Boris Johnson held a secret meeting with the Allies where he discussed an imminent reshuffle to promote a new generation of Conservative MPs elected in 2019.
The Prime Minister convened about 20 of his “Praetorian Guard” of his closest followers on Monday night to discuss his next moves, while lawmakers sent their votes to the 1922 Committee.
The Telegraph understands that at the reception, his supporters urged Mr. Johnson will carry out a reshuffle of his cabinet and minor ministers in order to mark his authority in the party.
Two sources said Johnson was urged to promote MPs who were first elected in 2019 to bolster support among his party’s Red Wall wing and fire ministers who did not make public statements of support before the vote of confidence.
Downing Street denied on Tuesday that a remodel was imminent, and it is believed Johnson may have been deterred from the idea because of the scale of the rebellion.
The prime minister’s official spokesman said he “has a mandate to continue and focus on issues that matter to the public” and that “there are currently no plans” for a reshuffle.
Many around Mr Johnson think he should promote 2019 MPs to minor ministerial jobs. Currently, only his 10th chief of staff, Andrew Griffith, and junior whips are newly elected MPs.
Separately, The Telegraph understands that other party leaders who have criticized his leadership visited him on Monday afternoon to urge him to remove some of his ministers who “were not up to the task”.