Boris Johnson has been spotted waving at press outside Gatwick Airport this morning as he made a swift return to the UK amid rumours he could bid to succeed Liz Truss as prime minister.
It comes just days after Truss stepped down from the top job, leaving Conservative MPs to elect a new leader. While Johnson has not officialy declared his intent to run, there is heavy speculation that he is considering a return to No 10.
Stepping off the plane from the Dominican Republic, where Johnson was holidaying with his wife and children, he was immediately escorted into two dark vans by his security detail. It is unclear whether Johnson cut his trip short following the news of Truss' resignation, or if he was due to return regardless.
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Johnson reportedly told trade minister Sir James Duddridge that he was 'up for it', and it is understood that 46 MPs have currently given him their backing. Candidates need to reach 100 backers before theyare eligible to get their names on the ballot.
Rishi Sunak, who served as chancellor under Boris Johnson's government and was recently defeated in last month's leadership election by Liz Truss, is currently the only candidate so far to have reached 100 backers. Leader of the house of commons Penny Mordaunt has formally announced her candidacy, but lags behind both Sunak and Johnson with just 21 backers.
Sunak was spotted leaving his London home this morning, but has not yet officially declared his candidacy - despite having the support of over 100 MPs.
The latest date for the new prime minister to be confirmed is Friday October 28. Nominations will close on Monday October 24, and various rounds of voting will take place as necessary throughout the week.
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