Tory leadership race: 1922 Committee chair shuts down Jenrick’s calls for early end as he outlines ‘huge risk’

This comes in response to Robert Jenrick's suggestion to end the race early, allowing whoever becomes the new leader to scrutinise Labour's Budget on 30 October.

Blackman emphasised the importance of maintaining the current schedule to ensure all party members, including those abroad, have ample opportunity to cast their votes.

The contest between Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick is set to conclude on 2 November.

Robert Jenrick, one of the final two candidates in the Tory leadership race, had called for an early conclusion to the contest.

Speaking at the Policy Exchange think tank in Westminster, Jenrick argued for a speedier end to allow the new leader to respond to Rachel Reeves' first Budget as Chancellor on 30 October.

He stated, "I want to be the leader of the opposition who is stood up in the House of Commons giving the response to Rachel Reeves at the end of the month."

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Jenrick emphasised the need for "effective opposition" and to "take the fight to Labour" immediately.

Blackman explained the logistical challenges behind maintaining the current timetable. He told GB News, "We have got to get our voting packs out to every single member. Those will go out next week, they should arrive by Friday or Saturday."

He highlighted potential postal issues, particularly for members living abroad, and the need to send replacement packs if necessary.

Blackman stressed, "We want everyone to have a chance to vote. It would be a huge risk if we bring it forward."

The committee's priority is ensuring all members have the opportunity to participate in the crucial vote.

The Conservative leadership race has entered its final phase, with Kemi Badenoch and Robert Jenrick vying for members' votes.

The contest took an unexpected turn when James Cleverly, previously considered a frontrunner, was eliminated in the last ballot of MPs.

Both remaining candidates are seen as representing the right wing of the party, leaving some centrist members feeling unrepresented.

Badenoch is viewed by supporters as a potential star, while Jenrick has positioned himself as the challenger.

The candidates will now focus on issues important to party members, with Jenrick calling for debates "any time, any place, anywhere". The final result will be announced on 2 November.