Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has informed his fellow members of Parliament (MPs) that he intends to remain and assist with an organized transition for incoming leadership, according to sources close to him.
Taking up residence in the leader's office situated within Portcullis House, Sunak conducted his first meeting of the opposition's shadow cabinet on Tuesday. During this meeting, he participated in choosing a new speaker for the Commons, extending congratulations to Keir Starmer and acknowledging the challenging nature of their discussions.
Sunak expressed gratitude for being elected by his constituents as an MP, affirming his commitment to represent Richmond and Northallerton. He emphasized a dedication to undertaking opposition duties with humility and respect.
Concerns have been raised among allies regarding the possibility of Sunak seeking political opportunities across the Atlantic Ocean. However, he highlighted the significance of his constituency as having voted him in with an overwhelming majority.
In a Tuesday assembly at Westminster, Conservative MPs initiated the selection process for a new 1922 Committee composed of backbenchers, which will guide the timing for the next leadership contest. Geoffrey Clifton-Brown and Bob Blackman are currently competing to lead this influential group.
A growing preference among members seems inclined towards an extended period before electing a new leader in order to allow ample time for contemplation, possibly resulting in a transitional figure being appointed prior to party conventions. This prolonged process could be exploited by opposition parties, as some sources noted.
The newly formed backbench committee will deliberate on the potential need for revising rules concerning leadership elections, including whether aspiring candidates must garner a specific number of nominations before appearing on the ballot.
Given the considerable membership within the Conservative Party, initiating a no-confidence motion would require only 18 MPs to trigger a vote among all others present in Parliament.
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