Robert Jenrick has emerged as the frontrunner in the race to become the next Conservative leader, after winning the first round of voting. The former immigration minister secured the backing of 28 Tory MPs, beating out the favorite, Kemi Badenoch, who received 22 votes.

Other contenders still in the running include former security minister Tom Tugendhat, ex-home secretary James Cleverly, and Mel Stride. The group will be whittled down to four next week, with the final two candidates chosen by Tory members in November.

Jenrick's victory comes as a surprise to many, as Badenoch was widely seen as the frontrunner. However, Jenrick's strong performance in the first round of voting suggests that he has a real chance of winning the leadership contest.

Jenrick is a controversial figure, and his victory is likely to be met with mixed reactions. However, he is a strong candidate, and he has a good chance of becoming the next Prime Minister.