Rishi Sunak takes early lead in Tory leadership race

Each candidate must secure the backing of at least 100 Tory MPs by 2pm to remain in the contest to replace Liz Truss, who resigned last week.

If only one person meets the threshold they will automatically become Prime Minister.

READ MORE: Will Southampton's Sunak become Prime Minister? Live updates 

Rishi Sunak, who grew up in Southampton, was chancellor until Boris Johnson until he resigned in July (Image: Martini archive)

So far 141 MPs have publicly declared their support for Mr Sunak.

The figure for the first person to enter the race, Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt, is reported to be 23.

Declaring his candidacy Mr Sunak said: "The choice our party makes now will decide whether the next generation of British people will have more opportunities than the last.

READ MORE: Rishi Sunak enters race to become the next Prime Minister

"That's why I am standing to be your next Prime Minister and leader of the Conservative Party. I want to fix our economy, unite our party and deliver for our country.

Winchester MP Steve Brine is among those backing Rishi Sunak in the Tory leadership contest (Image: Martini archive)

"I served as your chancellor, helping to steer our economy through the toughest of times. The challenges we face now are even greater.

"But the opportunities - if we make the right choice are phenomenal.

"I have the track record of delivery, a clear plan to fix the biggest problems we face and I will deliver on the promise of the 2019 manifesto.

READ MORE: Rishi Sunak's Southampton childhood, education and career

"There will be integrity, professionalism and accountability at every level of the government I lead and I will work day in and day out to get the job done."

Desmond Swayne, MP for New Forest West, also wants Rishi Sunak to succeed Liz Truss as Tory leader (Image: Chris Yandell, Newsquest)

Hampshire Tories backing Mr Sunak include the former home secretary, Suella Braverman.

The Fareham MP told The Daily Telegraph: "We need unity, stability and efficiency. Rishi is the only candidate that fits the bill and I am proud to support him."

Eastleigh MP Paul Holmes praised Mr Sunak's "track record of delivery".

READ MORE: Rishi Sunak promises 'integrity and professionalism' as he enters Tory race

Flick Drummond, who represents the Meon Valley, added: "We need someone with experience, economic competence and attention to detail. Rishi supported people and businesses through the pandemic and understands what is needed to put the economy back on track."

But Southampton Itchen MP Royston Smith said: "Somehow we need to unite. I’m not sure any of the three [candidates] can do that."

Mr Sunak, who grew up in Southampton, was chancellor until July. His resignation, along with that of health secretary Sajid Javid, led to Mr Johnson's downfall.

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