‘Whatever charisma is, I don’t have it’ – full text of Michael Gove’s leadership speech

This past week has been a momentous one for our country, the like of which we have not seen for generations. Expectations have been upended, conventional wisdoms overturned, our nation’s destiny changed. At a time like this — a hinge in history — two paths beckon. We can either try to muddle through and hope for the best.

Or we can lean in, embrace the change the British people voted for and shape it in our interests — facing the challenges of the days ahead with cool heads and making the most of the new opportunities open to us with resolute and daring hearts. I am here today to argue for that second path — the path of change — embarking on a journey to reach a renewed Britain — optimistic, open to the world, a place of hope and healing.

Of course, as we pause and draw breath after the events of the last week and the British people’s brave and right decision to leave the European Union it’s important to remind ourselves of some fundamental truths and enduring realities. As