Michael Gove ally's email to Tory MPs asking for votes to beat Leadsom

Michael Gove and his campaign manager Nick Boles Credit: PA

I received a copy of an email that Michael Gove's campaign manager has sent to Tory MPs ahead of tomorrow's second round in the leadership election.

Nick Boles is asking for Theresa May supporters to vote for Mr Gove tomorrow in an attempt to knock out Andrea Leadsom.

He talks of being "frightened" by the prospect of Mrs Leadsom making it through to the next round - where Conservative party members will decide who will be the next Prime Minister.

Nick Boles seems concerned that Andrea Leadsom might be an appealing "fresh face" for members "like they did with IDS [Iain Duncan Smith]".

And he concludes: "in the party's interest and the national interest surely we must work together to stop AL [Andrea Leadsom]?" and then he puts a "x".

Theresa May, Andrea Leadsom and Michael Gove are vying for the keys to 10 Downing Street Credit: PA

The email - as it has been sent to me - is below.

Tory MPs vote tomorrow to choose the final two contenders.