It’s a vote of confidence from one local MP to another.
Bracknell MP Dr Phillip Lee, whose constituency includes parts of Wokingham, has backed Home Secretary Theresa May to take over the role vacated by David Cameron.
Earlier today, the Conservative Party’s 1922 committee met to approve the timetable of the leadership election, caused when Mr Cameron resigned in the wake of the European referendum.
Nominations for the role have now opened – but only for a short time. They will close at noon on Thursday.
Depending on the number of candidates, there will be a series of ballots among MPs before the two most popular contenders go into a run-off in which the party’s entire membership will be able to vote. The final outcome is expected on 9 September.
So far, Work and Pensions Secretary Stephen Crabb has put his name forward promising a “One Nation” Conservatism.
Vote Leave campaign leader Boris Johnson is thought to have the support of 100 MPs, and it is rumoured that Education Secretary Nicky Morgan could also stand.
Mrs May has not announced her intention yet, but the Maidenhead MP – whose constituency includes parts of Wokingham – is thought to be a strong contender, with a poll released yesterday naming her as a favourite.
Today, Dr Phillip Lee tweeted his support for Mrs May.
He said: “Our country needs someone of substance to unite & lead us through challenging times. I will be supporting Theresa May to be the next PM.”
Our country needs someone of substance to unite & lead us through challenging times. I will be supporting Theresa May to be the next PM
— Dr Phillip Lee (@DrPhillipLeeMP) June 29, 2016
We understand another local MP will tonight give their backing to Mrs May.
