Andrea Leadsom is laying claim to the mantle of Baroness Thatcher as she launches her campaign to become the second woman to serve as Britain’s Prime Minister.

In a highly personal interview with the Telegraph, the energy minister reveals the central role her Christian faith plays in guiding her politics and her life.

The Brexit supporter sets out her plan for a fast-track process of pulling out of the European Union, suggesting that the country could leave as soon as next year.

And she warns Theresa May that she will not drop out of the Conservative leadership election to allow the Home Secretary to be appointed Prime Minister in a “coronation”.