Fox praises Cameron's leadership...of the coalition
By Sam Macrory - 28th April 2011
As the self-proclaimed last Thatcherite in the Cabinet, Liam Fox can claim an appeal to a certain type of Conservative. More perhaps, than a more modernising candidate might do.
And today, at a Press Gallery lunch, he left the door firmly open for the possibility that should a vacancy ever become available he might be the man to lead the Conservative Party.
Asked if he still held any ambitions to lead the party, Fox quickly stressed how well Cameron was leading the Coalition. Not, note, how well he was leading the Conservative Party.
"I do not think I would have the skill to deal with the complexity and personalities [of the coalition] with the same sensitivity", the defence secretary declared.
Praise indeed, but as for whether Cameron has any skill in leading the Conservative Party, Fox wasn't saying. A skilful and intriguing answer.
- Fox also offered an insight into how he views his status as defence secretary. Asked if he regretted going to the pub during the Libya crisis, Fox replied that he did not, before adding: "That's a bit like asking Winston Churchill if he regrets having a drink during World War II". Politicians: never known for struggling with a sense of ego.
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