What does the exodus of Tory MPs mean for Rishi Sunak?

Rishi Sunak is only just settling into the flat above No 10, having endured Budget clashes, Brexit rows, backbench rebellions and bullying allegations levelled at his deputy during a tumultuous first month in charge.

But as the prime minister gets his feet under the table, many of his own MPs are already making a dash for the exit door. Officials at Conservative headquarters are planning for a mass exodus of their parliamentarians ahead of the next general election.

Dehenna Davison – star of the 2019 intake of red-wall MPs – shocked Westminster by revealing she will not contest her seat again. Chris Skidmore, Gary Streeter, Chloe Smith and William Wragg have also announced their departure plan this week.