“Today is an auspicious day in UK politics as the Conservative Party has its first minority ethnic party leader in modern times. That Rishi Sunak will be Prime Minister and that this has become known on a day when a billion Hindus celebrate Diwali is even more special.
"But while the serendipity is notable, it is only part of the reason why I feel so positive about this country’s future today. Penny Mordaunt MP is a respected colleague and has many great things left to do during her time in Parliament. Rishi though has the financial background and experience to tackle the underlying economic issues affecting people in Guildford, Cranleigh and the surrounding area.
"We need to get inflation down and tackle supply-side challenges on oil and gas in order to ease household costs. We need to continue to grow our economy organically following the COVID-19 pandemic and capitalise on the success we have had creating jobs and supporting people through changes in working behaviour.
"And we need to extend to those who are struggling the arm of support rather than rely on the metrics of the markets to do that. It is a balance that I know Rishi cares about deeply and one that he determined to achieve.
"As I supported throughout the summer campaign, I continue to support him today – he is the Prime Minister to restore Britain’s reputation for stable, competent and honest government. I hope that the party will unite around him as he earns their respect through his leadership.”