Gove Spills on Sunak’s Election Call and Tory Comparisons to Pop Stars at Electoral Dysfunction Live

Live on "Electoral Dysfunction": Michael Gove shares insights on Sunak's election strategy reveal and his Tory colleague comparison to Stormzy

The ex-housing secretary opens up on Sky News' podcast about the concluding moments of the recent Tory administration.

Political journalist @NifS

Thursday, September 12, 2024, 11:

Prominent Conservative Michael Gove remarked that he could only "grin" and "remain optimistic" upon hearing Rishi Sunak announce his intention to call a general election.

At a live event in London for Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction tour, the ex-cabinet minister shared an anecdote from his past, revealing that he was summoned to the office of the then-prime minister just thirty minutes before a full cabinet meeting to receive important news.

Despite his personal doubts, defense secretary Grant Shapps was the only one to express to Mr. Sunak, saying, "I don't believe this is a wise decision."

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Speaking to Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby, alongside Labour's Harriet Harman and Conservative's Ruth Davidson, Mr. Gove shared, "The day before was filled with increasing speculation, and several meetings were called off.

"It was hard to imagine that the reason was because we were about to announce a general election. There were hints that another cabinet reshuffle could be on the cards."

"I was almost sure, not entirely, but about 99% sure, when I received a call around noon requesting my presence to meet with Rishi at 3:45 pm, just before the cabinet meeting scheduled for 4:15 pm."

"Thus, I realized that if he was eager to meet… the whispers that had been intensifying all day were likely accurate."

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Mr. Gove, who previously held the position of Levelling Up Secretary under Mr. Sunak before resigning prior to the July election, stated that he was accompanied into the room by five other cabinet members: the former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch, Scotland Secretary Alister Jack, and Mr. Shapps.

When questioned about why he didn't attempt to discourage the prime minister alongside his coworker, he explained: "When a friend informs you they are getting married and your initial thought is 'oh no, not to them,' yet they've already reserved the church and asked you to be the best man or maid of honor, you find yourself having to grin and bear it, hoping things turn out well."

To give credit where it's due, Grant was the sole person in the room to voice concerns, expressing his opinion that it might not be the best course of action, doing so with both courtesy and restraint.

"Following that… within the cabinet, Esther McVey and Chris Heaton Harris believed it was unwise."

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Mr. Gove reflected that in retrospect, "many of us were bound to lose our seats whenever the election was held."

He noted, "Looking back, people might argue it was an error, and I admit I might have postponed actions, partly for personal motives, as I was hoping to push through certain bills."

"Even if I'm not convinced this was the best possible timing, let's give him a break. He's in charge, so let's hope his decision pays off."

Beth Rigby pressed the veteran minister, who had previously been considered a potential leader, about who might succeed Mr. Sunak as party leader, but he remained tight-lipped.

He did disclose the musicians he likened to each of the remaining contenders.

"Clearly, Tom Tugendhat would be James Blunt," Mr. Gove stated. "I believe James Cleverly would be Ed Sheeran."

"I believe Kemi [Badenoch] could be likened to either Taylor Swift or Beyonce.

"I believe Rob Jenrick would be likened to Stormzy."

Didn't catch tonight's performance? No problem! The tour still includes three additional shows.

• Salford – Monday, September 16, at The Lowry Quays

• Liverpool – Sunday, September 22, at St George's Hall

• Glasgow – Thursday, September 26, at The Glee Club

Secure your tickets by clicking this link.

Make sure to tune into this week's episode of our podcast, set to be released here on Friday morning.

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