Express & Star

Express & Star comment: Is Boris Johnson the man to reunite the Conservative Party?

Whatever happens from here on in, Boris Johnson's star has never been higher.

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He has connected with those on all sides of the political spectrum in the referendum debate.

Those who intend to vote to remain in the EU would most probably not be persuaded otherwise no matter who was making the case to leave.

There are also those who have cynically accused him of opportunism – as if this is some heinous crime in politics. But at least he is demonstrating some basic Conservative principles which is more than can be said about the Prime Minister.

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It is not beyond the realms of possibility that David Cameron could be out of Downing Street by the turn of the year irrespective of the referendum result on Thursday.

And then what for the leadership of the Conservative Party?

Chancellor George Osborne has been Mr Cameron's right-hand man for the past decade. But while he may expect to be the rightful heir, he is likely to be tainted by such close allegiance. There may be no appetite from Tory MPs, party members, or indeed the public, for more of the slippery same.

Justice Secretary Michael Gove has been impressive during the campaign, but he has said he doesn't want the top job and his scuffle with teachers may not serve him well.

Theresa May is the 'great survivor' and has been on the front bench for a long time. However as Home Secretary she has failed to grasp the major issues and has left no notable mark.

Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt was once tipped as a future Tory leader.

But the junior doctors' dispute and potential public sector outcry would not make him a popular contender.

Enter Mr Johnson. He is the most high-profile potential candidate for leadership and is someone who, as ex-Mayor of London, has commanded a big mandate before. He is also admired by the rank and file in Westminster – partly because he offers the best chance of retaining their seats.

But after this divisive referendum a relative outsider could emerge, Shropshire's Owen Paterson perhaps?

Whatever outcome this week, the Conservative Party is facing seismic repercussions over the next few months and will need internal diplomacy of epic proportions to be able to carry on – not just as an effective government but as a united political force at all.

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