A Conservative grandee today said it is “critical” that Boris Johnson listens to his backbenchers after a series of forced U-turns sparked unease about No 10’s political operation.
Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown spoke out after a meeting of the 1922 Committee executive with Mr Johnson where concerns were aired that Downing Street was too slow to heed concerns raised by MPs, especially those in marginal seats.
“Of course the Prime Minister must engage with backbenchers, that’s absolutely critical,” he told Radio 4’s Today programme.
“He needs the support of backbenchers to get his legislation through, so it goes without saying. I think yesterday’s meeting proved that he is prepared to do that.”
Three recent U-turns — on school meals, Commons voting rules and NHS charges for migrant health and care workers — have dismayed backbenchers, including some in vulnerable former Red Wall regions.
Sir Geoffrey, treasurer of the 1922 Committee, said the meeting was “perfectly cordial” but that “probing questions were put”.
“We are in a very serious situation and it’s important that backbenchers understand what is the Prime Minister’s thinking.”
He suggested the Government had been slow to detect the mood over free school meals, which led to a U-turn after the intervention of footballer Marcus Rashford.
The MP said he was “absolutely certain” the two-metre rule would be eased in time for the new school year.
