London | As Conservative MPs agonise, dither and debate over whether to defenestrate their leader Boris Johnson, the question on their minds is whether his character is inextricably linked to his appeal. Can he stop being erratic yet still be charismatic?

There is an Australian to whom they might turn for insight. No, not Lynton Crosby, the veteran political svengali and Boris whisperer who has returned as an informal adviser. It’s Dame Edna Everage.