Watford MP Dean Russell has congratulated Liz Truss on becoming the next prime minister, while Labour's Matt Turmaine says "It’s out of the frying pan and into the fire".

Liz Truss defeated rival Rishi Sunak by 81,326 votes to 60,399 to win the Tory leadership, today (September 5) and will replace Boris Johnson in No 10 on Tuesday.

Conservative MP Dean Russell supported Mrs Truss’ campaign to become PM.

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He said: “I would like to offer my congratulations to Liz Truss on her election as leader of the Conservatives and our new prime minister.

“I have worked closely with Liz since being elected, and also more recently as her PPS in the Foreign Office and have seen first hand her passion for the UK and her ability to deliver results.

“Liz has outlined a very clear plan over the past eight weeks, and she has promised an urgent statement on help for people with their energy bills, and will address the long-term issues with energy supply.

“I am proud to have supported Liz in her campaign, and I know she will deliver for the people of Watford and our great country.”

Watford Observer: Dean Russell. Picture: Richard TownshendDean Russell. Picture: Richard Townshend

Matt Turmaine, Labour’s parliamentary candidate for Watford, said: "The country is now lumbered with Liz Truss who has sat there cheerleading for Boris Johnson’s government and is totally part of the problem.

“That’s why she isn’t the solution.

Watford Observer: Liz Truss. Picture: PALiz Truss. Picture: PA

“It’s out of the frying pan and into the fire.

“The real solution here is to have a general election and let the British people decide who they want as their prime minister."

Liberal Democrat councillor Ian Stotesbury said: “"After months of paralysis, it is vital that Liz Truss takes urgent action to deal with the cost-of-living emergency. 

Watford Observer: Matt Turmaine has been chosen as the Watford Labour Party’s new parliamentary candidate. Picture: Watford Labour PartyMatt Turmaine has been chosen as the Watford Labour Party’s new parliamentary candidate. Picture: Watford Labour Party

“The government should cancel the rise in the energy price cap and provide more support for businesses and the most vulnerable.

“Liz Truss has hidden from scrutiny throughout the leadership contest but she now has nowhere to hide. If she doesn't take bold action to deal with the cost of living emergency then the voters will never forgive her."

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