Tory party chief quits amid claims of a purge
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Fresh turmoil bubbled in the Conservative Party's high command last night after Mark MacGregor, its chief executive, left his post suddenly. Although the Tories insisted his resignation was by mutual consent, modernisers claimed he was the victim of a purge by traditionalists who have won the battle for control of the party.
Iain Duncan Smith has now lost key members of the "inner circle" he created after becoming Tory leader in 2001. Others included Dominic Cummings, his director of strategy and Jenny Ungless, his chief of staff. Rick Nye, the director of research, will leave shortly.
Mr Duncan Smith has appointed Barry Legg, a fellow Eurosceptic and Maastricht Treaty rebel, as the new chief executive. A former Westminster councillor and ally of Dame Shirley Porter, he was provisionally found guilty of "gerrymandering" by the district auditor in 1994 but later cleared.
Right-wingers blamed Mr MacGregor for the failure of Nikki Page, a former model, to reach the Tory shortlist for Mayor of London. His friends called the charge unfounded. He is to become campaign director for Steve Norris, the former transport minister expected to be the Tory candidate in next year's election.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments