Tory MP and prominent backer of Rishi Sunak, James Cartlidge, claimed that the former chancellor is the only credible contender to replace Liz Truss – citing his proven track record of dealing with financial crises.

Cartlidge, who was Sunak’s parliamentary private secretary during the Covid-19 pandemic, praised his old boss for his work in helping people “in all walks of life” with his furlough scheme.

When challenged on whether Sunak is out of touch with voters – and why therefore MPs should vote for him – Cartlidge said it’s “quite obvious” there’s an “issue with instability” and the party needs someone who can cope with that effectively.

In a recent interview with BBC News, Tory MP and prominent backer of Rishi Sunak, James Cartlidge claimed that the former chancellor is the only credible contender to replace Liz Truss – citing his proven track record of dealing with financial crises.

Sunak “can bring that stability,” Cartlidge claimed.

It remains to be seen whether or not this endorsement will be enough to help Sunak secure the Conservative leadership, but it seems clear that he has at least one high-profile supporter in his corner.

With tensions running high within the Conservative Party over who should replace Liz Truss as party leader, one thing is certain: whoever succeeds her will have their work cut out for them in uniting a divided party and country. Though seemingly an unlikely candidate, could Rishi Sunak be up to the task?