David Powell
Updated on: October 11, 2024 9:32 am GMT
A political firm known for its opposition research has circulated a controversial dossier targeting James Cleverly, a candidate in the ongoing Conservative leadership race. This development comes despite efforts by the Conservative Party to maintain a clean contest, free from negative campaigning and personal attacks among candidates. The dossier claims to highlight discrepancies in Cleverly’s professional history and family connections, but lacks substantial evidence to support these allegations.
Details of the Dossier
The dossier, which has reportedly been commissioned by one of Cleverly’s rivals or an external party, suggests that he has overstated his achievements in the business sector while minimizing his family’s ties to Colfe’s School, a private institution in southeast London. However, the dossier does not present any strong incriminating evidence. Some of the information provided includes references to Cleverly’s participation in school plays and a light-hearted anecdote from a 1987 geography field trip where he was humorously noted to have been isolated due to wet boots.
The firm responsible for the dossier has refused to disclose its client, citing confidentiality agreements. This type of opposition research—common in U.S. politics—is less frequently seen in the UK, though insiders suggest that it occurs behind the scenes during leadership contests within the Conservative Party.
Party Regulations on Negative Campaigning
To combat negativity in campaigning, the Conservative Party has implemented a “yellow card” system, which issues public warnings to candidates who launch personal attacks or engage in backbiting. Bob Blackman, chair of the Conservative 1922 Committee overseeing the leadership race, has stated that candidates who violate these guidelines could face detrimental impacts on their campaign prospects.
Cleverly’s spokesperson emphasized that he is committed to running a clean campaign, reflecting the party’s intention to foster respectful competition. Despite this directive, the presence of the dossier indicates that some factions may still seek to undermine rivals through means that fall outside the official guidelines.
Current Standing in the Leadership Race
As the race progresses, Cleverly currently stands in joint third place following a recent vote of Conservative Members of Parliament (MPs). Robert Jenrick, a former immigration minister, has emerged with the highest level of support, having received 33 votes, while Kemi Badenoch follows closely with 28 votes. Cleverly and Tom Tugendhat each garnered 21 votes during the ballot, suggesting that Cleverly has not gained momentum in the recent rounds.
The upcoming Conservative conference scheduled for early October will serve as a critical platform for the remaining contenders to present their capabilities to party members. Following the conference, a further voting process will reduce the candidate pool to two, with the eventual winner being decided by grassroots party membership.
Background on James Cleverly
Cleverly has expressed his belief that he has been underestimated throughout his political journey, citing a tendency to downplay his achievements compared to some of his peers. In a recent interview, he voiced frustration at his former diffidence and has indicated a desire to publicly acknowledge his record of holding various senior positions, including roles as party chairman and foreign secretary.
He articulates a strong commitment to his campaign, suggesting that those who resort to negative tactics are often motivated by fear. A source from his campaign remarked, “You only try to do a hit job on people you’re scared of. We wish them well.”
The Impact of Negative Research Tactics
While opposition research is a staple in some political environments, its emergence in the UK Conservative leadership race may highlight a shift in campaigning strategy. The strict guidelines against direct attacks seem to have inadvertently encouraged candidates or their supporters to explore alternative, less transparent avenues of discrediting opponents.
The absence of direct accountability for commissioned opposition research raises questions about the ethical implications of such practices within party politics. To maintain a fair competition, it remains crucial for both party members and the wider public to remain vigilant against the influences of behind-the-scenes campaigning tactics.
The current landscape illustrates a balancing act between adhering to party rules and the competitive spirit inherent in leadership contests. The coming weeks will be pivotal for all candidates as they navigate the intricacies of the electoral process while aiming to secure the support of both MPs and party members.
Future Prospects
As the competition heats up, the candidates will be looking to not only consolidate their existing support but also to attract undecided MPs and party members. Cleverly’s consistent messaging around maintaining a clean campaign may resonate positively with voters who are fatigued by negative politics. However, how effectively he can address the allegations raised in the dossier will significantly influence public perception and support as the leadership contest unfolds.
In the fast-changing world of Conservative politics, the upcoming conference is an important chance for all candidates to make their plans clear and show where they stand.
