Conservatives slam ‘bonkers’ plot to topple Rishi Sunak before election

Conservative leaders defend PM Rishi Sunak amid rumors of an internal party coup to install Penny Mordaunt as his replacement before the next general election.

Key figures like Jacob Rees-Mogg and David Davis have criticized these alleged plans as "mad" and "bonkers." Despite some MPs' fear of losing their seats, supposed discussions of dethroning Sunak have leaked, suggesting a faction is seeking to unify behind Mordaunt.

Mordaunt herself has remained silent on these rumors, with allies denying her involvement and suggesting the speculation might be an attempt to sabotage her future leadership prospects.

While several MPs assert that Mordaunt has been actively building support for months, critics within the party believe she would be too divisive due to her stands on various issues.

Although the Conservative Party is facing unrest and concern over the upcoming election, many Tory MPs are focused on minimizing losses, acknowledging the unlikelihood of a victory over Labour.

Recent events such as an unimpactful budget announcement, defections to other parties, and scandals involving party donors have only heightened the tensions.

Meanwhile, opposition leaders sense a potential historic defeat for the Conservatives, likening current sentiments to the political climate of the mid-1990s. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey notes an unprecedented shift in voter attitudes, indicating a challenging election ahead for the Tories.