The Law-Related Cabinet Resignations
At the time of writing there have been 39 MPs who have resigned from the government and it seems like the remainder of Boris Johnson’s premiership can be measured in hours. Within Downing Street a group of cabinet ministers are, according to reports, telling Boris Johnson that the jig is up and even if the prime minister is resolved to hang on for as long as possible the 1922 Committee is reportedly seeking to change the rules so that there would be another confidence vote in the coming days.
In a political sense it is interesting to see who has resigned already and who is determined to hold on to the bitter end. Rishi Sunak resigned and it would not be surprising to see that become a precursor to his own leadership challenge as a fresh alternative in government. Loyalists like Priti Patel remain in post but she could also launch a leadership bid as a continuity candidate without some of the personal issues that Boris Johnson currently brings to the post. Nadhim Zahawi moved into No. 11 only to now turn on the prime minister less than 24 hours later. Often those who wield the sword do not go on to take the crown.
During the Boris Johnson premiership we have seen an increased value placed on loyalty over competence. He has promoted those in his inner circle while others have had to find room on the backbenches. Now that it is falling apart there is a lot to be learned by looking at those who decide to try and stick it out and those who try to do the honourable thing and resign.