This article was originally published in August 2022. It is being repromoted following reports that Boris Johnson intends to stand for the Conservative Party leadership.
The Conservative government was unpopular and facing defeat – possibly annihilation – at the next general election. The prime minister, who once had the support of the right of the parliamentary party and the Tory press (despite having been a Remainer), was viewed by them at best with suspicion, at worst with hostility. The problems for the country and the party appeared insurmountable; pessimism prevailed.
Subscribe to The New Statesman today from only £8.99 per month
Content from our partners
