'Boris Johnson's plan to return to No 10 is unlikely - Britain needs stability'

Columnist Keir Mudie says that despite all the rumors circulating about a big political comeback from former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, he does not pose a threat to Rishi Sunak - for now

Boris Johnson is like a seasoned fighter spoiling for another fight

Once in a while it gets quiet here, which is a relief in some ways but a nuisance in others.

It was kind of a fallow period. Bits going on here and there. Obviously there's the NHS crisis, the cost of living etc, but despite it all MPs seem in a calm and placid mood. Too quiet.

The problem with a moment like this is that people use a vacuum to spread all kinds of rumors. The last set is around Boris Johnson. Chances are he started them.

There was talk of a comeback - and I'm not joking here - before he left Downing Street.

Its fans - and there are some - are willing to ignore Partygate and all, and tout its credentials as an election-winning machine.

Former Prime Minister Boris Johnson is said to have sought a safe seat (

Picture:

Getty Images)

They feel like, despite all the terrible things he's done, he was unfairly kicked out of number 10. Strange, I know. But they miss him, they just want him back.

Nadine Dorries said on TV this week that Mr Johnson should return, saying: 'Tory MPs have a very simple question to ask themselves when they look in the mirror, do you want to continue being an MP ?"

I think we all know the answer to that question.

The latest round of rumors came after Mr Johnson recorded a £1million donation from an investor, which Westminster residents seized as proof of a leadership bid.

People think there are around 30 MPs – who were probably appointed by Mr Johnson at the time – who would like this to happen. I know one of them and can't overstate the joy of the phone call I received when that million pound fell.