Theresa May and Andrea Leadsom to compete to be the next UK Prime Minister.
ADVERTISEMENTThe UK’s Home Secretary Theresa May has come out on top in the Conservative Party leadership contest, with 199 votes. Her victory was predicted in polls ahead of the second-round ballot.
Delighted to have voted for @TheresaMay2016 in today's ballot. She's strong, brave and resilient - all qualities we need at this time.
— Oliver Colvile MP (@olivercolvile) July 7, 2016
But for the other two candidates, it was less of a race than a fight for survival. Junior Energy Minister Andrea Leadsom emerged in second place, with 84 votes, meaning the UK’s next prime minister will be female, for only the second time in history.
Just voted for @andrealeadsom. The #FreshStart Britain needs. #AndreaLeadsom4Leaderpic.twitter.com/56RnEArSWV
— Julian Brazier MP (@julian_brazier) July 5, 2016
Justice Minister Michael Gove has been eliminated after gaining just 46 votes from Tory Party MPs.
Thanks to all who supported me. Congratulations to @TheresaMay2016 and @andrealeadsom. All the best with the campaign.
— Michael Gove MP (@Gove2016) 7 Temmuz 2016
David Cameron’s decision to resign as PM was provoked by the UK’s vote to leave the European Union.
Although a known Eurosceptic, May backed the ‘Remain’ side in the June 23 referendum. Leadsom was in the ‘Leave’ camp, backing a Brexit from the Union. Whoever is voted in will be tasked with negotiating the UK’s path out of the Union.
@TheresaMay2016 has steely determination, experience & strong record to provide the leadership needed to lead us out of the EU
— Priti Patel (@patel4witham) July 7, 2016
I am backing Andrea for PM. She will lead a positive brexit and deliver a stronger economy. @andrea4leader#ToryLeadership@andrealeadsom
— James Duddridge MP (@JamesDuddridge) July 3, 2016
The choice over who will run the country until 2020 now lies in the hands of Conservative Party members, who will vote in their leader by September 9.