Conservative leadership election: Andrea Leadsom receives backing of Michael Howard

'I don’t think the experience is hugely important,' says the former Tory leader

Mrs Leadsom, who was a prominent figure in the Leave campaign, said that she wanted to take Britain out of the EU as quickly as possible (Getty)

Former Conservative Party leader Lord Michael Howard has announced his support for Andrea Leadsom in the Tory leadership race, claiming the candidate's lack of cabinet experience is "not hugely important".

Lord Howard, former leader of the Conservative Party and Brexiteer, said Ms Leadsom's knowledge of Europe and drive for a "fresh start outside the European Union" make her the best-placed candidate.

"I have come to the conclusion that Andrea Leadsom is best-placed to lead our country into this exciting new future that we have in front of us outside the European Union," Lord Howard told Radio 4 Today.

"She probably knows as much if not more about Europe than any other MP and she’s the person I think will give us a fresh start in this exciting future that lies before us."

Ms Leadsom has never held a cabinet post in Government and has only been a minister since 2010.

When questioned over her lack of experience, Lord Howard said: “I don’t think the experience is hugely important.

"She’s been in government. She’s in tune with the majority of the people of our country."

During the interview the former Conservative Party leader also indicated that he might have voted for Mr Gove had in not been for the events that followed the Brexit vote.

He said despite his "high regard" for Michael Gove, the justice secretary's sudden withdrawal of support for Boris Johnson made it "very difficult to support him".

Ms Leadsom also has the support of other high profile Tories Boris Johnson and Ian Duncan Smith.

Lord Howard's support for Ms Leadsom comes amid allegations that Mr Gove’s campaign has urged supporters of Tory leadership rival Theresa May to vote tactically to prevent Ms Leadsom from reaching the final two candidates.

Ms Leadsom is currently in second place in the leadership bid behind Theresa May, while Mr Gove trails in third place.