I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the people who supported me in my campaign to become the next Leader of the Conservative and Unionist Party. I am incredibly grateful to my colleagues in Parliament, Forest of Dean constituents and local association members, as well as the many voters who I met along the way.
I continue to believe we need a credible plan that delivers Brexit, keeps our promises, takes our country forward, and allows everybody to benefit from the opportunities that are being created.
Only then can we restore trust with the British people and beat Jeremy Corbyn's Labour Party at the next General Election.
I look forward to continuing to serve the Forest of Dean as your Member of Parliament, and continuing to deal with the local issues that are important to you, with the support of my team in Cinderford.
At the weekend, I had the pleasure of engaging with constituents on the doorstep in Newent on Saturday morning and campaigning for the Newent and Taynton by-election for the Forest of Dean District Council with our three fantastic candidates - Eli Heathfield, Len Lawton and Nick Winter. And I would urge all those living in Newent and Taynton to go out and vote for them on Thursday.
Our team will work tirelessly to deliver better and safer roads, grow the local economy to create jobs, seek fast broadband for the whole community, and build a brighter future for young people. Our candidates will work with partners, schools and colleges to ensure that children have the best possible chance to develop the skills and confidence they will need as adults.
What’s more, Conservative councillors will keep council tax as low as possible - only taking from residents what is necessary to provide better facilities and essential services , so that people can keep more of their hard-earned money.
Councils run services which affect people’s everyday lives and wellbeing. The Newent and Taynton by-election on Thursday is a chance to vote for a brighter future for young people and a better supported community for all.