Sunak faces PMQs amid Tory row over call for him to quit
PM Rishi Sunak is facing PMQs after more Tory infighting as senior figures warned against “divisive self-indulgence” after former minister Sir Simon Clarke called for the Prime Minister to step down ahead of the general election.
In an article in the Telegraph, Sir Simon said the Tories will face a potential “massacre” in the upcoming general election.
Former ministers are urging the party to focus on the country following the article, and to put their duty to the country ahead of “tribalism.”
What time is PMQs?
Prime Minister’s Questions kicks off at its usual time of Midday on Wednesday 24 January.
Where can I watch PMQs?
Prime Minister’s Questions can be watched live via the UK Parliament’s YouTube channel.
What’s on the agenda at today’s PMQs?
Today’s PMQs will be dominated by an attempt from inside the Tory party to remove Rishi Sunak from post ahead of a general election later this year. Many Tories have slammed the article by Sir Simon accusing him of attempting to oust the PM for his own political gain – whilst there are whispers the party is unhappy with Sunak, most agree a change of leadership would be bad for the party.
Minister Kevin Hollinrake acknowledged there was a sense of “panic” in some sections of the Conservative Party, but said Sir Simon’s view was not widely held.
But it’s still handed Starmer a golden ticket, he can continue to press on the chaos around the party and bolster his calls for an early general election.
How MPs reacted to Clarke’s call for Sunak to be replaced as Tory leader
Sir Simon Clarke’s call for Rishi Sunak to be replaced as Tory leader was a major talking point for MPs from across the political spectrum last night.
Former home secretary Priti Patel said:
At this critical time for our country, with challenges at home and abroad, our party must focus on the people we serve and deliver for the country. Engaging in facile and divisive self indulgence only serves our opponents, it’s time to unite and get on with the job.
— Priti Patel MP (@pritipatel) January 23, 2024
Former Cabinet minister David Davis posted on X:
This is getting silly.
— David Davis (@DavidDavisMP) January 23, 2024
The Party and the country are sick and tired of MPs putting their own leadership ambitions ahead of the UK's best interests. https://t.co/kmkXco6hMc