Portsmouth MP expected to run for prime minister but calls for 'servant leadership’

International development secretary Penny Mordaunt in Downing Street on Monday Picture: Jonathan Brady/PA Wire

Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt spoke at an event hosted by Onward, a think tank which has carried out a study into the age of Conservative voters.

Development secretary Ms Mordaunt said there should be a 'servant leadership,' The Times reported today.

The newspaper said Ms Mordaunt is expected to run when Theresa May steps down.

At the same event, held yesterday, The Times said Ms Mordaunt appeared to warn of riots if Brexit does not happen.

She said: 'The reason why we don't have riots out there ... is because the British people have faith, believe it or not, in this institution and in our democratic traditions.

'And at times like this, we're testing those institutions to the absolute limit.'

A Hampshire police spokesman said: ‘We have requested mutual aid for the contingency planning at Portsmouth International Port and the associated traffic management plan.’