Tugendhat and Jenrick Enter Conservative Leadership Contest Alongside Cleverly
The former security and immigration ministers have thrown their hats into the ring to replace Rishi Sunak, as nominations close on Monday.
Mr. Tugendhat highlighted his experience as the former security minister and a member of the armed forces when announcing his bid.
He expressed his readiness to leave the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) if necessary, denying any political opportunism.
Nigel Farage from Reform UK called for a referendum on ECHR membership during his first speech in the House of Commons.
Mr. Jenrick, a former immigration minister, has garnered enough support to submit his nomination.
His campaign manager emphasized the need to regain lost voters and unite the party behind core Conservative principles.
Both candidates have expressed willingness to leave the ECHR, aligning with former Home Secretary Suella Braverman’s stance.
Shadow communities secretary Kemi Badenoch, a frontrunner, also supports the idea of leaving the ECHR.
Mr. Cleverly, the shadow home secretary, was the first to announce his candidacy.
What Do the Polls Say?
According to recent polling, Mr. Tugendhat is the most popular contender among the public and Conservative voters.
Dame Priti Patel is the least popular, while Mr. Cleverly follows closely behind Mr. Tugendhat.
Nominations close on Monday, and contenders need proposers and backers to stand.
The parliamentary party will select four candidates to make their case at the upcoming party conference.
The leadership debate aims to be respectful and thorough, without descending into personal attacks.
Mr. Sunak will continue as the acting leader until his successor is appointed, ensuring a smooth transition in the national interest.
PA Media contributed to this report.
