And there are signs that ‘chaos fatigue’ created by the former PM means that solid Tory seats such as John Redwood’s could be up for grabs at the next election
Some howled with derision. Others scowled. Most laughed. On a soggy spring afternoon in the traditionally Tory constituency of Wokingham, the mention of Boris Johnson still provoked strong reactions. Yet even among those in the town’s outdoor market who retained some affection for the former prime minister, there was an acceptance that his return may be more trouble than it was worth.
“His goose is cooked, sadly,” said Annette Stephens, overseeing a stall heaving with fresh eggs and farm produce. “I think Boris did a good job when he got us through Covid. He’s a great character. But I think as a whole, the nation now wouldn’t trust him – which is sad.”