Powys’ MPs have both come out in support for Rishi Sunak to succeed Boris Johnson as Prime Minister.

Candidates from across the Conservative Party announced their intention to run this weekend with 12 candidates putting themselves forward so far. However, both Powys MPs have both pledged their early support for the former Chancellor of the Exchequer.

MP for Montgomery, Craig Williams said in a statement on twitter that he backed Mr Sunak, adding: “Having worked with him, I’ve seen first hand his epic work ethic and natural connection to people.

“He has a record of action and I’m proud to support him.”

MP for Brecon and Radnorshire, Fay Jones said Mr Sunak would “bring innovation and imagination to the challenges facing our country”.

Making her return to Twitter after a short break she added: "He is a leader I’m excited to follow and I believe he is the only one capable of restoring our party unity."

The contest began after Prime Minister Boris Johnson resigned as leader of the Conservative Party after a record number of ministers handed in their resignation after a series of controversies, with things coming to a head after questions were raised about what Boris Johnson knew about the behaviour of former Deputy Chief Whip Christopher Pincher who is accused of alleged sexual assault.

Both Jones and Williams followed Sunak in resigning their positions with Mr Williams resigning from his role as a as a Parliamentary Private Secretary (PPS) to the Chancellor of the Exchequer while Ms Jones resigned from her role as PPS to Mark Spencer MP, the Leader of the House.

The contest is to take place over the coming weeks with a new Prime Minister set to be installed by this autumn.

Former Welsh Secretary Simon Hart has also leant his backing to Mr Sunak.

Mr Sunak entered parliament in 2015, taking over the Richmond seat in North Yorkshire that was vacated by William Hague, who now lives near Welshpool.

Mr Hague, himself a former Tory leader, has not yet declared a preference in the race to be the next Prime Minister.