New prime minister – latest: Mordaunt says she has over 90 MPs – despite claim Sunak ‘will be PM by end of the day’

Former cabinet members have rushed to congratulate Rishi Sunak for winning the leadership contest.

It comes as many will be hoping for a return to the top table of government.

Former health secretary Matt Hancock said: “Huge congratulations to Rishi Sunak. He is exactly the prime minister we need.

“All of those who know Rishi well know he has the integrity, ability and experience to lead our country in these troubled times.”

Sajid Javid – another former health secretary and ex-chancellor, said: “Congratulations Rishi Sunak on becoming the new leader of the Conservatives.

“We face huge challenges, but he has the skill and experience to bring the stability we need.

“Conservatives must unite behind him and deliver for the British people.”

Former housing secretary Robert Jenrick said: “Congratulations Rishi Sunak. I couldn’t be prouder of my friend today.

“He’s won the overwhelming support of the parliamentary party. There are huge challenges ahead, but I have every faith that with him at the helm, the country will succeed.”

Ex-Northern Ireland secretary Julian Smith said: “In Rishi Sunak as prime minister, the United Kingdom has the best possible person to deal with the current challenges we face. Finally.”

And former business secretary Andrea Leadsom – a key backer of Ms Mordaunt – said: “Penny has done an amazing job and run an excellent campaign. 

“Huge congratulations to Rishi Sunak and enormous gratitude to all those who have worked so hard on Penny’s campaign.”