THURROCK's Conservative MP Jackie Doyle-Price has issued a reflective comment on yesterday's visit by Prime Minister Boris Johnson to the borough's new port – and scenes that followed in the House of Commons later in the day, where she quizzed the PM over his intentions.

As reported yesterday by Thurrock Nub News, Ms Doyle-Price did not spare the rod as she questioned Mr Johnson about 'flunkies' in his office and his plans to reform accountability.

Today, while taking a step backwards to consider all of yesterday's events, Ms Doyle-Price remained upbeat about developments in Tilbury and the impact the region's new Freeport is going to have on the local economy.

She told Nub News: "I was very pleased to welcome the Prime Minister to officially open Tilbury 2 this week. Britain's newest port was delivered to take advantage of new trading arrangements post Brexit and is a huge success.

"We were able to share the ambitions for the Thames Freeport. Again, this is a Brexit success.

"The concessions we can offer to new businesses are far greater than we could have offered whilst members of the EU. It enables us to create industrial zones within the Port perimeter minimising disruption to residential communities.

"Most of all I was able to share with him the ambition of the Tilbury Town Board which we are able to pursue thanks to his Town Fund. Our plans to deliver a new youth zone in the civic square; a new beach and jetty at the riverside and a proper commemoration of Elizabeth 1's famous speech.

"It is the one thing everyone knows about Tilbury and we don't do enough to celebrate it.

"As I have said before Tilbury needs some love and I am grateful to this Prime Minister for giving it. Whatever happens in the future Boris Johnson will be leaving a legacy in Tilbury and I look forward to welcoming him again when we have made further progress.

"There is much anger and disappointment about the reports of the Downing Street parties. Lawmakers should not be lawbreakers and it is unacceptable that such behaviour is being reported.

"The Prime Minister is adamant that when the facts are clear people will be able to see properly what happened. I hope that the Metropolitan Police can compete its inquiries promptly so that we can hold those who should be to account and move on.

"I am grateful to all those involved in the creation of Tilbury 2.

"Huge credit goes to Forth Ports for turning around the development of this facility in just one year.

"It shows that infrastructure projects can be delivered on time when commercial management skills are employed, and dare I say it, when those investing the cash are concerned with getting value for their own money.

"It is disappointing that so many taxpayer-funded projects go awry because those responsible just aren't bothered enough about saving public money."