
Even had he remained in the Commons, David Cameron would never have spearheaded the defence of his political project. A former prime minister is constitutionally required to remain above the fray or be labelled “the incredible sulk” (as Ted Heath was). The alternative of self-censorship is similarly unattractive.
But the vanquished Cameroons have found a new leader: George Osborne. When he was sacked from the cabinet by Theresa May, some expected Osborne to retreat to a lucrative City career. But unlike Cameron (who he entered parliament with in 2001), the former Chancellor is going nowhere.