UPDATED 2.14pm: Bill English now has the numbers to become Prime Minister, based on public declarations.
LISTEN ABOVE: Newstalk ZB Political Editor Barry Soper speaks to Kerre and Mark Afternoons
At least 30 MPs have committed to backing English, meaning he has half of the votes of National's 59-vote caucus.
Judith Collins has also withdrawn her bid for the leadership, and thrown her support behind Bill English.
English stated earlier today that he would appoint senior Minister Steven Joyce as his Minister of Finance if he wins, which now looks certain.
Neither of the other candidates, Jonathan Coleman and Judith Collins, have so far received any public declarations of support.
Coleman has indicated that he will not yet withdraw.
He said he has not seen the numbers or heard from Bill English.
Mr Coleman said it's outside speculation that Mr English has the numbers and he will decide later.
Backbenchers Paul Foster-Bell, Jami-Lee Ross, Brett Hudson, Chris Bishop and Jo Hayes are among those who have thrown their support behind English.
Todd Muller announced on Thursday he would back English as leader and Transport Minister Simon Bridges as deputy over Social Housing Minister Paua Bennett.
Amy Adams has reportedly declared her support for Bennett as deputy.Â
A vote will be held next Monday.
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The National MPs who have ​declared their support for English:Â
Bill English
Nikki Kaye
Anne Tolley
Louise Upston
Michael Woodhouse
Hekia Parata
Nathan Guy
John Key
Nuk Korako
Nick Smith
Chester Borrows
Murray McCully
Simon Bridges
Paula Bennett
Paul Foster-Bell
Jacqui Dean
Brett Hudson
Jonathan Young
Jami-Lee Ross
Todd Muller
Chris Bishop
Amy Adams
Mark Mitchell
Alfred Ngaro
Barbara Kuriger
Jono Naylor
Todd Barclay
Chris Finlayson
Joanna Hayes
Steven Joyce
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