Private WhatsApp exchanges from Rutherford Hall, a communications strategist, reveal his refusal to represent former British Prime Minister Liz Truss amid her efforts to promote her new book and political relaunch.

In the messages, Hall expresses clear reluctance to engage with Truss, characterizing her public image negatively due to the widely criticised nature of her brief premiership. He refers to her book, "Bank Job," as reiterating her narrative that the failures of her government were not her fault, describing it dismissively and highlighting the challenges she faces with media coverage. Hall also compares the potential reputational risk of managing Truss’s communications to positions held by other controversial figures, indicating it is not work he wants.

Hall’s messages to a colleague named Stephen indicate surprise that Truss was identified as a prospective client and frustration at having to meet with her despite not wishing to. He makes clear in communications directly with Truss that he is not representing her, has no involvement in organising her media appearances, and is not responsible for how her book is received by critics or the public. During a reported incident, Truss apparently directed media inquiries to Hall despite his lack of involvement, causing further tension.

The strategist advises Truss that her political relaunch and book tour will face hostile coverage, with many sceptical of her claims of a conspiracy undermining her premiership. He notes that the strategy appears to rely on provoking attention through brazen claims, suggesting that such an approach might generate interest, albeit through controversy rather than positive reception. Hall predicts that media figures who thrive on provocative interviews might engage with Truss, possibly boosting visibility despite the negativity.

Hall also disentangles himself from accountability for logistical issues encountered by Truss, such as delays en route to a BBC interview, explaining these were due to external factors like increased traffic from pedestrianisation rather than deliberate sabotage. He rejects accusations from Truss that he or his associates are part of a "deep state" working against her, portraying these as unfounded.

Overall, the recovered messages depict a communication professional firmly declining involvement in managing the media and public relations for a high-profile yet divisive figure, while providing candid assessments of the challenges she faces in rehabilitating her public image. The exchanges highlight the complications that can arise when former political leaders attempt to stage comebacks amid widespread scepticism and critical scrutiny.