After a day of dramatic developments in Westminister, with Andrea Leadsom MP unexpectedly quitting the two-way Conservative leadership contest – saying she did not have the support to build 'a strong and stable government' – Theresa May, her rival, will take over leading the party and therefore become prime minister.

Mrs May issued this statement:

      I am honoured and humbled to have been chosen by the Conservative Party to become its leader.

      I would like to pay tribute to the other candidates during the election campaign, and I would like to pay tribute 
      to Andrea Leadsom for the dignity that she has shown today.

      During this campaign, my case has been based on three things.

            First, the need for strong, proven leadership to steer us through what will be difficult and uncertain
            economic and political times.

            The need of course to negotiate the best deal for Britain in leaving the EU and to forge a new role for
            ourselves in the world.

            Brexit means Brexit and we’re going to make a success of it.

            Second, we need to unite our country.

            And third, we need a strong, new, and positive vision for the future of our country.  A vision of a country
            that works not for the privileged few but works for every one of us.

      Because we’re going to give people more control over their lives.  That’s how together we will build a better Britain.

      Thank you,

      Theresa May
      Leader of the Conservative Party

NB.  David Cameron will tender his resignation to the Queen after PMQs on Wednesday, allowing Mrs May to take
       over as the new prime minister and Conservative Party leader by Wednesday evening.

       View Theresa May speaking outside of Parliament this afternoon.

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