A cabinet minister, along with other senior Tories, advocated for Reform UK's Howard Cox to be their candidate for London mayor instead of Susan Hall, according to sources familiar with the matter.
A source close to the prime minister's inner circle revealed that they had written to Rishi Sunak, urging him to select the right-wing motorist campaigner, Mr. Cox, prior to the decision made by London party members to nominate Susan Hall.
These assertions emerge as Barry Macleod-Cullinane, former deputy leader of Harrow Council under Ms. Hall's leadership, publicly endorsed Labour's Sadiq Khan. This endorsement coincides with a Savanta poll indicating Khan holding a 10-point lead over his Conservative opponent.
The insider stated, "Howard has collaborated with [the minister] and several [Conservative] MPs for numerous years on the Fair Fuel UK campaign, showcasing his exceptional campaigning skills. [The minister] believed he would be an outstanding candidate for London mayor and conveyed this to the PM, albeit being disregarded."
Sources close to Mr. Cox further disclosed to The Independent that he has been approached by several senior Tory MPs, including ministers, even after he pledged his commitment to Reform UK.
"Senior MPs, including ministers, have advised Howard that 'with Tory support, you would easily secure victory' and have repeatedly inquired whether he would contemplate running," disclosed one MP.
They added, "ULEZ [the ultra-low-emission zone] stands as the primary concern in this election, and Howard's extensive experience advocating for motorists through Fair Fuel UK makes him an ideal candidate. I've conveyed this sentiment to him."
Mr. Cox is reported to have responded to those attempting to persuade him by stating, "I am a man of principle. Once I have made a commitment to someone, I stick to it."
It is also believed that he expressed dissatisfaction with the Conservative Party's intention to retain the ULEZ in inner London while only proposing to revoke Mr. Khan's extension of the £12.50 daily charge on non-compliant polluting vehicles to outer London.