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The caller, introduced as Richard from Manchester, backed the Shadow Home Secretary to become the next Labour leader. Richard said he was "surprised" more people had not mentioned Ms Abbott as a possible leadership contender in the party. However, when radio host Shelagh Fogarty pressed the caller for reasons why Ms Abbott could defeat Boris Johnson he failed to provide any.

Richard said: "I'm very deeply surprised that this lady has not been included in the list of potential leaders of the new party." The LBC host asked: "Who do you mean?" Richard replied: "I mean Diane Abbott. "I don't understand why she's not been part of this conversation." READ MORE: Moment Diane Abbott celebrates Swinson's defeat despite Labour loss

Diane Abbott is the Shadow Home Secretary

Shelagh Fogarty challenged Richard's choice

Ms Fogarty said: "Can Diane Abbott beat Boris Johnson at the next election? "Not because he turns out to be rubbish but because she has something genuine to offer?" The caller responded: "That’s a good point, I think it is unlikely. "If Labour had won the election and people were happy."

Shelagh Fogarty grilled the caller on his reasons for supporting Ms Abbott

Richard outlined that he felt Diane Abbott was the only person who could challenge the Johnson

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