The St Albans MP has welcomed the prime minister’s “courageous” call for a snap election.

Speaking after Theresa May’s shock announcement yesterday, in which she called for a general election on June 8, Conservative MP Anne Main said she is “looking forward" to the fight.

She also confirmed that she will stand again if the election goes ahead.

She said: “‘The prime minister has made a courageous decision to put the country first in order to secure clarity for the next five years.

“I look forward to fighting the next general election based on this government’s record of more jobs and a stronger economy. By securing a strong mandate from the British people in June, the prime minister will lead us into a brighter and more optimistic future for our country.

“Over the last few months I have been disappointed to see the games being played by opposition parties seeking to grind this government’s business to a standstill, and to thwart the democratic referendum decision of the British people.

“Brexit presents many exciting opportunities. As a country we must come together and we need a strong parliament that can embrace a new relationship with our European partners; a parliament that looks to the future and not the past.

“My role as the local MP is to keep giving St Albans a strong voice. Over the last 12 years I have worked hard to ensure we keep good NHS services in St Albans and have continued to fight the railfreight site. I have tackled environmental concerns, raised the issue of unaffordable housing and the lack of a district plan.

“I have spoken up for local businesses, press freedoms and hard-pressed commuters to ensure their voice has been heard at the highest level.

“It’s been an honour to represent the many thousands of constituents who have contacted my office asking for help. I hope to be able to continue to serve the people of St Albans in the next parliament.”