TWO Tory leadership hopefuls threw their hats into the ring today with pitches to the right, sparking warnings that Labour must deliver real change for people’s lives or risk a right-wing backlash.
Shadow security minister Tom Tugendhat said he was willing to leave the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) as he announced he was entering the race to replace Rishi Sunak.
The former minister, who previously dismissed calls to leave the ECHR, which guarantees fundamental human rights in law, claimed: “No, I’ve been very, very clear I am prepared to make any decision that will keep the British people safe.
“I am prepared to leave the ECHR, or indeed any other institution that doesn’t serve the interests of the British people.”
Former immigration minister Robert Jenrick, who quit Rishi Sunak’s cabinet over the prime minister’s failure to take a tougher approach to immigration, also entered the race today.
He has also argued for Britain to leave the ECHR, as has former home secretary Suella Braverman.
Labour MP Barry Gardiner said: “Both seem eminently suited to lead the Conservative Party.
“I am sure they will operate in the best traditions of Liz Truss, Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak and leave office earlier than they might, but later than the public might wish.”
Ms Braverman and shadow communities secretary Kemi Badenoch, who has previously said the option of leaving the ECHR is “definitely something that needs to be on the table,” are all expected to put themselves forward for the Tory leadership.
Former home secretary Mr Cleverly, first to announce his run at leadership, has said the party’s MPs “have to get out of that habit” of “rowing amongst ourselves.”
A spokeswoman for Momentum said: “The Tory leadership election race confirms once again that they have no answers to the problems faced by the country.
“However, right-wing ideas are powerful in the country and should not be underestimated.
“If Labour fails to deliver real change for people’s lives or to stand up to anti-migrant scapegoating, the right will recover in one form or another.”
Liberal Democrat chief whip Wendy Chamberlain said the likely runners and riders were “a collection of failed ministers,” and “a group of arsonists asking for a new box of matches.”
A long and potentially divisive campaign will eventually produce a winner on November 2.
