From The Times
August 4, 2008

Blairites plot to hasten Gordon Brown’s exit

Former ministers Clarke and Byers plan policy challenge

Gordon Brown’s enemies are preparing to accelerate a campaign for his removal from No 10 after he was left weakened by David Miliband’s move to stake a claim as Labour’s next leader.

Blairite ex-ministers including Charles Clarke and Stephen Byers will hold talks this week to decide on the timing of a series of statements and policy initiatives that they have prepared.

The group, working with Cabinet ministers and senior party figures, is preparing to keep up the pressure on the Prime Minister by challenging him on policy issues throughout this month. They hope that this will boost Mr Miliband, who called for a “radical new phaseâ€