Watford MP Dean Russell silent on Truss resignation

Tory MP Dean Russell, who repeatedly backed Ms Truss and her policies, has not responded to the Watford Observer’s questions after she stepped down just 45 days after entering office.

The resignation has sparked calls for a general election instead of the “joke” prospect of a second prime minister chosen internally by the Conservative Party in one year.

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Mr Russell was asked for his reaction and whether he felt he had represented his constituents well by supporting Ms Truss' failed premiership. He did not respond.

Labour and the Liberal Democrats were also asked for their views.

Labour parliamentary candidate for Watford Matt Turmaine said: “It is a Conservative catastrophe and letting MPs like Dean Russell decide who comes next – instead of the British electorate – is a joke.

Liz Truss resigns (Image: PA)

“He is the man who stood by the scandal-ridden Boris Johnson until the bitter end, and Liz Truss likewise.

“There must be a general election now to let the people choose the government. The Tories can’t just go round stabbing each other in the back and merrily carry on.”

Lib Dem councillor Ian Stotesbury said: "The Conservatives have failed us. Our local MP has failed us and consistently put his career ahead of our needs.

“We need a government able to lead, able to tackle the challenges of our time. A government able to invest in our public services, our local hospital, our future. The Conservatives clearly can't - there should be a general election."

Watford MP Dean Russell (Image: Simon Jacobs)

A petition to parliament for a general election has reached 719,450 signatures at time of writing, with 1,096 of them coming from Watford, 1,292 coming from South West Hertfordshire and 772 coming from Hertsmere.

Instead of an election, the next Prime Minister is set to be decided by Conservative members by October 28, but could be settled sooner if MPs internally agree a single candidate, eliminating the need to go to an online vote.

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