Co-conspirators get in touch saying Theresa May’s former Chief of Staff Gavin Barwell was spotted in public brandishing a spreadsheet of former Tory MPs – including contact details – on his way into town this morning. Greg Clark and Huw Merriman’s names were visible on there…
Barwell has been tweeting enthusiastically about the “new political movement” fronted by Tory wets Andy Street and Ruth Davidson “aimed at persuading Kemi Badenoch to reclaim the centre ground for the Conservative Party and win the support of about seven million ‘politically homeless’ voters.” He is on the board of the new effort and tweeted: “Hugely excited about this. Andy and Ruth have shown they know how to win outside ‘natural’ Conservative territory. I hope my former colleagues will listen to what they have to say.” Looks like the master of centrist machinations is once again at work…
After Jenrick’s defection Badenoch was forced to fight off suggestions that the Tories would pitch to the left – as Guido outlined first. The move was strongly denied – but the launch of a new wet movement over the weekend confirms an organised effort is underway. A source tells Guido: “Is Bungling Barwell plotting a takeover of the candidates list? Kemi is in danger of losing control of the party.” Out of the frying pan…
