Theresa May to become Britain’s prime minister after only rival pulls out of race

All is set for Theresa May to succeed David Cameron as the next prime minister of Britain following the abrupt withdrawal of her only rival, Andrea Leadsom, from the race on Monday.

Ms Leadsom, who was energy minister has come under widespread criticism after she suggested she was a better candidate to run the country because she was a mother. Ms May is childless.

Outgoing Prime Minister, David Cameron, had resigned after British voters chose to leave European Union last month. Mr Cameron had campaigned for Britain to remain.

Graham Brady, chairman of committee of Conservative lawmakers, said there was no need to rerun the election as Ms May was the only candidate to lead the party.

“None whatsoever, we have a single candidate,” he said when asked if the contest to succeed Mr. Cameron needed to be reopened.

“The process is now that I, as the chairman of the 1922 Committee, and the board of the Conservative Party must formally confirm Mrs May is the new leader of the Conservative Party.”

Ms. Leadsom on Monday, while announcing her withdrawal from the race, said she would support Ms May.

“We now need a new prime minister in place as soon as possible, committed to fulfilling that manifesto as well as implementing the clear instructions from the referendum.

“Theresa May carries over 60 per cent of support in the parliamentary party.

“She is ideally placed to implement Brexit on the best possible terms for the British people and she has promised that she will do so.

“For me personally to have won the support of 84 of my colleagues last Thursday was a great expression of confidence for which I am incredibly grateful.

“Nevertheless, this is less than 25 per cent of the parliamentary party and after careful consideration I do not believe this is sufficient support to lead a strong and stable government should I win the leadership election.”

She added: “I have however concluded that the interests of our country are best served by the immediate appointment of a strong and well-supported prime minister.

“I am therefore withdrawing from the leadership election and I wish Theresa May the very greatest success, I assure her of my full support.”