This week the Prime Minister faced a vote of confidence and many constituents have understandably contacted me to share their view.

In any democracy we must ensure that people are free to express their views, and that views different to our own are respected. I have read every email and letter that I have received on this matter, both those expressing support for the Prime Minister, and those feeling upset, angry or frustrated. I know there were strong feelings regarding the Sue Gray report. I will not make excuses for many of the events that took place in Number 10.

The Prime Minister has apologised and Sue Gray acknowledged changes have been made in Number 10, which have already made a noticeable difference.

It is important to note that it was Boris Johnson’s government that resolved the Brexit crisis and delivered on the will of the people after years of back and forth in Westminster. It was his government that delivered the first Covid vaccine, it is the Prime Minister that is leading on challenging Putin’s illegal invasion of Ukraine, and I believe it is his government which is best placed to tackle the cost-of-living crisis.

I understand why people are angry, but now is not the time for a distracting and divisive leadership contest. I used my vote to ensure the focus of government is on important matters of the day - growing the economy, making our streets safer, and driving down the NHS backlog. I will continue to ensure my focus is on Watford and I believe a vote otherwise would have risked months of chaos and quarrelling in Parliament.

  • Dean Russell is Conservative MP for Watford