Tory leader race: Boris must stop giving his foes ammunition - LEO MCKINSTRY

After a career that has mixed charisma and controversy in equal measure, his climb to the top of British politics’ greasy pole is almost complete.

What makes this advance all the sweeter for him is that he not only confounded his large army of critics but has also had his revenge on bitter rival Michael Gove, who stabbed him in the back during the 2016 leadership battle.

But, with the hustings among Conservative party members now underway, this weekend there has been a reminder of Johnson’s facility for self-destruction.

News emerged that police were called on Friday to the south London home he shares with partner Carrie Symonds, the former Tory party communications chief, after the couple allegedly had a blazing row.

Johnson's facility for self-destructionThis weekend there has been a reminder of Johnson's facility for self-destruction (Image: Victoria Jones / PA)

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It was claimed that during the altercation, loud screaming, banging and plate smashing echoed through the building, while at one point Symonds was apparently heard telling Johnson to “get off me” and “get out of my flat”.

Neighbours who rang the police also said they were so concerned by the incident that they made a recording, which swiftly reached the press.

The story comes after a series of stumbles by Boris’s campaign, despite his support among MPs. Hidden away from the media, he has been curiously subdued, exuding little of his usual sparkle or humour.

When he finally appeared last Tuesday for the BBC debate, he gave a poor performance, hesitant and defensive. Nor has he provided a credible plan for the implementation of Brexit, or a clear statement of his economic policy.

His one distinctive proposal – a tax cut for the affluent – was widely derided.

But the reported dispute with Symonds is far more damaging. It

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