Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat has thrown his hat in the ring to succeed Rishi Sunak as the next party leader, signaling a willingness to leave the European Convention on Human Rights. Despite previously warning against leaving the ECHR, Tugendhat now appears to be leaning more towards the right in a bid to win over party members in the upcoming leadership race.
In an article for the Telegraph, Tugendhat indicated he would be prepared to leave the ECHR if it hindered the UK’s ability to control its borders. He positioned this stance as the “commonsense Conservative position” in contrast to other likely rightwing rivals who are expected to advocate for leaving the ECHR.
Tugendhat also took stances on other key issues such as gender identity, net zero, and defense spending, arguing for an increase to 3% of GDP. He emphasized the importance of regaining the trust of British voters following the party’s historic election defeat, stating that the party lost trust due to not delivering on promises of lower taxes and reduced immigration.
The Tory leadership contest is set to take place with nominations closing next week, and a shortlist of candidates being chosen by MPs in September. The final decision will be made by the party’s grassroots members in November. Tugendhat’s entry into the race adds another dynamic to an already competitive and closely watched political battle within the Conservative Party.
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