Today the Prime Minister resigned, and after a difficult few days, I am glad we now have clarity on the situation and a clear route forward.
People from across South Ribble have asked about my actions this week, so let me explain.
As a very junior part of government I think it’s my job to be very candid in private but silent in public when disagreements occur.
I am PPS (Parliamentary Private Secretary) to Alok Sharma, the COP26 President, which is a United Nations role being held by the UK until COP27 in November. Additionally I am a proud UK Trade Envoy to Mozambique.
Both of these roles have international connotations for the UK and I will always ensure that whatever my views on UK domestic politics may be, it cannot interfere with service to our fabulous country, both at home and abroad.
In the last few days I was clear on my views, submitting them in a private letter.
However, COP has a vital role in fighting climate change and supporting and protecting these important objectives which are at the forefront of my mind. I want to do anything I can to support our COP President and his team of UK government officials through the challenging headwinds we face globally; such as spiking energy prices and global conflict. We must keep focused on doing the right thing with less well developed countries through mutually beneficial trade, and international co-operation on topics such as the environment, for future generations everywhere.
To find a new leader of the Conservative Party we need a swift but transparent and fair process. I'm glad the Prime Minister has resigned, it's the right thing to do when losing the confidence of your colleagues.
I now look forward to pressing leadership candidates on their Northern Powerhouse ambitions and I will continue my fight for South Ribble and Lancashire's economic growth.
