STORY
Sajid Javid has said that backing Liz Truss for the Conservative leadership was the biggest political mistake of his career. The former chancellor made the comments at the Hay Festival, reflecting on the 2022 leadership contest and the short premiership that followed.
Truss resigned after 49 days in office, following market turmoil caused by her Government’s economic plans. Javid had endorsed her after his own leadership bid failed, but said he no longer had contact with the former Prime Minister and accepted his judgment had been wrong.
Javid also criticised the quality of British political leadership and suggested reducing the number of MPs while increasing their salaries. His remarks come as the Conservative Party continues to rebuild after its 2024 general election defeat and amid continuing pressure from Reform UK on the political right.