She was elected MP for Maidenhead in 1997, and became shadow education and employment secretary in 1999, following her appointment as assistant spokesman on education and employment under David Willetts.

Opposed to women-only shortlists, she has indicated that in power, the Conservatives would consider scrapping the post of minister for women and the womens' unit.

A right-wing eurosceptic who supports fox-hunting.

She made her maiden speech in the House of Commons without notes.

Educated at Oxford, she worked for the Bank of England and the Association for Payment Clearing Services.

She served on Merton council, south-west London, for eight years, chairing the education committee and becoming deputy Conservative leader.

Following Chris Woodhead's recent resignation as England's chief inspector of schools Theresa May spoke out in his defence saying: "He's done an excellent job and will be a hard man to replace. "