Liberal Democrat MP Richard Foord and East Devon MP Simon Jupp have reacted to this afternoon's news of a general election.

Richard Foord says the fight for the Honiton & Sidmouth constituency will be 'a clear Liberal Democrats vs Conservatives fight'.

Simon Jupp said: "On July 4, vote for the only candidate who lives in our new constituency and has a plan for our area."

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a general election at an address to the nation outside 10 Downing Street at around 5pm on Wednesday (May 22).

Read more: July 4 general election date announced by Rishi Sunak

Simon Jupp MP said: “I have a proven track record of delivering action, not just words, for our part of Devon. I'm proud to live here, I care about our local area, and I want to continue to represent my home county.

“Since I was elected in 2019, I have helped secure millions of pounds from the Levelling Up Fund for the Dinan Way road extension, a new police station for Exmouth, the reopening of Honiton’s police station to the public, the green light for a new railway station in Cullompton, £20 million for the Sidmouth Beach Management Plan, a banking hub for Sidmouth, £1.4 million to help reduce flooding around the River Otter and River Sid, a new school to replace the flood-prone Tipton St John Primary, and up to £30m from South West Water to upgrade our water infrastructure in Sidmouth to reduce sewage spills.

“If re-elected, I will focus on local healthcare, housing for local people, protecting our environment, supporting Devon's farmers, and much more.

“I have been out on the doorsteps speaking to residents in the new Honiton & Sidmouth constituency since last March, and I can’t wait to get back out to speak to people about my plan and the issues that matter to them over the coming days and weeks. I won’t be taking any vote for granted.”

Responding to Rishi Sunak calling a general election, Richard Foord said: “At this election, people’s choice here is a clear: a Liberal Democrat MP who fights for our rural communities or the out-of-touch Conservatives who have repeatedly taken us for granted. Labour are out of the race here and cannot win.

“Since becoming your MP, I have been laser-focused on fighting for our towns and villages by standing up on the issues that matter to our area. I am determined to continue working hard for you and being the strong voice we need in Parliament. 

“This Conservative Government has failed Devon. After years of struggling to get an NHS dental appointment, soaring rents and mortgages, and our rivers being poisoned by raw sewage, it’s time for people to make their voices heard and give them some well-deserved time out.”