(VOVworld) - Boris Johnson, leader of pro-Brexit campaign, in a surprised move announced on Thursday that he is pulling out of the race to be Britain’s next prime minister succeeding David Cameron, who is about to leave the office.
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| Vote Leave campaign leader, Boris Johnson, waves as he finishes delivering his speech in London Thursday. The former London mayor announced he will not be running for prime minister. (Photo: Reuters/Toby Melville) |
The senior Conservative politician said his decision was made following consultation with colleagues and based on overall circumstances. The announcement came an hour after a close Brexit ally, Justice Secretary Michael Gove, suddenly announced his candidacy.
Johnson's decision means Michael Gove and Home Secretary Theresa May are the front-runners in the race for the Prime Minister’s office. Ms. May is widely believed to have the advantage.