They probably told Raab one thing and changed the brief when it didn't fly. They don't really care if that reflects badly on Raab. Ministers being sent out to talk to the press are lambs to the slaughter. Not sure why they agree to it to be honest when the most likely outcome seems to be that Boris will U-turn whilst you're live on air leaving you looking like an idiot
Bingo. One way to promote loyalty in your minions is to promote those who would never get such roles from anyone else. Pass over the competent - they could get the role on merit. Only have the incompetent, the venal, the stupid - who know in their bones that without you they’re nothing.
They probably told Raab one thing and changed the brief when it didn't fly. They don't really care if that reflects badly on Raab. Ministers being sent out to talk to the press are lambs to the slaughter. Not sure why they agree to it to be honest when the most likely outcome seems to be that Boris will U-turn whilst you're live on air leaving you looking like an idiot