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Johnson backs Andrea Leadsom for Tory leader

Boris Johnson pictured with Andrea Leadsom during the Vote Leave referendum campaign. Credit: PA

Boris Johnson has given his backing to Andrea Leadsom in the Conservative Party leadership race.

Mr Johnson, had been a favourite to replace David Cameron, until he announced his surprise decision not to take part in the contest, last Thursday.

The former mayor of London said Leadsom offers "the zap, the drive, and the determination essential for the next leader of this country".

She has long championed the needs of the most vulnerable in our society. She has a better understanding of finance than almost anyone else in Parliament. She has considerable experience of government. She is level headed, kind, trustworthy approachable and the possessor of a good sense of humour.

She has specialised in the EU question and successfully campaigned for leave and will be therefore well placed to help forge a great post Brexit future for Britain and Europe.

Above all she possesses the qualities needed to bring together leavers and remainers in the weeks and months ahead. I will be voting for Andrea Leadsom tomorrow.

– Boris Johnson