 10.
Steady flow of resignations continue as two more resign
17:32 , Josh Salisbury
Two more figures have quit their posts in Mr Johnson’s government, bringing the total to 36 in less than 24 hours.
The resignations continued at a steady pace during the Prime Minister’s two-hour appearence before the Commons Liaison committee, despite Mr Johnson defiantly vowing that the Government would continue with “ever-increasing energy”.
Ruth Edwards, the Tory MP for Rushcliffe, resigned as parliamentary private secretary at the Scottish Office, stating Boris Johnson's Government "turned a blind eye to allegations of sexual assault within its own ranks".
Meanwhile, Peter Gibson, MP for Darlington, resigned from his post as a PPS at the Department for International Trade.
He said he did not believe the office of the Prime Minister was currently representing “all the high standards required of public life”.
My letter of resignation as PPS pic.twitter.com/y8gf3ZuYeb
— Peter Gibson MP (@Gibbo4Darlo) July 6, 2022
1922 committee won’t change no confidence rules until new exec elected
17:20 , Josh Salisbury
Two Tory MPs leaving the 1922 committee session have said that they won’t change the rules on a confidence vote without electing a new executive committee, reports deputy political editor, David Bond.
But that has now been brought forward to Monday.
Latest from 1922 Committee. Am told that they won’t change the rules on a confidence vote without electing a new executive committee.
But that has now been brought forward to Monday.— David Bond (@DJBond6873) July 6, 2022
Boris Johnson rules out snap general election as committee hearing ends
17:17 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson ruled out calling for a snap general election during a marathon two-hour meeting before the Liaison Committee, saying that the earliest he can see for one is 2024.
The Prime Minister said “of course, I rule it out”, before adding: “The earliest date that I can see for a general election is two years from now or 2024, I think it is the most likely date for the next election.
“We have a huge amount to deliver. We are going to get on and do it.”
1922 committee meeting begins as PM’s future hangs in balance
17:10 , Josh Salisbury
A meeting of the Conservative 1922 backbench committee has just started in Parliament, writes deputy political editor, David Bond.
Tory MPs including Sajid Javid and Deputy PM Dominic Raab have just arrived.
It comes after the committee’s executive held a separate meeting earlier this afternoon to discuss rule changes and plans for new elections which could allow a second confidence vote in the Prime Minister.
Following those discussions the chair of the 1922 committee Sir Graham Brady declined to comment when asked by the Standard if there had been any decisions taken.
More resignations as Cabinet delegation prepares to tell Johnson to stand down
17:03 , Josh Salisbury
Two more PPS resignations have brought the total number of Government resignations to 34 in less than 24 hours, as a Cabinet delegation prepares to tell Mr Johnson to stand down.
Tory MP for Hyndburn Sara Britcliffe resigned as parliamentary private secretary at the Department for Education, citing “continuous firefighting of self-inflicted issues” in the Government.
Mark Fletcher, the Tory MP for Bolsover who witnessed Chris Pincher’s actions at the Carlton Club last week, also resigned from his role as PPS, describing Boris Johnson’s response to the incident as “crass and insensitive”.
It comes as a delegation of Cabinet ministers are set to go to Boris Johnson to tell him that he needs to step down as Prime Minister, the Standard has been told.
However, in a two-hour appearence before MPs, Boris Johnson insisted he would not be resigning, saying it would be “not responsible” to do so.
Delegation of Cabinet ministers to tell Johnson to resign
16:45 , Josh Salisbury
A delegation of Cabinet ministers is preparing to tell Boris Johnson that he needs to resign, the Standard has been told.
Their planned move came as more than 30 members of his Government have resigned.
According to the PA news agency, Northern Ireland Secretary Brandon Lewis also now believes the situation is untenable.
Asked on reports that a Cabinet delegation was waiting for him after the Liaison Committee, Mr Johnson said: “I’m not going to give a running commentary on political events, we’re going to get on with the government of the country.”
Johnson insists Government is carrying on with ‘ever increasing energy'
16:32 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson has insisted that the Government is carrying on with “ever-increasing energy” despite 32 resignations from his government in less than a day.
Asked by critic William Wragg MP: “At which point does it become impossible for Queen’s government to be continued”, Mr Johnson insisted that there were backbenchers that could replace vacancies and said the Government would continue.
He said: “I really do think William you’re underestimating the talent, energy and sheer ambition of members of Parliament. They want to get things done, they want to get things done for their constituents.
“The Government of the country is being carried on with ever-increasing energy,” adding that he believed it “highly likely” that vacancies could be filled.
Asked if this assessment was “delusional,” Mr Johnson replied: “That’s a sort of moral judgment on human nature that I wouldn’t venture to comment on.
“Maybe we are all deluded in our ambitions, but I think most people who come to this place - in spite of what everybody says about MPs - are actuated by the highest motives.”
Mike Freer becomes 32nd minister to quit as Johnson vows to continue
16:17 , Josh Salisbury
Exports minister, Mike Freer, becomes 32nd figure to quit the Government in less than 24 hours.
Mr Freer’s resignation came just minutes after Boris Johnson vowed to continue fighting on as PM during his appearence in front of the Commons Liaison Committee.
In his resignation, Mr Freer said: “I can no longer defend policies I fundamentally disagree with”.
An update from Mike Freer MP pic.twitter.com/iNAvvG4K5g
— F&GGConservatives (@Finchleytories) July 6, 2022
Johnson says ‘not responsible’ to resign after 2019 ‘mandate'
16:07 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson has vowed to continue on and refused to deny that Michael Gove had urged him to quit.
Mr Johnson was first asked by Labour’s Darren Jones at the Commons’ Liaision Committee: “How is your week going?”.
“Terrific ... like many others,” replied Mr Johnson.
Asked by Mr Jones whether it was in the country’s interest to resign now, he said: “I think the country is going through tough times. You are making a point about duty.”
“I look at the issues this country faces. I look at the pressures that people are under and the need for the Government to focus on their priorities.
He continued: “I look at the biggest war in Europe for 80 years and I can’t for the life of me see how it is responsible just to walk away from that. Particularly not when you have a mandate of the kind that we won two, three years ago.”
Asked earlier if Michael Gove had asked him to resign today, Mr Johnson replied: “I think I said earlier, I’m here to talk about what the Government is doing, I’m not here to give a running commentary on political events.”
Johnson says ‘of course’ when asked if he’ll be PM tomorrow amid another resignation
15:56 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson has vowed he will still be MP tomorrow in response to questions from MP Angus MacNeil at the Liasion Committee.
He was asked: “You’ve had more resignations than any Prime Minister since 1932, Michael Gove has told you to go ... the game’s up, will you be Prime Minister tomorrow?”
Mr Johnson replied: “Of course Mr MacNeil, but rather than giving any running commentary on my own career, I’m here to talk about what the Government is doing”.
It comes as Mark Logan MP became yet another PPS to resign in protest.
Mr Logan stepped down as parliamentary private secretary to the Northern Ireland Office.
“We must face and respect the reality staring us in the face," Mr Logan said in a letter to Johnson. "There is only so much anyone can expect my constituents to accept or ignore.”
With immediate effect pic.twitter.com/TedjPocHnA
— Mark Logan MP (@Mark_Logan_MP) July 6, 2022
Home Office minister latest to join resignation exodus as number tops 30
15:47 , Josh Salisbury
Rachel Maclean, the safeguarding minister, has become the latest to join the resignation exodus, as Mr Johnson faces questions from MPs.
Ms Maclean, the MP for Redditch, said she “cannot continue to stand by and do nothing” and called for Mr Johnson to go.
She had repeatedly defended Mr Johnson from criticism during the Partygate scandal.
“It remains the greatest honour of my life to represent Redditch in Parliament and I will continue to support the policies which I was re-elected to deliver from the backbenches,” she said.
Mr Johnson is now being asked on cost-of-living issues before the Commons Liaison Committee, amid the ongoing flurry of government members quitting their posts.
This puts the number of resignations at just over 30.
MP submits second letter of no confidence
15:41 , Josh Salisbury
MP for Bishop Auckland Dehenna Davison said she has submitted a second letter to Sir Graham Brady.
In a letter posted to Twitter, she said: “I wrote to you some months ago expressing my lack of confidence in the Prime Minister.
“In the time that has followed, nothing has improved - in fact, further lies have been peddled, and more good colleagues have been sent out to defend the indefensible.
“Things have got worse, and our country deserves better.”
I have submitted a second letter to Sir Graham Brady. Enough is enough. pic.twitter.com/5LsqqY2TFc
— Dehenna Davison MP (@DehennaDavison) July 6, 2022
Johnson: Country ‘probably does not want another election' as another PPS resigns
15:36 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson has told MPs at the Liaison Committee that the country does not want another election right now, as yet another PPS resigns from government.
Angus MacNeil, an SNP MP, asked if Mr Johnson intends to get the permission from the Queen to have a general election, or if he can just demand one.
Boris Johnson responded that he did not think people wanted an election at this moment.
It comes as the MP for Montgomeryshire Craig Williams, becomes the latest resignation, by quitting his position as the parliamentary private secretary to the Chancellor.
In a letter posted to Twitter, he said: “After the recent vote of confidence, I had given my support to you, with one last benefit of the doubt.
“I believed it was right that we draw a line under previous events and focus on rebuilding trust with the public and focusing on delivering good policies.
“It has now become apparent over recent days, that this is becoming impossible.”
PPS vows to join mass of resignations if PM not gone by tomorrow
15:30 , Josh Salisbury
Another PPS has said she will resign her position if Mr Johnson is still PM by tomorrow.
Fay Jones, Conservative MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, vowed to resign as parliamentary private secretary to Mark Spencer, the leader of the House of Commons, if Mr Johnson is still in charge tomorrow.
In her letter to Mr Spencer, Ms Jones wrote: “It is with deep regret that I urge you to press the Prime Minister to go. I have drafted this letter a number of times; after the vote to protect Owen Paterson and when the full extent of Partygate revelations became clear.
“Despite my anger at the Prime Minister's handling of those events, in January, I believed his promise to deliver a change of culture in 10 Downing Street, and I fully believed he could do it.
“It is clear to me now that my faith in him was miscalculated.”
Innovative new tactic from Fay Jones: doesn't quit her job as a PPS but says she will if PM is still in office tomorrow.
Think that takes us to 28.5 resignations... pic.twitter.com/NPjMkNDjZy— Tom Larkin (@TomLarkinSky) July 6, 2022
Johnson: Up to Ukraine what victory looks like
15:27 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson has responded to a slew of questions from the senior MPs on Ukraine.
He tells them that the UK’s efforts have been “considerable” in recent weeks towards Ukraine.
He says the government is helping Ukrainians with de-mining areas of the country, as well as "doing what we can" to help small packets of grain to leave the country on rail routes.
"You're starting to see some growing quanities of grain" leaving through land routes,” he said.
He was also asked what a victory looks like for Ukraine.
“That is for them to decide. President Zelensky has set out his ambitions. It will ultimately be for him to decide what the terms that he wants. But he has been very clear that he would like to return at least to the status quo ante February 24th,” he said.
Another PPS resigns from Government
15:17 , Josh Salisbury
Another PPS, Duncan Baker, has resigned from his position in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
In a statement on Facebook, the MP for North Norfolk said: “As I said just a couple of weeks ago, we must not dismiss the by election results as 'mid term' blues. They were not and they were a clear indicator of how the country feels.
“The breakdown in trust from the last six months is abundantly clear.
“The latest situation to unfold regarding Chris Pincher only compounds those feelings, with many now recognising the situation is clearly unsustainable.
He added: “I do not have confidence in the Prime Minister and resign my role as a PPS in the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.”
Two more MPs say they have lost confidence as Johnson appears before committee
15:11 , Josh Salisbury
Two more MPs have said they have lost confidence in Boris Johnson as he appears before a Commons committee.
MP for Poole Sir Robert Syms has called for Mr Johnson to also go, saying he has submitted a letter to the backbench committee responsible for leadership challenges.
"I have submitted a letter to Graham Brady MP calling for a change in rules and a ballot,” he said.
Oliver Heald, the MP for North East Hertfordshire, tweeted: "Loss of confidence - Boris Johnson won a major election & made decisions to help the UK in the pandemic. He has been a stalwart friend to Ukraine and tried to help with the global inflation crisis.
"But recent revelations & events have led to a loss of confidence including mine."
Mr Johnson is currently being quizzed on Ukraine by the House of Commons’ Liaison Committee.
Mr Johnson tells the committee that the UK is working to prevent the blockading of food in Ukrainian ports by Russia, and also on arming Ukraine’s forces.
Boris Johnson due to appear before Commons’ committee amid resignations
14:58 , Josh Salisbury
Boris Johnson is due to appear before the House of Commons Liaison Committee at 3pm, as nearly 30 resignations in his Government in just under 24 hours.
The committee is made up of other Commons committees, and contains critics of Mr Johnson.
The Prime Minister is set to be grilled on his support within the Government, among other areas. It will be another bruising encounter for Mr Johnson after an incendiary Prime Minister’s Questions.
However, Darren Jones MP, who sits on the Committee had earlier raised doubts with the BBC over whether the PM would appear, citing rumours that senior Cabinet ministers were urging Mr Johnson to stand down.
Leading Brexiteer urges Boris Johnson to resign
14:48 , Josh Salisbury
Leading Brexiteer and former Cabinet minister Liam Fox has been to see Boris Johnson on Wednesday afternoon to tell him he should resign, reports the Standard’s political editor, Nic Cecil.
It was not clear whether Mr Fox, who handed in a letter calling on the PM to go, saw him in person.
Senior backbench Tory MP urges Boris to resign
14:43 , Josh Salisbury
Dr Liam Fox, a former Conservative Defence Secretary and International Trade Secretary, has also called for Boris Johnson to resign.
In a statement, the senior backbench MP told Mr Johnson: “We have lost too many too many good people from the Government who could not reconcile their loyalty to you with their conscience.
“I share their feelings ... I urge you to do the right thing and resign”.
I have loyally supported every @Conservatives Leader since 1992. However, today I am withdrawing my support for the Prime Minister. @BorisJohnson's leadership is untenable. My letter👇 pic.twitter.com/bnx11Ck3WU
— Dr Liam Fox MP (@LiamFox) July 6, 2022
Five ministers step down
14:29 , Daniel Keane
Tory MP Alex Burghart, a minister for education, has also just announced his resignation along with four other ministers.
It is with great regret that I am today resigning as a minister in the Department for Education - I am very grateful to the Prime Minister for having given me the opportunity to serve pic.twitter.com/mDJUksDGM8
— Alex Burghart (@alexburghart) July 6, 2022
Another minister resigns
14:27 , Daniel Keane
Another minister has resigned from the Government.
Tory MP Lee Rowley, minister for industry at BEIS, said he would step down “with regret and sadness”.
With great regret and sadness, I resigned as Minister for Industry this morning. pic.twitter.com/PYXiLQheQt
— Lee Rowley (@Lee4NED) July 6, 2022
Tory MP Simon Jupp calls on PM to resign
14:22 , Daniel Keane
MP for East Devon Simon Jupp has called on the Prime Minister to resign for the first time.
In a letter posted to Twitter, he said: "Too many of the challenges faced by the Prime Minister are a result of self-inflicted wounds.
"Leaders must demonstrate integrity, honesty, and set a high standard that we can all be proud of.
"The current situation is a grotesque distraction from the many challenges we face as a nation.
"I cannot tolerate this any longer...in order to restore trust in the highest office of the land, the Prime Minister must do the decent thing and resign."
An open letter to the people of East Devon. pic.twitter.com/JscKSy7LVv
— Simon Jupp MP (@simonjamesjupp) July 6, 2022
Senior Tory say PM must go if he has ‘any dignity left’
14:08 , Matt Watts
Senior Conservative MP Huw Merriman has said Boris Johnson would resign if he has “any dignity left”.
The previously-supportive chairman of the Commons Transport Select Committee told BBC Radio 4’s World At One programme: “My position today after what’s happened over the last few days, in particular with the Prime Minister blatantly either lying or being incompetent in terms of failing to remember what happened to the deputy chief whip, that just makes his position untenable, in my view.
“So, I no longer support him, I’ve put a letter into Sir Graham Brady submitting my no confidence. I’ve also said that I hope Sir Graham will take my letter and the letters of others to either change the rules so we can have another leadership contest, or tell the Prime Minister that the rules will end up being changed unless he himself does the right thing and steps down.
“So, I’ve lost all faith and I think the last few days have been absolutely appalling for public life and for politics in general, and so we can’t go on like this.
“If the Prime Minister has any dignity left he will realise what’s happening, what he’s created, the buck stops with him and he will stand down.”
Another blow for Johnson as Jenrick calls for his resignation
14:02 , Matt Watts
Conservative former housing secretary Robert Jenrick has called for Boris Johnson’s resignation, saying he has suffered an “irretrievable loss of trust”.
Mr Jenrick, who served in the Prime Minister’s Cabinet until September, said he had written to 1922 Committee chair Sir Graham Brady to express he wants Mr Johnson to go.
The MP wrote: “I have always wanted the Prime Minister to succeed and I gave him every opportunity to do so. However it has become painfully clear that we are failing to provide the coherence, grip and direction that the country needs and deserves in these challenging time.
“More fundamentally there has been a significant and, I fear, irretrievable loss of trust with the public, confirmed by the mishandling of serious allegations in recent days. If we continue along our present path we risk doing lasting damage to the reputation of the Conservative Party for competence and good government and more importantly, to the standing of politics generally.
“I can no longer, in all good conscience, support this.”
Flood of resignations continues
13:52 , Matt Watts
David Johnston has quit as a ministerial aide in the Department for Education.
He said: “I cannot defend what has taken place these past few days – or indeed these past few months.”
The Wantage MP said: “It is very important to me that we do all we can to encourage good people into politics so that the country is well served, but events in recent months have made the view of politics and politicians worse and will only put more people off entering it, which I deeply regret.
“I know from my inbox that there are different views about the Prime Minister, but I do not believe he can provide the leadership the country needs.”
His resignation means 21 government members have resigned in the past 24 hours.
Another resignation
13:42 , Matt Watts
Tory Claire Coutinho has resigned as a parliamentary private secretary to the Treasury.
She wrote on Facebook: “I firmly believe that what we need now, as we deal with the twin challenges of war in Europe and global inflation, is a laser-like grip on reforming our public services so that they work better for our constituents and focus on charting a path to prosperity through what is an increasingly challenging global outlook.
“I think the events of recent weeks and months are preventing us from doing that. I, of course, look forward to continuing to serve all of you to the best of my abilities.”
Selaine Saxby resigns as a ministerial aide
13:38 , Matt Watts
Selaine Saxby has resigned as a ministerial aide.
The Tory MP tweeted a photograph of her resignation letter, adding that “with much regret” she “can no longer continue” in her role as a parliamentary private secretary.
With much regret I can no longer continue in my present role as PPS pic.twitter.com/7R24W1P3bx
— Selaine Saxby MP (@SelaineSaxby) July 6, 2022
Prime Minister's Questions: Sajid Javid resignation speech in full
13:17 , Daniel Keane
PM confident he has enough MPs to replace ministers who have resigned
13:14 , Daniel Keane
Boris Johnson is confident that he has got enough MPs to replace the ministers who have resigned and that he has the support of the majority of his backbenchers, his spokesman said, writes Rachael Burford.
When asked if Mr Johnson feared he had lost the support of his parliamentary party, his spokesman said: “No, I think he is focused on the job of delivering our ambitious agenda.”
They added that the PM believes he would win a second confidence vote.
Shouts of ‘Bye Boris’ heard in Commons as Javid ends statement
12:53 , Daniel Keane
“It is incumbent upon all of us to set high standards when they are not met by others,” Mr Javid says.
“I got into politics to do something not to be somebody.”
As he concludes his statement, shouts of “Bye Boris” are heard across the Chamber.
Javid acknowledges ‘difficult choice’ for Cabinet
12:50 , Daniel Keane
He says other members of the Cabinet who have not stepped down “will have their own reason” for remaining in Boris Johnson’s Government.
“It is a choice. I know how difficult that choice is, but let’s be clear: not doing something is an active decision.
“I am deeply concerned about how the next generation will see the Conservative Party on our current course. Our reputation depends on regaining the public’s trust.”
Another minister resigns...
12:49 , Daniel Keane
Another minister has resigned from the Government.
Housing minister Stuart Andrew tweeted: “ It is with sadness that I am resigning as Housing Minister.
“I pay tribute to all my ministerial colleagues, officials, and civil servants in the Department and the wider sector.
“I look forward to continuing to serve my constituents in Pudsey, Horsforth, and Aireborough.”
It is with sadness that I am resigning as Housing Minister.
I pay tribute to all my ministerial colleagues, officials, and civil servants in the Department and the wider sector.
I look forward to continuing to serve my constituents in Pudsey, Horsforth, and Aireborough. pic.twitter.com/wTnrr9rcSu— Stuart Andrew (@StuartAndrew) July 6, 2022
Javid says he was ‘repeatedly assured no parties were held in Downing St'
12:47 , Daniel Keane
Mr Javid said he had been assured that no parties had been held in Downing Street and no rules had been broken.
“I went on those media rounds to say I had those assurances from the mots senior members of the Prime Minister’s team.
“After the Sue Gray report I continued to give them the benefit of the doubt.
“But after the events of last week... we have to conclude that enough is enough.”
Javid: I will never risk losing my integrity
12:46 , Daniel Keane
Sajid Javid has said he was “never risk losing my integrity”.
He said: “We have seen in great democracies when divisions are entrenched and not bridged, we cannot allow that to happen here. We must bring the country together as one nation.
“Effective governance requires loyalty and collective responsibility. Treating the tightrope between loyalty and integrity has become impossible in recent months – I will never risk losing my integrity.”
He added: “A team is as good as its captain and vice versa... but the events of recent months have made it increasingly difficult.
“It’s not fair for ministerial colleagues to go out defending lines that don’t stand up. And it’s not fair on Conservative members who expect better standards from the party they supported.”
Javid begins resignation statement
12:42 , Daniel Keane
Former Health Secretary Sajid Javid has begun his personal statement outlining his resignation to the House after his resignation yesterday.
“Despite what it might seem, I am not one of life’s quitters,” he says. “I didn’t quit when I was told that boys like me don’t do maths, or when people in myc ommunity said I should not marry the love of my life.
“I care deeply about public service and giving back to this country that has given me so much.
“When I got the call from the PM, I didn’t hesitate to serve again.
“Tough decisions needed to be made about coming out of lockdown and supporting the NHS.
“It has been an absolute privilege of my life to have been trusted with these responsibilities.”
Former minister calls on PM to resign
12:38 , Daniel Keane
Former Tory minister David Davis has called on the PM to resign.
“Six months ago I called on PM to resign because his approach to leadership would paralyse proper Government.
“Today I ask him to put the interests of the nation before his own interest, before it becomes impossible for the Government to do his job.”
The PM says he “couldn’t disagree more” with Mr Davis.
Blackford urges PM to call an election if he will not resign
12:35 , Daniel Keane
SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford urged Boris Johnson to call a general election if he will not resign.
Asking his second question, Mr Blackford said: "A few weeks ago I compared the Prime Minister to Monty Python's Black Knight, actually turns out I was wrong. He's actually the dead parrot.
"Whether he knows it or not, he's now an ex-Prime Minister. But he will leave behind two deeply damaging legacies. I hope the dishonesty of his leadership follows him out of the Downing Street door.
"But the other legacy is that of Brexit, and that will stay, because I'm sad to say that the Labour Party now fully supports (Brexit).
"Scotland wants a different future, not just a different Prime Minister. So if the Prime Minister won't resign, will he call a general election and allow Scotland the choice of an independent future free from the control of Westminster?"
The Prime Minister said: "I notice that his remark that the Labour Party have given up on returning to the European Union was not greeted with rapture by the benches opposite, and that's because it's not true. They want to go back in just as he does. I think that is a terrible mistake. It would be anti-democratic.
"And as for the referendum that he wants, well we had one of them, as I have told him before, in 2014."
Tory MP calls on PM to resign
12:32 , Daniel Keane
Conservative MP Gary Sambrook has called on the PM to resign.
“He always tries to blame other people for mistakes...there’s nothing left for him to do other than take responsibility and resign”.
PM claims he has ‘colossal mandate’ to keep going
12:22 , Daniel Keane
Tory MP Tim Loughton asks the PM if there are any circumstances in which he would resign.
He responds: “The job of a PM in difficult circumstances when you’ve been handed a colossal mandate is to keep going. That’s what I’m going to do.”
The only thing the PM is delivering is chaos, says Starmer
12:20 , Daniel Keane
Sir Keir says the “only thing the PM is delivering is chaos”.
“He has been propped up for months by a party defending the indefensible,” he adds.
“The only way the country can get the fresh start it deserves is by getting rid of the lot of them.”
Mr Johnson says the Government is “getting on with the job” and accuses Labour of being “in the hands of the union barons”.
Starmer: Promoted ministers are ‘charge of the lightweight brigade
12:17 , Daniel Keane
Sir Keir Starmer labels the PM’s comments in PMQs “a pathetic spectacle” after he mentions Durham Police’s investigation into beergate.
“The dying act of his political career is to parrot that nonsense,” he says.
Sir Keir says that the ministers promoted in the Cabinet are the “charge of the lightweight brigade”, causing the Labour benches to erupt.
”Have some self-respect. For a week he’s had them defending his decision promoting a sexual predator,” he adds.
He says the country “deserves better” than a “Z-list cast of nodding dogs” during a crisis.
Anyone defending PM ‘hasn’t got a shred of integrity’, says Starmer
12:13 , Daniel Keane
Sir Keir says the PM “has ignored” the “awful behaviour” of some of his MPs.
He mentions the alleged of Home Office staff by Priti Patel and his Downing Street staff during the partygate scandal.
“Anyone defending that now hasn’t got a shred of integrity,” he adds.
“Isn’t this the first case of the sinking ship fleeing the rat?”
Mr Johnson responds: “He should hear what his lot say about him.
“He wanted to install Jeremy Corbyn into No10.”
Minister resigns during PMQs
12:11 , Daniel Keane
Jo Churchill, who was appointed as Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, has resigned from the Government.
It is with a heavy heart that I have this morning tendered my resignation to the Prime Minister. I will not be doing media interviews on this matter. pic.twitter.com/gjFCVCrXEy
— Jo Churchill MP (@Jochurchill_MP) July 6, 2022
Starmer attacks PM over ‘disgraceful’ comment
12:09 , Daniel Keane
Sir Keir mentions that a Government whip asked one of the complainants against Chris Pincher whether he was gay.
“When he said he was, she replied: ‘That doesn’t make it straightforward.’
“That comment will sicken anyone whose experienced sexual assault and worry that prejudice means they wont be taken seriously.”
Starmer: PM can’t explain why he promoted Pincher
12:07 , Daniel Keane
Sir Keir Starmer details the Chris Pincher scandal to the Commons, before asking: “He knew this man was accused of predatory behaviour but he promoted them, why?
The PM says: “He no longer has the Conservative whip. He is now the subject of an independent investigation.
“I abhor bullying and abuse of power anywhere in parliament.”
Sir Keir responds: “None of that explains why he promoted him in the first place.”
Mr Johnson says he “greatly regrets” that Mr Pincher continued as deputy chief whip.
PMQs begins
12:02 , Daniel Keane
Boris Johnson steps up to the despatch box to raucous laughter from the opposite benches.
“Today is a big day as we implement the biggest tax cut in a decade,” he says.
He wishes the best of luck to the Lionesses as they compete in the Euro tournament.
PMQs coming up
11:54 , Daniel Keane
Prime Minister’s Questions is coming up shortly, with Boris Johnson perhaps facing his toughest test yet in the Commons.
ITV’s Paul Brand has noted that the Tory benches are “virtually deserted” in what is usually a packed event.
The Tory benches are virtually deserted ahead of #PMQs, which is normally a packed event… pic.twitter.com/O4DgEX30iT
— Paul Brand (@PaulBrandITV) July 6, 2022
Breaking: Justice Minister resigns
11:37 , Daniel Keane
Justice Minister Victoria Atkins has resigned from the Government.
She said the challenges facing the country “demand resolute focus” which the PM “cannot provide” at present.
Full statement from Victoria Atkins, who I’m told technically falls under Ministry of Justice these days (well, she did). pic.twitter.com/1IuVPcwwYU
— Paul Brand (@PaulBrandITV) July 6, 2022
Ipswich Tory MP Tom Hunt submits no confidence letter
11:33 , Daniel Keane
Tom Hunt, Tory MP for Ipswich, said he has submitted a letter of no confidence in Boris Johnson.
He said that the past nine months had been a “rough ride” following numerous scandals in Downing Street.
But he said the events of the last week relating to Chris Pincher were the “straw that has broken the camel’s back”.
“I foresee things descending to new depths and I do not think that under the Prime Minister’s leadership it will be possible to unite the Conservative Parliamentary Party and give us the best chance possible of winning the next General Election,” he added.
In full: Felicity Buchan’s resignation letter
11:26 , Daniel Keane
In her letter of resignation, Kensington MP Felicity Buchan said: "It is with great sadness that I tender my resignation as Parliamentary Private Secretary in the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
"It has been a huge honour to have served in this department at a time when energy security and the transition to net zero are so critical.
"However, I am afraid that you have lost the confidence of my constituents and me. The current situation is untenable.
"I believe passionately in Conservative values and want to ensure that we are implementing Conservative policies without distractions. That requires fresh leadership and it requires a new vision for the country. That vision must be a country of low taxes and high growth; we must be the party of aspiration.
"I will continue to devote my efforts to serving the people of Kensington."
Tory Party ‘must reinvent itself’, says former chief of staff
11:19 , Daniel Keane
Theresa May's former chief of staff has said the Conservative Party needs to "reinvent itself" if it wants to succeed in the future.
Lord Gavin Barwell told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "It definitely needs to reinvent itself, the question is whether it can do that in Government.
"Whoever takes over when Boris Johnson goes, they're going to have a very hard job winning the next election, partly because of the economic climate, partly because of the reputational damage that has been done, but parties are occasionally capable of reinventing themselves in Government.
"The question is whether there is somebody in the party today that has the intellectual vision to do that."
Breaking: Business PPS Felicity Buchan resigns
11:12 , Daniel Keane
Kensington MP Felicity Buchan resigned as PPS to in the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
She said the PM had lost the confidence of “my constituents and me”.
John Glen resigns from Treasury post
11:09 , Daniel Keane
Tory MP John Glen has resigned from his ministerial post as economic secretary to the Treasury.
He accused the PM of showing “poor judgment” in his handling of the Chris Pincher scandal.
With deep regret I am resigning from the government.
I will not be doing media interviews regarding this. pic.twitter.com/IT0C50g8My— John Glen MP (@JohnGlenUK) July 6, 2022
1922 Committee 'favours sending delegation to tell PM to quit'
11:03 , Daniel Keane
James Forsyth, the political editor of The Spectator magazine, has claimed that The 1922 Committee now favours sending a “delegation” of MPs to Downing Street to urge the PM to resign.
It comes ahead of a meeting of the Commitee this evening, which would see the rules changed to allow another confidence vote in Boris Johnson before summer recess.
One senior figure on the '22 tells me that they now favour a delegation going to tell Boris Johnson that it is over, and that they'll change the rules if he won't resign
— James Forsyth (@JGForsyth) July 6, 2022
‘We risk losing the electorate’, says former minister
10:56 , Daniel Keane
A former Cabinet Office minister has warned that the Tories risk “losing the electorate” as Boris Johnson continues to cling to power.
Sir David Lidington said: “The problem with the impact of partygate, Pincher and so on, people stop me in the high street and actually say they’ve always been Conservative voters but they no longer feel that the Government speaks for them.
“It’s thinking about the interests of people in the Government, and in-fighting, not about putting the country first.
“I think the credibility of the Government has been much more seriously and deeply damaged than some of the people around the Prime Minister in No 10 seem to think at the moment.”
Tory MP Chris Skidmore announces no confidence letter
10:42 , Daniel Keane
Chris Skidmore, Tory MP for Kingswood, has submitted a letter of no confidence in the Prime Minister.
He said that Mr Johnson had “not been truthfull to the media, to his own advisers and Number 10 officials” in disclosing what he knew about the Pincher scandal.
Mr Skidmore suggested that Tory MPs “voted to retain” Mr Johnson in the previous confidence vote “without knowing what we know now”.
He added: “Had we known, it would be highly unlikely that the party would have confidence in someone who has acted in this manner.”
PM’s blunders have ‘corroded public trust’, says former minister
10:34 , Daniel Keane
Former Cabinet Office minister Sir David Lidington said that issues facing the Conservatives in recent months has "corroded public trust in the Government".
He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "It seems to me the real problem here is that the history over parties, over Mr Pincher and other matters, have corroded public trust in the Government when you have an ever-changing series of explanations for events.
"[When] that controversy then drowns out anything to do with serious policy or explaining what the Government is up to, you're in trouble.
"I think the problem the Government's got now is that this country, our country, is facing major economic challenges.
"We're barely at the start of those economic storms and you have to have a Prime Minister of a Government who the public trust to tell them the truth and to explain persuasively where sometimes there have to be some sacrifices, some difficult decisions, to get the country as a whole through to better times beyond.
"I don't think my party, I've been a member for 47-plus years, is in a position to make that case at the moment."
Pictured: Media scrum outside Downing Street
10:25 , Daniel Keane
Lee Anderson withdraws support for PM
10:19 , Daniel Keane
Ashfield Tory MP Lee Anderson has withdrawn his support for the Prime Minister.
In a statement posted on Facebook, he said that he “cannot look myself in the mirror” and accept Downing Street’s denials over the Chris Pincher story.
He added: “I cannot look myself in the mirror and accept this. It is my belief that our PM has got all the big decisions right and guided us through the most difficult time in my life time and I have always backed him to the hilt. That said integrity should always come first and sadly this has not been the case over the past few days.
“I do not hold a position I can resign from so the only thing I can do is make my feelings known to my constituents and party members. This statement may upset some people and I am sure some people will be delighted with the demise of our PM but I have a job to do and I must do it with a clear conscience.”
Tory change of approach to tax cuts ‘is a bit rich’, says shadow Chancellor
10:10 , Daniel Keane
Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves said it would be a "bit rich" if the Conservatives had a change of heart towards tax cuts.
She told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "They've increased taxes 15 times in two years.
"Nadhim Zahawi, as a Conservative MP and minister, has voted for every single one of those 15 Tory tax rises.
"He could stand up for what he believes in, he could have resigned ... none of them do. We had a couple yesterday, but the rest cling on.
"Nadhim Zahawi has taken a promotion under a Government and under a Prime Minister that is sinking.
"They're so desperate to cling on to power at any costs that they will defend the indefensible."
Senior Tory MP submits letter of no confidence in the PM
10:03 , Daniel Keane
Senior Tory MP Robert Halfon has submitted a letter of no confidence in the Prime Minister.
In his letter, posted on Twitter, the MP for Harlow said the public had been “misled” over the appointment of Chris Pincher.
“The appointment of this individual and the untruthful statements about what was known is unacceptable to me,” he added.
My statement on why I’ve lost confidence in the Prime Minister 👇 pic.twitter.com/NS4kxidOD1
— Robert Halfon MP ➡️Working Hard for Harlow⬅️ (@halfon4harlowMP) July 6, 2022
Defiant Boris says ‘I’m not going anywhere'
09:56 , Daniel Keane
Boris Johnson has reportedy defied calls to resign and told allies: “I’m not going anywhere”.
Government sources told the Daily Mail that Mr Johnson said he was “going to smash on and deliver for the people who gave us a massive mandate”.
The PM is reported to have said: “Only the Tories have the answers on tackling the inflation spike. Labour are in bed with the trade unions trying to cripple the country with strikes.
“Everyone just needs to calm down, stop bickering and let us get on with the job in hand.”
Tory schools minister resigns
09:48 , Daniel Keane
Minister for Schools Robin Walker has announced his resignation from the Government.
He tweeted: “I have today offered my resignation from the Government & look forward to supporting Conservatives and campaigning for Worcester from the backbenches, it has been a privilege to work to support our brilliant schools.”
I have today offered my resignation from the Government & look forward to supporting @conservatives & campaigning for #Worcester from the backbenches, it has been a privilege to work to support our brilliant schools pic.twitter.com/giOm0wCArw
— Robin Walker (@WalkerWorcester) July 6, 2022
Watch: Nadhim Zahawi calls for unity amid series of governmental resignations
09:41 , Daniel Keane
Zahawi said PM made a ‘mistake’ over Chris Pincher
09:36 , Daniel Keane
Nadhim Zahawi said the Government had made a "mistake" regarding Chris Pincher.
It was put to the new Chancellor on ITV's Good Morning Britain: "You've had a minister resign in the last few minutes because what he was told by No 10 about what the Prime Minister knew was not true. That's the reason that we're talking about it."
Mr Zahawi responded: "I don't disagree with you... which is why I said we've made a mistake.
"It's a fast-moving situation. We make decisions at warp speed. And when you make a mistake, it's right to come out and say 'I made a mistake'.
"And, of course, the Prime Minister (said) 'with the benefit of hindsight, I shouldn't have appointed Chris Pincher to the position of deputy chief'. I think, in my view, that is the right way to deal with this - when you know you've made a mistake, is to come out and own it."
Mr Quince, the MP for Colchester, resigned from his Government post on Wednesday morning, saying he had "no choice" after he had appeared on television to defend the Prime Minister using Downing Street briefings "which have now been found to be inaccurate".
In his letter of resignation, he claimed Mr Johnson apologised to him regarding the No 10 briefings ahead of Monday's media round.
Pictured: Zahawi arrives at Treasury for first day as Chancellor
09:22 , Daniel Keane
Nadhim Zahawi has arrived at the Treasury for his first day in his new role as Chancellor, following Rishi Sunak's shock resignation.
He posed for photographers outside the door to his new office on 1 Horse Guards Road underneath overcast skies in Westminster just after 9am.
General Election would be ‘kamikaze mission’, says polling expert
09:17 , Daniel Keane
Polling expert Sir John Curtice, from the University of Strathclyde, just summed up Boris Johnson’s chances of winning a snap general election to try and keep potential Tory rebels in side, writes David Bond.
“Well, certainly, I think at the moment one has to say that if the Conservatives were to precipitate a general election, then probably it would be I kamikaze mission.”
Click here to read the full blog on The Evening Standard's website