The comments made on social media by Rory Stewart MP are one of the most disappointing features of a Conservative party leadership contest that so far is proving deeply underwhelming. Stewart’s schtick is that he is the deep thinker in the pack, versed in history with a feel for the rhythms of power and his party. Yet one or two other Tory leadership contenders can think, and they are playing a cleverer game than Rory by not saying too much, yet.
Against the backdrop of the Conservative party’s annihilation in the Europe elections, Stewart is giving interview after interview and tweeting out his takes, only increasing the impression that this hitherto intriguing, serious, pragmatic figure is losing his way. What is it about running for the leadership of the Conservative party that it does this to good people?
