THURROCK MP Jackie Doyle-Price has spoken of her optimism following the appointment of Liz Truss as PM this afternoon (Tuesday, 6 september).

Speaking to Thurrock Nub News Ms Doyle Price, who has known her new party leader for many years, and campaigned for her in the leadership election, said: "It is with very real pride that I welcomed news that Liz was to become our new Prime Minister.

"Liz and I have been friends since the 1990s when we were Conservative activists in Greenwich. I know her to be determined and focused with very clear opinions and ideas.

Longstanding friends: Jackie Doyle-Price with Liz Truss in 1997.

"She becomes Prime Minister at a time when the nation is anxious about the energy crisis and its impact on the cost of living.

"This is no time for nonsense. She will embrace the task with determination to do the right thing.

"I look forward to the end of the soap opera of recent months. Our country requires firm decisive leadership in the face of challenging times."