"I understand why the Tories will be gunning for Alastair Campbell because they fear his campaigning skills"

This quote by Peter Mandelson recommends that the Tories hesitate of Alastair Campbell's campaigning abilities. Alastair Campbell is a British political strategist and previous Director of Communications and Strategy for Prime Minister Tony Blair. He is known for his effective campaigning techniques and his capability to influence public opinion. The Tories, or the Conservative Party, are most likely stressed that Campbell's skills will be utilized versus them in the upcoming election. They are likely to be "gunning for" Campbell, meaning they will be attacking him in an effort to discredit him and his techniques. This quote indicates that the Tories know Campbell's impact and are taking steps to avoid him from having a positive influence on the election. It likewise recommends that the Tories are feeling threatened by Campbell's abilities and are taking actions to protect their own interests.