UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace rules out bid to replace Boris Johnson

UK Defence Secretary Ben Wallace rules out bid to replace Boris Johnson
July 9, 2022, 6:29 pm

UK Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace - Pic. UK Gov

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, one of the favourites to succeed Prime Minister Boris Johnson, said on Saturday (July 9) he had decided not to run in the leadership contest.

Wallace said on Twitter: "After careful consideration and discussing with colleagues and family, I have taken the decision not to enter the contest for leadership of the Conservative Party.”

"It has not been an easy choice to make, but my focus is on my current job and keeping this great country safe."

Four Conservative lawmakers have officially confirmed their desire to be the next leader so far, but about a dozen others are also expected to run for the job. Wallace did not say he who he would be backing.

On Friday (July 8), former British finance minister Rishi Sunak said that he was running to replace Boris Johnson after Johnson announced the previous day that he would stand down as prime minister.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Chancellor of the Exchequer Rishi Sunak are seen in cabinet room in 10 Downing Street during Johnson's birthday, in London, Britain June 19, 2020 in this picture obtained from civil servant Sue Gray's report published on May 25, 2022. Sue Gray Report / gov.uk/Handout via REUTERS

Sunak said in a campaign video released on Twitter: “Someone has to grip this moment and make the right decisions. That’s why I’m standing to be the next leader of the Conservative Party and your prime minister.”

Sunak quit as finance minister on Tuesday (July 5), one of two unexpected resignations that set in motion a chain of events that led to Johnson’s decision to step down.

Former UK finance minister Rishi Sunak bids to replace Boris Johnson

According to a No 10 source, the the BBC reported that there was "real disappointment" with Mr Sunak in Downing Street.

They accused him of having a "short memory", adding: "It was the prime minister who trusted him and gave him a top job when he was a junior minister.

"The prime minister backed him to the hilt. It's a shame it wasn't reciprocated."

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