Europe

Justice Secretary Gove to spell out post-Brexit plans

Associated Press
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Four of the contenders to become the next leader of the British Conservative Party, in this combo photo issued Thursday June 30, 2016. With left to right: Theresa May taken June 30, 2016; Michael Gove taken May 11, 2016; Liam Fox taken June 30, 2016; Stephen Crabb taken March 22, 2016. The battle to succeed David Cameron as Conservative Party leader has drawn strong contenders with the winner set to become prime minister and play a vital role in shaping Britain's future relationship with the European Union. (AP Photo) (The Associated Press)

Michael Gove speaks at the Policy Exchange in London, where he set out his case for becoming prime minister, Friday July 1, 2016. The candidates to succeed David Cameron as Conservative Party leader are starting their campaign, and Gove says he should be the next prime minister because Britain needs to be led by someone who genuinely believes in leaving the European Union. (Stefan Rousseau / PA via AP) (The Associated Press)

Michael Gove speaks at the Policy Exchange in London, where he set out his case for becoming prime minister, Friday July 1, 2016. The candidates to succeed David Cameron as Conservative Party leader are starting their campaign, and Gove says he should be the next prime minister because Britain needs to be led by someone who genuinely believes in leaving the European Union. (Stefan Rousseau / PA via AP) (The Associated Press)

Justice Secretary Michael Gove plans to spell out his plans for Britain's post-European Union future as he intensifies his bid for the Conservative Party leadership.

Gove's surprise entry into the leadership race led ex-London mayor Boris Johnson to drop out. He plans a speech Friday.

Gove is contending with Home Secretary Theresa May and three others to succeed David Cameron as party leader — and prime minister.

Gove and Johnson were leaders of the campaign to persuade Britons to leave the EU bloc. Gove had been expected to back Johnson for the top job.

Some Cabinet figures are backing May. Conservative lawmakers will whittle the field down to two before the final decision is made by party members.

The winner will be announced Sept. 9.