Kemi Badenoch has been named as the new leader of the Conservative party.
It follows a leadership contest which saw Badenoch and Robert Jenrick emerge as the two front runners for the top job.
It comes four months since the party suffered the worst defeat of its history, with Rishi Sunak announcing his intention to stand down as leader of the party.
Badenoch received 53,806 votes while Jenrick had 41,388 votes.
Turnout of the 131,680 eligible electors was 72.8% and there were 655 rejected ballots.
Following the announcement, Badenoch took to the stage to say the task ahead of the party was “tough but simple”.
She said: “Our first responsibility as His Majesty’s loyal Opposition is to hold this Labour Government to account.
“Our second is no less important. It is to prepare over the course of the next few years for government, to ensure that by the time of the next election, we have not just a clear set of Conservative pledges that appeal to the British people, but a clear plan for how to implement them, a clear plan to change this country by changing the way that government works.
“The Prime Minister is discovering all too late the perils of not having such a plan.
“That huge job begins today.”
Badenoch also paid tribute to her leadership rival, who she said “fought a great campaign”.
She said: “Rob, we have all been impressed by your energy and your determination. You and I know that we don’t actually disagree on very much, and I have no doubt that you have a key role to play in our party for many years to come.
“I would also like to thank all the other candidates: Priti, Mel, Tom and James, for your kind words and your many insights.
“We have come through this campaign more united and the party needs you now more than ever.”
Following the announcement, former prime minister Rishi Sunak congratulated Kemi Badenoch on becoming Conservative leader, urging the party to unite behind her.
He said: “Congratulations to Kemi Badenoch on being elected Conservative Party leader.
“I know that she will be a superb leader of our great party. She will renew our party, stand up for Conservative values, and take the fight to Labour.
“Let’s unite behind her.”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also congratulated Badenoch in a post on X.
He said: “The first Black leader of a Westminster party is a proud moment for our country.
“I look forward to working with you and your party in the interests of the British people.”
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