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Boris Johnson has pulled out of the Tory leadership race, despite him having the support needed to stand.
The former Prime Minister believe it would not be the right thing to do, giving the chance to Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt to contest.
Former chancellor Rishi Sunak is way ahead of cabinet minister Penny Mordaunt on declared support from MPs.
Boris Johnson believe there was a good chance he would have been successful but he rather there is a united party in Parliament.
Nominations for the ballot close on Monday afternoon, and candidates need the support of at least 100 Conservative MPs.
Mr Johnson said he had been attracted by the race because “I led our party into a massive election victory less than three years ago – and I believe I am therefore uniquely placed to avert a general election now.
“A general election would be a further disastrous distraction just when the government must focus on the economic pressures faced by families across the country.”
The next general election needs to take place by January 2025 at the latest.
The race began on Thursday after Liz Truss resigned as prime minister after 45 days in the job.
