Next, please The five heading race to be Rudd’s successor

Michael Gove

He would complete an extraordinary return to the front line if appointed. His fall from grace was spectacular after his decision to mount a coup against Boris Johnson. By leading the charge against plastics and animal cruelty, he won over environmental groups and gave the PM something other than Brexit to trumpet.

Sajid Javid (right)

The Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary could provide the change of direction the Home Office needs. He would be the first Asian in the job, and is matched by a track record in Cabinet.

Jeremy Hunt

The move for the Health Secretary may seem unlikely. He was, after all, the man who refused to be moved when Mrs May tried to oust him during her reshuffle. But when it comes to crisis management, there are few better in government.

James Brokenshire

A former immigration minister, he was elevated to Northern Ireland Secretary before lung cancer forced him to resign from the Government. Now back in the Commons and fully fit, he could prove a safe pair of hands.

Penny Morduant

The International Development Secretary is a rising star. Since 2010, she has climbed the ranks, and has impressed with her handling of the scandals that have beset the charity sector.