Tory Peer Warns of Disaster if Boris Johnson Wins Next Election

Strategic Insights -

Former Tory chairman Lord Patten has slammed the UK government, accusing Boris Johnson of leading an "English nationalist government" that voters "can't trust." In a scathing attack, Lord Patten claimed another victory for Johnson in the next election would hasten the break-up of the UK, fueling the drive for Scottish independence. He also accused the government of "playing fast and loose" with peace in Northern Ireland, due to its Brexit battles with the EU.

Key Takeaways:

  • Lord Patten, a former Tory chairman and Cabinet Minister under Margaret Thatcher, has publicly criticized Boris Johnson's leadership, calling it an "English nationalist government".
  • Lord Patten believes another victory for Johnson in the next election would be "a disaster" for the Conservative Party and the UK as a whole.
  • He claims the current government is not a Conservative government, but rather a populist and unpopular one, driving a wedge between Brexit right-wing Conservatives and others.
  • Lord Patten fears the government's actions, particularly on Brexit, will "hasten the break up of the union", fuelling the drive for Scottish independence.
  • He also accuses the government of "playing fast and loose" with peace in Northern Ireland.

Statistics:

  • 41% of Tory MPs voted against Boris Johnson in the recent no confidence vote, with 211 voting in favor and 148 against.
  • Boris Johnson's victory means he is now immune from challenge for 12 months, unless Tory backbench chiefs change the rules.

Sources:

  • "Lord Patten: I'm not sure there is a Conservative party anymore", LBC
  • "Lord Patten warns of 'disaster' if Boris Johnson wins next election", The Telegraph
  • "Boris Johnson's leadership under threat after 211 Tory MPs back him in confidence vote", The Times