Inside Tory Tensions and Election Revelations: Michael Gove on Sunak’s Decision and Stormzy Comparisons

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

Michael Gove, the ex-housing secretary, opens up on Sky News' podcast regarding the concluding phase of the previous Conservative administration.

Political correspondent @NifS

Thursday, September 12, 2024, 11:

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

At the inaugural live event of Sky News' Electoral Dysfunction tour in London, the ex-cabinet minister shared an anecdote about being summoned to the office of the then-prime minister just thirty minutes before a full cabinet meeting to receive some important news.

Despite his own doubts, only Defense Secretary Grant Shapps expressed to Mr. Sunak, "I don't believe this is a wise decision."

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In a discussion with Sky News' political editor Beth Rigby, alongside Labour peer Harriet Harman and Conservative peer Ruth Davidson, Mr. Gove revealed, "Rumors were escalating the previous day, leading to several meetings being called off.

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

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

"At that point, I realized that if he was seeking me out, the rumors that had been gaining momentum all day were likely accurate."

Stay updated on the most recent developments from the UK and globally by tuning into Sky News.

Mr. Gove, who held the position of Levelling Up Secretary under Mr. Sunak before resigning prior to the July election, mentioned that he, along with five other cabinet members, entered the room. These included the then 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 support his colleague in attempting to change the prime minister's mind, he explained: "When a friend announces they're getting married and your initial reaction is 'oh my god, not him, not her,' but they've already arranged the venue and want you as the best man or maid of honor, you find yourself having to grin and bear it, hoping it turns out well.

To give credit where it's due, Grant was the sole person in the room who expressed reservations, voicing his opinion that it might not be the best approach. He did so calmly and with great tact.

"Following that… within the cabinet, both Esther McVey and Chris Heaton Harris were of the opinion that it was a bad idea."

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Mr. Gove reflected that, in retrospect, "many of us were destined to lose our seats regardless of when the election occurred."

He mentioned, "Looking back, everyone can claim it was an error, and I, perhaps for selfish motives related to certain legislation I hoped to pass, would have preferred a delay in the hopes that a solution might emerge."

"Even though I might not agree that it was undoubtedly the best time, give the man a break. He's our leader, and we should hope for the best."

Beth Rigby pressed the seasoned minister, who had previously been considered a potential leader, about who might succeed Mr. Sunak as party leader, yet he remained tight-lipped and non-committal.

Nonetheless, he disclosed the musicians he likened to each of the remaining contenders.

"Clearly, Tom Tugendhat is the James Blunt of the group," Mr. Gove remarked. "As for James Cleverly, he'd be our Ed Sheeran," he added.

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

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

Couldn't catch tonight's performance? No need to fret! The tour still has three more scheduled stops.

• Salford – Monday, September 16, at Lowry Quays

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

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

Secure your tickets by following this link.

Make sure to tune into this week’s podcast episode, set to be released right here on Friday morning.

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