Boris Johnson adds some zap to Andrea Leadsom’s Tory leadership bid
Boris Johnson has today revealed he is backing Andrea Leadsom in the Tory leadership race.
"Leadsom offers the zap, the drive and the determination essential for the next leader of this country," read a statement from the former Mayor of London. "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 in 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."
The current energy minister formally kicked off her campaign for top spot in the Conservative party earlier today. Among her pledges are supporting EU nationals currently living in the UK, simplifying the tax system and examining executive pay.
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Leadsom is likely to face some fierce competition her bid to lead the Tories, not least in the form of current frontrunner Theresa May, who quietly supported the Remain campaign.
The others who have embarked on the race to replace David Cameron as Prime Minister are Michael Gove, Liam Fox and Stephen Crabb.
Johnson himself pulled out of the running for leadership of the party last week.