Ulf Kristersson, the leader of Sweden's conservatives, lost a confidence vote in parliament, stopping his bid to be prime minister and form a new government.

A majority, 195 of the 349 members, voted against Kristersson. He was supported by 154 lawmakers.

In order to be accepted as prime minister, Kristersson had to avoid that a majority in parliament - at least 175 legislators - voted against him.