One of the most disturbing aspects in the Brexit free fall we are all experiencing is the lack of a senior Tory statesman to steady the ship while no one has a clue what to do next. The potential candidates (possibly with the exception of Theresa May) are all relatively young and lack the depth of experience, wisdom and wider perspective that is essential to unite the Tory party and the country. Might I suggest that an interim prime minister be chosen from respected elder statesman to be a wise counsel, critical intellect and reassuring presence, both to the UK electorate and the EU. We don’t need “personalities”, demagogues or those motivated by personal ambitions, but mature individuals with character and integrity; the sort of politician who has been round the track a few times and would be able to say: “Look, we tried that in the past and it didn’t work, but maybe we could try this.” Perhaps Chris Patten, Michael Heseltine, Ken Clarke or William Hague – all tried and tested politicians who might be able to help their party transcend division for the greater common good.
Francesca Weinberg
London
