Macclesfield's long-serving MP has broke his silence following a turbulent week in parliament.

Three hours after Boris Johnson's resignation speech as Prime Minister, David Rutley MP responded to Macclesfield Nub News' request for comment.

The Conservative MP - first elected for Macclesfield in 2010 - had the following to say:

"The events of recent weeks have been a source of real concern to me, colleagues and many local residents – it became clear that a change of leadership was needed," he said.

Rutley did not make any comment about Boris staying on as PM until the autumn, until a new leader is chosen. (Image - CC 2.0 Unchanged Palácio do Planalto from Brasilia, Brasil bit.ly/3nO5X4h)

"My sense of loyalty and integrity have been stretched to the limit. I have also had real concerns about the damage these events could cause to the Government's ability to deliver on its important work and to its reputation more widely.

"Prior to the Prime Minister's resignation, I was in active communication with both the Chief Whip and Sir Graham Brady, Chair of the 1922 Committee, to say that I strongly felt that it was time for the Prime Minister to step down. I urged Sir Graham to take all necessary steps to seek an orderly change of leadership, as a priority. 

"However, the machinery of Government needs to go on running. This is particularly the case in the Department of Work and Pensions, where I serve as a Minister, as additional payments start to be paid next week to support millions of low income households with cost of living challenges. 

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"It is now vital that we look forward and select a new Prime Minister who can best deliver on our positive agenda for the people of this country in these challenging times."

Boris Johnson visited Macclesfield once during his short time at No. 10, pictured here in April 2021 with Macclesfield's David Rutley. (Image - David Rutley MP)

The 61-year-old did not confirm who he would like to replace Mr Johnson this autumn.

He did also not respond to requests as to whether he would resign his junior position of Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Welfare Delivery.

Boris Johnson appointed him this role in 2021, but it is unsure if our town's MP wishes to continue this role under a new leader.

Mr Rutley did not directly respond to questions about the Pincher allegations, or whether he would throw his hat into the ring to become the next Prime Minister. The latter of which, is seeming unlikely.

See Also: Macclesfield: Sutton councillor quits Conservatives shortly before Sunak and Javid resignations

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