Downing Street has slapped down Tory MP Sir Christopher Chope after he claimed Kemi Badenoch is “preoccupied with her children”. Weighing in on the Conservative Party leadership race in a television interview, the MP for Christchurch had claimed it was impossible to be an opposition leader while spending “all your time” with your family.

Sir Christopher Chope faces criticism as he suggests Badenoch could not commit to the demands of being party leader.

Kemi Badenoch has criticised a Conservative MP’s suggestion she could not head the Tories because she was too “preoccupied” with her children, saying “it isn’t always women who have parental responsibilities”.

The Conservative Party leadership contest seems to have been heavily focused on immigration and human rights law. These are certainly vital matters for our democracy and security. I think both candidates understand the need to bring down the current unsustainable levels of migration and to take back control of our borders.

Conservative leadership hopeful Kemi Badenoch has dismissed a Tory MP who said he wouldn't choose her as leader as she is "preoccupied with her own children". Sir Christopher Chope told ITV that "you can't spend all your time with your family" while being leader of the opposition.