This looks to be the latest installment in a contest ConservativeHome has long covered: the endless tug-of-war between constituency associations and CCHQ over the ins and outs of candidate selection.
Such votes as there are to the Conservatives’ right at the next election will coalesce around the Perennial Pretender, under whatever standard, or not at all.
The purpose of the Conservative Party is to win elections, form a government, and deliver calmly and carefully considered Tory policies for the benefit of the nation. It is not merely to be a voice “making the argument” for conservative ideals.