Johnny Mercer Calls for Greater Focus on Popular Government Figures Instead of ‘Average Performers’

Downing Street is accused of clinging to outdated strategies by focusing too much on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, despite his dwindling popularity, according to Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer. In a private memo, Mercer expressed frustration with how No 10 is managing political communication, claiming that the Prime Minister’s media presence is being over-emphasised, as if his approval ratings were still as high as they were two years ago.

Mercer, who represents Plymouth Moor View, argued that more popular figures within the Conservative Party, such as Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch and Commons Leader Penny Mordaunt, should be given more visibility instead of “average performers” like Transport Secretary Mark Harper. He criticized the current communication approach, describing it as “haphazard, un-themed and loose” and suggested that key government roles were being filled by underperforming ministers who were failing to engage the public effectively.

Mercer’s memo, which was seen by The Times, also highlighted his concerns over the growing influence of special advisers in No 10, some of whom he labelled as “overpromoted and underskilled.” He noted that despite his close access to the Prime Minister, he felt excluded from key decision-making processes, citing his unsuccessful attempts to push through a veterans’ ID voting initiative as an example of his frustration.

Polling within Conservative circles has indicated that Badenoch and Mordaunt enjoy higher approval ratings than Sunak, with many viewing them as potential leadership candidates in the event of a Tory defeat in the next general election. Mercer’s comments are a stark reflection of the growing division within the Conservative Party, as some ministers openly question the leadership’s direction.

In response, Labour’s Shadow Paymaster General Jonathan Ashworth remarked, “With high-profile Tory ministers exposing their lack of confidence in Rishi Sunak and his weak leadership, it’s no wonder the British public are demanding change.” He argued that a Labour government is the only solution to the current “chaos” in British politics.

Both Johnny Mercer’s office and Downing Street have been approached for comment regarding the leaked memo and the concerns raised.