Sajid Javid’s Tory leadership reflections: Bailey, Boris and Brexit

Although Sajid Javid was knocked out of the Tory leadership contest, the Home Secretary could soon have a consolation prize in the form of the keys to No. 11. Javid is tipped as the frontrunner for the hotly coveted role of Boris Johnson’s chancellor. Speaking at Tuesday night’s Policy Exchange summer reception, Javid reflected on what he was proud of from his campaign:

‘As for the leadership campaign, I’m not sure what more I could have done! I showed off my little dog, Bailey, I showed off my mother and her cooking, even my daughter’s letter.

Although I didn’t have to reveal any unusual artistic hobbies that I might have. I made a pitch to my colleagues, and I’m proud of the support that I’ve got from some of the colleagues that I admire most. We ran a straight and honest campaign. It was a great opportunity to set out what we need to do next as a country.’

What some of his former leadership rivals have struggled to grasp:

‘But it’s funny – I know that the campaign is over for most of us, but I still keep seeing Rory Stewart’s selfies! Is someone going to tell him – or am I?’

And why he was now backing Boris:

‘I’ve been encouraged – very encouraged – by Boris’ endorsements for my leadership policies.