Former London mayor Boris Johnson announces that he will not be a contender in the race to become the next prime minister of Britain following David Cameron's decision to quit in London, Britain, June 30, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua]

LONDON - Five contenders emerged Thursday in the race to become the next prime minister of Britain following David Cameron's decision to quit.

But there was shock when former London mayor Boris Johnson, a potential favorite to win the key to 10 Downing Street, announced he would not be a contender.

When a noon deadline for names to be put forward arrived, five leading politicians were in the ring.

Home Secretary Theresa May has emerged as a favorite to become the next leader of the Conservative Party.

Cameron resigned hours after it was announced that the Brexit side had won the national referendum to determine Britain's future membership of the EU.