Prime Minister – ‘I am in this for the long term’ as Boris threat looms

Theresa May has struck a defiant tone over the possibility of a leadership challenge from Boris Johnson, insisting: “I am in this for the long term.”

The Prime Minister faced questions over the prospect of Mr Johnson launching a bid for power, particularly with the Tory party conference on the horizon, as she started her Africa trade mission.

Mrs May said she remained focused on delivering on the Brexit vote and pushing on with her domestic agenda, giving a strong indication over her desire to remain in Downing Street.

Former foreign secretary Mr Johnson is lurking in the background after quitting the Cabinet over Brexit, with his leadership ambitions a constant source of speculation.

Mrs May pointed to a “steady increase” in Tory membership figures.

On whether she is braced for a leadership challenge from Mr Johnson and her desire to lead the party, Mrs May said: “I’ve been asked before whether it’s my intention to lead the Conservative Party into the next general election.

“I answered that question before – I’m in this for the long term. What I’m focusing on doing is delivering what the British people want.

“The British people voted for us to leave the European Union and I and the government will be delivering that.

“But what I’m also focused on doing is delivering on the domestic agenda, which is of concern to people.”

Pressed on whether she would fight a leadership challenge from Mr Johnson, the PM reiterated: “I am in this for the long term.

“I’m in this for delivering for the British people and that’s what I am focused on.”