Rishi Sunak, the former chancellor, had contemplated resigning after being fined for violating lockdown rules. However, executives at Rupert Murdoch’s organization intervened and convinced him to remain in his position.
On April 12 of the previous year, Mr. Sunak was fined for attending a birthday gathering for then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who was also fined on the same day. This gathering had violated Covid lockdown regulations.
In his book on the Conservatives’ enduring power, political editor Ben Riley-Smith of The Telegraph reveals that Mr. Sunak shared a draft resignation statement with his allies, including some who worked for Mr. Murdoch.
Despite contemplating resignation, Mr. Sunak ultimately decided to stay on until July 5, when he resigned shortly after Sajid Javid announced his own resignation. This cascade of resignations eventually led to the collapse of the Johnson administration.
According to allies of Mr. Johnson, Mr. Murdoch became aware of Mr. Sunak’s intention to resign and personally intervened to ensure that he remained in his position.
Mr. Murdoch has declined to comment on this matter. A spokesman from Downing Street stated that Mr. Sunak and Mr. Murdoch did not have a conversation on that specific day but declined to comment on any other alleged conversations.
It is understood that Lord Hague and Lord Finkelstein, both columnists at The Times (owned by Mr. Murdoch), were among those who discussed Mr. Sunak’s potential resignation. Additionally, the former chancellor discussed his plan with Mas Siddiqui, an old friend and former colleague who is a director at Mr. Murdoch’s News Corp in New York.
It is unknown whether Mr. Murdoch directly conveyed a message of advice or support to Mr. Sunak through a third party.
This revelation is featured in “The Right to Rule” by Ben Riley-Smith, which delves into how the Conservative Party has maintained their power since 2010 and includes interviews with over 120 key players.
This development carries significant weight as Mr. Sunak’s resignation in April of last year could have jeopardized his aspirations to succeed Mr. Johnson, as it would have portrayed him as disloyal to the Cabinet and plotting against the prime minister.
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
