James Forsyth James Forsyth

Amber Rudd, Greg Clark and David Gauke labelled ‘kamikaze’ ministers in tense Cabinet

Today’s Cabinet was not a happy affair. I’m told that Liam Fox, Gavin Williamson and Andrea Leadsom all made clear their grave concerns about the Government’s new strategy.

There was considerable anger at Amber Rudd, Greg Clark and David Gauke for how they have heaped pressure on May to offer this vote on a delay if the meaningful vote fails on the 12th of March. Liz Truss labelled them ‘kamikaze Cabinet Ministers’ and Andrea Leadsom was, I’m told, audibly furious. Brandon Lewis, Julian Smith, Jeremy Wright, Damian Hinds and James Brokenshire all criticised the way this trio had behaved.

Michael Gove asked how May would whip in the vote on whether the UK should go for no deal or seek an extension to Article 50. Those present say that May gave no answer to this question.

Today’s Cabinet also previewed the next fight to come if the meaningful vote is lost. I understand that Philip Hammond intimated that if there had to be an extension because the meaningful vote was lost, then that would have to be relatively lengthy.

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