It is interesting how many spectators of the Tory party's private grief over Brexit think Theresa May won't be removed as its leader and as Prime Minister. First, it is assumed that those who would force her out would be Brexiteers, but they won't do so because they might get something worse. Second, it is assumed her removal during the negotiations would harm our chance of a decent deal, so the Tories – fearing the opprobrium of the electorate – won't do that. Third, to repeat a common cliché, “there isn't a replacement”. Fourth, a three-month leadership contest would allegedly destabilise the party and the country, and further complicate the negotiations. Fifth, it is assumed there is no need to remove her because she will go of her own accord once Brexit is completed.
It would be a brave man or woman who went to Paddy Power and staked the farm on her staying because of any of the above. Dissatisfaction with May's pusillanimous style of leadership is not confined to Brexiteers. Ken Clarke's assault last Sunday on the “misbehaviour” and “shambles” of the government was not specifically aimed at Theresa May: but it did not have to be. The misbehaviour and shambles exist only because an inadequate Prime Minister allows them to. The last-minute panics, fudges and postponements that characterised the handling of the Brexit Bill have changed nothing fundamental. May remains a poor Prime Minister, lacking the moral courage that is thought implicit in leadership and the decisiveness essential to it. She implored her MPs not to rebel over the Lords' amendments because it would “undermine” her negotiating position; but many MPs believe nothing has undermined that more than May herself.
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