Tory Turmoil: Steve Baker Rejects Farage Alliance and Signals Potential Leadership Ambitions Amid Struggling Campaign

Conservative minister declares 'no room' for Nigel Farage in the party, and suggests a possible leadership challenge

Steve Baker has not dismissed the possibility of vying for party leadership should Rishi Sunak be defeated in the upcoming elections, acknowledging that aspects of the Conservative campaign have been "humiliating".

Political correspondent @AmroReports

Monday, July 1, 2024, 9:

A government official stated that Nigel Farage should not be involved in the Conservative Party, while suggesting that he might contend for Rishi Sunak's role following the election.

Steve Baker, the Northern Ireland minister, recognized the challenges facing the Conservative party's campaign and expressed his reluctance to speculate on Rishi Sunak resigning post-election.

During an interview on the Politics Hub with Sophy Ridge, Mr. Baker acknowledged that although his party aspires to win, it would be met with laughter if he claimed victory was certain, especially given the current polling data.

When questioned about his own aspirations for leadership, Mr. Baker expressed his desire to "serve in the government under Rishi as the prime minister."

"I wouldn't dismiss the possibility"

When pushed for a definitive answer about a potential leadership challenge, he responded, "I wouldn't dismiss the possibility."

"The truth is that my colleagues have reached out to me before the vote, following the vote, amid the COVID pandemic, and concerning net zero issues."

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In recent election news, Farage has been instructed to disband Reform Party if he aims to head the Conservative Party.

"Each time, I've guided Members of Parliament to significant achievements, and I'd gladly seize the opportunity to do so once more."

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Mr. Baker is among several Conservatives expected to seek leadership should Mr. Sunak be ousted from power, as current predictions suggest.

A new controversy has emerged within the Conservative Party regarding the potential inclusion of Reform Party leader Nigel Farage. While Mr Baker has dismissed the idea, other contenders for leadership such as the former Home Secretary Suella Braverman, have expressed their support for this move.

Challenges in Reform

Recent surveys show the Reform Party leading the Conservatives. However, this past week has seen Nigel Farage's party entangled in controversy, as two of its candidates faced allegations of sharing antisemitic content online, and another was found making racist remarks about Mr. Sunak.

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Mr. Baker emphasized that the Conservative Party should consistently maintain a stance that is balanced and measured.

He stated that Nigel Farage should not be allowed into the Conservative Party, explaining, "Someone who has intentionally aimed to dismantle the Conservative Party should not be allowed to join it later."

"Regrettably, his gatherings draw individuals whom I would definitively exclude from the Conservative Party. It's clear that Nigel faces a dilemma. If he truly wishes to align with the Conservatives, he ought to dissolve his party and come aboard with us."

This morning, the prime minister firmly denied surrendering the upcoming election, even though he has frequently raised concerns about the possibility of the Labour Party gaining an overwhelming majority.

During his visit to the securely Conservative area of Staffordshire, Mr. Sunak stated, "I am vigorously campaigning for every single vote. I assume nothing about any area or individual."

For further reading: The outcome of Thursday's Reform performance will also be pivotal for the Conservative's destiny. Starmer is open to collaborating with the French far-right, stating this is part of responsible governance.

Mr. Baker, the Conservative contender for Wycombe, expressed to Politics Hub that segments of the Tory campaign were "embarrassing."

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He referred to the controversy surrounding wagers made by Conservatives regarding the timing of the election, which has led to a probe by the Gambling Commission. He also mentioned Prime Minister Sunak's widely condemned action of departing early from D-Day events.

'Humiliating effort'

Following the scandal, the Conservatives withdrew their backing for the involved candidates.

"Parts of the campaign have been humiliating," stated Mr. Baker.

"It's undeniable, really. Absolutely, those who have confidential information should refrain from gambling. By partaking in such activities, they only tarnish their own reputation."

He commented, "D-Day – I believe it was quite regrettable."

Jonathan Ashworth, from Labour, expressed disbelief that with less than 60 hours until polls open, Conservative Ministers are openly showcasing their leadership aspirations on national TV, thereby undercutting the Prime Minister.

"From pandemic-related favoritism to visits to the betting shops, these Conservatives consistently prioritize their own desires and career goals over the needs of the nation. This indicates that if the Tories are granted another five-year term, the disorder will only persist."

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