Liz Truss: Conservatives say prime minister had 'no alternative' while opponents call for a general election

Earlier today, Ms Truss gave a statement outside 10 Downing Street where she confirmed she would be resigning as prime minister.

After speaking with King Charles III, she will remain in her post until a successor is found – which will be within the next week.

In her statement, she said: ‘This morning I met the chairman of the 1922 Committee, Sir Graham Brady. We’ve agreed that there will be a leadership election to be completed within the next week.

‘This will ensure that we remain on a path to deliver our fiscal plan and maintain our country’s economic stability and national security. I will remain as prime minister until a successor has been chosen.’

Conservative members say she has made the ‘right decision’ in stepping down, but have voiced concerns about the short-term future.

Leader of Fareham Borough Council, Councillor Sean Woodward, said: ‘I am not at all surprised by the announcement.

‘It has been quite chaotic in Westminster as of late, and the attitude of the parliamentary party is almost entirely against her.

‘She had no alternative but to resign – I just hope Conservative members get more of a say in choosing the next party leader.’

Conservative leader in Gosport, Cllr Graham Burgess, voted for Rishi Sunak in the last leadership contest.