# Summary

Boris Johnson reflects on the leadership contest and his potential endorsement while observing other candidates' campaigns from within Downing Street.

# Abstract

In the early afternoon of Tuesday, July 12th, Boris Johnson watches from the window of Downing Street as political activities unfold. He comments on Penny Mordaunt's campaign video featuring Oscar Pistorius, dismissing it as a blunder. Grant Shapps' withdrawal from the leadership contest is noted, with Johnson mocking Shapps' indecisiveness and the state of the railways. When Mordaunt asks for his endorsement, Johnson declines, joking that his support might harm her chances. The conversation reveals Johnson's awareness of Jeremy Hunt's candidacy and Sajid Javid's campaign launch, with Johnson making light of the situation despite being reminded that he himself is not running for re-election.

# Opinions

- Boris Johnson views Penny Mordaunt's inclusion of Oscar Pistorius in her campaign video as a significant error.
- Johnson criticizes Grant Shapps for his lack of commitment and implies that the railways are in disarray.
- He jestingly suggests that his endorsement could be detrimental to a candidate's campaign.
- Johnson expresses disbelief that Jeremy Hunt could win against him, forgetting momentarily that he is not seeking re-election.
- He makes a disparaging remark about Sajid Javid's ability to handle pressure, alluding to Javid's campaign launch.

Boris Johnson. №10 Squatter.

Early afternoon, Tuesday 12th July.

Boris Johnson: [looking out of window] Look at them down there, milling around like things milling around on Downing Street. ….Here comes Mordaunt, “I want to celebrate Britain. I want to make a splash. I had footage of the London 2012 Paralympics featuring convicted murderer Oscar Pistorius in my glossy campaign video.” What an absolute bloody buffoon.

1st Downing Street Aide: Grant Shapps has dropped out the contest.

Boris Johnson: Typical Shapps, can’t commit. Well at least the railways are sorted out.

2nd Downing Street Aide: They’re not Prime Minister.

Boris Johnson: Typical Shapps, can’t commit.

[knock at door]

Penny Mordaunt, Minister of State for Trade Policy: Afternoon Prime Minister.

Boris Johnson: Penny, what a coincidence. I was just saying you’re one of the few politicians I respect. What can I do for you today?

Penny Mordaunt: I was wondering if I could seek your endorsement.

Boris Johnson: Sorry Pen. I’m not backing any leadership contenders; I wouldn’t want to damage anyone’s chances with my support.

[silence]

Boris Johnson: It’s a joke Penny. You’re supposed to laugh.

Me: Another tough audience.

Fly: Sorry. I don’t understand.

Boris Johnson: I notice Jeremy Hunt’s running.

Penny Mordaunt: Yes Prime Minister.

Boris Johnson: Does Jezzer honestly think he can beat me second time of asking?

Penny Mordaunt: You’re not standing Prime Minister.

Boris Johnson: Er, um, yes of course.

1st Downing Street Aide: Sorry to interrupt, Prime Minister, there’s some ‘breaking news’ on the television.

Boris Johnson: Sorry Pen, I’ll have to fire up the old cathode ray tube….

[coverage of Sajid Javid leadership campaign launch on the television]

Boris Johnson: He’s a bit of a sweater isn’t he? Would’ve thought he’d be used to the heat where he comes from.

1st Downing Street Aide: [whispering to 2nd Downing Street Aide] Rochdale, Lancashire?