Tory Brexiters out to derail Theresa May’s Chequers plan proposals say they are closer than ever to ousting the beleaguered PM.
Robert Peston reported today that an operation is underway to persuade backbenchers to write to Graham Brady, chair of the 1922 backbench committee, calling for a vote of no confidence in May as leader of their party.
One said: “I’m campaigning myself. We need 60-70 letters, not 48…I know people who are putting letters in today. I think we are the closest ever to her going and I think, thank God, this could be it”.
The PM faced a barrage of abuse in the national newspapers this weekend, with one backbencher quoted in the Sunday Times as saying: “The moment is coming when the knife gets heated, stuck in her front and twisted. She’ll be dead soon.”
Although the comments have been widely condemned it seems the PMs days could be numbered if enough support can be mounted to launch a challenge.
Peston’s source notes that a coup will work if “the agnostic centre” of the Tory party rise up against May in partnership with the Brexit True Believers.
But the inability to coalesce around a successor could mean that MPs will be reluctant to step forward.
David Davis is one name that has been touted, but he is unlikely to unify the party, one influential Tory has said.
The Prime Minister looks to be set for one of her toughest weeks in the job, but Trexit may still be some time in the offing.
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