The Justice Secretary Michael Gove, was widely expected to support Boris Johnson's leadership bid after the pair worked closely during the Brexit campaign.
But in a shock statement issued today he said the former London mayor cannot "provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead".
Last month Mr Gove said he had no interest in becoming Tory leader, saying: "There are people who are far better equipped than me to do it."
But today Mr Gove said: "There are huge challenges ahead for this country but also huge opportunities.
Who will be the next British PM
"If we are to make the most of the opportunities ahead we need a bold break with the past.
"I have repeatedly said that I do not want to be Prime Minister. But events since last Thursday have weighed heavily with me.
"I wanted to help build a team behind Boris Johnson so that a politician who argued for leaving the European Union could lead us to a better future.
"But I have come, reluctantly, to the conclusion that Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead.
"I have, therefore, decided to put my name forward for the leadership. I want there to be an open and positive debate about the path the country will now take."
The announcement just comes hours after a leaked email revealed Mr Gove's wife warned him about the dangers of backing Mr Johnson.
Sarah Vine urged her husband to ensure he had "leverage" before making any deal, adding: "Do not concede any ground. Be your stubborn best."
Meanwhile Andrea Leadsom has announced she is also vying for the party's top job, tweeting: "Let's make the most of the Brexit opportunities!"
But in a shock statement issued today he said the former London mayor cannot "provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead".
Last month Mr Gove said he had no interest in becoming Tory leader, saying: "There are people who are far better equipped than me to do it."
But today Mr Gove said: "There are huge challenges ahead for this country but also huge opportunities.
"If we are to make the most of the opportunities ahead we need a bold break with the past.
"I have repeatedly said that I do not want to be Prime Minister. But events since last Thursday have weighed heavily with me.
"I wanted to help build a team behind Boris Johnson so that a politician who argued for leaving the European Union could lead us to a better future.
"But I have come, reluctantly, to the conclusion that Boris cannot provide the leadership or build the team for the task ahead.
"I have, therefore, decided to put my name forward for the leadership. I want there to be an open and positive debate about the path the country will now take."
The announcement just comes hours after a leaked email revealed Mr Gove's wife warned him about the dangers of backing Mr Johnson.
Sarah Vine urged her husband to ensure he had "leverage" before making any deal, adding: "Do not concede any ground. Be your stubborn best."
Meanwhile Andrea Leadsom has announced she is also vying for the party's top job, tweeting: "Let's make the most of the Brexit opportunities!"
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