The rules to replace Boris Johnson as British Prime Minister have been revealed.
The new leader will be announced by September 5 and so far 11 candidates have put up their hands for the top job.
Rishi Sunak Source: GettyImages
Penny Morduant Source: GettyImages
Liz Truss - GettyImages
Kemi Badenoch Source: Badenoch facebook
Tom Tugenhadt Source: GettyImages
On this episode of Today FM 101, World News Editor Kate Gregan picks her top five contenders to reside at No.10 Downing Street.
Number 1. Former Finance Minister, Rishi Sunak.
The 42-year-old is known for steering the UK economy during COVID and has always been seen as a possible future Prime Minister.
He’s also the bookies' favourite.
He’s kicked off his leadership campaign with a promise to tackle inflation and lower taxes…
But his reputation has taken a hit recently – he was fined alongside Boris Johnson for breaching lockdown rules…he’s also married to a multi-millionaire, and there’s been some controversy over his wife's tax affairs.
Number 2. Trade Minister, Penny Mordaunt
The 49-year-old made history in 2019, becoming the UK's first female defence secretary.
She’s a naval reservist and a former magician's assistant.
Polls show she is a clear favourite among members of the Conservative Party.
Number 3. Foreign Minister, Liz Truss
The 46-year-old says as Prime Minister, she would cut taxes from day one.
She talks tough on Brexit, takes a tough stance on the Northern Ireland Protocol, and is often described as Margaret Thatcher 2.0.
Number 4. Former equalities minister Kemi Badenoch
The 42-year-old is a former software engineer, who went on to work in banking and later as a director of the Spectator magazine.
She’s promised tax cuts and low regulation and has been critical of the net-zero emissions target.
Number 5. Backbencher Tom Tugendhat
The 49-year-old has vowed to cut fuel tax and wants to invest in infrastructure if he becomes the leader.
He’s a former soldier who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, voted remain in 2016, and for years has been talked up as a potential future leader.
The two final candidates will be determined by the end of next week.
