Liz Truss rules out standing in race to become Prime Minister
South West Norfolk MP Liz Truss has ruled out standing in the race to become the next Prime Minister.
Speaking to the Sunday Telegraph, Mrs Truss, who is Chief Secretary to the Treasury, said: "We're now in a critical situation.
"There's been a short time frame set for the contest and I don't want to be part of prolonging that process."
The MP for Thetford was widely expected to add her name to the crowded field of contenders, which includes West Suffolk MP Matt Hancock.
Others confirmed so far are former Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, former Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab, former Commons Leader Andrea Leadsom, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt, International Development Secretary Rory Stewart and former Work and Pensions Secretary Esther McVey.
Environment Secretary Michael Gove has also announced he will stand.
On Friday, Theresa May said she would resign as Conservative Party leader on June 7.
Contenders can put their names forward until the week beginning June 10 and MPs will vote for the final two. Party members will decide the winner in a postal ballot in July.
- Read more: Why West Suffolk MP Matt Hancock could be the one to watch in the race to become Prime Minister
