Another Canada 93? Tory Sunak critics fear extinction-level election result

A complacent incumbent, an insurgent rightwing challenger – but key differences mean talk of wipeout may be overblown

Overseas elections from more than 30 years ago are rarely hot topics of conversation in modern UK politics. But whisper “Canada 1993” into a Conservative MP’s ear and don’t be surprised if they break into a sudden cold sweat.

This is the model for the “extinction-level event” experienced by a previously dominant rightwing party – one that some Tory opponents of Rishi Sunak warn he risks emulating at the next general election.