A ‘shock and awe’ campaign is under way to revive Johnson, but a win isn’t in the bag

Boris Johnson delivering a speech in Downing Street on his last day in office, 6 September 2022. Photograph: Toby Melville/Reuters

The Conservative party is looking for its third leader of the year, and could have one in place as early as Monday teatime. In an attempt to temper the ridicule for the second leadership contest this year, the process has been dramatically shortened. Candidates will be whittled down on Monday with the final two going to the membership – provided the runner-up doesn’t drop out.

The rule changes are aimed at finding a candidate quickly rather than allowing for endless appearances by ambitious ministers. “The best thing the 1922 Committee has done is saved us from a week of ministers like Brandon Lewis pretending they have a chance,” says one party old hand.