Following the recent collapse in the UK Government, with 59 MPs resigning due to lack of faith in current Prime Minister Boris Johnson and the existing leadership structure, the race for new leadership has begun, with Transport Secretary Grant Shapps throwing in his hat.
The Transport Secretary has claimed that his bid will represent a fresh start for the Conservative party, believing strongly in decreased tax and regulation for the economy, which will “lower the barriers for individuals and businesses to succeed.” He is pledging to rebuild the economy, so it is the biggest in Europe by 2050, and address the cost-of-living crisis.
Mr Shapps was not one of the many ministers to resign last week and has outlined his loyalty to the previous leadership, stating:
“I have not spent the last few turbulent years plotting or briefing against the prime minister,” he told the Sunday Times. “I have not been mobilising a leadership campaign behind his back. I tell you this: for all his flaws – and who is not flawed? – I like Boris Johnson. I have never, for a moment, doubted his love of this country.”
Mr Shapps added:
“It is easy to criticise Boris after keeping one’s head down for years while being happy to benefit from his patronage. I am glad that I did not do that.
“Even as the skies darkened over his premiership, often because of errors committed by him, I hoped he could pull it back. Because in losing him, we would lose a man who makes a unique connection with people.”
Mr Shapps has become the second serving Government minister to establish their campaign for party leadership, following Attorney General Suella Braverman declared her intentions.
As the current Transport secretary, Mr Shapps could bring leadership that will enhance and encourage further rail sector prioritisation and evolution, especially as we embrace the transition into Great British Rail.
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