May to be confirmed as UK Conservative leader, and next PM

[LONDON] Theresa May is the only remaining candidate to be the new leader of Britain's ruling Conservative Party and a formal process will now take place to confirm her in the role, the chairman of a party committee running the leadership contest said on Monday.

Graham Brady made the statement minutes after Andrea Leadsom, who had been running against Ms May, announced she was pulling out.

Once confirmed as Conservative leader, Ms May will automatically become the new prime minister, replacing outgoing leader David Cameron.

Mr Brady did not make clear what the timeframe was for Ms May to take up both roles, but said the process should conclude "very soon".

REUTERS