The Guardian view on Tory decline: splits, sleaze and a rush for the exit

Mark Menzies. ‘The Times newspaper has accused him of misusing campaign funds and demanding thousands of pounds from an aide in what he called “a matter of life and death”.’ Photograph: Richard Townshend/UK Parliament/PA

The Conservative party and government seem to be falling apart in front of our eyes. As his legislative programme becomes ever more vestigial, and his ratings plummet to new depths, Rishi Sunak’s future is now being counted in weeks. His would-be successors are openly jockeying for advantage in the next leadership contest, with Kemi Badenoch, Penny Mordaunt and Priti Patel all but declared as likely candidates.

Meanwhile, in another part of the forest, Liz Truss is raising her standard of revolt yet again. Elsewhere, Boris Johnson fantasises about a recall to the colours too. Meanwhile, Tim Loughton’s recent decision not to stand again as a Conservative MP brought the list of prospective backbench retirees to 64 and counting. It is a list that arguably contains more Tory talent than the current cabinet.