Tom Tugendhat has been eliminated from the Conservative leadership contest, paving the way for James Cleverly, who has received a significant boost in support.
The former security minister, who was previously viewed as a strong contender, failed to win over enough backing from parliamentary colleagues to make it to the final three, garnering only 20 votes.
James Cleverly topped the third ballot with a notable rise in support, securing 39 votes from Tory MPs. This shift in momentum places him as a frontrunner as the race intensifies.
Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick remains a key player in the contest with 31 of the votes. Kemi Badenoch closely trails with 30 votes, reflecting a tight race among the remaining candidates.
With the final two candidates set to be announced in another ballot on Wednesday, Tory members will have the chance to vote in an online ballot from 10 to 31 October.
It comes as the Conservatives narrowed Labour’s lead to just one point, raising alarms for Sir Keir Starmer’s party months after its sweeping election victory.
Key Points
- Cleverly clinches top spot as Tugendhat eliminated from race
- Kemi Badenoch calls on Jenrick supporters to unite behind her bid
- Poll: Cleverly rises in Tory leadership race after strong conference
- Concerns mount over VAT charges on nursery fees in Labour’s tax plans
- No 10 rejects fears of Truss-style chaos ahead of Budget announcement
Cleverly clinches top spot as Tugendhat eliminated from leadership race
15:30
Salma Ouaguira
In a decisive turn of events in the Conservative leadership contest, James Cleverly emerged as the frontrunner, garnering 39 votes while Tom Tungendhat was eliminated after securing only 20.
Mr Cleverly’s performance marks a notable resurgence from his previous tally of just 21 votes in the round held before the party conference.
His strong showing is seen as a reflection of his impactful conference speech, where he was tipped as a standout candidate.
Robert Jenrick trailed closely behind Mr Clevelry with 31 votes, while Kemi Badenoch rounded out the top three with 30, having gained two votes from the previous round.
In contrast, Mr Jenrick experienced a slight decline, losing the support of two MPs.
The final vote among Conservative MPs is set to take place tomorrow, narrowing the field from three candidates to the last two, who will then face a ballot of Tory Members.
The winner is expected to be announced on 2 November.
Reeves urged to make simple fiscal rule change to unlock £57 billion at Budget
16:30
Salma Ouaguira
Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reportedly considering making a major change to the UK’s fiscal rules at the Budget on 30 October – and experts say the shift could unlock an extra £57 billion for infrastructure spending.
Ahead of the general election, Labour pledged to follow two rules. The first was that in the current budget costs are met by revenues such as tax.
This has proven much more of a challenge for Ms Reeves than anticipated after she unveiled Treasury analysis in late July which showed a £22 billion shortfall in public spending.
You can read the full story below:
ANALYSIS | Cleverly’s rise: The power of party conferences in shaping leadership contests
16:15
Salma Ouaguira
James Cleverly has shown his rivals a demonstration of the influence political party conferences can wield.
Following a dynamic performance in Birmingham, the shadow home secretary has emerged as the clear frontrunner in the race to succeed Rishi Sunak.
The result allowed him to effectively counter prior criticisms regarding his sense of humour and past behaviours.
He previosuly said the ideal spouse was “someone who is always mildly sedated so she can never realise there are better men out there”.
But his ability to connect with the party has proven pivotal in this contest.
Meanwhile, Robert Jenrick, who was a key frontrunner, has witnessed a decline in his support, losing two MPs who previously backed him.
At the conference, the former immigration secretary had sought to draw parallels with David Cameron’s 2005 rise, positioning himself as a fresh face to surpass veteran rival David Davis.
His conference performance was overshadowed by backlash over his claims that British special forces are “killing rather than capturing terrorists”.
Rather than following the former prime minsiter’s footsteps, he seems to have taken a misstep.
Kemi Badenoch calls on Jenrick supporters to unite behind her bid
15:49
Salma Ouaguira
Kemi Badenoch is rallying supporters of Robert Jenrick to pivot their backing towards her campaign as the Tory leadership race narrows to three contenders.
A spokesperson for the shadow secretary said: “There are three candidates left in this contest, two are gaining votes and one is going backwards and losing support.
“The right of the Conservative Party now needs to coalesce around Kemi, who can reach across and unify the party, has the star quality to cut through in opposition, and is indisputably the members’ choice for leader.”
James Cleverly: ‘The job’s not finished’
15:47
Salma Ouaguira
I’m grateful to all my colleagues for their support today, and I’m pleased to be through to the next round.
— James Cleverly (@JamesCleverly) October 8, 2024
The job’s not finished.
I’m excited to keep spreading our positive Conservative message. pic.twitter.com/578Gj993Qc
Tugendhat thanks backers as he exits leadership race
15:40
Salma Ouaguira
To everyone who backed our campaign - thank you!
— Tom Tugendhat (@TomTugendhat) October 8, 2024
Your energy, your ideas and your support have shown a vision of what our party could become.
Our campaign has ended but our commitment to our country continues. pic.twitter.com/fZqw0opDi1
Reform UK membership reaches 90,000 supporters
15:30
Salma Ouaguira
Meanwhile, Nigel Farage has taken to social media to announce that Reform UK’s membership has increased to 90,000.
The last time the party revealed the numbers, it stood at 85,000.
— Nigel Farage MP (@Nigel_Farage) October 8, 2024
Coming up: Tory leadership vote result revealed shortly
15:25
Salma Ouaguira
Chariman of the 1922 Committee of Tory MPs Bob Blackman will appear at 3.30pm to announce the result of the latest round of voting in the leadership contest.
Labour MP slams Tories for defending private school tax breaks
15:10
Salma Ouaguira
Connor Naismith, Labour MP for Crewe and Nantwich, has criticised the Tories for their support of tax breaks for private education during the ongoing VAT discussion.
Speaking passionately in the Commons, Mr Naismith argued that the previous administration demonstrated a lack of change in their priorities.
He said: “(The Conservatives) have demonstrated perfectly well that nothing has changed and it’s business as usual as they choose to leap to the defence of tax breaks for private education.
“Only 7 per cent of children in the UK go to a private school, a smaller proportion than the most recent Conservative cabinet, of which it is believed that 65 per cent were privately educated. So, perhaps that tells us something about why we are debating this matter today.”
Tory members on the opposition benches responded by shouting – “look around you”.
Back to the Commons...
15:02
Salma Ouaguira
MPs continue to debate Labour’s decision to scrap tax exemptions for private schools.
Alicia Kearns, Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford, condemned Labour’s proposal to impose VAT on school fees, calling it “cruel and vindictive”.
Speaking in the House of Commons, she warned that the move would have dire consequences for rural economies, which rely heavily on the presence of independent schools.
She told members: “I have over 2,000 people locally who are employed directly by independent schools, let alone those working within the supply chain, whether it be buses, or food, or flowers, or cafes or shops, rural economies do not have that many options at the moment and independent schools are a bedrock for them.
“So, the economic impact of this (policy) should be considered within that impact assessment, which I very much doubt has been carried out.”
No 10 rejects fears of Truss-style chaos ahead of Budget announcement
15:00
Salma Ouaguira
Downing Street has downplayed fears that potential changes to borrowing rules in the upcoming Budget could trigger a crisis like the chaotic premiership of Liz Truss.
The government insisted that it is committed to restoring economic stability, amid growing speculation that shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves plans to revamp fiscal policies.
With the Budget statement set to be released at the end of this month, investors are cautioning shadow chancellor Jeremy Hunt to “walk a tightrope” to avoid unsettling the markets and prompting a sell-off of government bonds.
In response to fears of a Truss-style chaos, a No 10 spokesperson said: “Obviously, I wouldn’t accept that characterisation.
“The government has made clear that one of the first steps of this government is to restore economic stability in the Budget. It will absolutely deliver on that, delivering on the robust fiscal rules that were set out in the manifesto.
“That includes moving the current Budget into balance, it includes debt falling as a share of the economy, and more broadly, as I say, the Budget will be about fixing the foundations of the economy, delivering stability, because it is only with economic stability that we will get the growth and investment that the economy needs.”
Poll: James Cleverly most popular Tory leadership candidate
14:47
Salma Ouaguira
Another YouGov poll has revealed the popularity of the Conservative leadership candidates among the general public and Tory voters.
James Cleverly emerged as the frontrunner with 46 per cent of the support.
Tom Tugendhat follows with 35 per cent of the backing and just 14 per cent unfavourable, while Robert Jenrick garners 32 pre cent favourable.
In contrast, Kemi Badenoch sees a close split with 31 per cent favourability and 30 per cent of unfavourable.
ICYMI: Boris Johnson denies mocking people who followed rules during pandemic
14:35
Salma Ouaguira
Boris Johnnson has denied mocking the public for obeying lockdown rules “like a religion” in his new memoir, which saw him question why people “so avidly craved” restrictions.
Speaking to Sky News, Mr Johnson said he “totally rejects” the claim he was expressing disdain for members of the public who followed the rules during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Our political correspondent Millie Cooke has the full story below:
Private schools to absorb VAT charges, minister insists
14:20
Salma Ouaguira
Ina bid to reassure parents, Treasury minister James Murray claimed that the majority of private schools are expected to manage the upcoming VAT charge.
Addressing the Commons, Mr Murray explained that while these institutions will now be required to apply the tax to their services, “we believe most private schools will absorb a considerable proportion of this new charge and keep fee increases affordable for most parents”.
Mr Murray also told MPs: “The government recognises some pupils may subsequently move into the state education sector as a result of this policies.
“However, as set out in the technical note the number of pupils who may switch schools as a result of these changes represent a very small proportion of the overall numbers in the state sector and the government is therefore confident that the state sector will be able to accommodate any additional pupils that these policies will cause to move.”
Poll: Major dissent among voters toward Keir Starmer
14:12
Salma Ouaguira
Sir Keir Starmer’s approval ratings have taken a sharp hit, with nearly 63 per cent of voters holding an unfavourable opinion.
The YouGov survey, conducted from 4-5 October, indicates that just 27 per cent of respondents view the prime minister positively.
This marks a concerning milestone for Sir Keir as it is his lowest approval rating since he took the leadership of the party in 2020.
Among those who identify as Labour supporters, 61 per cent still maintain a favourable view of the PM, wile 34 per cent express dissatisfaction.
Concerns mount over VAT charges on nursery fees in Labour’s tax plans
14:00
Salma Ouaguira
While Tories cast their votes, we turn to Westminster, where MPs are debating VAT on private school fees.
The opposition has voiced significant criticism regarding the potential implications of Labour’s plan.
During the debate, shadow foreign minister Alicia Kearns claimed that if a child in a nursery class turns five, all parents in that setting could find themselves liable for VAT on their nursery fees.
Ms Kearns branded the changes as “rushed” and “Ill-conceived”, highlighting the potential consequences of the legislation.
Shadow education secretary Damian Hinds echoed her criticism, pointing out at a “sloppy drafting” of the bill that could tax children who are not yet of school age simply because they share a classroom with their older peers.
Who will be the next Conservative leader?
14:00
Salma Ouaguira
Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly, Robert Jenrick and Tom Tugendhat are the final candidates for the Tory top spot. Although the race was announced on 5 July, the leader will not be revealed until early November – although two candidates have called for the timeframe to be cut down.
Until then, former prime minister Rishi Sunak retains the position and has refused to be drawn into the ongoing contest so far.
Here’s your guide to the four candidates to be the next Conservative Party leader:
PINNED | Tories vote in leadership race as one contender faces elimination
13:39
Salma Ouaguira
Voting is now officially underway in the Conservative Party leadership race, as Tory MPs decide which of the four remaining candidates will be knocked out of the contest today.
The ballot, open for just 90 minutes, will see the field narrowed ahead of Wednesday’s crucial vote.
The remaining contenders, Robert Jenrick, Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly and Tom Tugendhat are vying for the support of their parliamentary peers, with the results expected at 3.30pm.
Following the elimination of Mel Stride in the previous round, the competition is intensifying.
The last round’s results saw Mr Jenrick leading with 33 votes, Ms Badenoch close behind at 28, while Mr Cleverly and Mr Tugendhat were tied with 21 each.
Today’s vote will be decisive, as one hopeful will be forced to exit the race, leaving tree to battle for the final two spots ahead of the ballot set for the party’s wider membership.
Russia on mission to cause 'sustained mayhem' on UK streets, MI5 warns
13:30
Salma Ouaguira
British intelligence is facing a “hell of a job” over rising threats from Iran and Russia, as well as the resurgence of Isis and Al-Qaeda, the head of MI5 has warned.
A day after Sir Keir Starmer called on the international community to focus on the “malign” regime in Iran, which supports proxies across the Middle East including Hamas and Hezbollah, Ken McCallum said British intelligence has thwarted 20 Tehran-backed plots that “presented potentially lethal threats to British citizens” since the start of 2022.
You can read the full story below:
Lunchtime bulletin
13:21
Salma Ouaguira
The race to determine the next Conservative leader continues today, with MPs set to eliminate one of the four remaining contenders.
- Voting opens at 1.30pm and closes at 3pm, with the results expected at 3.30pm.
- Tom Tugendhat is widely tipped to be the next candidate to drop out, leaving Robert Jenrick, James Cleverly, and Kemi Badenoch to battle it out in tomorrow’s round.
- The new party leader will be revealed on 2 November, following a vote by Conservative Party members.
- In other political news, former prime minister Boris Jonson has been defending comments from his memoir Unleashed, where he suggested the public “avidly craved” lockdown restrictions.
Meanwhile, in Labour:
- Sir Keir Starmer is under growing pressure to repair his relationship with ethnic minority voters, as polling shows diminishing support from these communities.
- Labour’s lead in the polls has shrunk one point, as internal rows and criticism over free gifts the prime minister accepted continue to dent public perception.
- As the government prepares to unveil its October budget, Sir Keir is under scrutiny over his decision to cut winter fuel payments to pensioners.
Stay tuned for the latest updates and expert analysis throughout the day.
Badenoch’s campaign calls Tories to ‘get serious’ ahead of vote
13:15
Salma Ouaguira
It’s time to get serious.
— Renewal2030 (@renewal2030) October 8, 2024
We are at a crossroads. This week's vote is pivotal.
That’s why MPs from across the party are backing @KemiBadenoch. pic.twitter.com/3NrEhY8imP
Robert Jenrick: ‘We must change our party to regain public’s trust'
13:12
Salma Ouaguira
We lost too many dedicated public servants at the last election.
— Robert Jenrick (@RobertJenrick) October 8, 2024
We must change our party, regain the public’s trust, and win again. pic.twitter.com/bFE08yjrfc
Tory leadership race: MPs set to cast votes in critical round
13:11
Salma Ouaguira
Tory MPs will begin voting at 1.30pm today in the latest stage of the Conservative Party leadership contest.
They will choose between four candidates including Robert Jenrick, Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly and Tom Tugendhat.
The result of this round is expected at 3.30pm, narrowing the field before tomorrow’s crucial vote, which will determine the final two candidates.
Tory MP quits frontbencher and backs James Cleverly
13:08
Salma Ouaguira
After careful thought, today I’ve left the whips office to declare my support for @JamesCleverly. He’s the leader we need to take us forward and take the fight to the Liberals, Labour and Reform. pic.twitter.com/aVY0RFozb3
— Paul Holmes MP (@pauljholmes) October 8, 2024
Who is Morgan McSweeney? The Labour election guru replacing Sue Gray as chief of staff
13:00
Salma Ouaguira
Labour election guru Morgan McSweeney will take over as Sir Keir Starmer’s chief of staff after Sue Gray quit.
McSweeney is the creative intelligence behind Starmer’s success, first in winning the leadership of the Labour Party and then in winning a huge election victory in the country. It makes sense to have him at the top of the political side of No 10, writes Jabed Ahmed.
HS2 rail line will run into London Euston, transport secretary Louise Haigh hints
12:45
Salma Ouaguira
The transport secretary has indicated that HS2 will run into central London, saying it “would never have made sense” for that not to happen, following months of speculation over the rail line.
The government will make a final announcement around the time of the budget, Louise Haigh suggested.
Our political correspondent Millie Cooke has the full story below:
London Underground workers to vote on strikes
12:30
Salma Ouaguira
London Underground staff are set to vote on potential strikes in response to ongoing disputes regarding pay, terms, and conditions.
The Transport Salaried Staffs Association (TSSA) is surveying its members, including those in customer service roles, about their willingness to take industrial action, with the ballot closing on 18 October.
It comes after the union refused the latest offer fro London Underground, which it argues amounts to a pay rise below inflation for most employees and a freeze on many pay ranges.
TSSA general secretary Maryam Eslamdoust said members are “highly likely to vote overwhelmingly in favour of strike action and action short of a strike”.
She added: “Our intention is to send a strong and clear message to London Underground that significant industrial action is on the cards across the network unless they are prepared to meet our aspirations on pay, as well as dealing positively with all other aspects of our dispute.”
James Cleverly vows to ‘fight Labour from day one’
12:15
Salma Ouaguira
We don't have a moment to waste.
— James Cleverly (@JamesCleverly) October 8, 2024
I will take the fight to Labour from day one. pic.twitter.com/X6nZ49Q6WR
UK population sees record surge as migration outpaces natural growth
12:00
Salma Ouaguira
The UK has recorded its most significant annual population increase since 1971, according to latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS).
in the year leading up to June 2023, the population grew by one per cent, marking the largest annual rise since record-keeping began.
This growth, estimated at 68,265,200 residents, has been primarily driven by net international migration, which reached around 677,300 for the same period.
This influx has overshadowed a concerning trend; for the first time in nearly five decades, deaths outnumbered births outside the Covid-19 pandemic, with an estimated 16,300 more deaths than births reported.
Professor Sarah Harper, director of the Oxford Institute of Population Ageing, said the negative natural change is “not unexpected”.
She said: “Given the low childbearing rate currently in the UK, and the large post-war birth cohorts who have benefited from longer lives now entering old age, the number of deaths we expect will increase each year over time as this generation of older adults ages and dies.”
Watch: Boris Johnson squirms as he gives Brexit success mark out of 10
11:47
Salma Ouaguira
ICYMI: Labour poll lead over Tories slashed to one point
11:32
Salma Ouaguira
Labour’s polling lead has fallen to just one point after a rocky start to Sir Keir Starmer’s time in government.
The latest polling comes despite the prime minister attempting to draw a line under the disorder by accepting the resignation of his chief of staff Sue Gray.
The survey, conducted by More in Common for Politico, put Labour on 29 per cent and the Conservative Party on 28 per cent.
Our political correspondent Millie Cooke has the full story below:
Poll: Cleverly rises in Tory leadership race after strong conference performance
11:18
Salma Ouaguira
James Cleverly has surged ahead of Robert Jenrick, according to a post-conference survey by Conservative Home.
The poll indicates that the former home secretary has gained traction in both first preferences among party members and in a potential final face-off.
Analysis revealed that Mr Cleverly was the standout candidate at the recent Birmingham conference, with over half of respondents expressing a greater likelihood of supporting him, while only 14 per cent reported the opposite.
In contrast, other contenders, including Mr Jenrick and Tom Tugendhat, saw a notable decline in support.
Kemi Badenoch managed to maintain a stable position, with about a third of Tory members remaining neutral regarding their support for her.
Despite losing media attention due to a controversy over her comments on maternity pay, she faced only minor repercussions.
‘Prisons on the brink’: Lord Timpson blames Tories for crisis
11:12
Salma Ouaguira
Lord James Timpson, minister of state for prisons has issued a stark warning about the state of the prison system.
He blamed the turmoil to the previous government’smismanagement. Speaking at the prison Governor’s association conference in Nottingham, Mr Timpson described the system as “teetering disaster” due to years of overcrowding and inadequate resources.
“It has not been easy to rehabilitate offenders in a system teetering on disaster,” he added.
He revealed that emergency measures had to be implemented to prevent a complete breakdown of law and order.
Highlighting recent public disorder as evidence of the system’s fragility, he claimed: “We came dangerously close to running out of prisons entirely.
“The last government allowed prisons to run so hot for so long, it was nothing short of a disgrace. We had no choice but to introduce emergency measures. To attempt to delay any further would have allowed our justice system to collapse.”
WATCH: Boris Johnson says his Downing Street apartment resembled a ‘crack den’
11:00
Salma Ouaguira
Tugendhat calls for party transformation as Tory MPs face critical choice
10:41
Salma Ouaguira
In a fervent appeal for support, Tom Tugendhat has urged Tory MPs to prioritise “change over continuity” as the race to succeed Rishi Sunak intensifies.
With four candidates remaining, including Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly and Robert Jenrick, Mr Tugendhat cited the need for a leader who resonates with the broader electorate rather than just the party base.
Posting on X, he warned that clinging to “the same old battles” would yield the same disappointing outcomes.
Mr Tugendhat added: “We [must] choose somebody who can speak to the whole country, who can actually make our message heard and who doesn’t just make us feel good in the room but makes us heard in the country.”
The choice is continuity or change. pic.twitter.com/pZMYj7961V
— Tom Tugendhat (@TomTugendhat) October 8, 2024
Pictured: Cabinet ministers in Downing Street for meeting
10:31
Salma Ouaguira
Louise Haigh teases major update on HS2
10:30
Salma Ouaguira
Transport secretary Louise Haigh has hinted that the long-anticipated High Speed 2 (HS2) rail line could potentially extend into central London.
In an interview with Times Radio, Ms Haigh suggested that an announcement regarding the project’s future would be forthcoming.
When asked about the feasibility of terminating the line at Euston, she replied: “It certainly would never have made sense to leave it between Old Oak Common and Birmingham.”
Asked if the announcement may come on 30 October, the date of the Budget, she added: “It may be made around those decisions.”
James Cleverly admits ‘mistake’ in declaration of freebies
10:18
Salma Ouaguira
Tory leadership contender James Cleverly has openly acknowledged a “mistake” in declaring gifts he received while attending high-profile sporting events.
Over the weekend, it was revealed that he attended both Wimbledon and the Women’s World Cup final with his wife, Susannah, without properly declaring expenses.
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson for Mr Cleverly said: “James has always been fully transparent with any gifts and hospitality received.
“On this case there was a mistake in the declaration and we have contacted the FCDO to ask them to rectify it.”
This incident comes after Sir Keir Starmer faced backlash over tens of thousands of pounds in freebies since assuming his role.
The prime minister has since returned £6,000, which includes the cost of four tickets to Taylor Swift’s recent Eras Tour.
COMMENT | The fall of Sue Gray proves one thing, once and for all
10:10
Salma Ouaguira
...that too many cooks spoil the broth, writes Sean O’Grady. Or, to put it another way, why does the prime minister need a ‘chief of staff’ anyway?
Tugendhat: I’m the only candidate who can win back country
09:55
Salma Ouaguira
The numbers are clear.
— Tom Tugendhat (@TomTugendhat) October 8, 2024
I'm the only candidate who can win back and lead this country. pic.twitter.com/bDy9MxxBJf
Poll: Labour can’t rely on ethnic minority voters
09:45
Salma Ouaguira
Despite securing a significant majority in the last election, Labour’s grip on ethnic minority voters may be slipping.
A new report from the think tank UK in a Changing Europe has revealed that while ethnic minorities still lean left, voting 66 per cent for Labour, the Greens and the Liberal Democrats, this support can’t be taken for granted.
The pollster behind the study, James Kanagasooriam, highlighted a worrying trend. Labour’s appeal among these voters is more a historical legacy than a solid foundation.
He said: “Labour cannot rely on ethnic minority voters as a ‘bloc’ of support. It is true that the Labour Party still convinces a far greater proportion of minorities with ‘warm’ views of the party to vote for it than the Conservative Party does.
“But among many ethnic groups, there is a fundamental disjunction between opinion on the salient issues of the day and voting patterns.
“Our polling suggests that Labour support among ethnic minorities is an ossified cultural and historical legacy that could disappear very quickly.”
Pictured: Labour cabinet arrives at No 10 ahead of meeting
09:25
Salma Ouaguira
Tories urge Labour to pause VAT policy on private schools
09:15
Salma Ouaguira
Shadow education secretary Damian Hinds has called on the government to “pause” its plan to eliminate VAT exemptions for private school fees by January.
The Tory MP warned the government of potential repercussions. He emphasised the need for the government to publish its analysis regarding the impact of the policy on state schools.
Mr Hinds cautioned that removing these exemptions could displace students from private institutions, resulting in fewer choices for parents seeking preferred schools for their children.
He told Sky News that Labour must “rethink every aspect” of this policy if they are to avoid adverse consequences.
Mr Hinds added: “It means disruption for teachers, and it means ultimately more schools being full, and that means less chance of parent, of getting your preferred choice of school for your child.”
Pictured: Angela Rayner arrives at Downing Street
09:00
Salma Ouaguira
Poll: Labour’s lead slips one point
08:44
Salma Ouaguira
Labour’s position in the latest poll has dwindled, with its lead shrinking to one point as recent rows impact public perception.
According to More in Common, the party now sits at 29 per cent, a drop of one percentage point.
The Conservatives have gained two points, reaching 28 per cent.
Meanwhile, Reform UK continues to attract support, rising to 19 per cent, while Liberal Democrats have fallen to 11 per cent - down two points.
The Green Party has decreased to 7 per cent, down one point.
Coming up: Tory leadership candidates braced for crunch vote today
08:27
Salma Ouaguira
Today marks a critical moment for the Conservative Party as it holds a leadership vote that will narrow the field of candidates vying for Rishi Sunak’s successor.
Four contenders, Robert Jenrick, Kemi Badenoch, James Cleverly and Tom Tugnedhat, are competing for the chance to secure their party’ s future direction.
Mr Cleverly has gained momentum following a strong conference speech, securing Mel Stride’s endorsement.
By Wednesday, only two will remain, and party members will decide the winner.
James Cleverly wins backing of former rival in Tory leadership race
08:20
Salma Ouaguira
James Cleverly‘s hopes of becoming Tory leader have received a major boost ahead of another crucial vote by Conservative MPs today as a former rival endorsed his candidacy.
Mel Stride, who was eliminated in the last round, has come out in support of the former home and foreign secretary as momentum continues to build for him to succeed Mr Sunak.
In a message on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Stride said: “The Conservative Party needs to rebuild trust on economic competence, cutting migration and reforming public services. Strong, clear and measured. James has what it takes. “
Momentum for Mr Cleverly appears to have been building since his speech on the last day of the Tory conference energised the audience with his call for Conservatives to start “being normal again”.
Our politics team has the full story below:
Starmer to hold key cabinet meeting as Labour eyes reforms
08:06
Salma Ouaguira
Sir Keir Starmer will meet cabinet ministers today as his government prepares to unveil the October budget.
With the cost of living crisis, energy policy, and NHS reforms high on the agenda, the prime minister is expected to outline his strategy for delivering on Labour’s ambitious manifesto promises in a matter of weeks.
This cabinet meeting comes as Sir Keir seeks to solidify his leadership and demonstrate Labour’s readiness to address the challenges facing the nation.
Cabinet ministers will discuss immediate action plans while laying the groundwork for longer-term reforms.
