Michael Gove joins race to be UK PM

British environment minister Michael Gove says he will be running to replace Theresa May as British prime minister.

Britain's Environment Secretary Michael Gove says he will run to become prime minister. (AAP)

British environment minister and prominent pro-Brexit campaigner Michael Gove says he will be running to replace Theresa May as British prime minister, Sky News reports.

"I can confirm that I will be putting my name forward to be prime minister of this country," Sky News quoted Gove as telling reporters outside his house on Sunday.

"I believe that I'm ready to unite the Conservative and Unionist Party, ready to deliver Brexit, and ready to lead this great country."