Conservatives To Announce New Party Leader On November 2nd
The Conservative Party is set to announce its new leader on November 2nd after suffering a significant defeat in the recent general elections. Former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak will stay on as acting leader until his successor is chosen.
This leadership contest comes in the wake of the Conservative Party's worst-ever election performance, which saw the Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer, achieve a landslide victory.
How Do The Conservatives Choose A New Leader?
The process to find a new leader kicks off this Wednesday 24th July at 7pm when nominations open, with opportunities for nominations closing at 2.30pm on Monday 29th July. Candidates will need the support of at least 10 MPs to make it to the first round.
The field will be narrowed down to four candidates, who will then present their cases at the Conservative Party conference in September. The final two candidates will be selected by MPs, with the winner chosen by party members through an online ballot.
Candidates
Several potential candidates have already emerged, including former ministers Mel Stride, Robert Jenrick, and Suella Braverman, as well as Dame Priti Patel, shadow home secretary James Cleverly, and shadow security minister Tom Tugendhat. Stride has hinted at his candidacy, stating it is "important for the country that we have a strong Conservative Party."
James Cleverly, when asked about his potential run, remained non-committal, saying, "The thinking that I and others will have done and will do about the leadership of the party is important and there is a timescale for that, and I’m not going to rush ahead of that timescale."
No-one has officially confirmed they will stand for the position yet.
Chair of 1922 Committee Emphasises Need For Respectful Debate
The timetable for the leadership contest was finalised after meetings between the Conservative Party board and the 1922 Committee of backbench MPs. Bob Blackman, the chair of the 1922 Committee, emphasised the need for a respectful and thorough debate, stating, "While there are significant debates to be had about our party's future, we must remember that the country - and our members - want to see us engaged in proper debate, not personal attacks."
Sunak, in his final speech, highlighted the importance of a smooth transition, saying, "This will allow our party to fulfil its role as the official opposition professionally and effectively. I believe this is what is best for the Conservative Party and, most importantly, our country."
