Boris Johnson has “absolutely no mandate” to govern Britain, Labour Party chairman Ian Lavery said today after the former London mayor easily won the first round of voting in the Conservative Party leadership contest.

The former foreign secretary topped the secret ballot of Tory MPs with 114 votes, while his nearest opponent Jeremy Hunt trailed far behind with 43, followed by third-placed Michael Gove with 37.

Three of the 10 contenders – Mark Harper, Andrea Leadsom and Esther McVey – were knocked out.

There will be another round of voting next Tuesday.

Mr Lavery told the Star: “Johnson always looked to be the favourite despite his despicable history and support from Donald Trump.

“This country can’t afford to head in the same direction as the US under Trump.

“Regardless who wins, they have absolutely no mandate to govern our nation.

“I fully agree with millions of our fellow citizens of all political persuasions and none that there must be a general election.

“Let’s put the real issue to the people.”