The Health and Social Care Secretary, supported by 20 Tory MPs in the first round, yesterday announced his decision. Hinting at his readiness to back a more experienced candidate, the 40-year-old MP said the Tory party was not ready to be led by a "fresh face". Friends said Mr Hancock will hold talks with the remaining candidates this weekend but was leaning towards one of the two most experienced Brexiteers.
As a country we need to deliver Brexit so we can move forward
Matt Hancock
He is expected to declare his preference shortly before the second round next Tuesday.
After pulling out of the contest, Mr Hancock said: "I ran as the candidate of the future, but the party is understandably looking for a candidate for the unique circumstances we face right now.
"I have therefore decided to withdraw from this contest, and I will look for the best way to advance the values we fought for - of free enterprise, and an open, aspirational, free society, underpinned by an optimistic belief in the value of each individual person.
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