MP delighted to be given key role to make Brexit happen

James Duddridge, Tory MP for Southend East and Rochford, was made Parliamentary under Secretary of State for the Department for Exiting the European Union by the new Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Mr Duddridge previously backed Mr Johnson for the top job and has been a devoted Brexit supporter before and after the 2016 referendum.

He said: “It is a huge privilege to be able to serve in Government and I am ready to help deliver on the referendum result of 2016, which I know is so important to many people in Rochford and Southend.

“I would like to thank everybody who has sent good wishes and warm messages since my appointment was announced over the weekend.

“While this call up is a privilege, I will, as ever, continue to work hard and speak up for all residents in Rochford and Southend East.

“Should any constituent need my help or want to get in touch, they can contact me on 01702 616135 or email me via james@jamesduddridge.com.”

Rayleigh and Wickford Tory MP Mark Francois, who was extremely supportive of Boris Johnson’s leadership bid, was not offered any role in the Government or cabinet on this occasion.

However Mr Francois said he is not put out perturbed by this and wants to see the UK leave the EU by the end of October.

He said: “I am delighted that my good friend and neighbour James Duddridge has quite rightfully been given a ministerial job and moreover, one that relates directly to Brexit.

“For my own part, what I really care about is that we honour the referendum and leave the EU by Halloween and I am very happy to support this objective both in Parliament and in the national and local media.

“What happens to the country is far more important than what happens to me.”

Mr Johnson said his Government will work with the EU in the “spirit of friendship and co-operation” and not be “disengaged or aloof”.

Mr Duddridge is hopeful of flexibility on the backstop issue flexibility and hopes France and Germany will help facilitate this happen.