Boris Johnson throws weight behind Brexit ally Andrea Leadsom’s campaign to be PM
Former Mayor of London made the announcement on Facebook this evening
BORIS Johnson has backed Andrea Leadsom for the Tory leadership — in a revenge attack on Michael Gove.
In a clear dig, BoJo said she had “the qualities needed to bring together Leavers and Remainers”.
Tory MPs are furious at Mr Gove for pulling his support from Mr Johnson at the 11th hour and deciding to stand himself – and argue he cannot now unite the Tories following the EU referendum.
Former London Mayor Mr Johnson also heaped praise on pro-Brexit Ms Leadsom’s human touch, which will be seen as a dig at Home Secretary Theresa May’s “ice queen” image.
And he played up her past career in the City – helping to dispel worries that she is too raw for the top job.
In glowing statement that will give Ms Leadsom’s campaign a huge shot in the arm, Mr Johnson said: “Andrea 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.
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“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.”
Andrea Leadsom 'offers zap'
Johsnson posted the following statement on his Facebook page in support of Leadsom
Andrea 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.
Mr Johnson issued the statement shortly after Ms Leadsom performed poorly at a hustings for Tory MPs.
Aides said he had not attended the event.
Tory MPs will vote today on who they want to replace David Cameron, cutting the field down from five to four. They will vote again on Thursday to trim the shortlist to three, and then again a week today to deliver a final two.
Tory members in the country will then pick a winner by September 9.