Boris Johnson’s authorities has by no means seemed extra precarious than it does at present, after 31 resignations and counting.
And it solely appears to be gaining momentum, with a rising variety of the prime minister’s former allies (together with Michael Gove) calling on him to stop.
Nevertheless it wasn’t all resignations and political posturing – there have been many weird moments which gave the impression to be missed within the free-for-all, too.
1. A lightning-speed u-turn
Nadhim Zahawi – who was solely appointed as the brand new chancellor final night time – is allegedly among the many delegation of cupboard ministers who’re planning to inform Johnson to go, tonight.
Zahawi was protecting the media rounds defending Johnson and his “integrity” solely this morning.
He’s reportedly going to be joined by Michelle Donelan, who was equally appointed in her new cupboard position, schooling secretary, final night time.
2. Larry the cat
Larry the cat, a Downing Avenue resident who has lasted longer than a number of prime ministers, wanted to be soothed by a police officer amongst at present’s chaos. Larry’s whereabouts typically appear to develop into a speaking level in instances of political upheaval.
3. ‘Bye, Boris!’
The Commons additionally grew to become a weird scene this afternoon.
MPs began chanting, “Bye Boris,” when the prime minister left the Home – astonishingly rapidly – after a brutal PMQs and Sajid Javid’s detailed resignation speech.
It felt like echo of the track which was being performed round parliament this morning, the place the phrases of Bye Bye Child had been changed with Bye Bye Boris.
4. Johnson’s ‘terrific’ week
The liaison committee, the place Johnson was questioned by different MPs about integrity in politics after PMQs, additionally got here at a surreal time.
The prime minister was fielding questions on coverage whereas his authorities was crumbling, with the variety of resignations mounting with each passing second – though Johnson appeared in denial.
5. A closing flex?
Johnson nonetheless stated he “can’t for the lifetime of me” see why he ought to resign in the midst of the liaison committee as effectively.
In the identical assembly, he referred to the present state of affairs as “pointless political disturbance”, and cited his landslide election win from 2019 – regardless of truly being elected as chief by MPs, indirectly by voters.
6. Dumped by textual content
Tory MP Huw Merriman shared his no confidence letter on Twitter whereas he was sat reverse the prime minister in the course of the committee assembly. Minutes later, it was his flip to start out questioning Johnson.
7. Resignation scores
In reality, there have been so many resignation letters, {that a} Twitter account known as @ResignWell began score each out of 20.
8. An unlucky signature
The parliamentary personal secretary for the chancellor, Craig Williams, additionally appeared to signal his resignation letter in such a rush that his signature reminded a number of individuals of one thing…
9. Who’s subsequent?
Hypothesis over who would possibly run as Johnson alternative – even because the prime minister refuses to step down – has already begun with momentum. When former chancellor Rishi Sunak’s spouse got here out to supply journalists tea and biscuits, he was instantly put within the working.
10. ‘Rolling heads’
Even final night time – when the lengthy record of resignations had solely simply began – Lord Moylan was sparring with the ‘Cease Brexit’ man, Steve Bray, when the Conservative hit his head on a lamppost as he was strolling away.
11. Dorries loyal to the final
Whereas the writing seemed prefer it was on the wall, one loyalist remained steadfast.
Nadine Dorries gave the impression to be going towards the delegation of cupboard ministers set to inform Johnson to depart.
When requested if the PM’s place was sustainable, the tradition secretary advised reporters on Downing Avenue: “It’s.”
