Penny Mordaunt is running to be the leader of the Conservatives and Prime Minister

The Portsmouth North MP came third in the last leadership contest in the summer.

After being knocked out last time, Mordaunt backed the outgoing Prime Minister, Liz Truss, who yesterday resigned after 44 days in office making her the shortest serving Prime Minister in UK history.

Penny Mordaunt was appointed leader of the House of Commons by the current Prime Minister and as Lord President of the Privy Council she presided over the Accession Council for the new king.

Penny announced that she will be running on Twitter.

I’ve been encouraged by support from colleagues who want a fresh start, a united party and leadership in the national interest.

I’m running to be the leader of the Conservative Party and your Prime Minister - to unite our country, deliver our pledges and win the next GE.#PM4PM pic.twitter.com/MM0NTHJ5lH

— Penny Mordaunt (@PennyMordaunt) October 21, 2022

Penny Mordaunt will need the support of at least 100 conservative MPs to officially be a candidate in the contest. Gosport MP Caroline Dinage has already voiced her support for Mordaunt.

The winner of the leadership contest, and new Prime Minister, should be announced by Friday 28th October.