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Watch: Sam Gyimah joins Conservative leadership contest to “broaden the race”

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Sam Gyimah, the former Minister for Universities who quit in protest at Theresa May’s deal, has become the thirteenth Conservative leadership candidate, announcing his decision live on air on Sky today. When asked by Niall Paterson if he would like to be the next Conservative leader, Gyimah replied “Well, yes. I will be joining the contest to be the next Conservative leader and prime minister to broaden the race.” He wishes to be the champion of that cause the Tory members are crying out for: a second referendum.

“There is a wide range of candidates out there, but there is a very narrow view on Brexit being discussed” he said. “While there’s a broad sweep of opinion in the country on how we move forward at this critical time that is not being reflected in the contest at the moment.”

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Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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