Why Cummings’ departure creates new problems for Johnson’s Brexit strategy

The former Chief Adviser has had little to do with the negotiation recently, but his leaving has knock-on effects on it. Here’s why.

David Gauke: Without a proper state aid regime, the UK is unlikely to reach a deal with Brussels

Even putting aside the EU dimension, there are very good arguments for having one in place.

David Gauke: Why I believe that Parliament must stop a No Deal Brexit this week

It was never possible to maintain exactly the same benefits of EU membership whilst walking away from the institutions and the rules.

Nick Hargrave: How Johnson became Prime Minister, cut a Brexit deal, won an election – and triumphed. For a bit.

None of what follows is impossible and, if there is a common thread, it is the self-interest of MPs in avoiding an election before leaving the EU.

This week’s winner in the Tory leadership election is…Johnson

The vocation of the front-runner is not to mess up. And he hasn’t. Indeed, he has picked up support – and upped the pace.

Don’t forget the arithmetic. In addition to the ERG, watch the DUP, Tory Remainers and soft Brexiters, and Labour rebels.

There is more than one moving part in this complex day, and some could counteract one another.

WATCH: Baker reiterates that there would be a majority for the Malthouse Compromise

The implication is that the Government would win more votes if it kept the ERG happy.

Trust

Robbins’ overheard conversation has further eroded faith in his boss – and the ERG is itself divided over whether changes to the backstop would themselves be enough.

To Hell with Tusk

All he may have achieved is to make the No Deal that neither side of the negotiations wants marginally more likely.

Hammond, Penrose, and Kwarteng join the Government as May circles the wagons

The Prime Minister has eschewed the chance to bind waverers with patronage in favour of promoting able loyalists who won’t make trouble.

Theresa Villiers: The ERG’s solution to the Irish border opens the door to a wide-ranging free trade agreement

Now we will find out if the EU really is seeking practical progress, or if it is cynically exploiting the issue as a way to seek leverage.

The Moggcast. Burt and Duncan’s “absurd” attacks on Johnson “must have been” approved by Downing Street.

Inside the ERG’s Brexit plans. Why Rees-Mogg doesn’t believe the hype about ‘Blue Wave’ entryism. Plus: how he spent his summer.

Interview: Andrea Jenkyns – “Prime Ministers keep their jobs if they keep their promises”

The Morley and Outwood MP says that her constituents want the Brexit they voted for – and asks why Downing Street accuses Leavers but not Remainers of “bullying”.

Henry Newman: The more we look back to the referendum, and re-fight its battles, the less we get ready for the future

And most EU member states haven’t spent nearly enough time really thinking what the future relationship between the UK and EU should look like, either.

If Brexit really is ‘above party politics’, Greening can’t complain about the ERG

Either the EU is an issue over which one should put conscience before whip, or it’s not.