The possibility that Boris Johnson could continue as a “caretaker” prime minister until the autumn after he steps down today has caused concern among government and opposition leaders.
The Cabinet is split over whether Mr Johnson should stay until a new Conservative Party leader is appointed in October, sources close to the government told Sky News.
Downing Street announced on Thursday morning The Prime Minister agreed to refuse After a flurry of resignations, with a new Tory leader set to be introduced into the party’s conference in early October.
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Some ministers have called on others to act as caretaker Prime Minister during the summer, while others believe Mr Johnson should take on the role for the sake of the country’s security.
Some fear that if he continues, Mr Johnson could make decisions on key areas such as taxes and Northern Ireland could be opposed by his successors.
An option that some cabinet members find more acceptable is Deputy Prime Minister Dominic Raab to take on the role of carer – but similar concerns about him enacting major policy decisions will also arise.
Business Minister Kwasi Kwarteng said “we now need a new leader as soon as possible”, while recently resigned Science Minister George Freeman agreed “a care prime minister should be appointed”.
SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon has voiced opposition to the idea, saying the view “seems far from ideal and is certainly unsustainable”.
Sir Ed Davey, leader of the Lib Dems, was even more skeptical, saying: “The idea that the Conservative Party can make Boris Johnson care for anything is really ludicrous.
“The man never cared about anything in his life.”
