YORK'S Tory MPs have spoken out about what they want to see from a new party leader.

After David Cameron's resignation the morning after the Brexit referendum, Tory MPs and party members face a leadership battle to get someone in place by the beginning of September.

Selby and Ainsty MP Nigel Adams, a prominent Brexit campaigner, has already confirmed he will be backing Boris Johnson for the top job, but other York area Conservative MPs on both sides of the EU debate have not yet declared their intention.

Mr Adams said: "He [Boris Johnson] is the candidate that can not only unify the Conservative Party and more importantly, the country. He is the most popular politician in Britain able to reach out to people regardless of background and has done an incredible job as Mayor of London."

The Selby MP campaigned alongside Boris Johnson in the run up to the referendum, and over the weekend was reportedly with a handful of other MPs at Mr Johnson's home in Oxfordshire.

Kevin Hollinrake, Thirsk and Malton's Remain-supporting MP, said that above all the party and the country need a unifying figure who is clear about what they think Britain's new relationship with the rest of Europe should be.

"The most important thing is that we hear about the potential leader's position on Europe and how we are going to renew our relationship with Europe."

It is important for whoever leads the country to be respected across Europe, he added.

"We do not want a divisive leader, but someone who can unify the party and the country," he said.

York Outer MP Julian Sturdy was a Brexit supporter. He said: "I am monitoring the leadership situation carefully to see who decides to put their name forward.

"My decision will only be made after listening to what each candidate has to say about their vision for the future of this country and the Conservative Party."

East Yorkshire's Sir Greg Knight, another supporter of the campaign to leave the EU, said on Friday: "I wouldn't bet on a horse race until I have seen who all the runners are," adding that a surprise leadership candidate may come forward and may well be the best choice.