International
Replacing PM Boris Johnson
Tory leadership hopefuls are battling to secure the support of their colleagues, ahead of the first MPs’ vote in the contest for Number 10 later. The eight candidates who have made it onto the ballot paper will have to secure at least 30 votes to stay in the race to become the next prime minister.
It’s the first of a series of secret ballots over the next few days to reduce the field down to a final two. In a statement, Prime Minister Boris Johnson says he feels everybody who has played a part in his government has done a remarkable job in helping the country through difficult times.
Johnson says it’s possible today’s Prime Minister’s Questions will be his last as the next party leader could be declared by acclamation. He has declined to endorse any of the candidates vying to succeed him.Tory MPs are aiming to whittle down the candidates to a final two before Parliament’s summer break begins next week.
About 160 thousand members of the Conservative Party will then choose between the final two, with the winner due to be announced on September 5.