JESSE Norman will be supporting the Prime Minister in tonight's crucial 'confidence' vote.

The MP for Hereford and South Herefordshire said Theresa May has shown "astonishing courage and resilience over many months in the most difficult possible circumstances".

"I will be supporting her without hesitation this evening," he said.

"A leadership election would be utter folly."

His comments come after Conservative MPs triggered a vote of no confidence in their leader.

More than 48 letters have been sent to Sir Graham Brady, Chair of the 1922 Committee, which oversees the election of party leaders and Conservative party-led votes of no confidence in the incumbent leader, resulting in the announcement of a ballot to decide Mrs May's future position in the party

The ballot will take place between 6pm and 8pm tonight, with votes being counted immediately after, and a result expected from around 10pm.

Bill Wiggin, the Conservative MP for North Herefordshire who earlier this month made the public announcement that he could not support the Prime Minister's Brexit deal unless the Irish backstop was removed, has been contacted for comment.