Jeremy Hunt repeatedly offers Boris Johnson a top job in his Cabinet if he becomes PM
JEREMY Hunt tonight offered Boris Johnson a string of top jobs in his Cabinet as the Tory rivals had their final debate hosted by The Sun.
The challenger for No10 suggested the frontrunner could be Chancellor, Work and Pensions Secretary or another “very senior role” in his Government.
But BoJo, the runaway favourite to win, refused to commit to giving Mr Hunt a big job – and it wasn’t clear how serious the challenger was actually being.
The two men faced off for the last time in a head-to-head debate attended by Sun readers at our London HQ.
The Foreign Secretary first offered Mr Johnson a job as Chancellor when Boris was asked if he’d take girlfriend Carrie with him to 10 Downing Street.
Mr Hunt said: “I can answer that question – he’ll be living with me, I’ll be at No10 and he’ll be at No11.”
The house next to the PM’s is the traditional home of the Chancellor.
When they were asked about benefits policy shortly afterwards, he asked: “Would you like the job in DWP, Boris?” – the Department for Work and Pensions, a job currently held by Amber Rudd.
Mr Johnson said: “I wouldn’t want to displace Amber. I think she would be rather alarmed to hear you say that – I thought she was on your team. You’ve just offered me her job!”
The two men both committed to having at least one woman in their top team – and Mr Hunt took the opportunity to joke again about offering Mr Johnson a job.
He quipped: “I haven’t had that discussion with Boris about which of those top four jobs he will take.”
Finally, they were asked at the end of the debate whether they would have each other in their Cabinet if they win.
Mr Hunt said: “Boris, you have nothing to worry about – you will have a very senior role.”
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But Mr Johnson sted that answering the question ” would be an impertinent commentary on the future composition of the Cabinet I would be lucky enough to lead”.
He added only that “what I can tell you is that I have the highest regard” for Mr Hunt.
There is speculation Boris could demote or even sack his rival after a bruising leadership campaign which has been filled with bitter attacks.
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