I am personally devastated by the result of the Referendum which I meet with real sadness and fear for the future.  But the Nation has spoken and the Government will now of course respect its views and set about us separating from 43 years of stable arrangements with the European Union.

I am deeply personally sorry that the Prime Minister has announced his resignation. I was one of his Proposers to lead the Party and whilst I of course entirely understand his positon, I greatly regret it.

I am fortified by a very good result in Mid Sussex where on a Turn Out of 80% - 53% voted Remain and 47% voted to Leave.

We live in a very difficult and uncertain world and I believe that this was a really bad time to unpick what has helped to secure for us great prosperity over the last 40 years and we must now, respecting the people’s wishes and judgment, do our very best to secure the best possible position for our People and our Country.