NORTH Dorset MP Simon Hoare has announced he is backing Rishi Sunak for Prime Minister – as the region’s Conservative MPs reveal who they are supporting.

Conservative Mr Hoare, who on Thursday morning predicted Liz Truss had 12 hours to save her premiership only for her to resign hours later, announced his decision on social media on Thursday evening.

He wrote: “I’m supporting (Rishi Sunak) to be leader and Prime Minister.

“He will ensure market confidence, pragmatic policies and a steadying of the ship.”

Elsewhere, veteran Christchurch MP Christopher Chope called for a general election, telling The Telegraph he was ‘ashamed’ of his ‘revolting colleagues’.

“Why should one group of Tory MPs think they should hijack a PM with whom they disagree?,” he said.

“This is the second time it has happened this year. The prospect is that any new PM would be similarly ambushed, undermined and humiliated.”

South Dorset MP Richard Drax is backing former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who is understood to be returning from a holiday in the Caribbean to consider a run.

Chris Loder (West Dorset) has yet to officially endorse a candidate.

Meanwhile, South West Wiltshire MP Dr Andrew Murrison also came out for Rishi Sunak.

“It has to be (Rishi Sunak) – his economic plan has been completely vindicated and he’s best places to unify (the Conservatives),” he said.

And Salisbury and South Wiltshire MP John Glen also announced he is backing the former chancellor.

“Rishi Sunak is the most qualified candidate to provide leadership to navigate through the deep economic challenges we face,” he said.

“He will deliver stability, growth and prosperity and unite our country.”

The leadership election – the second in a matter of months – is set to be completed by the end of next week, according to the Conservative 1922 Committee.

Hopefuls must secure the backing of at least 100 of their fellow MPs to progress in the poll, meaning a maximum of three could make a second round.

Rishi Sunak and Penny Mordaunt currently lead the polls, followed by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.