Shailesh Vara backs '˜formidable' Theresa May as she prepares to become Prime Minister

Mr Vara - who backed Michael Gove’s failed leadership bid at the start of the campaign, said Mrs May was a ‘formidable politician’ and was the right person to lead Britain forward.

His comments come a day after Peterborough MP Stewart Jackson promised to hold Mrs May to account, after it was confirmed she would be taking over from David Cameron at 10 Downing Street.

Mr Vara said: “Theresa May is a formidable politician and she is the right person to lead Britain forward at this time in our country’s history.

“I have worked closely with Theresa and have no doubt that she will provide the strong and experienced leadership the country needs. She will be a very tough negotiator in our dealings with the European Union and she will work tirelessly to unite the country and ensure that there is opportunity for all.”