Boris Johnson wins race to become new British PM, Conservative party leader

After a month of contest between Boris Johnson and Jeremy Hunt, Johnson emerged victorious on Tuesday after winning the voting to become Britain’s next Prime Minister and Conservative Party leader.

According to the ballots results, Johnson earned 92,153 votes to Hunt’s 46,656, international media reported. In his victory speech, Johnson payed tribute to outgoing PM Theresa May for her service. He said it was a privilege to serve in her cabinet.

Paying tribute to his rival, Johnson said that Hunt was an 'absolutely formidable campaigner' and he will 'steal' his policy ideas forthwith.

May took to her Twitter handle to offer her felicitations to Johnson. "We now need to work together to deliver a Brexit that works for the whole UK and to keep Jeremy Corbyn out of government," she added. May further said that she will fully support him from the 'back benches'.

Many congratulations to @BorisJohnson on being elected leader of @Conservatives - we now need to work together to deliver a Brexit that works for the whole UK and to keep Jeremy Corbyn out of government. You will have my full support from the back benches.

— Theresa May (@theresa_may) July 23, 2019