The race to become the next British Conservative Party leader has begun
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The race to replace Theresa May’s has begun after her announcement on Friday that she will step down on the 7th of June.
The contest will not only result in a new party leader, but also in the next prime minister of the UK.
The leadership of the Conservative party expect a new leader to be chosen by the end of July.
May confirmed on Friday that she will resign as party leader on 7 June, but will continue as PM while the leadership contest takes place.
She agreed with chairman of the Tory backbench 1922 Committee, Sir Graham Brady, that the process to choose a new leader should begin the week after she stands down.
More than a dozen candidates are believed to be seriously considering running but so far four have confirmed their intention.
They are:
Former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson
Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt
International Development Secretary Rory Stewart
Former Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey
A composite file image showing from top L-R Britain’s Secretary of State for International Development, Rory Stewart, Britain’s former Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey and from bottom L-R former British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson and current British Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, London, Britain EPA-EFE/STAFF
So far Johnson is the favourite to succeed May.
Conservative MPs have until the week commencing 10 June to put their name forward, and any of them can stand – as long as they have the backing of two parliamentary colleagues.
The candidates will be whittled down until two remain, and in July all party members will vote to decide on the winner.
