Matt Hancock is said to be joining I'm A Celebrity to highlight important issues.
The former Health Secretary has been revealed as a secret contestant but has actually turned down the opportunity multiple times before. Whilst at Downing Street, he refused to initially take part because of the “instability” the government was facing at the time, according to a political ally.
Mr Hancock is said to believe the administration is now "stable" and is happy to accept the "amazing opportunity" ITV is offering. He wants to be able to use his stint on I'm A Celebrity to discuss issues he cares about and to promote his dyslexia campaign.
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His ally said: "When he was first approached to take part – while he was flattered and naturally curious – it didn’t take him too long to turn the opportunity down because of the instability Government was facing at the time.
"Rishi Sunak has made a great start and the whole of the Conservative Party is united behind him. Matt’s talked to the whips, in the same way any MP would when going on a foreign visit, which happens all the time. As I say, Matt doesn’t expect to serve in government again, but he can support Rishi and the Government in different ways.
They added: "This is an amazing opportunity to engage with the public and talk about issues he really cares about – including his dyslexia campaign."
The celebrities typically have no contact with the outside world but given Mr Hancock's influence, if there is an urgent constituency matter, producers have agreed he will be allowed to communicate with whoever is necessary.
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