London Mayor Boris Johnson has said he will run for election as member of the British parliament in the 2015 general election.
At a speech on Europe in central London, Mr Johnson said it was time to "stop dancing around" and that "in all probability" he would "try to find somewhere to stand in 2015".
David Cameron instantly welcomed the news tweeting "Great news that Boris plans to stand at next year's general election - I've always said I want my star players on the pitch".
Great news that Boris plans to stand at next year's general election - I've always said I want my star players on the pitch.
— David Cameron (@David_Cameron) August 6, 2014
After backing the Mr Cameron's stance on reforming the EU during his speech, Mr Johnson was asked about his intention to stand as an MP and replied "I think we've danced around it an awfully long time now, and as you know the Prime Minister ages ago said he would welcome me back - very kind of him to say so - and has also been pretty clear that I can't endlessly go on dodging these questions as I've tried to do".
"So, let me put it this way - I have not got any particular seat lined up but I do think in all probability - since you can't do these things furtively, I might as well be absolutely clear - in all probability I will try to find somewhere to stand in 2015".
"It's highly likely I will be unsuccessful in that venture. You should never underestimate the possibility of things going badly wrong but I will try that".
There was speculation last month that Mr Johnson might try for a seat in Uxbridge, where the veteran Conservative MP John Randall is standing down. Bury St Edmunds, where David Ruffley resigned last month after being cautioned for assaulting his partner, is also a possibility.
However, Mr Johnson would not be drawn on which seat he would pursue and said it was a matter for the Conservative Association.
The mayor had consistently refused to discuss the possibility of a 2015 run - but Mr Cameron and George Osborne had both made it clear they wanted him on the campaign team next year.
He has previously said he wanted to focus on the job of London Mayor - his tenure comes to an end in 2016 - indicating being MP at the same time would be too much.
Mr Johnson did hold the post of mayor while he was still MP for Henley for a month after he was elected in 2008.
There has been speculation that Mr Johnson is posturing for a leadership contest should Mr Cameron fail to deliver victory at the general election next year.
However, Mr Cameron has said he recognises the incredibly popular Mr Johnson will be a significant advantage in the 2015 election campaign. Commentators suggest he will be the perfect antidote to the UKIP surge.
