Even before the result of the Tory leadership contest had been announced, a hashtag trended on
Twitter that predicted the outcome almost everyone is expecting – Tuesday is #BorisDay.
Admittedly, the sentiment was not exactly positive, with the general tone being one of resigned despair.When you're trying to enjoy your summer but
Boris Johnson is about to become prime minister. #BorisDaypic.twitter.com/3yelWyXOKX— Richard Hall (@_RichardHall) July 23, 2019But politics waits for no one so here’s how today and the rest of the week will pan out with, in all likelihood, Boris Johnson as our next PM and Jeremy Hunt the runner-up.Tuesday July 23 – the build upAfter leaving their homes on Tuesday morning, both men said it’s “all to play for” as
Britain waits to learn who will become the next prime minister.
Foreign Secretary Hunt was in a positive mood when he arrived home from a run on Tuesday morning despite Johnson remaining the clear favourite to take over from Theresa May.Jeremy Hunt arrives in Downing Street for the cabinet meeting. pic.twitter.com/gyiz5P4YP0— Catherine Wylie (@wyliecatherine) July 23, 2019The resultHunt and Johnson will discover their respective fates in private before a public announcement at 11:45am.
Party chairman Brandon Lewis will make a short speech before Dame Cheryl Gillan and Charles Walker - returning officers of the 1922 Committee - make the announcement.
The new leader of the Conservative Party is expected to make a speech following the result.Wednesday July 24 – May dayIn what seems like a bit of a cruel move,
Theresa May will be forced to endure one final PMQs at midday on Wednesday.
She will then most likely return to Downing Street for lunch where she will address her staff and say goodbye to Larry the Cat.
After the farewells, May will address the nation from the podium outside No10 and, if her resignation speech is anything to go by, there could be tears.
She will then travel to Buckingham Palace to offer her resignation to the Queen.Meanwhile the victor and new PM will also be at Buckingham Palace, only they will be being invited to form a new government.
Traditionally, the new prime minister makes a statement in Downing Street before stepping into Number 10 for the first time as PM.Thursday July 25 – work beginsThe new prime minister will not be enjoying a honeymoon period and will have to get straight to work.
His first task will likely be finalising his government - with appointments to the Cabinet and ministerial team expected.
A Johnson win could spark more government resignations after Sir Alan Duncan quit as Foreign Office minister on Monday in protest at his expected victory, predicting a “crisis of government” if he becomes PM.
Ministers opposed to his “do or die” pledge to pull the
UK out of the EU on October 31, even if there is no deal in place, could leave before May formally gives up the premiership on Wednesday afternoon.
Chancellor Philip Hammond and Justice Secretary David Gauke have given notice that they will resign rather than serve under Johnson.
Later in the day the Commons will rise for the summer recess, with MPs not due to return until September 3.Friday July 26 – the reshuffle continuesThe Cabinet reshuffle could continue into Friday, with the new prime minister finalising his team ahead of the summer.
He may also make his first official visit as PM to one of the four regions of the UK - like May’s trip to
Scotland on her second day in office - or perhaps head to
Brussels to in a bid to reopen
Brexit negotiations.
The new prime minister will have to govern with a Tory-DUP majority of just two, after Dover MP Charlie Elphicke had the Conservative whip suspended when he was charged with sexually assaulting two women.
The government majority could be further reduced next week if the Tories lose the Brecon and Radnorshire by-election.Related... Boris Johnson, Your Next Prime Minister (Probably) – A Reading List Boris Johnson Ripped To Shreds By Space Expert Over Brexit Moon Landing Comparison