Why are so many Tories still backing Johnson?

[ApplyEvenly]

I mean I understand that he was/is the celebrity front man that got them elected, I understand that they accepted that even though they may have know he wasn't very competent, but now, surely they'd be distancing themselves, even if only for self preservation?

I know some have, but there are still a lot prepared to keep defending him (admittedly less so this morning).

Probably stupidity as if bojo stays he has heading for a crushing defeat.

I think it's because they believe that Labour would be worse. You do have to wonder how bad the Tories have to be in government for people to still think Labour would be a worse outcome!

Surely they are just taking time to figure out who should be successor. The more baggage Boris takes with him when he finally goes, the better.

Many of those in the cabinet won’t be allowed anywhere near the front benches should Johnson go.

Dorries, JRM, and Patel spring to mind.

You'd expect Tories to believe that and I understand why they felt Johnson could/would get them elected, but now?

I think the Conservatives could well win the next election and for those of us who want a change, Johnson staying is great news!

Surely they're not electable again under his leadership? Surely MPs must be beginning to see that?

If you mean many Tory MPs they don’t want to force a GE until it has to happen as many of them know they will lose their seats.Ministers stay loyal(ish) because they want to keep their status, salaries and chauffeur driven cars as long as they can. Most of them don’t really care about the damage being done to this country and its reputation or that we have a PM who appears to believe in nothing apart from what is good for Boris.

having said that I doubt Labour would be much of an improvement although I do think Keir Starmer is a decent man.