Brexit crisis: backers of UK PM contender Boris Johnson are war-gaming an early election
- Britain’s ruling Conservative Party is struggling to pass its Brexit laws in parliament, where it lacks an overall majority
- Boris Johnson insists Britain must leave on the twice-delayed October 31 exit date
Backers of Boris Johnson’s campaign to become Britain’s next prime minister are war-gaming an early election within months of him winning power, according to people familiar with the matter.
With a new leader who can inspire the country and take on Labour’s Jeremy Corbyn, the Conservatives can win an outright majority in parliament in the next election, according to the people, who asked not to be named.
There is no formal timetable for an election, but a vote in the autumn would be an option on the table if Johnson wins, one of the people said.
The next general election is not due to take place until 2022 but Britain’s ruling Conservative Party is struggling to pass its Brexit laws in parliament, where it lacks an overall majority.
That stalemate forced Prime Minister Theresa May to resign and Johnson is now the front-runner in the party leadership election that is due to conclude next month.
Calling a snap poll would be a gamble - especially if Brexit remains unresolved - but some of Johnson’s allies believe a charismatic leader and the right campaign will radically change the political climate.