Hunt's Spokesman Sets the Record Straight

Jeremy Hunt, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, has put an end to speculation about his future, firmly stating that he has no plans to leave his position after next month's Autumn Statement. Rumors had been swirling in Westminster about his potential departure, with some suggesting that he would resign as an MP before the next election. However, Hunt's spokesman has categorically denied these claims, stating that he will not be stepping down as Chancellor and intends to stand in the next election.

Hunt's Rise to the Treasury

Jeremy Hunt took on the role of Chancellor amidst the chaos of the Liz Truss mini-Budget last year, where he dismantled her economic plans. Since then, there has been ongoing speculation about his future in the role, particularly as the country gears up for the next general election. Some ministers and MPs have openly discussed the possibility of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reshuffling his cabinet and moving Hunt to a different position.

Pressure for Change

There has been a growing chorus of voices within the Conservative party calling for a change in leadership at the Treasury. Hunt has been nicknamed "Eeyore" by some MPs for his perceived pessimism, and there is a desire among some to see a more upbeat figure take on the role. One senior government figure said that there is a story to tell, where Hunt, who returned from retirement to stabilize the markets and save the country, steps aside for someone chosen by Rishi Sunak.

Potential Successors

Many MPs believe that if Hunt were to step down, Pensions Secretary Mel Stride or close ally Claire Coutinho could be potential successors. Some speculate that Sunak may even make Coutinho the first female Chancellor. However, Hunt is expected to face a tough battle in his Surrey constituency due to boundary reviews, which could further complicate his political future.

Defending Hunt's Economic Decisions

Cabinet minister Robert Jenrick has come to Jeremy Hunt's defense, praising his "sensible, prudent" economic decisions in the face of pressure from within the party to cut taxes. Jenrick emphasized that the first task at hand is tackling the "great evil" of inflation, indicating his support for Hunt's approach.