Robert Jenrick vows to find ‘common ground’ with Tory ‘wets’ amid threats to boycott leadership vote

Jenrick highlighted key issues such as immigration, the economy, NHS, housing, and crime as areas where he aims to "regain the trust and the confidence of the British public".

The Conservative leadership contest has narrowed to two candidates from the party's right wing: Robert Jenrick and Kemi Badenoch.

This development follows the unexpected elimination of James Cleverly, who was seen as the centrist option.

Jenrick advocates for withdrawal from the European Convention on Human Rights, while Badenoch is known for her stance on "woke" policies.

The final outcome has deepened divisions within the party, with centrist members feeling sidelined in shaping its future direction.

Cleverly's elimination has sparked a blame game, with some Tories accusing MPs of "freelancing" and engaging in misguided tactical voting.

The Tory Reform Group (TRG), representing the left of the party, has refused to endorse either candidate, expressing disappointment with their rhetoric and focus.

Some centrist members have announced plans to boycott the vote. Ed Godwin, a TRG member, tweeted: "I won't be voting in this leadership race.

I don't relate to either candidate and feel they'll continue with the same attitude and approach that brought our party to this point."

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This boycott threat has raised concerns about party unity and representation. Labour and the Liberal Democrats have seized on this division, with one Labour MP reportedly describing the final two candidates as "a gift".

Damian Green, former Cabinet minister, has urged moderate Tories to support Kemi Badenoch rather than boycotting the vote.

Speaking exclusively to The Independent, Green described the boycott reports as "disturbing" and emphasised the importance of choosing a candidate who can rebuild the party.

He stated, "Kemi clearly recognises the enormous task the party faces in making itself an effective governing machine again and in regaining the trust of the British people."

Green praised Badenoch's approach to redefining Conservatism and her potential to unite the party around a positive agenda, despite their different Conservative traditions.