Theresa May sends for big-hitter William Hague in bid to save Tory brand — mirroring Margaret Thatcher, who leant heavily on William Whitelaw
PM wants to harness former Foreign Secretary's experience to avoid a repeat of the foul-ups that cost her a Commons majority
THERESA May has sent for big-hitter William Hague to help rebuild the shattered Tory brand.
She will make the former Foreign Secretary her senior outrider in a new expanded inner-circle.
The PM wants to harness his experience to avoid a repeat of the foul-ups that cost her a Commons majority.
Her move mirrors Margaret Thatcher who leant heavily on Cabinet veteran William Whitelaw and once told a Tory conference: "Every PM needs a Willie."
Like Maggie's trusted aide, Lord Hague is charming, witty and popular - but behind the veneer is a shrewd and ruthless political operator.
He is an expert in scenting trouble and knowing what cuts through with the public.
Lord Hague has agreed to meet Mrs May at Number 10 to discuss a new advisory and supportive role.
Downing Street yesterday dismissed Westminster whispers that she had offered him the role of Deputy PM.
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But a source revealed: "The PM wants to make sure she is listening to all parts of the party following the election result.
"She is a big admirer of William's and is keen to draw on his experience."
Lord Hague's mini-comeback is a sign that Mrs May has accepted she must build a wider circle of confidantes and adopt a more open style of government.
Critics blamed her election flop on her failure to consult with anyone other than her "gruesome twosome" chiefs of staff.
Mrs May also needs every ounce of guile in her armoury to drive Brexit laws through Parliament and cling on to power.
She is also keen to win back the confidence of grass roots Tory activists following the disastrous election campaign.
Lord Hague knows how to cope with being at rock bottom, having bravely taken over as Tory leader weeks after Tony Blair's 1997 election landslide.
He is popular among local party chairmen and a great communicator who will know how to outflank Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn's populist appeal.
Since standing down as an MP in 2015, Lord Hague has made a fortune writing books and touring the after-dinner speakers' circuit.
A pal said: "He does not want the 18-hour days that a Cabinet role would bring - or any of the torture that goes with it.
But he's happy to act as a sounding board and give guidance to his party wherever he can."