Rishi Sunak has a new skip in his step. Over the past two weeks, the Prime Minister has set the agenda and hogged the headlines with two dramatic new policies – first on Northern Ireland and now illegal migrants – both of which have electrified Westminster and seen the first lift in the polls for the Tories in months.
What’s behind Sunak’s strong-man approach? Or should that be who? Insiders say they see the light touch of James Forsyth, the PM’s new political secretary and one of his closest school friends at Winchester College. They suggest that Sunak’s decision to hire Forsyth as his political consigliere has sharpened up his tone and messaging, and given him renewed confidence. And confidence, as we know, is infectious.
